At just 17 years old, Kaamya Karthikeyan has achieved an extraordinary feat: becoming the youngest girl in the world to conquer the Seven Summits—the tallest peaks on all seven continents. With this achievement, she has etched her name in the history of mountaineering and has become a source of inspiration for countless young dreamers.

Kaamya’s next goal is equally ambitious. She now sets her sights on the Explorer’s Grand Slam, which includes reaching both the North and South Poles in addition to the Seven Summits—a challenge only a select few adventurers in the world have accomplished.

From a Childhood Trek to Scaling the Seven Summits

Kaamya’s mountaineering story began at the tender age of seven when she embarked on her first trek in Uttarakhand. That formative experience ignited a deep love for adventure and a resolve to push her limits.

By the time she was 13, Kaamya was already determined to take on the Seven Summits challenge. She steadily worked toward her goal, culminating in her ascent of Mount Everest in May 2024. That marked a moment of personal and symbolic triumph for Kamya as it tested her physical and mental endurance.

Her father, Commander S. Karthikeyan from the Indian Navy, climbed alongside her, making the achievement even more special.

Conquering the Seven Summits: A Great Achievement

Kaamya’s Seven Summits conquest included:

• Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa): A beginner’s test of endurance and willpower.
• Mount Elbrus (Europe): Offering unpredictable weather challenges.
• Mount Kosciuszko (Australia): A symbolic yet significant step.
• Mount Aconcagua (South America): The highest peak in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Mount Denali (North America): Known for its frigid temperatures and steep inclines.
• Mount Everest (Asia): The ultimate pinnacle of her journey.
• Mount Vinson (Antarctica): A frozen, desolate finale in 2024.

Each summit presented unique challenges, from battling freezing winds to navigating treacherous terrains. Yet, Kaamya faced them all with remarkable grit.

Beyond mountaineering, Kaamya leads a well-rounded life. A Class 12 student at Navy Children School in Mumbai, she juggles academics with her passion for adventure. She also plays the piano and guitar, and is an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer.

A Moment of National Pride

Kaamya’s remarkable achievements have been celebrated across India. The Indian Navy lauded her on social media, highlighting her as an icon of perseverance.  

“Breaking barriers and reaching new heights! Kaamya Karthikeyan... becomes the youngest female in the world to conquer the Seven Summits. A moment of immense pride for NCS Mumbai!” her school posted on X.

Kaamya attributes much of her success to the steadfast support of her family, especially her father. A mountaineer himself, Commander Karthikeyan has been both a mentor and a partner in her journey.

Dedicating her accomplishments to dreamers everywhere, Kaamya says, “No goal is too lofty if pursued with passion and determination.”

With the Seven Summits behind her, Kaamya is now setting her sights on the Explorer’s Grand Slam. This grueling challenge will take her to the North and South Poles

Kaamya Karthikeyan’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. As she aims for the Explorer’s Grand Slam, the world watches with admiration and anticipation, knowing she is destined to continue scaling new heights.