Nepali guide and American vlogger Zander began their journey from Camp 4 on the night of May 22 (Jestha 10) and successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest at 6 a.m. the next day. I was already well acquainted with mountains, having climbed eight peaks ranging between 6,000 to 7,000 meters. Taking steps toward the world’s highest peak was a unique and thrilling experience, mixed with an equal measure of fear. Around 10 p.m. on May 22, we left Camp 4 and proceeded upward toward the summit, alongside many others ascending the peak. The anticipation of reaching the top filled me with immense joy, but the goal was far from easy. Many difficulties awaited us, and we were still a great distance from the summit. On that day, the wind was stronger than usual, making the journey more challenging.
My primary responsibility was not just to reach the summit myself but to assist 36-year-old American tourist and well-known vlogger Zander in accomplishing his goal of conquering the world’s highest peak. He appeared courageous and enthusiastic. We had been at base camp preparing for this climb for nearly two months. Along with excitement, there was also fear about whether we could make it. Every year, many climbers reach Everest’s summit, but numerous others fail or even lose their lives. Although hearing about others’ successful climbs may seem ordinary, the journey is incredibly demanding. Each moment involves fighting death as you advance upward. Many climbers are found exhausted and resting, some lose the courage to continue and turn back, some fall ill, and in certain places, bodies are barely standing. These sights send chills down one’s spine. Just a few days earlier, on the route from Camp 2 to Camp 3, a guide died after slipping at MPC 2, leaving a profound sense of fear but also alertness. It was a stark reminder that “even a small mistake can cost a life.”
The strong winds made breathing difficult, and the force of the wind stung our faces, causing pain. Fatigue was stretching our bodies to the limit. We frequently asked those returning how much further the summit was. Just below the Hillary Step, at Tangular Rock, Zander showed signs of discouragement and began saying it might be impossible to continue and suggested turning back. However, since the goal was near, and climbers returning reported we could reach the top within about an hour, I increased his oxygen supply and offered him chocolate. I reminded him of how far he had come to undertake this journey. Hearing that the dream was so close, he gathered courage, and as the daylight brightened, we pushed forward. At 6 a.m., we reached the summit of Mount Everest. That moment was incredible — we stood at the highest place on Earth, with sunlight illuminating the mountain’s heart. The weather was clear. We hugged each other and expressed our gratitude. Along with Zander and me, our company’s photographer was present. About 15 to 20 other climbers were also at the summit, mostly happy, celebrating, and taking photos. Fatigue showed on some faces, but even at such heights, not everyone could fully enjoy the experience without difficulty.
Reaching Everest’s summit is the greatest joy for any mountain traveler. We took many photos and videos and spent a long time observing our surroundings. Looking toward Nepal, the views extended far and wide, while Tibet and the distant regions of China were clearly visible and beautiful. The world we saw there was unlike anywhere else we had been. I thought to myself — perhaps this is heaven on Earth. My eyes moistened with joy. All the exhaustion I felt while climbing had vanished. After spending about 20 minutes there, we began our descent. Achieving the goal made the journey feel easier. Now, thinking of enjoying a favorite meal and resting after returning to base camp, I didn’t feel tired. We safely returned to Camp 4 in about four hours.
