Historic Climb: Amputee Mountaineer Conquers the Seven Summits

In a remarkable journey that seeks to challenge perceptions of disability, Hari Budha Magar, a British-Nepalese mountaineer, is on the brink of setting a groundbreaking record. Magar, who has undergone the amputation of both legs above the knee, aims to become the first individual to reach the summits of the world's seven highest peaks.

As a father of three residing in Canterbury, England, Magar has already successfully scaled four of the seven summits, including the iconic Mount Everest, which stands at 8,848 meters. His next expedition will take him to South America, where he plans to ascend Aconcagua, the tallest peak in the Andes, measuring 6,961 meters. If successful, he would only need to conquer two remaining summits: the challenging Carstensz Pyramid in Oceania and Mount Vinson in Antarctica.

Magar's determination to climb these formidable mountains stems from a personal mission to raise awareness about disabilities. He emphasizes that his primary goal is not merely to make history but to inspire others and promote understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

In 2010, while serving in the British Army in Afghanistan, Magar lost both of his legs due to an explosive device. Following this traumatic experience, he struggled with depression and turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism. However, he eventually decided to reclaim his life by engaging in sports, which helped him regain his confidence and find purpose.

His journey has not been without obstacles. In 2018, the Nepalese government announced a ban on individuals with disabilities climbing Mount Everest. Magar fought against this decision, advocating for the rights of disabled climbers. His persistence paid off, and in May 2023, he successfully reached the summit of Everest, fulfilling a dream he had fought hard to achieve.

In recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments and efforts to advocate for people with disabilities, Magar was awarded the MBE (Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) by Princess Anne. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed hope that his challenges will inspire resilience and adaptability in future generations.