Eight-year-old Thrissur girl conquers North Africa’s highest peak

Eight-year-old Iya Krish from Thrissur is as cheerful and naughty as any other child her age. However, she has already proven there is a passionate mountaineer in her. The little girl recently successfully scaled Mount Toubkal (4,167 m), the highest peak in North Africa, becoming one of the youngest climbers from India — and probably one of the youngest known from Asia as well — to achieve the feat.

Iya, daughter of Krishnaraj Edathoot of Iravimangalam, Thrissur, and Aruna Venugopal of Eloor, Ernakulam, completed the challenging expedition in Morocco’s rugged Atlas Mountains, a range known for its freezing temperatures, steep ascents and thin air. Despite the demanding terrain and high-altitude conditions, the Class II student, who studies in Fujairah, UAE, reached the summit alongside her father and fellow hikers, displaying remarkable resilience far beyond her years. 

A dream from the age of five
Iya’s passion for trekking began when she was just five years old, after walking the Sabarimala pilgrimage trail with her father. What started as a family adventure gradually transformed into a serious pursuit of mountaineering through disciplined training and regular trekking. Years of preparation culminated in her historic ascent of Mount Toubkal, where she overcame harsh weather, rocky slopes and oxygen-deficient conditions that challenge even experienced climbers. 

Family behind the achievement
Her father, Krishnaraj, who works in the UAE, said the climb was possible only after months of physical preparation and careful planning. “Taking a child to such an altitude requires extensive training, patience and constant monitoring. We prepared for a long time before attempting the expedition,” he said. He also credited Iya’s mother, Aruna, and the family’s unwavering encouragement and prayers for helping the young climber accomplish the remarkable feat.

Bigger dreams ahead
Having conquered North Africa’s highest mountain, Iya has already set her sights on an even greater challenge — Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. She is currently undergoing training for the expedition. While mountaineering remains her greatest passion, Iya dreams of becoming a pilot. Her inspiring journey stands as a reminder that determination, disciplined preparation and family support can help overcome even the highest peaks, proving that age is no obstacle to extraordinary achievement.