Social media has made Everest ascent look easy, but it isn’t

It is heartbreaking to see the mountain decay over time. It is a visible reminder of global warming.

At 53, Lhakpa Sherpa is a living legend. With her latest successful ascent, she has extended her record as the world’s most successful female Everest summiteer, having stood on top of the world eleven times. Yet, behind the history-making headlines lies a story of profound survival, gruelling immigrant labour, and an unbreakable spirit.