Nikhil Kokate Becomes First Tribal Mountaineer From Pune District Reach Everest Base Camp

Junnar, Pune – 14 May 2025:

After successfully summiting Mount Kilimanjaro—the highest peak in Africa—Nikhil Kisan Kokate, a tribal youth from Taleran village in Junnar Taluka, has now scaled another height by completing the Everest Base Camp trek (5,364 meters / 17,598 feet). With this, he has become the first tribal mountaineer from Pune district to achieve this milestone.

The Everest Base Camp trek is one of the most renowned and demanding high-altitude routes in the world, taking around 14 days through rugged Himalayan terrain and extreme weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -14°C and reduced oxygen levels.

Despite these challenges, Nikhil completed the trek through rigorous preparation, resilience, and determination.

Speaking about his journey, Nikhil shared that he trained consistently for over a year,

focusing on endurance through running, swimming, and breathing exercises. He also

undertook multiple smaller treks across the Sahyadri ranges as part of his preparation. 

His efforts were supported by Dhyas Sahyadri Adventure, along with mentors Suraj Malusare and Yash Mhaskare.

During the Everest trek, Nikhil not only achieved his own goal but also guided seven fellow trekkers, using his mountaineering skills and experience to help them safely reach base camp.

Previously, Nikhil made headlines when he summited Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters), becoming the first tribal youth from Pune to do so. Now, with the successful completion of

Everest Base Camp, he has taken one more step toward his ultimate goal: to conquer all

Seven Summits—the highest peaks of each continent.

Nikhil’s journey from a remote tribal village to scaling iconic peaks is not just a personal triumph—it’s an inspiration for countless others from marginalized communities. His story highlights how passion, perseverance, and proper guidance can overcome any limitation of background or geography.

Leaders’ Reactions to Nikhil’s Achievement:

Dr. Amol Kolhe, Member of Parliament, praised Nikhil’s achievement as an inspiration for the youth. He said, “Nikhil has not only made the tribal community proud but has set an example of determination and hard work for every aspiring mountaineer. His

journey proves that with focus and dedication, any goal can be achieved.”

Pradeep Desai, Integrated Tribal Development Project Officer (Ghodegaon),

emphasized the role of mentorship in Nikhil’s success, saying, “This is a significant achievement for our tribal youth. 

Nikhil’s hard work and the support of his mentors have proven that the right guidance can lead to extraordinary feats. We must continue supporting

young talents like him.”

Govind Sable, Sarpanch of Taleran, expressed his pride in Nikhil’s success,

remarking, “Nikhil has brought immense pride to our village. His achievement is a testament to the fact that even the most challenging paths can be conquered with dedication. He has become an inspiration for the next generation in our community.”

Aruna Lande, Sarpanch of Madh village, also congratulated Nikhil, noting,

“Nikhil’s triumph is not just his own—it’s a victory for every tribal youth who dreams of a brighter future. His achievement shows that there are no limits to what our community can achieve with the right mindset and effort.”