With climate changes altering conditions on Everest, Sherpa anticipates significant impacts on future climbs.
Record-Setting Sherpa Reflects on Everest and a Changing Climate

Record-Setting Sherpa Reflects on Everest and a Changing Climate
Kami Rita Sherpa discusses his historic 31st climb and the future of the iconic mountain.
Kami Rita Sherpa, a legendary Nepali mountain guide, achieved a groundbreaking 31st ascent of Mount Everest, solidifying his reputation as a record-holder in climbing history. Having dedicated over three decades to guiding climbers from around the globe to the summit, Sherpa shared insights during an interview shortly after his latest triumph on the peak.
In a conversation in Kathmandu, Sherpa expressed his pride in achieving the dreams of many climbers who aspire to reach the pinnacle of the world. However, he also acknowledged the increasing difficulty of climbs due to adverse weather patterns intensified by climate change. “Climbing has become more challenging these past few years, and this latest expedition was no exception,” he recounted.
The seasoned climber discussed his observations on the rising trend of luxury expeditions on Everest, as well as the introduction of technologies like xenon gas to enhance climbing experiences. Sherpa is both a witness to and a critic of the changing dynamics on the mountain, pointing out how climate shifts are set to influence both the geography and the community of guides in the future.
As Sherpa continues to break records, he highlights the importance of sustainability within the climbing industry and encourages a collective responsibility toward preserving Everest amidst an era of significant climate transformation.
In a conversation in Kathmandu, Sherpa expressed his pride in achieving the dreams of many climbers who aspire to reach the pinnacle of the world. However, he also acknowledged the increasing difficulty of climbs due to adverse weather patterns intensified by climate change. “Climbing has become more challenging these past few years, and this latest expedition was no exception,” he recounted.
The seasoned climber discussed his observations on the rising trend of luxury expeditions on Everest, as well as the introduction of technologies like xenon gas to enhance climbing experiences. Sherpa is both a witness to and a critic of the changing dynamics on the mountain, pointing out how climate shifts are set to influence both the geography and the community of guides in the future.
As Sherpa continues to break records, he highlights the importance of sustainability within the climbing industry and encourages a collective responsibility toward preserving Everest amidst an era of significant climate transformation.