Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak at 8,848.86 meters, has long symbolized the pinnacle of human endurance. While men historically dominated high-altitude mountaineering, women have shattered records and defied odds in recent decades. In this post, we delve into the remarkable journeys of Women On Everest, the obstacles they face, and practical tips for aspiring female climbers.
Did you know?
- In 2023, women represented 12% of all Everest climbers, up from just 5% in 2010 (Source: Himalayan Database).
- Lhakpa Sherpa holds the record for the most Everest summits by a woman, having climbed the mountain 10 times.
- There are many women who have climbed Everest after losing their husbands on Everest as a tribute to their late husbands.
Breaking Barriers: Women Who Made Everest History
- Junko Tabei (Japan, 1975): First woman to summit Everest. Her climb inspired countless women to challenge societal norms.
- Pasang Lhamu Sherpa (Nepal, 1993): First Nepali woman to summit Everest. A national hero who blazed a trail for local female mountaineers.
- Lhakpa Sherpa (Nepal): She holds the world record for the most Everest summits by a woman (10 times) and continues to inspire female climbers worldwide.
- Phunjo Lama holds the record for a woman’s fastest ascent of Mount Everest. She reached the summit in 14 hours and 31 minutes.
- Nepali climber Chhurim Sherpa held the record, having scaled Everest twice in a week in 2012, holding a Guinness World Record.
- Also, Anshu Jamsenpa achieved a remarkable feat by summiting Mount Everest twice within a week. She first reached the summit on May 16, 2017, and then again on May 21, 2017,
- Lucy Westlake (USA) – Youngest American Woman to Summit Everest (18 years)
Women on Everest: By the numbers (2024)
- Total female summiteers: 650+
- Female success rate: 58%
- Male success rate: 63%
- Most Everest summits by a woman: 10 times (Lhakpa)
Why it matters: Although the female success rate is slightly lower than men’s, the gap is closing due to changing mindsets and increased representation.
Challenges Faced by Women Climbers
1. Physiological Hurdles
Women have an average 6-10% lower oxygen-carrying capacity, making altitude acclimatization more challenging (Journal of Applied Physiology).
Solution: Focus on hypoxia simulation training, iron-rich diets, and a gradual acclimatization schedule.
2. Gender Bias & Sponsorship Gaps
Female climbers receive less sponsorship than men (about 35% less, Adventure Sports Magazine, 2023).
WILD YAK’s advice: Approach brands with a strong social media presence or a unique story angle. Many outdoor companies (e.g., Wild Yak Gear) actively support female athletes.
3. Cultural Barriers
In Nepal, only 15% of certified mountain guides are women. This impacts mentorship opportunities for female climbers.
4. Gear Limitations
Historically, most mountaineering gear was designed for men. Some brands now offer women-specific technical gear and clothing.
How Women Are Changing the Game
All-Women Expeditions in 2023, an all-female team summited Everest via the Kangshung Face, a less organised and more challenging route.
Advocacy & Mentorship
Some organizations provide grants and specific training for aspiring female climbers.
Sustainability & Climate Action
Women-led expeditions often emphasize eco-friendly practices. Some focus on environmental cleanups, removing tons of waste from the mountains.
How to Prepare: A Woman’s Guide to Everest
- Building physical endurance and mental resilience is crucial: focus on a training program including the following:
- Strength & Endurance
- Technical skills in mountaineering
- Altitude (e.g., Hypoxia simulation as additional training)
- Acclimatization and pre-experience on other Peaks
Check out our WILD YAK 3 most effective ways to prepare for your Everest Expedition to develop a robust training program.
1. Mountaineering workshops & Gear Checklist
Take part in one of our tailor-made mountaineering workshops to develop your skills, enhance your confidence and prepare specifically for the high-altitude constraints.
Get professional advice for Women-specific Gear (e.g., Wild Yak Gear local Nepali brand)) and test them before your mountaineering challenge.
Must-haves: Heated gloves, menstrual hygiene products for extreme cold, and custom-fitted heating boots.
2. Mentorship & Support
Seek female role models and guides who understand women’s unique challenges in high-altitude climbing.
Join online forums and local climbing groups to network and share advice.
3. Budgeting & Sponsorship
Approach outdoor brands or adventure grants aimed at supporting women in sports.
Learn more about expedition costs and planning on our Everest Expedition Guide.
Conclusion
Women are not only climbing Mount Everest—they’re leading in sustainability, mentorship, and innovation. With their growing representation on the world’s highest peak and resilience, female climbers are true inspirations for everybody.
