Padakanti Vishwanath Karthikey from Hyderabad has summited five of the highest peaks across seven continents.
At just 16 years old, Padakanti Vishwanath Karthikey has already achieved what many can only dream of! This young mountaineer from Hyderabad has summited five of the highest peaks across seven continents and is now gearing up for his next big challenge. Padakanti Vishwanath Karthikey recently created history to become the youngest Indian to summit Mount Vinson, the highest peak in Antarctica.
In an exclusive conversation with Deccan Chronicle, Vishwa shares his inspiring journey, his passion for mountaineering, and his commitment to preserving the environment.
Vishwa’s journey into mountaineering began during the lockdown in 2020. His sister was planning to climb Mount Rudugaira, and he decided to accompany her. The experience left him awestruck, and he was drawn to the beauty of nature. Despite not being able to climb the peak on his first attempt, Vishwa was determined to pursue his newfound passion.
For Vishwa, mountaineering is not just about reaching the summit; it’s about discipline, respect for nature, and self-discovery. He emphasises the importance of being prepared, both physically and mentally, to tackle the challenges of high-altitude climbing. His training regimen includes a strict diet, regular workouts, and mental preparation to overcome obstacles.
Vishwa’s achievements are impressive, but what's even more remarkable is his commitment to preserving the environment. He stresses the importance of maintaining discipline on the mountains, not littering, and respecting the natural beauty of these ecosystems.
When asked about his diet, Vishwa reveals that he follows a strict regimen that includes high protein intake, salads, and limited chocolates. During his climbs, he relies on packed foods that provide him with the necessary energy.
Balancing academics and mountaineering can be challenging, but Vishwa credits his friends, teachers, and parents for their support. He downloads study materials and watches video lectures during his rest days or while travelling.
Vishwa’s daily routine is rigorous, with a 4 am wake-up call, followed by a two-and-a-half-hour gym workout. He then attends college, studies, and sleeps by 9:30 pm.
As he prepares for his next big challenge, Mount Everest, Vishwa draws inspiration from accomplished mountaineers like Nirmal Pooja and Mountaineer Skalzang Rigzin. He successfully climbed Mt. Everest without supplement oxygen, becoming the first Indian civilian to achieve the milestone.
Vishwanath is now gearing up for Aconcagua (South America) in January and the ultimate mountaineering challenge, Mount Everest (Asia), in May 2025, aiming to complete the prestigious Seven Summits Challenge. With his sights set on conquering Mount Everest in April or May, Vishwa is an inspiration to young adventurers.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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