Kanchha Sherpa, the last surviving member of the historic 1953 British Mount Everest expedition that first summited the world’s highest peak, passed away early Thursday morning at his residence in Kapan, Kathmandu. He was 92. According to his youngest son, Tshering Sherpa, Kanchha breathed his last at approximately 2:10 a.m. on October 16, 2025.
The family has announced that the funeral will be held either on Saturday or Monday, following the arrival of one of his daughters who resides abroad. Kanchha Sherpa spent his final days in Kathmandu, living with his youngest son, surrounded by family. Of his four children, two sons and one daughter remain in Nepal. He is also survived by his wife, Ang Lhakpa Sherpa, eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.
A Journey That Began in Namche Bazaar
Born in 1932 in Namche Bazaar, Kanchha Sherpa, originally Ang Phurba Sherpa, began his journey into mountaineering at a young age. At just 19, he ran away from home to Darjeeling in search of work. It was there that he met Tenzing Norgay, who recognized him as the son of a fellow mountaineer involved in the 1952 Everest reconnaissance expedition from Tibet. Tenzing, impressed by his dedication and potential, helped him join Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic 1953 Everest expedition.
Kanchha Sherpa was only 20 years old during the expedition and served as one of the 103 Sherpas supporting the climbers. He was paid five rupees a day for his efforts, part of the 35-member team that made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953.
Contributions to Mountaineering and Legacy
Following the historic summit, Kanchha Sherpa continued his involvement in mountaineering until 1973, retiring at the request of his wife. Even after retirement, he remained connected to the Himalayas, guiding trekking groups and helping visitors explore the region safely, though he avoided extreme altitudes.
In past interviews, Kanchha Sherpa recounted the immense logistical efforts behind the 1953 expedition. Around 400 Nepali porters carried supplies for 16 days to reach Namche Bazaar, after which only local Sherpas and yaks transported them to Everest Base Camp, a six-day trek. He highlighted the courage and endurance of the Sherpa community, acknowledging their indispensable role in Himalayan mountaineering.
Even after decades, Kanchha expressed concerns about the environmental impact of tourism and mountaineering on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, advocating for sustainable practices in the region.
A Witness to History
Kanchha Sherpa holds a unique place in mountaineering history as the last living link to the first ascent of Mount Everest. The 1953 expedition, led by Sir John Hunt, saw Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary reach the summit, achieving what had long been considered impossible. Kanchha’s presence as part of the Sherpa team provided the critical support that made the climb possible, from carrying loads and setting up camps to navigating the treacherous terrain.
Over the years, he remained modest about his role, often emphasizing the teamwork, preparation, and resilience required to achieve the historic feat. He frequently spoke about the young Nepali Sherpas of that era, whose courage and skill were instrumental in the success of the expedition.
Remembering Kanchha Sherpa
Colleagues, climbers, and mountaineering enthusiasts have expressed condolences and admiration for Kanchha Sherpa’s remarkable life. His journey from Namche Bazaar to the heights of Everest symbolizes not only physical endurance but also the spirit of determination, humility, and community service that has long defined Nepali Sherpas.
“The contributions of Kanchha Sherpa to mountaineering go beyond just climbing,” noted a representative from the Nepal Mountaineering Association. “He exemplified the role of Sherpas as the backbone of Himalayan expeditions and carried the legacy of the first Everest climb into the present generation.” Kanchha Sherpa’s story is also a reminder of the human dimension of mountaineering, the sacrifices, risks, and tireless work of the Sherpa community that made global achievements possible.
Funeral Arrangements
Kanchha Sherpa’s family has requested privacy as they make arrangements for his final rites. The funeral is expected to be held after the arrival of his daughter from abroad, allowing the entire family to pay their respects. The nation mourns the passing of a living legend, whose life bridged the early days of Everest exploration with the present era of mountaineering.
Legacy That Will Endure
With Kanchha Sherpa’s passing, the last living connection to the historic first ascent of Mount Everest is gone. Yet, his legacy endures, not only in the annals of mountaineering history but in the countless climbers and trekking enthusiasts inspired by his life and work. As Nepal and the global mountaineering community remember him, Kanchha Sherpa will be celebrated for his courage, dedication, and the role he played in one of humanity’s greatest achievements.
