Nepali Trans Woman Nilam Paudel Makes History on Mount Everest
Nepali professional makeup artist and trans woman Nilam Paudel has made history by successfully climbing Mount Everest, becoming the first trans woman from Nepal to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain.
According to Pemba Gelje Sherpa, chairman of Expeditions High Mountain Pvt Ltd, Nilam reached the summit on May 23, 2026, at 7:05 AM Nepal time. She completed the historic climb alongside experienced climbing guide Chebi Bhote.
Nilam Paudel’s Everest Victory Inspires LGBTQ Community Worldwide
After returning to Kathmandu on Tuesday, Nilam received a warm welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport from supporters, LGBTQ activists, artists, and well-wishers celebrating her historic achievement.
For Nilam, the Everest summit represents far more than a mountaineering victory. She described it as a symbol of resilience against years of discrimination, rejection, and struggles surrounding identity and acceptance.
“This climb is not just proof of personal courage,” she said, “it is also a victory over the social discrimination and exclusion I have faced for years. I hope this achievement sends a powerful message that marginalized communities also belong everywhere — even at the top of the world.”
Nilam Paudel Becomes First Trans Woman From Nepal to Climb Mount Everest
Nepal’s leading LGBTQ rights organization Blue Diamond Society praised Nilam’s success, calling it a landmark moment for diversity, inclusion, and courage. Advocacy platform Project Abhaya also celebrated the achievement, saying Nilam’s journey would inspire countless young trans people in Nepal who are searching for hope, confidence, and representation.
Before climbing Everest, Nilam had already completed the ascent of Mera Peak in 2025 as part of her mountaineering preparation. Outside of climbing, she is widely recognized in Nepal’s entertainment and fashion industries as a professional makeup artist who has worked in music videos, films, fashion shoots, and live events.
Makeup Artist Nilam Paudel Summits Everest in Historic Achievement
Her Everest achievement is now being celebrated not only as a mountaineering milestone but also as a powerful statement about visibility, dignity, and equal representation for Nepal’s LGBTQ community on the global stage. Many supporters believe her success has opened a new chapter for inclusion and representation in Nepali society.
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