Hyderabad, India | May 27, 2025 — Vishwanathkarthikey Padakanti, a 16-year-old mountaineer from Hyderabad, has etched his name into history by successfully completing the *7 Summits challenge* — climbing the highest peak on each of the seven continents. With this extraordinary achievement, he becomes *India’s youngest and the world’s second youngest* to complete one of the most prestigious feats in mountaineering.
His final summit was the iconic *Mount Everest (8,848 meters) — a moment that marked the culmination of years of rigorous training, endurance, and sheer determination. The full list of his summits includes:
Asia – Mount Everest (8,848 m / 29,029 ft)
South America – Aconcagua (6,961 m / 22,838 ft)
North America – Denali (6,190 m / 20,310 ft)
Africa – Kilimanjaro (5,895 m / 19,341 ft)
Europe – Mount Elbrus (5,642 m / 18,510 ft)
Antarctica – Mount Vinson (4,892 m / 16,050 ft)
Australia – Mount Kosciuszko (2,228 m / 7,310 ft)
“This journey tested every part of me — physically, mentally, and emotionally,” said Vishwanathkarthikey. “But standing on the summit of Everest and completing the 7 Summits is a dream come true. I am deeply grateful for the love and support I’ve received throughout this journey.”
This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of his parents, Padakanti Rajendera Prasad and Padakanti Laxmi, and his grandparents, who have been his pillars of strength throughout his mountaineering journey. His mother, in particular, worked tirelessly to ensure he could pursue his dreams. Her belief that “doing what you love leads to a fulfilling and successful life” has been a guiding force in Vishwanath’s path.
Over the past five years, Vishwanath has been training under the expert guidance of Bharath and Lt. Romil Barthwal, an Indian Army veteran and accomplished mountaineer. Their mentorship has played a critical role in shaping his climbing skills and mindset.
“Vishwanath’s achievement is not just a mountaineering milestone — it reflects his strength of character, humility, and determination,” said mentors Bharath and Lt. Romil Barthwal. “Guiding him has been a privilege. He exemplifies what young people can achieve with the right discipline, attitude, and purpose.”
His journey is a beacon of inspiration for youth across the nation and a proud moment for the Indian mountaineering community.
This remarkable achievement is not just about reaching the highest peaks — it’s about dreaming big, defying odds, and believing in oneself.