Islamabad – In a major win for Pakistani mountaineering, famous climbers Sirbaz Khan and Abid Baig have officially reached the summit of Tirich Mir, the tallest mountain in the Hindu Kush range.
This historic climb, part of a government initiative from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), was confirmed by state-run media on Sunday and really highlights the huge potential for adventure tourism in the area.
Government Initiative for Tourism
Tirich Mir stands impressively at 7,708 meters, towering over the landscape of Pakistan’s northwestern Chitral district. The expedition was organized to promote the ‘Year of Tirich Mir’ for 2025–26, featuring a team of seven skilled climbers.
Sadly, five members had to turn back at 7,300 meters because of terrible weather, but Sirbaz Khan and Abid Baig showed incredible determination and pushed ahead to reach the top.
The team also included Umar Khan, the KP Director of Tourism Authority, Dr. Naveed Iqbal, Major Muhammad Atif, Shams-ul-Qamar, and Akmal Naveed, according to a report from the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP).
Their successful summit shows the talent and commitment of these two climbers, both from the mountainous region of Gilgit-Baltistan. Umar Khan, the Director of the Tourism Authority, confirmed their achievement, saying that the climbers “successfully climbed the peak.”
This accomplishment not only shines a light on Pakistan’s prowess in high-altitude climbing but also symbolizes the country’s growing status in the adventure sports scene.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur congratulated the climbers. The provincial government’s backing of the expedition underscores a wider strategic plan to capitalize on Pakistan’s stunning natural landscape for economic development and international acclaim.
Declaring 2025–26 as the ‘Year of Tirich Mir’ further strengthens this commitment, aiming to draw global attention to the peak and its surroundings.
For Sirbaz Khan, reaching the summit was the realization of a personal dream, made possible through the support of the provincial government. He said, ‘My dream of summiting Tirich Mir was made possible thanks to the support of the provincial government.’ He also pointed out the untapped opportunities in the area for adventure tourism, mentioning that ‘there are several other peaks near Tirich Mir that have the potential to boost adventure tourism in the future.’
This aligns perfectly with the provincial government’s goal of developing a sustainable tourism model that benefits local communities while showcasing the area’s natural beauty.
Mountaineer’s Paradise
Pakistan’s northern region, especially Gilgit-Baltistan, is often dubbed a ‘mountaineer’s paradise.’ It boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking and challenging peaks, including five of the fourteen ‘eight-thousands.’ The country has produced many professional climbers, with both men and women making impressive strides on the global stage.
Every year, thousands of tourists and foreign climbers flock to the region for expeditions, paragliding, and other adventurous activities. The successful summit of Tirich Mir is set to bolster Pakistan’s reputation as a top-notch destination for adventure seekers from all over the world.
