KATHMANDU, Nepal — An 18-year-old Sherpa has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the youngest individual to conquer all of the world’s 14 tallest mountains. He returned to Nepal on Monday amidst a warm reception from enthusiastic supporters.

Nima Rinji Sherpa reached the peak of Mount Shishapangma in China last week, which stands at 8,027 meters (26,335 feet), marking the successful completion of his challenging expedition to climb every mountain that rises above 8,000 meters (26,247 feet). His accomplishment surpasses the previous record held by a Sherpa who reached the summits at 30 years old.

At Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal’s Tourism Minister Badri Prasad Pandey joined fellow climbers, family members, and supporters to greet the young climber with flowers and ceremonial scarves as a show of respect and admiration.

Upon his arrival, Nima expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am very happy and I want to say thank you so much everyone. It was a difficult mission but finally I was able to be successful.”

Nima hails from a prominent Sherpa family known for their contributions to mountaineering. His father and two uncles are the founders of Seven Summits Treks, a well-respected trekking company that operates in Nepal, China, and Pakistan.

Historically, Sherpas have been primarily recognized for their assistance in climbs, yet their skills are gaining acknowledgment, with many Sherpa climbers setting new records in the mountaineering field.

After his final ascent, Nima took to Instagram to reflect on his journey, describing it as “a tribute to every Sherpa who has ever dared to dream beyond the traditional boundaries set for them.”

He emphasized that mountaineering transcends mere physical labor, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and passion inherent in their heritage. Moreover, he urged the younger Sherpa generation to break free from the stereotype of being just supporters and to embrace their full potential.

Nima passionately proclaimed, “We are not just guides; we are trailblazers. Let this be a call to every Sherpa to see the dignity in our work, the power in our heritage, and the limitless possibilities in our future.”