Nepali Climber Phunjo Lama Reclaims Record for Fastest Female Ascent of Mount Everest

Nepali climber Phunjo  Lama has shattered the record for the fastest ascent of Mount Everest by a woman, reaching the summit in an astonishing 14 hours and 31 minutes. This accomplishment reclaims the title she previously held and sets a new benchmark for female climbers on the world’s highest peak.

Lama, who hails from Gorkha, Nepal, began her climb from Everest Base Camp on Wednesday afternoon and reached the summit at 6:23 am the following morning. This feat surpasses the previous record of 25 hours and 50 minutes set by Hong Kong climber Ada Tsang Yin-hung in 2021.

This isn’t Lama’s first Everest summit record. In 2018, she claimed the title with a time of 39 hours and 6 minutes. The current record for the fastest ascent of Everest, male or female, belongs to Pemba Dorje Sherpa, who scaled the peak in a staggering 8 hours and 10 minutes.

Phunjo Jhangmu Lama’s passion for mountain climbing began at a young age in her home village of Chhekamber Burji in Gorkha. She has tackled Denali in North America and other formidable peaks like Cho Oyu, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Manaslu, and even Mont Blanc in Europe.

This latest achievement extends beyond personal glory. According to Everest Climbing Association Secretary General Shiv Bahadur Sapkota, Lama’s success promotes Nepal’s adventure tourism industry while also raising awareness about global issues like climate change and world peace.

Phunjo Lama is a true pioneer, not just for her climbing feats but also for her dedication to mountain rescue. As the first Nepali woman trained in helicopter longline rescue techniques, she has played a vital role in saving lives in the Khumbu and Manaslu regions. Her bravery and skill were previously recognized with the prestigious Tenzing-Hilary Award.