Mountaineering has always been my passion. The thrill of scaling new heights, the breathtaking views from the summit, and the sense of accomplishment are experiences that words often fail to capture.

My last mountaineering trip before the MCO was an unforgettable expedition to Chulu West 6418 meter in Nepal.

However, this journey was not without its challenges even though I fail to summit the Chulu West mountain, especially as a Malaysian mountaineer.

Here are some of the key difficulties I faced :

Limited High-Altitude Training Opportunities 🗻

In Malaysia, the highest peak is Mount Kinabalu, which stands at 4,095 meters. While it is a great training ground, it doesn’t provide the high-altitude experience necessary for peaks above 5,000 meters.

I constantly checked my blood oxygen level with oximeter for signs of high-altitude sickness.

Weather Conditions 💨

The weather in Nepal, especially in the high Himalayas, can be unpredictable and harsh.

Coming from a tropical climate, adapting to the cold, wind, and sudden weather changes was a significant challenge.

Snow ⛄️

As someone from a tropical country, dealing with snow was a new and demanding experience. The cold, slippery conditions require specific techniques and knowledge to navigate safely.

It was not easy, as I kept falling down. Without prior exposure, learning to handle snow effectively was a steep learning curve.

Gear and Attire ⛺️
High-quality mountaineering gear and attire are crucial for safety and success in such expeditions. Unfortunately, such specialized equipment is not easily available in Malaysia.

This means we often have to source our gear from overseas, which can be both time-consuming and expensive.

I still remember my Sherpa throwing out my gear and some attires because it could not guarantee my safety.

Rope Skills🧗‍♂️
Proficiency in rope skills is essential for safe mountaineering. As a non seasoned climber, master these techniques is challenging.

Without proper practice, handling ropes, knots, and belaying systems in real conditions becomes daunting. My limited rope skills added an extra layer of difficulty during the climb.

Each climb is a journey of self-discovery, pushing my limits and broadening my horizons.

The mountains have a way of teaching me that the journey is just as important as the destination.

Here’s to more adventures and conquering new heights together!