The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) honored legendary climber Kami Rita Sherpa at Tribhuvan International Airport following his return from Lukla after achieving a historic 32nd ascent of Mount Everest. The reception recognized Kami Rita’s extraordinary contribution to Himalayan mountaineering and his unmatched record on the world’s highest peak.
NMA President Extends Congratulations
NMA President Fur Gelje Sherpa welcomed Kami Rita Sherpa at the airport by offering him a traditional khada and congratulating him on behalf of Nepal’s mountaineering community. Fur Gelje described the achievement as an extraordinary milestone that continues to inspire climbers around the world and strengthens Nepal’s identity as the global center of mountaineering.
Record-Breaking 32nd Everest Summit
Kami Rita Sherpa, 56, successfully reached the summit of Everest for the 32nd time on May 17, once again breaking his own world record for the highest number of Everest ascents by any climber in history. This season, he climbed with 14 Peaks Expedition and reportedly made the ascent without guiding a foreign client. According to expedition officials, he launched his summit push from the South Col and reached the summit at approximately 10:12 AM.
Journey from Thame to Global Mountaineering Icon
Born in Thame village of Solukhumbu, Kami Rita began his mountaineering career in 1992 as expedition support staff before gradually becoming one of the most respected high-altitude climbers in the world. He has held the Everest ascent record continuously since May 2018 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest Himalayan climbers of all time.
Remarkable Himalayan Climbing Career
According to Tashi Lakpa Sherpa, Kami Rita’s Himalayan climbing record extends far beyond Everest. His mountaineering achievements include:
- 32 ascents of Everest
- Eight ascents of Cho Oyu
- Three ascents of Manaslu
- One ascent each of K2 and Lhotse
These climbs were completed between 1994 and 2026, showcasing more than three decades of elite high-altitude experience.
Possibility of a 33rd Everest Summit
Despite already setting a historic record this season, expedition officials say the possibility of another summit attempt remains open. Tashi Lakpa Sherpa stated that Kami Rita will decide on a potential 33rd Everest summit after returning to Base Camp and assessing his condition and weather opportunities.
Inspiration for the Global Mountaineering Community
Kami Rita’s achievements continue to symbolize the expertise, endurance, and resilience of Nepal’s Sherpa climbers, whose contributions remain central to Himalayan mountaineering. His repeated success on Everest has earned international recognition and inspired climbers worldwide, while also highlighting Nepal’s long-standing leadership in high-altitude expeditions.
