Kanchha Sherpa, born in Namche Bazaar, Nepal a renowned mountaineer and the last surviving member of the 1953 Everest expedition that first climbed Mount Everest.
At 19, he left his home to seek work as a mountaineer in Darjeeling, Kancha and his friends met a woman from Thame village, who guided them to Tenzing Norgay’s little house. Tenzing knew Kancha’s father and so he took Kancha in to work right away.
In 1953 Kancha was chosen as one of the 103 Sherpas to join the Sir Edmund Hillary-expedition to climb Mount Everest. Kancha agreed to work as a porter in the 1953 Everest Expedition for a daily wage of Rs. 5 which was paid in coins at that time.
Kancha worked on expeditions until 1973, after his wife told him to stop as many of his friends had been killed in the mountains. Afterwards, Kancha started working trekking. Being illiterate, Kancha had to keep accounts on trek with his beads and would always have someone make his notes.
Kanchha Sherpa honored with Nepal’s prestigious Prabal Jana Sewa Shree Award. Listed among 594 personalities for outstanding national contributions. One of Nepal’s highest civilian awards recognizing service to the country.
At 90, Kanchha Sherpa remains deeply concerned about the Himalayas’ well-being. Last year, he decried overcrowding, littering, and called for fewer climbing permits. Echoing his 2018 appeal for ethical, sustainable climbing practices.
“These mountains are sacred, treat them with reverence,” he urged climbers.
As he turns 91, the iconic Sherpa fights to safeguard the peaks. With experience and spiritual connection, he advocates for their protection.
Named after the legendary Kanchha Sherpa, , the Kanchha Sherpa Foundation as a non-profit organization founded.
Whether addressing the Nepali government or speaking directly to fellow climbers, Kanchha’s message remains unchanged: respect the mountains, climb responsibly, and ensure these natural wonders endure for generations to come.
