KATHMANDU, Nepal: At just 18 years old, Nima Rinji Sherpa is on the verge of making mountaineering history by becoming the youngest person to summit all 14 of the world’s highest peaks, each towering above 8,000 meters. Having already scaled 13 of these formidable mountains, Sherpa’s final challenge awaits him next month at Shishapangma in Tibet, pending a permit from China.
Raised in a family of accomplished mountaineers, Sherpa initially gravitated towards filmmaking and photography. However, two years ago, he embraced his heritage and began climbing. His first significant achievement came at 16 when he became the youngest climber to summit Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak. Since then, he has continued to break records, including scaling Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain.
Sherpa’s journey is not just about personal achievement but also about inspiring a new generation and redefining mountaineering as a professional sport. Despite his youth, he has already learned to remain calm in the face of mountain dangers, a trait he attributes to his experiences on the peaks. He also advocates for a sustainable approach to mountaineering, recognizing the impacts of climate change and commercial climbing on the environment.
Sherpa’s ambition extends beyond the summits, as he aims to elevate the status of Nepali climbers and contribute to the mountaineering community. His dedication to this cause reflects his broader vision for the sport, rooted in the legacy of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, his hero, and a pioneer in the world of climbing.
As he prepares for his final ascent, Sherpa is not only chasing a record but also setting the stage for future generations of climbers, hoping to inspire and transform mountaineering in Nepal and beyond.
