Mike Harker, the Public Affairs Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, successfully reached the summit of Lobuche East in Nepal’s Khumbu region at 8:30 a.m. local time on Monday, April 27. This accomplishment marks Harker’s second successful ascent of the 6,119-meter (20,075-foot) peak in just over six months—a feat he described as essential preparation for an upcoming attempt on Mount Everest.
The expedition was supported by Seven Summit Treks and 14 Peaks Expedition, with expert guidance provided by Pasang Nurbu Sherpa and Pasang Rinzee Sherpa. Harker noted that shifting snow levels compared to his previous ascent made the route “more technical,” providing an ideal environment for rigorous high-altitude training.
“Summited Lobuche East at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, April 27. My second time in six months (and two days). The mountain felt new: shifting snow levels made it more technical—good practice for Everest,” Harker shared in an Instagram post.
Images shared by the team show climbers navigating a narrow, snowy ridge against the backdrop of the world’s highest peaks. “One minute you’re next to us flying the drone, and the next you’re 100 meters ahead of us up the mountain!” Harker commented regarding footage captured by guide Pasang Rinzee.
The expedition partners congratulated the diplomat on his achievement, calling it a “powerful and inspiring” step forward in his mountaineering journey. Harker’s successful summit adds him to the growing list of high-profile diplomats engaging with Nepal’s renowned climbing culture this season.
Harker’s previous successful scaling of Lobuche East occurred exactly six months prior, on October 25. According to Chhang Dawa Sherpa, Expedition Director at Seven Summit Treks, Harker reached the summit at approximately 5:15 a.m. during that expedition, accompanied by SST Director Pasang Phurba Sherpa and Heli Everest Captain Pastenji Sherpa. They were guided by Tendi Sherpa and Dawa Sherpa.
Lobuche East is a prominent peak often used by climbers for acclimatization before attempting higher Himalayan giants, offering panoramic views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam.
Harker serves as the Public Affairs Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Nepal. His connection to the region dates back to 2006, when a hike along the Annapurna Circuit sparked a lasting affinity for the country, leading to multiple returns for trekking and monastery studies.
Harker has previously served in Bangladesh, Iraq, Pakistan, Qatar, and Egypt, and most recently served as the Spokesperson at the U.S. Embassy in Burma. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from UCLA and a Master’s degree in International Affairs from Columbia University.
Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
