LHASA, Tibet: This month, a record number of climbers have gathered in Tibet with the goal of summiting the world’s tallest 14 peaks, each over 8,000 meters (26,250 feet). Traditionally a lifetime achievement, completing all these summits has become more accessible, thanks to advancements in technology and mountaineering logistics.
Only around 50 climbers have previously conquered all 14 peaks, a feat that used to take years or even decades. However, this year, around 20 mountaineers are making attempts to join this elite group, many inspired by a Netflix documentary that has highlighted the challenge. The climbers, a mix of seasoned veterans and younger aspirants like 18-year-old Nepali Nima Rinji Sherpa, who aims to be the youngest to complete all 14 peaks, are now at the base camp of Mount Shisha Pangma, the final peak for many.
The rise in climbers has been fueled by technological improvements, including better weather forecasting and faster transportation via helicopters, allowing climbers to summit multiple mountains in one season. Additionally, full support teams now handle logistics, enabling those with the financial means to attempt the feat.
The climbing community has mixed opinions on this trend. While it has opened the door for more athletes to tackle the 14 peaks, some veteran alpinists argue that modern methods, such as using helicopters and pre-prepared routes, diminish the challenge. Regardless, climbers like Russian Alina Pekova, who is currently attempting Shisha Pangma, see speed ascents as a new endurance challenge, marking a shift in how mountaineering’s ultimate achievement is pursued.