13-year-old Shiva Kochale from Muscat completes the ultimate adventure, trekking to Everest Base Camp with his mother during the Eid break
While most teenagers spent their Eid holidays relaxing at home, 13-year-old Shiva Kochale, a student of Indian School Bousher in Muscat, Oman, chose to mark his entry into teenage with an extraordinary adventure — trekking to the Everest Base Camp alongside his mother, Sonal Kochale, a yoga therapist and trekking enthusiast, reported muscatdaily.com.
The mother-son duo completed the 130km journey from Ramechhap to the base of the world’s tallest mountain between March 29 and April 11, braving snow, sub-zero temperatures, and steep climbs. Their trek was more than just a personal achievement; it was a heartfelt tribute to the adventurous spirit fostered by their second home, Oman.
A dream fueled by love for adventure and family spirit — young Shiva and his mother conquer Everest Base Camp, proving age and altitude are no barriers to determination
Throughout the trek, Shiva faced freezing winds, slippery slopes, and oxygen-thin air with unwavering determination. The sight of a 13-year-old navigating this daunting journey left fellow trekkers in awe. “People were stunned to see him climbing with such confidence. Their encouragement along the way was truly touching,” Sonal shared.
For Sonal, the journey had deep roots in Oman’s own rugged landscapes. Her love for trekking began in the mountains and wadis of the Sultanate, inspired by the late Hussam al Balushi of Adventure Zone, Muscat. Weekend hikes soon blossomed into a shared passion between mother and son, culminating in this Himalayan milestone.
The duo relied not on high-altitude gyms but on yoga for their training. “Our foundation was yoga — breathing exercises, sun salutations, static poses, and mountain walks — this kept us prepared mentally and physically,” Sonal explained.
The trek wasn’t without its challenges. From battling heavy snowfall to managing a fever mid-expedition, the journey tested their endurance and strengthened their bond. Shiva and Sonal supported each other through every difficult step, ultimately planting Oman’s flag at 5,364 meters above sea level, a moment they described as humbling and deeply emotional.
Sonal hopes their experience will inspire other families to embrace adventure, saying, “Dreams come with risks. But real achievement begins where fear ends. With preparation, faith, and love, anyone can move mountains.”
As for Shiva, this is only the beginning. His eyes are already set on new peaks, with one clear dream: to reach the summit of Mt Everest one day.