Lhakpa Sherpa, Mount Everest, and the Sherpa People: A Netflix Documentary by Lucy Walker

Lhakpa Sherpa’s story is one of resilience, courage, and unparalleled determination. Born in a cave in the remote mountains of Nepal, Lhakpa defied societal norms and overcame immense obstacles to become the woman who has summited Mount Everest more times than any other female climber. Her journey, captured in the Netflix documentary ‘Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa,’ directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Lucy Walker, is not just a tale of physical endurance but also a testament to the indomitable human spirit.

The documentary, which premiered on July 31st, follows Lhakpa’s 10th ascent of Mount Everest at the age of 50, showcasing her relentless pursuit to break her own world record. But beyond the high-altitude climbs and breathtaking vistas, the film delves deep into Lhakpa’s life, revealing her unconventional upbringing and the societal challenges she faced as a girl with dreams of scaling the world’s highest peaks. Born to a family of yak farmers, Lhakpa’s early life was marked by hardship and a lack of educational opportunities, particularly for girls. Despite these barriers, she found solace and strength in the mountains, eventually convincing the prime minister of Nepal to support her first Everest expedition.

Her journey to the top was not without personal sacrifices. Lhakpa’s relationship with her Romanian husband, George Dijmarescu, also a climber, turned violent, leading to a tumultuous marriage that almost cost her life. As a single mother, Lhakpa worked tirelessly at Whole Foods to support her family, balancing her responsibilities with her passion for climbing. Her story is a poignant reminder of the struggles many women face, both on and off the mountain, and the resilience required to overcome them.

Director Lucy Walker, known for her character-driven documentaries, felt a profound sense of responsibility in telling Lhakpa’s story. Walker, who shares her name with the first woman to summit the Matterhorn and the Eiger in the Victorian era, was drawn to Lhakpa’s resilience and determination. She aimed to showcase not just the physical challenges of climbing Everest but also the societal and personal hurdles Lhakpa had to overcome. The documentary captures intimate moments with Lhakpa’s teenage daughters, who initially were distant but eventually became inspired by their mother’s incredible journey.

Filming on Everest presented its own set of challenges. The high-altitude environment required meticulous preparation and adaptability from the filmmakers. Despite these difficulties, the team managed to capture stunning footage that highlights the raw beauty and danger of the mountain. The film also includes rare archival footage from Lhakpa’s early expeditions, providing a comprehensive view of her climbing career and the evolution of her skills and determination over the years.

Lhakpa’s love for climbing is deeply rooted in her connection to nature. Growing up in the Himalayas, she found peace and strength in the mountains, viewing them as a source of healing and inspiration. This connection is evident in her approach to challenges, both on and off the mountain. When faced with adversity, Lhakpa stays positive and focuses on the good things in life, a mindset that has helped her navigate the many obstacles she has encountered.

The documentary also sheds light on the broader context of mountaineering and the Sherpa people, who play a crucial role in the climbing industry. Often working behind the scenes, Sherpas are essential to the success of many expeditions, yet their contributions are frequently overlooked. Lhakpa’s story brings attention to the strength and resilience of the Sherpa community, highlighting their integral role in the world of high-altitude climbing.

Despite her numerous accomplishments, Lhakpa remains humble and grounded. She runs her own hiking company, Cloudscape Hiking, and continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances. Her message is clear: stay healthy, work hard, and remain positive, no matter what life throws at you. This philosophy is not just applicable to climbing but to all aspects of life, making her story universally inspiring.

Looking ahead, Lhakpa has set her sights on new challenges. She plans to climb the highest mountain in each of the 50 states in the U.S., with her daughters by her side. This new goal reflects her enduring passion for climbing and her desire to continue pushing her limits. It also underscores her commitment to inspiring the next generation, particularly young girls, to dream big and pursue their passions.

Lucy Walker’s documentary is more than just a film about climbing; it is a powerful narrative about overcoming adversity and breaking barriers. Walker hopes that viewers will be inspired by Lhakpa’s story and realize that no obstacle is insurmountable. The film aims to challenge societal norms and encourage women and girls to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face.

The impact of ‘Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa’ extends beyond the screen. By bringing Lhakpa’s story to a global audience, the documentary has the potential to inspire change and promote gender equality, particularly in patriarchal societies like Nepal. It serves as a reminder that with determination and resilience, anyone can achieve their own ‘Mount Everest.’

In conclusion, Lhakpa Sherpa’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. Her story, beautifully captured in Lucy Walker’s documentary, is an inspiration to all. As we watch her climb the world’s highest peaks, we are reminded that no dream is too big and no obstacle too great. ‘Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa’ is a must-watch for anyone seeking motivation and a deeper understanding of what it means to truly overcome adversity.