Record-holding Purnima Shrestha summits Everest for fifth time
Purnima Shrestha, the first woman to summit Mount Everest three times in a single season, reached the top of the world’s highest peak at 3:37 am on Sunday, marking her fifth successful ascent of the world's highest peak.
Record-holding climber and photojournalist Purnima Shrestha has successfully summited Mount Everest for the fifth time, her expedition agency confirmed on Sunday.
She reached the summit at 3:37 am local time, as part of an ascent organized by Kathmandu-based Satori Adventures.
Shrestha climbed the word's highest peak three times in a single spring season last year making her the first woman to achieve the feat.
Besides, she has now scaled eight of the world’s 14 peaks over 8,000 metres. Originally known for her work behind the camera as a photojournalist, she transitioned into mountaineering just a few years ago and has since become one of Nepal’s most prominent female climbers.
Her achievements are particularly significant in a field where women—especially from Nepal—remain underrepresented. Shrestha continues to break barriers, inspiring a new generation of female adventurers and mountaineers.
This season’s Everest climbing window has been especially active. According to Nepal’s Department of Tourism, 468 fee-paying climbers were issued permits to ascend the mountain from the Nepali side, while around 100 others are attempting the climb from Tibet.
The spring window, typically the most favorable time for ascents, saw a surge in successful summits following brief periods of clear weather.