STATE: Tripura has witnessed a remarkable feat with two incredible women, Priti Chakraborty and Piyali Deb, both achieving the extraordinary milestone of reaching the iconic Everest Base Camp. Their accomplishments not only showcase the resilience and adventurous spirit of Tripura’s women but also serve as a source of pride for the entire state. However, the title of being the “first female from Tripura to reach Everest Base Camp” has sparked some debate in recent days. As we look into the journeys of both Priti Chakraborty and Piyali Deb, we celebrate their achievements while providing clarity on their separate expeditions.

Priti Chakraborty’s Journey (2022)
Priti Chakraborty, a dedicated trekking enthusiast from Tripura, reached Everest Base Camp in 2022. Her journey was one of courage and commitment, with months of preparation leading to this remarkable feat. In interviews and statements, Priti shared her experiences of the challenging trek, highlighting the adversities of the rugged Himalayan terrain and the high-altitude environment. She expressed gratitude for her support system back home and proudly proclaimed her journey as a representation of Tripura’s potential in mountaineering and adventure sports.

Priti Chakraborty with her husband Nirmal Chandra Chakraborty at Everest Base Camp (Photo – Anirban Chakraborty)

Her journey was widely acknowledged by local media in Tripura at the time, and her feat inspired many women in the region to explore trekking and mountaineering as viable aspirations. In 2022, Priti’s achievement was indeed a landmark for Tripura, establishing her as a pioneering female adventurer from the state to embark on such a challenging expedition to Everest Base Camp.

Piyali Deb’s Achievement (2024)
Fast forward to 2024, and another remarkable daughter of Tripura, Piyali Deb, reached Everest Base Camp as well. Like Priti, Piyali’s journey was one of tenacity and strength. Her training, dedication, and passion for mountaineering led her to fulfill this ambitious goal. Piyali, who reached Everest Base Camp this year, received extensive media attention and community support, cementing her place in Tripura’s history as an inspirational figure for aspiring climbers and trekkers.

In Photo Piyali Deb at Everest Base Camp

Piyali has expressed immense pride in representing Tripura on such a prestigious expedition, adding to the growing community of female trekkers from the state. Her achievement in 2024 underscores a new era in Tripura’s adventurous pursuits, encouraging the next generation of women to consider new possibilities in sports and adventure tourism.

Understanding the “First Female” Debate
The recent discussions around the “first female from Tripura to reach Everest Base Camp” stem from the timing of these two journeys, with Priti Chakraborty’s journey occurring in 2022 and Piyali Deb’s in 2024. Both women have undertaken the journey, with distinct experiences and preparation, and both have rightfully garnered admiration and respect for their accomplishments.

While Priti was indeed the first from Tripura to reach Everest Base Camp in 2022, Piyali’s recent achievement in 2024 continues to carry equal significance. It reinforces the idea that the title of being the “first” is not the only measure of an accomplishment’s worth. Each journey has brought something unique to Tripura’s history and community, expanding the scope for women’s participation in adventure sports and setting benchmarks for future expeditions.

A Shared Legacy for Tripura
Rather than focusing on distinctions, the achievements of both Priti Chakraborty and Piyali Deb should be viewed as complementary pillars in Tripura’s growing legacy in adventure sports. Their determination, perseverance, and passion not only bring honor to themselves but also elevate the state’s reputation in the mountaineering world.

Both Priti and Piyali represent the spirit of exploration and resilience, making Tripura proud and inspiring young women across the region. Their achievements serve as stepping stones for future adventurers and as proof that no dream is too distant.