Nepali Woman Breaks World Record for Fastest Ascent of Mount Everest
In an impressive feat of endurance and determination, Phunjo Lama from Nepal has shattered the world record for the fastest ascent of Mount Everest by a woman. A grueling journey that lasted 24 hours and 26 minutes without a break for sleep.
Breaking Down the Record-Breaking Journey
Lama’s remarkable achievement involved a 14-hour and 31-minute climb from Everest Base Camp to the summit, followed by a nine-hour and 18-minute descent. She started her ascent at 3:52 p.m. on May 23 and reached the top of the world at 6:23 a.m. the next morning.
By choosing to climb overnight, Lama managed to bypass the overcrowded conditions that often plague the mountain during the climbing season. She avoided the long lines of hikers waiting for their turn to reach the summit, with some enduring hours-long “traffic jams.”
Setting Records and Making History
Lama spent three weeks acclimating at Base Camp before her record-breaking climb, joined by her climbing partner Samantha McMahon. Mount Everest, standing at 8,849 meters (29,032 feet), presents extreme altitude challenges that require careful preparation.
This was Lama’s second Everest ascent, with her first record set in 2018 for the return trip from Base Camp. Despite her achievements, Lama remains humble and focused on her passion for mountaineering.
Equality and Dreams of the Future
For Lama, mountains represent both a playground and a home, where gender distinctions fade away. She aims to promote gender equality in her profession as a mountaineering guide, hoping to see a more balanced ratio of male and female climbers in the future.
Looking ahead, Lama has her sights set on conquering other challenging peaks, including Alaska’s Denali and Pakistan’s K2. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to environmental conservation make her a role model for aspiring mountaineers worldwide.
Changes on the Horizon for Everest Climbers
The 2024 climbing season on Mount Everest brought significant changes, including the use of tracking chips for all climbers to enhance safety and rescue efforts. Additionally, climbers were required to collect and remove their waste from the mountain, addressing the growing issue of trash accumulation on the world’s highest peak.
As climbers like Phunjo Lama continue to push boundaries and break records, the spirit of adventure and exploration thrives in the majestic peaks of the Himalayas.
