Mingma sets Guinness world record by conquering all eight-thousanders

By Our Correspondent

Dolakha, Nov. 6: Mingma Gyaljen Sherpa, 37, a native of Bheding in Gaurishankar Rural Municipality-9, Dolakha, often known as the village of mountaineers, has set a Guinness world record by successfully climbing all 14 mountains above 8,000 metres. He has earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for his feat.

Son of the late Dorje Sherpa and Rinzin Doma Sherpa, Mingma achieved this feat at a young age, summiting all the eight-thousanders. 

His mountaineering journey began with the ascent of Manaslu in 2022. Since May 2023, he has climbed Sagarmatha, Lhotse, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, Broad Peak, K2, Dhaulagiri and Cho Oyu. He conquered all these peaks by October last year.

In 2024, Mingma added Annapurna, Makalu, Kanchenjunga and Shishapangma to his list of successful climbs. His father was also a mountaineering guide but had to retire after losing his hands to frostbite. He passed away at the age of 64, while Mingma’s mother, Rinzin Doma Sherpa, still resides in Bheding.

Mountaineering runs in the family. Mingma’s sisters, Nima Dangu, Chiring Nanga and Dawa Phuti Sherpa, are also experienced climbers and are dedicated to the field.

Mingma now plans to climb the highest peaks on each of the seven continents.