High-altitude Expedition Leader & Record-Breaking Mountaineer (Nepal / UK)
Hi, I’m Nirmal ‘Nims’ Purja, my journey began in the Myagdi district of Nepal, where I was raised with a deep respect for the mountains. After serving in the Brigade of Gurkhas and becoming the first Gurkha to join the UK’s elite Special Boat Service, I found my true calling in high-altitude mountaineering. Driven by resilience and a relentless pursuit of the extraordinary, I made history in 2019 by climbing all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks in just six months and six days-a feat once thought impossible. My mission is to inspire others to push beyond their limits and to elevate the profile of Nepali climbers on the world stage.
Certifications
- First Aid
- CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
- Cold-Weather Warfare Specialist, UK Special Boat Service
- IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations) Mountain Guide
- Nepal Government High-Altitude Expedition Leader licence
- Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Key Achievements
- Fastest ascent of all 14 eight-thousanders with oxygen — 6 months 6 days (Project Possible, Apr – Oct 2019)
- Led the first winter summit of K2 and did so without supplemental oxygen — 16 Jan 2021
- Fastest completion of all 14 eight-thousanders without oxygen — 2 years 4 months 28 days (finished 4 Oct 2024)
- First person to log 50 successful 8 000 m summits — reached on Nanga Parbat, 3 Jul 2025
- Awarded MBE in the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to extreme high-altitude mountaineering
- Distinguished 16-year military career: 6 years in the Gurkhas, 10 years in UK Special Forces (SBS)
- Star and executive producer of Netflix’s 14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible (2021) and author of Beyond Possible
- Former British Special Forces
Safety Statement:
Safety, preparation, and teamwork are at the core of every expedition I lead. My military background and mountaineering experience ensure that every challenge is met with discipline, adaptability, and a commitment to bringing everyone home safely.
My expeditions are powered by a world-class team of Nepali mountaineers and guides. Together, we have redefined what’s possible in the mountains, setting new standards for teamwork, safety, and achievement. Our collective expertise ensures that every summit is a shared victory and every challenge is met with unwavering support.
CERTIFICATIONS
Certified & credentialed
Verified credentials that underpin every adventure.
SAFETY
Safety is the protocol
Safety, preparation, and teamwork are at the core of every expedition I lead. My military background and mountaineering experience ensure that every challenge is met with discipline, adaptability, and a commitment to bringing everyone home safely. My expeditions are powered by a world-class team of Nepali mountaineers and guides. Together, we have redefined what’s possible in the mountains, setting new standards for teamwork, safety, and achievement. Our collective expertise ensures that every summit is a shared victory and every challenge is met with unwavering support.
ADVENTURES
Nirmal's adventures
Small-group experiences, hosted directly.
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