Summary:
Hari Budha Magar, a double above-knee amputee, made history by successfully climbing Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica (4,892 meters), on January 6, 2026. With this achievement, he completed the Seven Summits challenge, becoming the first double above-knee amputee to climb the highest peaks on all seven continents.
Magar battled extreme conditions including -25°C temperatures, strong winds, and steep icy slopes using prosthetic legs. He aims to inspire people with disabilities by proving that "nothing is impossible." His journey also raises awareness about disability and encourages others to pursue their dreams regardless of challenges.
Before Mount Vinson, Magar had already summited Mont Blanc (Europe), Kilimanjaro (Africa), Mount Everest (Asia), Denali (North America), Aconcagua (South America), and Carstensz Pyramid (Oceania). He is the first person without legs to summit Denali and Carstensz Pyramid as well.
Born in Nepal and serving in the British Army's Royal Gurkha Rifles, Magar lost his legs in an explosion in Afghanistan in 2010. Overcoming physical and mental trauma, he found new purpose through adventure sports, becoming Nepal’s first athlete with disability to ski and later a mountain instructor.
Magar emphasizes inner strength over physical ability and hopes his achievements will change perceptions towards people with disabilities worldwide. He was awarded the MBE in the UK for his efforts.
Archive: https://archive.is/K3NGh