Raj Gurung’s Journey: From Hong Kong to the Top of the World
In the heart of Nepal’s Syangja district, nestled among rolling hills and terraced fields, Raj Gurung’s story began — one that would ultimately ascend to the highest point on Earth. Today, Gurung is not only a successful entrepreneur based in Hong Kong but also the first Nepali businessman from the city to summit Mount Everest — a feat achieved through sheer determination, personal sacrifice, and an unrelenting love for the mountains.
Raised in Dehradun, India, Gurung’s early years were marked by a deep connection to nature. Even as a student, he was drawn to the outdoors — often participating in hikes and camping trips that brought him closer to the wilderness. That early fascination with the natural world would later evolve into a lifelong passion. After completing his higher education in Dehradun, Gurung relocated to Hong Kong, embracing the fast-paced urban environment. Over two decades, he built a reputable business and a comfortable life, all while traveling extensively. Yet, amidst the professional success and international ventures, one piece of his story remained unfinished — returning to Nepal and scaling its most iconic peak: Mount Everest.
The Spark Rekindled
The global COVID-19 pandemic offered an unexpected pause — and for Gurung, it became a turning point. With time to reflect and the world on hold, he reconnected with his love for the outdoors. As travel resumed, he returned to Nepal and was instantly captivated by the country’s raw beauty. In the span of just one year, he made three visits, each reinforcing his bond with the land he once called home.
Among his earliest treks was the challenging Everest Base Camp and Three Passes route — a journey that reignited his passion for high-altitude adventure. It wasn’t long before he set his sights on Island Peak (6,165m), a formidable climb for any non-professional mountaineer. When a Kathmandu trekking agency dismissed his ambition as “not possible,” Gurung took it not as a deterrent, but a challenge.
In true mountaineering spirit, he pushed forward — training rigorously, hiking up to 20 kilometers a day, and allocating a portion of his income to fund his climbing pursuits. The reward came in the form of a successful summit of Island Peak. “It was an unforgettable moment,” he recalls. “From the top, I could see a 360-degree panorama of the Himalayas — and in that moment, I knew I had to go higher.”
A Meeting of Mentors and Mountains
Following that climb, Gurung crossed paths with Phurba Tenjing Sherpa, a mountaineering legend and multiple-time Guinness World Record holder. Phurba, who runs the expedition company Dreamers Destination, became a mentor and guide, suggesting Gurung attempt the technically demanding Ama Dablam (6,812m) before considering Everest.True to form, Gurung took up the challenge and conquered Ama Dablam — further proving his resilience and deepening his resolve.
Then came the final frontier.
On a bright Sunday morning at 10 a.m. (18 May, 2025), Gurung reached the summit of Mount Everest, flanked by Phurba Tenjing Sherpa (on his 17th Everest climb) and Nima Gyalzen Sherpa (on his 12th). Prior to Everest, the team also successfully summited Lobuche Peak (6,119m), a preparatory climb that honed their readiness. Gurung’s ascent marks a historic milestone for the Nepali diaspora in Hong Kong. He is the first entrepreneur from that community to stand atop Everest, an achievement celebrated by fellow mountaineers and Nepalis across the globe.
A Team Behind the Triumph
Behind every summit lies a team of supporters. Gurung was accompanied and assisted throughout his journey by Vinod Gurng, Suraj Gurung and Nirmal Shrestha. Weather updates were closely monitored and provided by Rojita Buddhacharya, Davide Peluzzi, and Josef Enwaller, while Ashok Gurung handled expedition communications. The climb was organized and coordinated by Dreamers Destination Treks & Expeditions. “This dream was realized because of collective effort,” says Gurung. “Every single person in the team played a vital role.”
What Lies Ahead
But Everest is not the end of Gurung’s journey — it’s just the beginning of a larger vision. “Now my dream is to climb the highest peak on each of the seven continents,” he shares. Known as the Seven Summits, this quest is considered one of mountaineering’s most prestigious accomplishments. For Gurung, the motivation is deeply personal. “Some people are addicted to alcohol or cigarettes,” he says with a smile. “For me, the mountains are my addiction.” Despite the dangers and financial costs — and the concerns of his family — Gurung remains undeterred. “They ask why I risk my life and spend so much money,” he admits. “But for me, it’s not a waste. It’s a journey toward finding the essence of life.” He is also an active member of the Hong Kong Hiking Meetup Group, which has more than 36,000 members, where he shares his experience and inspires fellow adventurers.
A Message That Transcends Borders
Raj Gurung’s ascent is more than just a personal triumph. It serves as a powerful reminder to Nepalis around the world that no dream is too distant — no peak too high. His story underscores a simple but profound truth: when courage meets commitment, even the sky is not the limit.
