Submitted by Abhishek & Khushboo Murarka
Photos Courtesy of Abhishek Murarka
In May 2024, Aaryam Murarka, a spirited 10-year-old from Fremont, achieved an extraordinary milestone by hiking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Nepal. Everest Base Camp is a whopping 5,364 m (17,598 ft) above sea level. Accompanied by his father, Abhishek Murarka, and cousins Vyom (15) and Ved Tulsyan, (18) (from India), Aaryam embarked on a challenging 12-day journey, creating a lifelong memory.
Despite facing illness along the way, Aaryam showed remarkable resilience and determination, completing the trek without external aid and on schedule. His mother’s daily letters provided constant motivation and encouragement. His family couldn’t be prouder, marking this as a significant milestone in his young life.
Reaching EBC on May 29, coinciding with International Everest Day, added special significance to Aaryam’s adventure. This day celebrates the historic first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953, symbolizing achievement and perseverance.
Aaryam looks forward to sharing his experiences with classmates in 5th grade and fellow Cub Scouts at summer camp. He shared, “Getting to Everest Base Camp felt just like climbing Mount Everest! It was unbelievably awesome! I felt all kinds of feelings—happy, a little scared, curious, super excited, tired and sometimes just laughing at everything. Doing it gave me so much confidence as this validated my belief that I can do anything when I really try and do not give up. I can’t wait to tell everyone how cool the journey was.”
Reflecting on her son’s accomplishment, Aaryam’s mother expressed pride and hope for his future, “No peak is too high, and no goal is unattainable. Aaryam, your achievement lights the way of hope and inspiration for others.” With unwavering support from his family, including his parents, younger brother, grandparents, extended family and friends, Aaryam’s journey to Everest Base Camp stands as a testament to the power of determination and familial encouragement.
