Nepal, 14 October: In a historic achievement, a team of veteran mountaineers from Sikkim reached the Everest Base Camp (EBC) at 5,364 meters, marking a significant milestone in their lifelong aspiration to conquer the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. The expedition, undertaken to celebrate Sikkim’s 50 years of statehood, saw the team overcome rugged terrains and extreme conditions to stand at the foot of the mighty Himalayas. Though their dream of summiting Everest remained unfulfilled due to various challenges, the successful trek to EBC has brought them closer to their cherished goal, filling them with pride and emotion.
The team, comprising veteran mountaineers Manita Pradhan, Chandraman Gurung, Babbu Tamang, Tashi Sherpa, Thinley Ongmo Bhutia, Sonam Bhutia, and Tshiring Yuden Bhutia, began their arduous journey at 7 a.m. from Lobuche. Navigating through snow-covered peaks and the iconic Khumbu Glacier, they endured a grueling seven-hour trek to reach the base camp. Upon arrival, the team was overcome with emotion, embracing one another and exchanging heartfelt congratulations as they stood in awe of the majestic surroundings. The snow-draped mountains and the serene yet formidable landscape of the Everest region left an indelible mark on their hearts.
This remarkable feat was made possible through the unwavering support of the Sikkim government, particularly Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang and the Tourism Department. The team expressed profound gratitude for the government’s proactive efforts in supporting the 2025 Everest Base Camp Trekking Expedition. “This expedition is a testament to the vision and dedication of our Chief Minister and the Tourism Department. The expedition not only fulfilled a personal milestone but also symbolized Sikkim’s growing prominence in adventure tourism.
The veteran mountaineers dedicated their success to their predecessors, who devoted their lives to promoting mountain and adventure tourism in Sikkim. Their legacy of fostering a culture of exploration and resilience in the state’s rugged terrains continues to inspire future generations. This trek, undertaken as part of Sikkim’s golden jubilee celebrations, underscored the state’s rich mountaineering heritage and its commitment to preserving and promoting its natural wonders.
After their triumphant arrival at Everest Base Camp, the team rested at Gorakshep, situated at 5,180 meters. Their journey is far from over, as they plan to embark on an early morning trek to Kala Patthar at 3 a.m. the following day to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Everest. This iconic vantage point, known for its panoramic views of the Everest massif, promises to be a fitting culmination of their expedition.
The success of Sikkim’s veteran mountaineers at Everest Base Camp is more than a personal triumph—it is a celebration of the state’s spirit, resilience, and deep connection to the Himalayas. As Sikkim marks 50 years of statehood, this achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the power of determination and collective support in realizing dreams that touch the skies.
- Historic Achievement of Sikkim Mountaineers: A team of veteran mountaineers from Sikkim reached Everest Base Camp, celebrating 50 years of Sikkim’s statehood and bringing them closer to their dream of climbing Mount Everest.
- Challenging Trek to Everest Base Camp: Starting from Lobuche, the team endured a seven-hour trek through snow-covered peaks and the Khumbu Glacier to reach EBC, overwhelmed by the majestic Himalayan scenery.
- Support from Sikkim Government: The successful expedition was made possible thanks to the support of the Sikkim government, highlighting the state’s growing prominence in adventure tourism.
- Legacy and Inspiration: The mountaineers dedicated their achievement to their predecessors and emphasized Sikkim’s rich mountaineering heritage that inspires future explorers.
- Continuing the Journey with a Sunrise Trek: After reaching EBC, the team plans to trek to Kala Patthar early the next morning to witness the stunning sunrise over Mount Everest, marking the culmination of their expedition.
