Kaamya Karthikeyan, 18, became the youngest Indian and second-youngest woman globally to ski to the South Pole on December 27, 2025. Covering 115 km in extreme Antarctic conditions, she achieved the feat as part of her Explorers Grand Slam quest, earning national pride and global recognition.
In a landmark achievement for Indian adventure sports, Kaamya Karthikeyan, an 18-year-old mountaineering prodigy from Mumbai, has become the youngest Indian and the second-youngest woman worldwide to ski to the South Pole. On December 27, 2025, Kaamya completed the grueling Last Degree Ski expedition, covering 115 km from 89° South to the geographic pole.
Key highlights of her achievement include:
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Kaamya braved temperatures as low as -30°C and gale-force Antarctic winds, pulling her own sled laden with supplies across the icy terrain.
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The expedition tested her endurance and resilience, marking another milestone in her pursuit of the Explorers Grand Slam — climbing the Seven Summits and skiing to both poles.
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This triumph follows her earlier success of summiting Mount Vinson in Antarctica in December 2024, showcasing her consistency in extreme environments.
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The Indian Navy, where her father serves as an officer, publicly congratulated her, noting her as an alumna of Navy Children School and praising her courage and determination.
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Analysts and adventurers alike view her feat as a symbol of youth ambition and India’s growing presence in global exploration, inspiring young Indians to embrace adventure sports.
Kaamya’s journey is not just about personal triumph but also about national pride. Her success highlights the increasing participation of Indian youth in extreme adventure challenges and underscores the importance of resilience, preparation, and determination in achieving global milestones.
Her achievement is expected to encourage more young Indians to pursue mountaineering, polar expeditions, and other adventure sports, reinforcing India’s reputation as a rising force in global exploration.
Sources: The Logical Indian, India Today, UNI India, The Week