Climbers from six countries join Nepal-led expedition to promote women's mountaineering
KATHMANDU, OCTOBER 4
An all-women international expedition has reached Rolwaling Valley in Dolakha district to attempt the 5,930-metre Ramdung Peak, in what is being described as a landmark collaboration for women's mountaineering.
The Hamdeli Ramdung Peak 2025 Expedition comprises climbers from Nepal, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan, led by Danika Gilbert of the United States.
The team is undergoing high-altitude training and acclimatization under IFMGA-certified guides Pasang Kidar Sherpa and Mingma Chhiri Sherpa of Beding, Dolakha.
According to Pasang Kidar Sherpa, the expedition seeks to strengthen international cooperation and promote women's participation in Himalayan climbing. "The women are training and preparing to climb Ramdung as part of a shared adventure and skill-building program," he said.
The participants include Amina Hanif and Siddiqa Hanif (Pakistan), Neki Haidari (Afghanistan), Maryam Sharipova and Furugh Sharkarmamadova (Tajikistan), Tsetan Dolma (India), and Srijana Tamang (Nepal).
The expedition is supported by Khangri Trek, a Kathmandu-based trekking agency, for logistics and permits. Additional guidance is being provided by NNMGA aspirant guide Luckme Tamang (Nepal) and mountain guide Danika Gilbert (USA).
In a statement, the organizers said the three-week program also includes first-aid and rescue training before the summit attempt. The initiative is supported by Hamdeli, a US-based non-profit organization promoting adventure, education, and international cooperation.
