Pakistani mountaineer Naila Kiani has achieved a historic milestone by successfully summiting Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak at 8,586 meters. This accomplishment makes her the first Pakistani woman to conquer this formidable mountain, bringing her total to 12 of the world's 14 peaks above 8,000 meters.
Kiani began her final ascent from Camp IV on Thursday evening and reached the summit at approximately 6:00 AM Pakistan Standard Time on Friday, hoisting the national flag atop the peak. Kanchenjunga, located on the border between Nepal and India, is renowned for its treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. The climb was particularly challenging, with severe high-altitude conditions, including intense snowfall and sub-zero temperatures.
With this achievement, Kiani stands on the threshold of joining an elite group of only 17 women worldwide who have summited all 14 of the planet's 8,000-meter peaks. Her previous ascents include Mount Everest, K2, Lhotse, Makalu, Annapurna I, Broad Peak, Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, Gasherbrum I and II, and Nanga Parbat.
Beyond her mountaineering feats, Kiani is a mother of two, a former banker, and a passionate advocate for sustainable climbing. She has led environmental campaigns, such as a high-altitude cleanup at K2, and participated in recovery missions, including bringing closure to the family of Pakistani porter Muhammad Hassan Shigri.
Kiani's latest triumph not only cements her place in Pakistan's mountaineering history but also serves as an inspiration for women in sports and a beacon of hope for aspiring climbers in the country. With only two peaks remaining, she continues her pursuit to become the first Pakistani woman to summit all 14 of the world's highest mountains.
