KATHMANDU: Hari Budha Magar, a former British Gurkha soldier and double above-knee amputee, has become the first person with his condition to summit Mt. Olympus, the highest peak in Greece.

Magar, 43, who lost both legs to an IED blast in Afghanistan in 2010, continues to break barriers in mountaineering to raise awareness about disability. 

“I don’t climb for records, name and money,” he said. "The purpose of climbing Mt. Olympus was also to make awareness of disability and inspire others to climb their own mountains and conquer their own dreams, I believe that I did that."

"No mountain is too small & easy for for me, every step is a torturous journey but I believe it’s worth it," Magar said.

Born in Nepal’s remote Rolpa district,  and now a resident of Canterbury, UK, Magar has already completed numerous major climbs around the world. 

Magar previously made headlines as the first double above-knee amputee to summit Mount Everest, in May 2023. He has also climbed Mera Peak, Surya Kunda, Thorong La Pass, Mt Blanc, and Ben Nevis using specially designed short prosthetic legs.

An ambassador for the Gurkha Welfare Trust, Magar was recently honoured with the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and won the Inspiration Award at the Soldiering On Awards 2024 through public vote.

Hari Magar’s latest feat was celebrated by the UK-based nonprofit Blesma – The Limbless Veterans, which wrote: “You continue to inspire us all, Hari.”

From the Himalayas to Europe’s peaks, Magar’s story continues to motivate trekkers, veterans, and individuals with physical challenges across the world.