Pakistan’s most successful female climber Naila Kiani added another feather to her cap on Monday when she became the first Pakistani woman to scale Cho Oyu — 8,188m tall and the world’s 6th highest peak.
Naila reached the top of Cho Oyu at 12:30pm Nepal Time with the team of Imagine Nepal, which also included Sirbaz Khan.
Naila confirmed to this correspondent via her satellite phone that she has successfully summited the peak, which is her 10th peak of over 8,000m.
She is the first and only Pakistani woman to climb 10 eight-thousanders.
The mother-of-two also confirmed that she and Sirbaz stepped on the top together making the duo jointly the first Pakistanis to summit Cho Oyu.
Kiani had first climbed Gasherbrum II in 2021 before summitting K2 and Gasherbrum I in 2022. Since April this year, Naila Kiani has scaled Annapurna, Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, Manaslu, and Cho Oyu making her the first Pakistani to climb 7 peaks in six months.
“Her determination is truly awe-inspiring, as she conquered the peak in incredibly challenging conditions with very poor visibility and hostile weather. This marathon climb that took over 28 hours is a testament to her strength and mountaineering skills,” said Karrar Haidri of Alpine Club of Pakistan.
“We all hope and pray for Naila’s safe return from this extraordinary adventure,” he added.
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Renowned climber Naila Kiani achieved a remarkable feat on Sunday as she became the first Pakistani woman to successfully scale the treacherous Nanga Parbat.
Nanga Parbat, also known as the ‘Killer Mountain,’ stands at a formidable height of 8,126 meters and is notorious for its high fatality rate. The ascent is challenging, with the constant risk of unstable glaciers, avalanches, and unpredictable storms.
The Secretary of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, Karrar Haidri, confirmed Kiani’s summit achievement. “On July 2, 2023, at 10:18 a.m., Naila Kiani conquered the majestic Nanga Parbat, proudly standing tall at 8,126 meters,” Haidri announced.
With this remarkable accomplishment, Kiani has now scaled seven of the world’s daunting 8,000-meter peaks, cementing her position as one of the most accomplished climbers of our time. Her previous conquests include the legendary Mount Everest, the formidable K2, the commanding Lhotse, the treacherous Annapurna, and the elusive G1 and G2.
Kiani’s unwavering determination, unmatched skills, and indomitable spirit have been a source of inspiration for countless mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts around the world. She serves as a shining example of how individuals can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Reflecting on her extraordinary achievement, Naila Kiani expressed some initial apprehension about the daunting task but remained resolute in her mission to accomplish her goal. Her unwavering determination and dedication have propelled her to new heights in the world of mountaineering.
Naila Kiani’s historic ascent of Nanga Parbat serves as a testament to the incredible potential and resilience of Pakistani women in challenging fields. Her remarkable achievement will undoubtedly inspire many aspiring climbers and adventurers, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and conquer their own mountains.
