Viral Video Shows Nepali Porter Hauling a Fridge Up to Annapurna Base Camp

New Delhi, December 10, 2025: A jaw-dropping video showing a Nepali man effortlessly carrying what appears to be a 50-kilogram refrigerator on his back while traversing the rugged Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trekking trail has gone viral, leaving people across the globe stunned and deeply impressed.

The short clip, which has circulated rapidly across social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, captures the man—believed to be a professional porter—making his way up the steep, winding mountain path. While the average trekker struggles with a modest backpack at high altitudes, this man is seen carrying a full-sized household appliance, secured to his head and shoulders with a traditional carrying strap known as a namlo.

A Testament to Himalayan Strength

For many watching online, the image is incredible. The trek to ABC is challenging, taking several days to complete and climbing to an altitude of over 4,100 meters (13,500 feet). The thin air and difficult terrain make every step a strenuous effort. To carry such a massive, awkwardly shaped object in these conditions speaks volumes about the extraordinary strength, stamina, and resilience of Nepal’s mountain porters.

Online comments poured in, oscillating between sheer disbelief and profound respect. Many users joked that the video was the ultimate “reality check” for their own fitness goals, while others rightly pointed out that this incredible feat is simply the daily reality for porters.

The Backbone of Mountain Life

While the sight of a refrigerator on a trekking trail is unusual, the practice of porters carrying incredibly heavy loads is a fundamental part of life in the Himalayas. With few roads in the high mountain regions, essential goods—from construction materials and food supplies to large appliances like the one seen in the video—must be carried in by human strength.

These porters are the unsung heroes and the very backbone of the local economy and trekking industry. They ensure that teahouses, lodges, and remote villages remain supplied, allowing thousands of international trekkers to enjoy the Annapurna region each year. Standard porter loads are often capped by reputable agencies at around 20-25 kg, but local supply needs often push individuals to take on much heavier burdens, highlighting the need for ethical tourism practices that protect their well-being.

The viral video has done more than just entertain; it has shone a much-needed spotlight on the tough, demanding, and often overlooked work of these mountain laborers. It serves as a powerful reminder of the physical dedication required to sustain the communities and trekking tourism in the world’s highest mountains.