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Mathias Herzog honors father’s legacy with trek to Annapurna Base Camp

Mathias Herzog retraces his father's legendary path, celebrating the spirit of adventure and the natural beauty of Annapurna while pledging to preserve his father's legacy.

Myagdi: Mathias Herzog, son of legendary climber Maurice Herzog, recently trekked to Annapurna Base Camp, retracing his father’s historic ascent 75 years ago. Maurice Herzog, alongside his expedition team, became the first to summit Annapurna (8,091 meters) on June 3, 1950, a milestone achieved three years before the first ascent of Everest.

Arriving in Narchyang, part of Annapurna Rural Municipality, Mathias embarked on his journey to the base camp on Saturday. He honored his father by laying a wreath at a bust near Panchakunda Pond, reflecting on the challenges faced by his father on a rocky, uncharted route that remains undeveloped today.

Mathias expressed his commitment to promoting Annapurna’s natural beauty, which has become relatively unknown. He also announced plans to return next year with his 82-year-old mother and to translate his father’s book, The Annapurna, into Nepali and other languages. In recognition of Maurice Herzog’s pioneering efforts, the trekking route to Annapurna Base Camp via Narchyang has been renamed the Maurice Herzog Trail. Access to the base camp is facilitated by a 22-km motorable route from Pokhare Bagar, followed by a 21-km trek.

Who was Maurice Herzog?

Maurice Herzog was a legendary French mountaineer, celebrated as the first person to summit an 8,000-meter peak when he conquered Annapurna in the Himalayas in 1950. This historic ascent marked a pivotal moment in the world of mountaineering.

Herzog passed away on December 14, 2012, at the age of 93. His expedition was immortalized in his book, Annapurna, which was first published in French in 1951 and translated into English in 1952. The book has achieved remarkable success, selling over 11 million copies by 2000, making it one of the most popular mountaineering titles in history.

In Annapurna, Herzog’s compelling narrative concludes with the inspiring line, “there are other Annapurnas in the lives of men,” urging readers to confront the challenges life presents. His account not only established his reputation as a climber but also inspired countless adventurers and mountaineers for generations to come.