In an extraordinary display of courage and endurance, 28-year-old teacher Divya Singh from Gorakhpur has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian woman and the second woman globally to reach Everest Base Camp on a bicycle.
Starting her ambitious journey from Kathmandu, Divya completed the grueling expedition in just 14 days, climbing to a staggering altitude of 17,560 feet. Battling extreme Himalayan conditions, she endured freezing temperatures dropping to -12°C, dangerously low oxygen levels, and powerful winds that made every stretch of the journey a test of survival.
Riding for 10 to 12 hours daily, she navigated treacherous mountain terrain, including steep ascents, rocky trails, and narrow pathways. In several stretches where cycling became impossible, Divya refused to give up—lifting her bicycle onto her shoulders and trekking forward, showcasing unmatched determination and mental strength.
Her route covered some of the most challenging and iconic Himalayan checkpoints, including Saleri, Surke, Phakding, Namche Bazaar, Lobuche, and Gorakshep, before finally reaching Everest Base Camp. Each segment pushed her physical and mental limits, yet she persevered with unwavering focus.
A video capturing her historic arrival has gone viral on social media, where she is seen standing beside her bicycle, proudly holding the Indian tricolour against the breathtaking mountain backdrop. The achievement has sparked widespread admiration, with users praising her resilience, courage, and dedication.
Divya’s success is even more inspiring considering she trained independently with limited resources, relying on self-discipline and local practice to prepare for this demanding expedition. Her journey was flagged off from Vikas Bhavan by district officials in Gorakhpur, who later celebrated her accomplishment as a landmark moment for the region.
Her achievement has not only brought pride to her hometown but has also become a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment in India, motivating countless young athletes and adventure enthusiasts to dream bigger and push beyond limits.
