Nirmal “Nims” Purja, also known as Nimsdai, is a Nepalese mountaineer and former soldier in the British Army. He was born on July 16, 1983, in Chitwan, Nepal. Purja is known for his record-breaking speed ascent of all 14 of the world’s highest peaks above 8,000 meters, known as the “8000ers,” in just under seven months.
Purja served in the British Army’s Gurkha regiment for over a decade before leaving to pursue a career in mountaineering. In 2019, he set out to break the record for climbing all 14 of the world’s 8000ers in the fastest time, a feat that had previously taken several years to accomplish. He completed the challenge in just under seven months, breaking the previous record by over six years.
Purja is also known for his efforts to promote mountaineering in Nepal and to support Nepalese climbers. He founded the Nimsdai Foundation, which provides training and support for Nepalese climbers, as well as fundraising for charitable causes. He has also been involved in several mountaineering expeditions to support environmental and social causes, such as cleaning up Mount Everest and raising awareness about mental health.
Purja’s record-breaking feat has earned him international recognition and praise. He has been awarded several honors, including the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for his services to mountaineering and the Nepalese government’s “Highest Mountain Hero” award. He continues to be involved in mountaineering and philanthropic work.
