Kami Rita’s Name Engraved in the Records for Reaching the Everest Summit for 31st Time

Kathmandu – Veteran climber Kami Rita Sherpa reached the summit of Mount Everest for the 31st time at approximately 4:00 AM on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, marking yet another historic achievement in his extraordinary mountaineering career. By accomplishing this latest ascent, he has once again surpassed his own world record for the most successful summits of the world’s highest peak, which measures 8,848.86 meters.

Kami Rita has held the record for most Everest ascents since May 2018. His latest climb comes just over a year after he completed his 30th ascent on 12 May 2024. This season, he served as the lead climbing guide for an Indian Army expedition, a role that reflects his decades of experience and leadership in the field of high-altitude mountaineering.

Now 55 years old, Kami Rita began his mountaineering journey in 1994 with his first successful climb of Everest. He has since become a defining figure in Himalayan expeditions, widely respected for both his accomplishments and contributions to the climbing community. His deep-rooted connection to the mountains stems from his family; his father was among the first professional Sherpa guides following the opening of Everest to foreign climbers in 1950, and his brother, Lakpa Rita, has reached the summit 17 times.

In addition to his numerous Everest ascents, Kami Rita holds the record for the most summits of peaks exceeding 8,000 meters, with a total of 40. These include eight ascents of Cho Oyu (2001, 2004, 2006, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2016), one of Lhotse (2011), and one of K2 (2014). His extensive experience at such extreme altitudes underscores his exceptional physical and mental endurance.

Beyond his climbing achievements, Kami Rita is a vocal advocate for the well-being of high-altitude workers. He has called on the government to implement comprehensive social security measures for Sherpa guides and to invest in environmental conservation efforts on Everest, particularly in light of the increasing impact of climate change and the degradation of the mountain’s natural features.

While Everest has claimed the lives of more than 400 climbers over the past seven decades, Kami Rita’s continued success highlights both the immense risks involved and the remarkable skill required to navigate them. For him, Everest represents more than a personal challenge; it is a lifelong pursuit deeply tied to his heritage and identity.

Through his record-breaking achievements and enduring dedication, Kami Rita Sherpa continues to inspire climbers around the world while bringing international attention to the contributions and concerns of the Sherpa community.

The following table shows the date and year of the Everest summit conquered by Kami Rita Sherpa