Maya started her journey from Bhotenamlang village in Sindhupalchok district of Nepal. Before becoming a well-known and respected person, she faced her share of struggle. At the age of 14, she ran away from home to escape arranged marriage. On return her father had cut ties with her, there beginning an early struggle. Her community considered her a disgrace and a bad influence on their daughters. Maya literally didn’t care. She knew she had a big and bright future ahead of her. She tried several things, faced many failures and found success in bowling. She became a National Champion and instructor. Yet, she wanted more from life. Growing up in her rural village, she was always fascinated with the views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. She always wanted to get closer.

In 2006, she joined Basic Mountaineering Training conducted by Nepal Mountaineering Association. She had already set her eyes on Everest. In 2007, she joined the ‘First Inclusive Women Sagarmatha Expedition’ (FIWSE). The team with 10 female members, all from Nepal, representing different ethnicities and background was the most ambitious project of its kind. Not surprisingly, many ridiculed the mission. Despite several socio-economic challenges, FIWSE became the most successful women’s team to summit Everest. As a member, Maya kissed the summit of Mt Everest on 22nd May 2008.

Following the massive success, Maya and her Everest team mates founded another mission to climb the highest mountain in each continent, ‘Seven Summits Women Team’. As the team the mission concluded successfully in the year 2015, making them the first women team in the world to climb the 7 summits.

When the team returned home, a massive earthquake hit Nepal. Maya’s home district Sindhupalchok was worst-hit. She immediately started with relief work. Ever since Maya has been co-leading efforts to rebuild schools around her home village. Her non-profit Global Inclusive Adventure Org, has successfully built three semi-permanent schools, garnered support for construction of one permanent school and is currently building another permanent school. Besides, GIA provides educational support of all kinds including teacher support, uniform, water supply, teacher training, community support like tailoring training and adult literacy classes.

Also, Maya has been training a group of young female survivors of sex trafficking to become trekking guides.

Maya has been actively working to promote tourism, particularly around her home district Sindhupalchok. Her vision is to integrate education, empowerment and tourism for true transformation of the region.