Kami Rita first reached Everest's summit in 1994 while leading a commercial expedition and has continued to climb it almost every year since. His most recent accomplishment was officially recognized by the expedition company Seven Summit Treks, which described him as not just a national hero but a "global symbol of Everest." His closest competitor, fellow Nepali sherpa Pasang Dawa, has summited 29 times.
Despite the accolades, Kami Rita maintains a pragmatic view of his feats, stating that, while he appreciates the recognition, his primary goal is to promote Nepal to the world. He often shares insights from his climbs, including cultural rituals such as the Puja ceremony before expeditions to seek blessings for safe ascents.
Around 500 climbers have successfully reached Everest this season, fueled by a record issuance of over 1,000 climbing permits by Nepal's tourism department, amidst concerns regarding overcrowding and environmental impact. As the climbing season comes to a close, the focus remains on ensuring responsible mountaineering practices in the region.
Despite the accolades, Kami Rita maintains a pragmatic view of his feats, stating that, while he appreciates the recognition, his primary goal is to promote Nepal to the world. He often shares insights from his climbs, including cultural rituals such as the Puja ceremony before expeditions to seek blessings for safe ascents.
Around 500 climbers have successfully reached Everest this season, fueled by a record issuance of over 1,000 climbing permits by Nepal's tourism department, amidst concerns regarding overcrowding and environmental impact. As the climbing season comes to a close, the focus remains on ensuring responsible mountaineering practices in the region.
