Sonam (16), climbed Mt. Everest with his father 

Kathmandu: Sonam Sherpa (16 years), of Taplejung has successfully climbed Mt. Everest with his father. Sonam and his father Purna Kumar (PK) Sherpa successfully climbed the mountain at 8:50 am on Sunday, said Ishwori Poudel, manager of Himalayan Guides Nepal Trek and Expedition.

Both father and son had gone for climbing through Nepal Trek and Expedition Pvt ltd. Named ‘Father and Son Climate Change Campaign Expedition 2021’, Sonam had reached the Everest base camp a month ago for necessary preparations.

PK had gone to Everest base camp on May 7,2021 with a permit. Poudel said that the father and son, who had been in the base camp for a few days due to bad weather, had succeeded in climbing today.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism has also received information that they have climbed. “We have received information from the base camp and above that both PK Sherpa and his son have climbed,” said Mira Acharya, director of the mountaineering department.

According to her, after the expedition report is received, the department will investigate and if the ascent is confirmed, officiality will be provided. Similarly, Acharya says that Sonam may be the youngest climber.

She clarified that it cannot be confirmed now. “People under the age of 16 are not allowed to climb. He came after completing 16 years. It can be said only after looking at the complete documents,” said Acharya.

Chief District Officer Umesh Pandey informed that Sherpa, who was born on Feb 26, 2005, and had obtained his citizenship from the District Administration Office only on April 9, 2021.