Four Pakistani mountaineers launch high-altitude missions in Nepal
Four of Pakistan's top high-altitude climbers have embarked on ambitious expeditions in Nepal, aiming to scale some of the world's tallest and most dangerous peaks this spring climbing season, including Everest, Dhaulagiri, and Kanchenjunga.
Leading the charge is Sajid Ali Sadpara, son of the late legendary mountaineer Muhammad Ali Sadpara, who is attempting to summit Dhaulagiri (8,167m), the seventh-highest mountain in the world.
Sadpara reached base camp on April 6, completed his acclimatisation up to Camp 3, and is now awaiting a clear weather window for a summit push expected around May 9.
He is adhering to Alpine style climbing — without supplementary oxygen or high-altitude porters. A successful climb would mark his ninth 8,000m+ summit under such conditions. His previous feats include K2, Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, and both Gasherbrum I and II.
Meanwhile, Naila Kiani, Pakistan's most decorated female mountaineer, has begun her approach to Kanchenjunga (8,586m), the world's third-highest mountain.
Her trek to base camp is expected to span a week. Kiani has already summited 11 of the 14 highest peaks on Earth and remains the only Pakistani woman to do so.
Joining her on Kanchenjunga is Sirbaz Khan, who on April 7 summited Annapurna (8,091m) without oxygen.
With 13 eight-thousanders under his belt, Kanchenjunga represents the final peak in his bid to become the first Pakistani to climb all 14 of the world's 8,000m giants, mostly without oxygen.
Also on the slopes is Wajidullah Nagri, who has reached Everest Base Camp as he prepares for his own summit attempt. Nagri has previously climbed five major Pakistani peaks, including K2 and Nanga Parbat.
With all four climbers at pivotal points in their careers, this season could prove historic for Pakistani mountaineering on the world stage.
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