Born in Thame, in Nepal's Khumbu valley
Apa Sherpa
अपा शेर्पा
Also known as Lhakpa Tenzing Sherpa, Super Sherpa
Mountaineer who held the record for most Everest summits (21) from 2000 to 2018
About
Apa Sherpa grew up poor in the village of Thame. As a young boy, he worked carrying gear for Everest climbing trips. In 1990, he reached the top of Everest for the first time. He kept going back almost every year. Each time, he broke his own record.
By 2011, he had climbed Everest 21 times. This tied him with Phurba Tashi for the world record. The record stood until 2018, when Kami Rita Sherpa climbed more times. After he stopped climbing, Apa began speaking about climate change. He talks about how it affects the Himalayas. He also works to support education for children in Sherpa communities.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1960-01-20
- Birthplace
- Thame, Solukhumbu District, Nepal
- Profession
- Mountaineer, Mountain guide
- Nationality
- Nepal
- Status
- Alive
Career & life timeline
- 1960
- 1985
Began working on Everest expeditions as a young porter
- 1990
Reached the summit of Mount Everest for the first time
- 2000
Set a new record with his 11th Everest summit
- 2011
Completed his 21st and final Everest summit
Achievements
21 ascents of Mount Everest
Held the world record for most Everest summits from 2000 until it was surpassed in 2018
Related people
Last updated: 2026-09-06