KATHMANDU: A 55-year-old Nepali climber dubbed “Everest Man” reached the peak of the world’s highest mountain for a record 31st time on Tuesday, more than three decades after his first summit.

“Massive congratulations to the legendary Kami Rita Sherpa on his 31st successful ascent of Everest, the highest number of ascents by anyone in history,” expedition organiser Seven Summit Treks said.

“Kami Rita Sherpa needs no introduction. He is not just a national climbing hero, but a global symbol of Everest itself,” it added.

Sherpa first stood on the top of Mount Everest in 1994 when working for a commercial expedition.

He has climbed Everest almost every year since, guiding clients.

Sherpa, speaking a year ago after he had climbed the 8,849-metre (29,032-foot) peak for the 29th and 30th times, said that he was “just working” and did not plan on setting records.

“I am more happy that my climbs help Nepal be recognised in the world,” Sherpa said. Seven Summit Treks said he completed the climb on Tuesday as the leader of an Indian army team, adding that he “not only reached the summit himself, but also led and guided the last remaining members of the team to the top”.

Another Nepali climber, Tashi Gyalzen Sherpa, 29, returned to Kathmandu on Tuesday after he made a record-breaking four summits of Everest in just 15 days.

Published in Dawn, May 28th, 2025