— Sherpa Story

Gelu Sherpa

Age 32

Makalu-02, Sankhuwasabha, Nepal

Mountaineer / Expedition Worker

Climbing since 2015

Nepal Mountaineering Association

4×

Everest Summits

3×

Manaslu Summits

4

8,000m+ Peaks

N

1st Everest — North Side

Sherpa Story — Chapter 01: Gelu Sherpa

About Gelu

Gelu Sherpa began his journey in the mountains in 2015, starting as a porter before progressing into expedition work and mountaineering — from 6,000-metre peaks to some of the world's highest summits. His expeditions typically begin in March, working up from lower-altitude preparation climbs toward major peaks such as Everest, where a single expedition can mean 16 to 17 days on the mountain before returning for rest.

His journey did not begin with summit ambitions. He started as a porter, gradually learning from experienced climbers and friends working in the field — what began as difficult physical work eventually became a profession, and a way of life.

His Journey Into Mountaineering

Gelu's journey did not begin with summit ambitions.

He started as a porter, gradually learning from experienced climbers and friends working in the field. What began as difficult physical work eventually became a profession and a way of life.

One of his strongest childhood memories is reflected in how far his journey has taken him:

"From trying to look like foreigners to becoming one."

Behind the achievement, however, Gelu emphasizes that mountaineering is a difficult profession.

People often assume that working as a Sherpa means earning a high income. His experience has been very different. Long hours, difficult conditions and nights spent working in the mountains make the profession one of significant responsibility and hardship.

"The hardship in the field is very huge in comparison to the money we get."

For Gelu, the work is ultimately about responsibility, not simply money.

The Moment That Changed His Journey

One of Gelu's most unforgettable memories comes from his early days working as a porter for a French client.

During that time, she would give him different items and recognized him as a hardworking person. She also provided financial support that helped him begin his first mountaineering training.

That support became an important turning point in his life.

It encouraged Gelu to pursue mountaineering more seriously and pushed him toward the path that eventually led to his first summit and his career as an experienced high-altitude climber.

He remains grateful for the encouragement and support he received at that stage of his journey.

Climbing the World's Highest Mountains

Gelu has now climbed some of the world's most challenging high-altitude peaks. His experience also includes working across different types of terrain and conditions. For Gelu, the mountain itself is not always the greatest challenge. The conditions can change everything.