Kaamya Karthikeyan Becomes Youngest Indian to Ski to the South Pole

Historic Feat in Antarctica

India’s adventure sports landscape witnessed a landmark moment as 18-year-old Kaamya Karthikeyan successfully skied to the South Pole , becoming the youngest Indian and the second-youngest woman globally to achieve the feat. She reached the pole on December 27, 2025 , after traversing nearly 115 kilometres across Antarctica under some of the harshest conditions on Earth.

Endurance Under Extreme Conditions

Kaamya completed the expedition entirely on foot, pulling a sled loaded with essential supplies. She faced temperatures plunging to –30°C , fierce winds, and prolonged whiteout conditions. The journey demanded sustained physical stamina and mental toughness, placing her among an elite group of global polar explorers.

Background and Early Influences

Kaamya is the daughter of Commander S Karthikeyan of the Indian Navy and Lavanya Karthikeyan , an early childhood educator. An alumna of Navy Children School , she grew up in an environment shaped by discipline, resilience, and outdoor exposure. The Indian Navy publicly congratulated her, acknowledging the extraordinary nature of her achievement.

Remarkable Mountaineering Record

Even before turning 18, Kaamya had already completed the Seven Summits Challenge , scaling the highest peaks on all seven continents. Her climbs include Mount Everest, Vinson, Denali, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, and Kosciuszko . She became the youngest Indian and second-youngest woman to summit Everest from the Nepal side. Earlier, she climbed Aconcagua at age 14 and completed a ski descent from Mount Elbrus in 2018.

Closing in on a Global Adventure Milestone

With the South Pole expedition complete, Kaamya is now just one step away from the Explorer’s Grand Slam , which combines the Seven Summits with skiing expeditions to both poles. Only the North Pole remains, placing her on the brink of another historic global achievement.

Important Facts for Exams

• The South Pole lies on the Antarctic continent

• Seven Summits are the highest peaks of each continent

• Explorer’s Grand Slam includes Seven Summits plus both poles

• Polar expeditions require skiing with full self-supported loads