Nepal’s Phunjo Lama has etched her name in the annals of mountaineering history by breaking the world record for the fastest ascent of Mount Everest by a woman. Lama’s remarkable feat saw her conquer the world’s highest peak in a staggering 24 hours and 26 minutes, a testament to her endurance and determination.
Lama embarked on her ascent from Everest Base Camp, tackling the formidable challenges of the mountain without pausing to sleep. Her journey to the summit lasted 14 hours and 31 minutes, followed by a descent of nine hours and 18 minutes. Departing Base Camp at 3:52 p.m. on May 23, Lama reached the pinnacle of Everest at 6:23 a.m. the following morning.
Escaping the congested climbing routes, Lama opted for an overnight ascent to bypass the crowds that often cause delays during the climbing season. Recounting her experience, Lama highlighted the staggering number of climbers she encountered between Camps Two and Four, emphasizing the need for strategic planning to navigate the crowded routes effectively.
Lama’s ascent was meticulously planned, with three weeks spent acclimatizing at Base Camp before the summit push. Her climbing partner, Samantha McMahon, shared in her journey, aspiring to become the first Australian woman to conquer all of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks.
The significance of Lama’s achievement extends beyond breaking records. Raised in Nepal’s Tsum Valley, Lama’s affinity for the mountains runs deep, shaped by her upbringing in a yak herding community. For Lama, the mountains symbolize equality, transcending gender barriers and offering boundless opportunities for exploration.
Despite her remarkable accomplishments, Lama remains grounded, prioritizing inclusivity in her profession as a mountaineering guide. With a vision of achieving gender parity among climbing clients, Lama is committed to empowering women in mountaineering and beyond.
As the 2024 climbing season unfolds, Mount Everest sees notable changes aimed at enhancing safety and environmental sustainability. All climbers are now equipped with tracking chips to facilitate rescue operations, while stringent measures are in place to address the issue of waste management on the mountain.
For Lama, Everest represents not only a personal triumph but also a platform to advocate for equality and environmental stewardship in the realm of mountaineering. With aspirations to conquer new peaks and inspire future generations of climbers, Lama’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and the transformative power of the mountains.
