In a remarkable feat of courage and endurance, on Friday June 16; three Pakistani women successfully crossed Haramosh La, which considered to be one of the most technically difficult, and dangerous passes in Pakistan.
Dr. Sana Jamil, Ammara Sharif, and Sohniya Baber were part of a team that included Abduhu and Dr Raheel. They started their trek from Arundu in the Skardu district and reached Kutwal in the Gilgit-Baltistan region after crossing the 5,070-meter-high pass.
Haramosh La is a glaciated pass that links the Chogo Lungma and Haramosh glaciers on its northeast side with the Haramosh Valley to its west. The pass surrounded by majestic peaks such as Laila (6,986m), Mani (6,685m), and Haramosh (7,409m).
The trek considered extremely challenging as the glacier on the upper reaches heavily crevassed with the risk of avalanches. The ascent is steep on the west side, requiring a long rope. The trek only suited to experienced trekkers with mountaineering experience.
The women expressed their joy and pride at achieving this milestone. They said they wanted to inspire other women to pursue their dreams and overcome their fears. They also thanked their guides and teammates for their support and guidance.
Meanwhile, another Pakistani mountaineer, Sajid Sadpara, announced his plan to climb Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest peak in the world, without supplementary oxygen or Sherpa support. Sajid Sadpara is the son of the legendary climber Ali Sadpara, who went missing on K2 earlier this year.
Sajid Sadpara has already climbed six of the 14 eight-thousanders without artificial oxygen. He recently scaled Mount Everest without oxygen or Sherpa support in May 2023. He aims to climb all 14 eight-thousanders without supplemental oxygen.
Pakistan has a rich history of producing some of the world’s finest mountaineers. These recent achievements by Pakistani climbers showcase their passion, skill and resilience in conquering some of the most formidable peaks on earth.