11-Year-Old Pune Girl Iva Rathod Scales Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s Highest Peak

Pune, 6th August 2026: In a remarkable feat of endurance, determination, and adventure, 11-year-old Iva Darshan Rathod from Pune successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 metres/19,341 feet), Africa’s highest peak and the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, on July 27, 2026.

By reaching Uhuru Peak, the mountain’s highest point, Iva has joined an exceptionally rare group of young adventurers. According to available records, fewer than five children under the age of 12 from the Pune region have successfully completed the high-altitude trek.

Iva, who has been trekking since the age of four, undertook the expedition with her father, Darshan Rathod, an avid trekker. Her journey into the outdoors began on the trails of the Sahyadri hills, where years of trekking helped prepare her for Kilimanjaro’s demanding altitude, freezing temperatures, and the gruelling final summit climb.

The expedition was led by accomplished mountaineer and Everest summiteer Chetan Ketkar. His 11-year-old son, Arjun Ketkar, was also part of the climb. Demonstrating remarkable stamina and determination, Arjun matched Iva throughout the challenging ascent, reflecting the growing strength of young mountaineers from Pune.

Pune’s Sahyadri Legacy Nurtures Young
Mountaineers

Pune’s proximity to historic hill forts such as Sinhagad, Rajgad, and Torna has helped foster one of India’s most vibrant trekking cultures. Local trekking groups and outdoor academies regularly introduce children as young as four or five to hiking, rock climbing, and endurance activities.

While thousands of trekking enthusiasts from Pune explore the Sahyadris every weekend, progressing from low-altitude trails to high-altitude expeditions in the Himalayas and Africa requires years of consistent training and preparation. Successful ascents by young trekkers such as Iva and Arjun highlight how Pune’s outdoor ecosystem is nurturing the next generation of mountaineers.

“Reaching Uhuru Peak was a dream come true,” said Iva after completing the expedition. “The cold and altitude were challenging, especially on summit night, but trekking with my father kept my spirits high throughout the journey.”

“Watching Iva stand on the highest point in Africa after years of building her endurance on the Sahyadri forts was an unforgettable moment,” said Darshan Rathod. “Summiting together was deeply meaningful, and we are grateful for this incredible experience.”