MANASLU 8163M SPEED ASCENT

Manaslu: My First 8000er — A Journey Beyond Limits

Manaslu, the “Mountain of the Spirit”, has always been a mountain that both fascinated and intimidated me. Known for its beauty, but also for its risks — avalanches, unpredictable weather, and its formidable reputation. For years, climbing an 8000-meter peak felt like a distant dream, mostly for financial reasons. But this year, the opportunity finally aligned.

After a tough Broad Peak attempt the previous season, I carried unfinished business with the high mountains. Training continued, sharpening my endurance, unsure if the moment would come. Then, almost by chance, I found myself joining a team headed for Manaslu.

The expedition was far from smooth. A chest infection, a broken finger weeks before departure, and unpredictable Himalayan weather tested every part of me. Yet, step by step, rotation by rotation, I climbed higher — beyond Camp 4, past my personal best altitude, and onto the final ridge.

At 8163 meters, standing alone at the summit after nearly 13 hours of continuous ascent from base camp, without supplemental oxygen, I felt both exhilaration and humility. The mountain taught me deep lessons in patience, endurance, and resilience. It showed me what lies beyond the limit — and sparked an even greater fire for the future.

What’s next? Higher, faster, with even greater respect for the mountains.