Kaamya Karthikeyan is the 18 year old who has etched her name into the record books by becoming the youngest Indian to ski to the South Pole, a feat that demands physical endurance, mental resilience and unwavering focus. Her achievement is not just a personal milestone but a reminder that age is no barrier to ambition when preparation and discipline meet purpose.
A Historic Journey to the South Pole
Kaamya reached the South Pole on December 27 after covering nearly 115 kilometres on foot across Antarctica’s unforgiving terrain. Battling temperatures that plunged to minus 30 degrees Celsius and facing relentless gale-force winds, she pulled a sled carrying her full expedition load for days.
The journey tested every aspect of human endurance, where even routine tasks become exhausting and mistakes can turn dangerous. Completing such a trek at 18 places her among the youngest women in the world to achieve this rare accomplishment.
Where is the South Pole
The South Pole is located at the southernmost point of the Earth in the middle of the continent of Antarctica. It sits at 90 degrees south latitude where all lines of longitude meet at this point. It is covered by thick ice and snow year-round and temperatures can drop below –60°C in winter.
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The South Pole is not part of any country it is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System, which reserves Antarctica for peaceful scientific research. The area is home to the Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station, a scientific research base operated by the United States, where researchers live and work in extreme conditions.
Support & Recognition from the Indian Navy
The Indian Navy publicly congratulated Kaamya, describing her success as a moment of pride and inspiration. As the daughter of a serving naval officer and an alumna of the Navy Children School, her achievement reflects a background shaped by discipline and resilience.
The Navy highlighted not only the physical difficulty of her expedition but also the courage required to persist under extreme conditions, extending its traditional wish of ”fair winds and clear skies” for her future goals.
A Larger Mission Beyond One Milestone
Skiing to the South Pole is not the final chapter of Kaamya’s journey. She is pursuing the Explorers Grand Slam, considered one of the most demanding adventure challenges in the world. The quest involves climbing the highest peak on all seven continents and skiing to both the North and South Poles.
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From Everest to the Ends of the Earth
Kaamya has already completed the Seven Summits Challenge, including a successful ascent of Mount Everest from the Nepal side. That climb made her the youngest Indian and the second-youngest woman globally to stand atop the world’s highest peak. Each expedition has added to her experience, preparing her mentally and physically for even harsher conditions.
Kaamya Karthikeyan: Inspiring a New Generation
Kaamya Karthikeyan’s journey carries a deeper message with her story challenges assumptions about age, gender and limits. It shows young people that ambition paired with discipline can open paths once thought unreachable. As she sets her sights on the North Pole, her achievements already stand as a powerful source of motivation for a generation learning to dream boldly.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and official statements and is intended for general informational purposes only.