Nepal’s mountaineering community celebrated a historic moment today as 29-year-old climber Tashi Gyalzen Sherpa received a grand welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) after setting a new world record by successfully climbing Mt Everest four times in just 15 days.
A large crowd of family members, Sherpa community members, tourism entrepreneurs, and well-wishers gathered at TIA to greet the record-breaking mountaineer, who hails from Phortse village in Solukhumbu district. Garlands, khadas, and applause greeted Tashi upon his arrival, marking a proud moment not only for his village but for the entire country’s mountaineering fraternity.
Tashi Gyalzen accomplished this extraordinary feat with summit dates recorded on May 9, 14, 19, and 23, reaching the 8,848.86-meter summit for the fourth time this season in just 14 days and 10 hours. His achievement has created a new global benchmark in high-altitude mountaineering, especially in one of the most challenging terrains in the world.
Celebrations and Felicitations
The mountaineer’s achievement was further honored in a special felicitation program jointly organized by 8K Expeditions and the Phortse Community in Kapan, Kathmandu. Dignitaries including Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa, Member of the National Assembly, and Ang Tshering Sherpa, senior advisor to the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), were present at the event to extend their congratulations.
In his speech, Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa lauded Tashi’s remarkable courage and discipline, stating, “Tashi has not only made Phortse and Khumbu proud, but he has uplifted Nepal’s identity in the global mountaineering community.”
Other notable figures present included Laxman Adhikari, Ward Chair of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, Tshering Tashi Sherpa, Chairman of The Little Sherpa Foundation, and Pemba Sherpa, Chairman of 8K Expeditions. All praised Tashi Gyalzen’s endurance, focus, and dedication, emphasizing that his achievement serves as an inspiration to young climbers across the globe.
Journey of Determination and Dreams
Speaking at the event, Tashi Gyalzen shared that completing four summits in one season was a dream he had nurtured for the last two years. “This dream would not have been possible without the full support of the 8K team, the Phortse climbing community, my sponsors, family, and friends,” he said.
Lakpa Sherpa, Expedition Leader and Managing Director at 8K Expeditions, remarked that Tashi’s accomplishment was a result of intense training, planning, and unwavering spirit. “Tashi’s achievement is not just a personal milestone it’s a moment of pride for Nepal and the global mountaineering community,” he added.
Honoring Another Hero: Ikramul Hasan Shakil
The event also celebrated the achievement of Ikramul Hasan Shakil, a UNDP Youth Advocate and mountaineer from Bangladesh, who successfully summited Mt Everest after completing an epic 1,400-kilometre journey from Cox’s Bazar as part of his “Sea to Summit” expedition. Shakil covered the distance in 84 days, walking all the way from the shores of the Bay of Bengal to the summit of Everest.
Shakil was felicitated alongside Tashi for his unique and inspiring journey that brought attention to climate change and sustainable adventure. His climb was supported by Makalu E Traders, which provided the necessary climbing gear. “This is a testament to the power of determination and international solidarity in adventure tourism,” said Lhakpa Sherpa from Makalu E Traders.
A Proud Moment for Nepal’s Mountaineering Heritage
With the spring climbing season of Everest nearing its end, the record set by Tashi Gyalzen Sherpa has added a significant chapter to Nepal’s mountaineering legacy. His achievement not only showcases human endurance and courage but also positions Nepal once again as the world’s foremost destination for extreme adventure.
As Nepal continues to attract adventurers from around the world, the government, local communities, and expedition companies are being called upon to support and celebrate such milestones, while also emphasizing safety, sustainability, and respect for the mountain environment.
Tashi Gyalzen’s extraordinary feat is a reminder of the strength of the Sherpa community and the boundless possibilities that emerge when passion meets preparation on the roof of the world.
