Source::The Himalayan
In a stunning display of endurance and determination, Phunjo Jhangmu Lama, a mountaineer from Gorkha, Nepal, has set a new world record as the fastest female to scale Mount Everest, completing the ascent in 14 hours and 31 seconds. She reached the summit at 6:23 AM on Thursday, reclaiming her title and surpassing the previous record held by Ada Tsang Yin-hung of Hong Kong.
Phunjo commenced her ascent from the base camp at 3:52 PM on Wednesday, according to Khim Lal Gautam, the chief at the Expedition Monitoring Field Office at Everest's base camp. Her remarkable achievement was verified by officials at the base camp, who were in awe of her exceptional courage and determination.
This feat marks a significant milestone in Phunjo’s illustrious climbing career. In 2018, she first made headlines by summiting Everest in 39 hours and 6 minutes. However, her record was broken in 2021 by Ada Tsang Yin-hung, who completed the climb in 25 hours and 50 minutes. This season, driven by a desire to reclaim her title, Phunjo joined the TAG Nepal Everest expedition and achieved her goal with unparalleled speed.
Shiva Bahadur Sapkota, General Secretary of the Everest Summiteers Association, congratulated Phunjo on her remarkable accomplishment. "Phunjo’s courage and determination are truly exceptional," Sapkota stated, highlighting her extensive training in both the Swiss Alps and Nepal's Himalayas.
Phunjo's climb coincided with Buddha Jayanti, an auspicious occasion that she dedicated to world peace. Her journey is not just a testament to her physical and mental fortitude but also a symbolic gesture promoting women's empowerment and environmental conservation. Before embarking on her expedition, Phunjo expressed her dedication to these causes, stating, "I want to dedicate my climb for women's empowerment, mountain environment protection, and world peace."
Born in the remote Chhokangpaaro village of Tsum Valley in Gorkha, Phunjo's mountaineering achievements extend beyond Everest. She has also scaled other formidable peaks, including Mt. Manaslu, Mt. Cho Oyu, Amadablam, Lobuche, and Denali. Her pioneering spirit is evident not only in her climbing records but also in her role as the first Nepali female helicopter long-line rescuer. Recognizing her contributions to mountaineering and rescue operations, the government awarded her the prestigious Tenzing-Hilary award.
Phunjo’s impact reaches beyond her personal accomplishments. She has been actively involved in supporting rural communities, enhancing their livelihoods through various initiatives. Her recent triumph on Everest serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the heights that can be achieved with perseverance and dedication.
As Phunjo Jhangmu Lama stands atop the world’s highest peak once again, her story resonates as a powerful message of resilience and hope, empowering women and advocating for a better world.
Photo Credit: Everest Chronicles, The Annapurna Express
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