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First Women Team on Kanchenjunga

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After our successful ascent of K2 in 2014, we immediately set our sights on Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.  After climbing Everest, K2 and other high mountains, the allure of Mt. Kanchenjunga is simply inescapable.  However, with the devastating earthquake in Nepal in 2015, we decided to postpone this climb until 2017.  After months of planning and preparation, we are excited to begin this 60 day expedition in early April 2017, with an expected summit attempt of Mt. Kanchenjunga in mid May. 

Mt. Kanchenjunga doesn't have the cache of Mt. Everest, nor does it have the notoriety of Mt. K2.  In fact, many expert climbers even agree that the mountain is deadlier than K2.  Since the 1990s, more than a one fifth of people climbing Kanchenjunga's main peak have perished.  However, for us climbers, it is precisely such challenges that motivate us to move forward, and attempt the climb. 

We also believe this climb is about empowerment for women, especially in the male dominated and adrenaline driven sports of mountaineering, and specifically, in the context of male-dominated societies in Nepal. Our ascents on K2 and Everest were living proof that given the opportunity, women can train just as hard, and climb just as hard. We are very hopeful that our adventures will encourage other women and young girls to have the courage to pursue their dreams, whether in climbing, or anything.  In fact, we are already receving many beautiful heart-felt messages from young girls.  

To date, only 344 climbers have summitted Kanchenjunga, and among them, only nine are women climbers. 

We have exhaustively prepared ourselves for the last three years for this climb.  However, a significant portion of this venture is obviously financial.  To a large extent, we are paying for the expenses ourselves.  However, the total cost is quite significant, and since we are not funded by a large donor or a big sponsorship, we do need your help.  Therefore, any contribution that you can provide would be highly appreciated.  

Thank you so much for all your help.

Maya Sherpa
Dawa Yangzum Sherpa
Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita

Maya, Dawa Yangzum and Passang Lhamu on K2 in 2014

Mt. Kanchenjunga: 28,169 feet (8686 meters)

Dawa Yangzum enjoying the freedom of the mountains 

Maya Sherpa on one of her many climbing feats

Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita fitting right into the mountains
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Donations 

  • David Pantaleoni
    • $15 
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer

Dawa Yangzum Sherpa
Organizer
Denver, CO

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