Dubai-based DBS Bank executive reaches the 8,163-metre summit with guide Tenji Sherpa on September 26, 2025
NEW DELHI/KATHMANDU: Indian climber Shradha Gupta has successfully summited Mount Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest mountain, marking a major milestone in her fast-rising mountaineering journey. Gupta reached the 8,163-metre summit at 8:06 am on September 26, 2025, accompanied by her guide Tenji Sherpa from Nirmal Purja’s Elite Exped company.
Manaslu, located in northern Nepal, is one of the world’s famed 14 peaks above 8,000 metres. The Nepal Tourism Board identifies Manaslu as the eighth-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,163 metres above sea level.
A Major Personal Milestone
For Gupta, this summit is especially significant because it is her first 8,000-metre peak. The climb places her in the demanding world of high-altitude mountaineering, where climbers enter what is commonly known as the “death zone”—the altitude above 8,000 metres where oxygen levels are extremely low and survival becomes increasingly difficult.
Gupta is a resident of Dubai and heads the corporate business for Singaporean bank DBS Bank in the Middle East. She began climbing only about three years ago after rediscovering her love for hiking in the UAE following the pandemic. Since then, she has made rapid progress in the world of adventure and mountaineering.
Key Facts Table
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Climber | Shradha Gupta |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Residence | Dubai, UAE |
| Profession | Head of Corporate Business, DBS Bank, Middle East |
| Mountain | Mount Manaslu |
| Height | 8,163 metres |
| Global Rank | World’s eighth-highest mountain |
| Summit Date | September 26, 2025 |
| Summit Time | 8:06 am |
| Guide | Tenji Sherpa |
| Expedition Company | Elite Exped, founded by Nirmal Purja |
| Achievement | First 8,000-metre peak |
| Previous Climbs | Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Aconcagua |
| Other Experience | Everest Base Camp trek |
From Hiking in UAE to Himalayan Heights
Before attempting Manaslu, Gupta had already summited three of the Seven Summits—Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, and Aconcagua. She had also completed the trek to Everest Base Camp, building experience and confidence for higher Himalayan expeditions.
Her successful ascent of Manaslu reflects determination, discipline, and a steady progression from trekking and hiking to serious high-altitude mountaineering. Within a short span of three years, Gupta has moved from recreational hiking to standing on one of the highest points on Earth.
Part of Elite Exped’s Successful Manaslu Team
Elite Expeditions reported that its first Manaslu team of the 2025 autumn season successfully reached the summit on September 26, 2025. The company said 26 climbers stood on top of the peak before beginning their descent to Base Camp. The summit list included Shradha Gupta from India, along with climbers from several countries.
The team was supported by a strong group of Sherpa guides, including Tenji Sherpa, who accompanied Gupta during the climb. Elite Expeditions described the summit as a major achievement for many climbers, noting that for several members, Manaslu represented their first successful ascent of an 8,000-metre mountain.
Manaslu: The Mountain of the Spirit
Mount Manaslu is also known as the “Mountain of the Spirit.” Elite Exped describes the peak as a serious 8,000-metre undertaking and often a preparatory climb for mountaineers aspiring to attempt Everest in the future. The company’s standard Manaslu expedition runs for 35 days and includes acclimatisation, training, climbing rotations, and the summit push.
Although Manaslu is often considered among the more approachable 8,000-metre peaks, it remains a dangerous and demanding climb. Elite Exped notes that the mountain requires a long period in the death zone and demands proper preparation, training, fitness, and expert guidance.
A Story of Late Start and Strong Resolve
Shradha Gupta’s achievement is also a story of starting late and rising fast. Unlike many mountaineers who begin training early in life, Gupta entered climbing only after the pandemic. Her journey shows how passion, fitness, planning, and professional support can help determined individuals achieve extraordinary goals.
Her successful Manaslu summit adds another inspiring chapter to the growing participation of Indian women in global mountaineering. It also highlights the role of working professionals who are pursuing high-risk adventure goals alongside demanding corporate careers.
