Pakistani mountaineer Naila Kiani reached the summit of Mount Kanchenjunga (8,586 meters) on Friday night, becoming the first Pakistani woman to climb 12 of the world’s 14 highest peaks above 8,000 meters.
According to media reports, Kiani began her final push in the evening and endured extreme weather conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, to complete the climb overnight. Her achievement puts her on track to join an exclusive group of fewer than 20 women worldwide who have conquered all 14 of the world’s “eight-thousanders.”
“This summit is more than a personal achievement,” Kiani said in a statement during her descent. “It’s a message to every girl and woman in Pakistan and around the world: you are stronger than you realize.”
The expedition was supported by the BARD Foundation, an initiative of Bilquis and Abdul Razak Dawood aimed at supporting Pakistani talent. “What Naila has achieved is historic,” said Abdul Razak Dawood. “Her drive and purpose reflect the values we aim to champion.”
An aerospace engineer, banker, competitive boxer, mother of two, and AI startup co-founder, Kiani has emerged as one of Pakistan’s most prominent sportswomen. She previously received the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s highest civilian honour, and has also led high-altitude environmental cleanups and humanitarian missions.
Her efforts have drawn congratulations from across the mountaineering community. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Naila Kiani on this historic feat,” said Major General Irfan Arshad, Patron of the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), and Abu Zafar Sadiq, the club’s president. “She is a beacon of inspiration for all Pakistanis, especially women in sports.”
“This is far more than just a climb. It’s a monumental milestone for Pakistan and a moment of immense national pride,” said Karrar Haidri, Secretary of the ACP. “We salute her unmatched courage and perseverance.”
Kiani’s accomplishment adds momentum to her quest to become the first Pakistani to summit all 14 of the world’s tallest mountains. Her 12 summited peaks to date are:
Everest, K2, Broad Peak, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, Annapurna, Lhotse, Manaslu, Makalu, Cho Oyu, and now Kanchenjunga. Only two peaks – Shishapangma and Dhaulagiri remain.
