Seven-year-old Teghbir Singh from Ropar, Punjab, has become the youngest person in the world to complete the Annapurna Circuit and cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point on the trail at an altitude of 5,416 metres (17,769 ft) in Nepal.A Class 3 student at Shiwalik Public School, Teghbir, surpassed the previous record held by Ivan Krushkov of Dubai, who completed the trek in April 2025 at the age of 7 years and 10 months. Teghbir achieved the milestone at just 7 years and 6 months.The young trekker began his journey on April 11 and reached the Thorong La Pass on the morning of April 18. Starting at 4 am in biting cold conditions of around -13°C, Teghbir, accompanied by his father Sukhinderdeep Singh and two guides, completed the final ascent in approximately five and a half hours, reaching the summit at 9:25 am.The Annapurna Circuit, stretching over 230 kilometres, is considered one of the most challenging treks in the world due to its high altitude, thin oxygen levels, and sub-zero temperatures.Teghbir endured harsh conditions, including average temperatures of -8°C and strong winds, while trekking and staying at high altitudes for over a week.“I prepared for this. I knew it was long and difficult, and finally I reached there and took a picture with my father,” said Teghbir, expressing his excitement. He added that although it was his first long circuit trek and the gear felt heavy, his prior training helped him complete the challenge.Teghbir’s father said that the preparation for this feat began nearly six months ago under the guidance of coach Bikramjit Singh Ghuman. The training focused on improving cardiovascular strength, lung capacity, endurance, and maintaining a disciplined diet. Weekly treks in hilly terrains were also part of his preparation.“This was very different from previous climbs. It tested his stamina and strength due to the long distances and continuous exposure to low oxygen conditions,” said Sukhinderdeep Singh.His mother, Dr Manpreet Kaur, a gynaecologist, emphasized the role of a strict nutritional plan in his success, noting that diet played a crucial role throughout his training and expedition.Teghbir is no stranger to record-breaking achievements. In June 2025, he became the youngest person in the world to scale Mount Elbrus, and in August 2024, he became the youngest Asian to summit Mount Kilimanjaro.He had earlier reached Mount Everest Base Camp in April 2024 at the age of just five years and seven months.Recognising his accomplishments, Teghbir was honoured at the Akal Takht on July 3, 2025, by acting Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj.The team is expected to return to Kathmandu on April 20 after completing the descent and will reach India on April 22.


