Two 50-year-old women from Arunachal Pradesh—Pema YK Loyi and Dr. Tadar Sharmila Tana—have successfully completed the challenging Everest Base Camp (EBC) trek, sending a powerful message of empowerment and determination.
The duo, both hailing from the northeastern state known for its rugged terrain and natural beauty, completed the 130-kilometer round-trip journey to Everest Base Camp, situated at an altitude of 5,364 meters in Nepal. Battling thin air, freezing temperatures, and steep climbs, their achievement is being hailed across the region as a milestone for women mountaineers in India—especially for those defying age-related stereotypes.
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A Journey Beyond Physical Limits
What makes this accomplishment even more remarkable is the age of the two trekkers. At 50, many hesitate to take on strenuous physical challenges, especially at high altitudes. But Pema YK Loyi, a passionate traveler and former government official, and Dr. Tadar Sharmila Tana, a practicing medical professional, broke the mold with months of dedicated training and an unyielding spirit.
Their trek began from Lukla, the gateway to Everest, winding through Namche Bazaar, Tengboche, Dingboche, and Lobuche, before finally reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp. The journey took nearly two weeks, with acclimatization breaks and rigorous hiking across glaciers and rugged mountain passes.
“We didn’t see age as a barrier,” said Loyi. “If anything, our experience in life gave us the mental strength to push forward when our bodies felt exhausted.”
Promoting Women’s Health and Fitness
The trek was more than just a personal milestone—it also served as a campaign for women’s health, fitness, and mental well-being. Both women believe that fitness should be lifelong, and that age should never be seen as a limitation.
“Fitness is not about being young, it’s about being consistent and committed,” said Dr. Tadar Sharmila Tana, who emphasized the importance of staying physically active for overall wellness. As a doctor, she also monitored health parameters throughout the trek, offering guidance to fellow trekkers and raising awareness about high-altitude sickness prevention.
Representing Arunachal Pradesh on a Global Stage
The achievement has brought national attention to Arunachal Pradesh, a region often underrepresented in stories of mainstream mountaineering. Loyi and Tana have become symbols of pride for the state, inspiring other women—and especially those in their middle age—to explore their physical potential and embrace adventure.
Their success has also opened up discussions around promoting trekking and eco-tourism in Arunachal, which is home to its own stunning mountain trails and Himalayan ranges. “We hope our story encourages the youth of Arunachal to take up adventure sports and discover the magic of the outdoors,” Loyi added.
Messages of Congratulations Pour In
Social media platforms lit up with congratulations as news of the duo’s Everest Base Camp trek broke. Leaders, community members, and women’s rights activists lauded the two women for their inspirational achievement.
Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu took to Twitter to congratulate them, stating, “Pema YK Loyi and Dr. Sharmila Tana have shown that passion and perseverance know no age. They are true icons of Nari Shakti.”
The Road Ahead
Following the successful completion of their trek, both women expressed interest in encouraging other women to participate in treks and high-altitude expeditions. They plan to organize awareness sessions, trekking workshops, and training camps across Arunachal Pradesh to empower more women to lace up their hiking boots.
In an age where wellness and self-discovery are gaining renewed importance, Pema YK Loyi and Dr. Tadar Sharmila Tana have not only scaled new heights literally but also metaphorically. Their Everest Base Camp trek is a beacon of hope, strength, and resilience—reminding the world that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
