Student Article

Tenzing Norgay’s journey from a remote Himalayan village to the summit of the world’s tallest mountain is a story of ambition, endurance, and quiet heroism.

A humble beginning

Tenzing didn’t grow up rich or famous. He was born around 1914, though the exact details are fuzzy, and raised in a small mountain village by a yak herder. At 19, he moved to Darjeeling, India, where he started working as a porter — someone who carries heavy loads — for mountain climbers.

A well-known climber

By the time the 1953 British expedition came along, Tenzing was already well-known. He had tried to climb Everest several times before and had more experience on the mountain than anyone. The expedition leader, John Hunt, picked him as the lead Sherpa guide out of 20 Sherpas and described him as full of energy and determination.

Tenzing and Hillary’s partnership

Edmund Hillary was also impressed. As soon as they met at base camp, he saw that Tenzing was more than just a helper — he was a climbing partner with serious ambition. Although another team tried first and got very close, Hillary and Tenzing were chosen to make the second attempt.

The summit and their celebration

At 6:30 a.m. on May 29, they began their final climb. They reached the top and spent some time celebrating with flags, pictures, and even buried small items as offerings. They didn’t argue over who got there first — Tenzing later said, “We both together.”

Recognition and legacy

While Hillary and the leader of the expedition were knighted, Tenzing was given a lesser medal. Many felt this was unfair.

Tenzing’s lasting impact

Tenzing became famous around the world. He later trained other climbers and even wrote a book about his journey, proud of his long road from porter to hero.

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