KATHMANDU: “Life does not lose its meaning just because part of the body is damaged,” says Hari Budha Magar, who has made history by becoming the first person with double above-the-knee amputations to summit the highest peaks on all seven continents—enduring temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius.
“By recognizing our abilities, we can climb the Everest of our dreams every day. I am living proof that hard work leads to success,” he said.
A former Gurkha soldier, Magar completed the historic feat with a demanding three-day ascent of Mount Vinson in Antarctica, which rises 4,892 metres above sea level. He reached the summit on January 6, marking the culmination of a years-long challenge.
Magar, a resident of Canterbury, Kent, lost both legs in 2010 after being injured by an improvised explosive device while serving with the British Army in Afghanistan. He spent several years undergoing intensive physical and mental training to prepare for the record-breaking achievement.
Reflecting on his journey, Magar said disability should never define or limit ambition. “With determination and perseverance, even the biggest dreams can be achieved,” he said.
Following his injuries, he endured a difficult recovery period, grappling with both physical and emotional trauma that left him feeling lost. However, he eventually rediscovered purpose by pursuing his childhood dream of mountaineering.
Born 46 years ago in the remote village of Mirul in Rolpa district, Magar has become a symbol of courage and resilience. Recounting the challenges of climbing Mount Vinson, he said fierce winds and extreme cold pushed him to his limits. “My fingers froze and my face burned from the cold. At times, I doubted myself. Though I never believed in God, I found myself praying with all my heart that we would succeed,” he recalled.
He served as a Gurkha soldier for 15 years across five continents, including deployments in Brunei, Kosovo, and the Falklands. A father of three, he currently lives with his family in Canterbury, Kent.
He said unwavering confidence helped him overcome the harsh conditions. Drawing from his wartime experience, he noted that challenges exist in every endeavor, but faith in oneself and relentless effort make success possible.
“It is an indescribable feeling. As a person with disabilities, I have achieved what once seemed impossible—climbing the highest peaks of all seven continents,” he said. “I believe this achievement helps uplift Nepal’s pride. I sincerely thank everyone who supported and encouraged me throughout this journey.”
Magar began his Seven Summits journey with the ascent of Mont Blanc (4,809 metres) in France on August 13, 2019, followed by Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 metres) in Tanzania on January 8, 2020, and Mount Everest (8,848.86 metres) on May 19, 2023. He later climbed Denali (6,190 metres) in North America on June 28, 2024; Aconcagua (6,961 metres) in South America on February 22, 2025; and Puncak Jaya (4,884 metres) in New Guinea, before completing the final ascent of Mount Vinson in Antarctica.
Although Mount Elbrus in Russia is traditionally included in the Seven Summits, Magar climbed Mont Blanc instead due to accessibility constraints. His achievement is said to have been recognized by Guinness World Records. After hoisting the Nepali flag atop Mount Vinson, Magar described the moment as magical. “Snow stretched as far as the eye could see—it felt heavenly,” he said.
Recalling those who once doubted his abilities, he added, “If someone says you cannot do something because of your physical condition, show them—prove them wrong.” He believes his success will inspire people with disabilities around the world.
Magar reached the summit of Mount Vinson at 10 p.m. on January 6, accompanied by his Nepali climbing team, including Abhiral Rai, Mingma Sherpa, and Jangbu Sherpa, after traveling from Union Glacier Base Camp in Antarctica, where daylight lasts 24 hours.
He served as a Gurkha soldier for 15 years across five continents, including deployments in Brunei, Kosovo, and the Falklands. A father of three, he currently lives with his family in Canterbury, Kent.
Magar is a recipient of the prestigious Pride of Britain award and was honored with an MBE last year. After losing his legs, he battled deep despair and alcoholism and even attempted suicide before rebuilding his life.
He has dedicated his achievement to the global community of persons with disabilities, saying it carries a powerful message of courage and resilience from the land of Sagarmatha. He is scheduled to arrive in Kathmandu on January 15 to share his achievement and later plans to return to the UK to meet the British Prime Minister.
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