KATHMANDU, OCT 14 – The people of Nepal welcomed an 18-year-old mountaineer as a hero as he returned home today after breaking the record for the youngest person to climb all 14 of the world’s mountain peaks over 8,000 meters (m).
Nima Rinji Sherpa reached the 8,027m peak of Shisha Pangma in Tibet last October 9, completing his mission to stand on the highest peak in the world.
He returned from China to Nepal’s capital Kathmandu today, where many were waiting to see him.
“I feel very happy,” he said AFPwho was covered in a traditional scarf and garland of marigolds, as she appeared to thunderous cheers at the airport.
“Thank you very much everyone”, he said to his supporters.
The Nepali climbing community also welcomed several other climbers who have returned after completing the 14 peaks.
Conquering all 14 peaks over 8,000m is considered the pinnacle of mountaineering aspiration, with all peaks located in the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges, covering Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet and India. – AFP
