Renowned mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has departed for the Everest region to attempt his record-breaking 32nd ascent of Mount Everest, leading an international team under the Spring 2026 expedition season organized by 14 Peaks Expedition. The veteran climber, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished guides in Himalayan mountaineering history, is once again stepping into the Everest route as a senior climbing leader.
“Another Journey Begins Toward the Top of the World”
Shortly before departure, Kami Rita shared a message on social media announcing the beginning of his latest expedition. “Heading to Lukla for my 32nd summit of Mount Everest with the 14 Peaks Expedition team, Spring 2026. Another journey begins toward the top of the world,” he wrote, marking the emotional start of his season.
He later confirmed his safe arrival at Lukla Airport, describing it as the gateway to the Himalayas. From there, his team proceeded toward Phakding as part of the initial trekking route to Everest Base Camp. “We have safely landed in Lukla Airport, the gateway to the Himalaya. Our journey now continues toward Phakding as I lead an international team… Step by step, we move closer to the dream,” he added.
Expedition Confirmed by Organizers
The departure was officially confirmed by Tashi Lakpa Sherpa, owner of 14 Peaks Expedition, who stated that Kami Rita will lead the company’s international climbing team for the 2026 spring season. The expedition marks another major chapter for the world-renowned climber, who has become synonymous with Everest guiding excellence.
A Career Defined by World Records
Born on January 17, 1970, in Solukhumbu, Kami Rita Sherpa has spent more than three decades on the slopes of Everest. He first reached the summit in 1994 and has since returned almost every climbing season, building an unmatched legacy in high-altitude mountaineering.
He currently holds the world record for the most Everest ascents, with 31 successful summits as of May 27, 2025. His achievement has made him a global symbol of endurance, skill, and Himalayan expertise. Beyond Everest, he has also summited multiple peaks above 8,000 meters, totaling 44 ascents, including climbs of Cho Oyu, Manaslu, Lhotse, and K2.
Final Everest Chapter for the Veteran Climber
In earlier remarks, Kami Rita indicated that the 2026 expedition may be his final attempt on Everest. He mentioned that at 55 years of age, he plans to step back from high-altitude mountaineering after this season and continue with trekking and adventure activities.
“I have come back to prepare for my 32nd Everest ascent this spring season. This will probably be my last attempt on the world’s highest peak,” he had said earlier. Despite encouragement from family and friends to retire earlier, the climber said he now feels ready to conclude his Everest journey on his own terms.
A Legacy Built Over Three Decades
Over the years, Kami Rita Sherpa has become a defining figure in Nepal’s mountaineering industry. His consistent presence on Everest expeditions has contributed significantly to Nepal’s global reputation in adventure tourism and high-altitude guiding.
His summit history spans nearly every major climbing season since the mid-1990s, including multiple double ascents in several years, demonstrating exceptional endurance and experience in extreme conditions.
Tribute from Expedition Company
Marking the start of the expedition, 14 Peaks Expedition paid tribute to the legendary climber on social media, highlighting his contribution to Himalayan mountaineering. “For most, Everest is a dream. For some, it becomes a journey. For Kami Rita Sherpa, it’s a legacy,” the company stated, wishing him success for his 32nd summit attempt. As the spring climbing season begins, all eyes in the mountaineering world will once again be on Everest, and on the man who has made its summit his lifelong path.
