Chonjin Angmo has proven that conquering the heights of the Himalayas requires not just sight, but also a determined spirit. This 28-year-old woman from the remote village of Changho in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, achieved a historic feat on May 19, 2025.
Climb Mount Everest 2025: Chonjin Angmo, a 28-year-old from the inaccessible village of Changho in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, has achieved an unprecedented accomplishment. On May 19th, she conquered Mount Everest, creating history as the first blind woman in the world to achieve this feat. Chonjin Angmo navigated the challenging path to Everest with her mind's eye, setting an example of unparalleled courage, determination, and self-belief.
She shared that climbing Mount Everest was a childhood dream, and the Union Bank of India played a crucial role in making this dream a reality.
Losing her Sight at Eight, but Not her Dream
Chonjin Angmo's life has not been ordinary. At the tender age of eight, an allergic reaction to medication resulted in the permanent loss of her eyesight. This was a significant setback for a child, but her willpower proved far ber. While studying in the third grade, Angmo resolved not to let any deficiency defeat her.
Chonjin Angmo's dream of climbing Mount Everest was years in the making, but a lack of resources posed a significant hurdle. She sought assistance from various sources but was unsuccessful. Finally, the Union Bank of India made her dream a reality by providing financial support for this extraordinary journey. Currently, Chonjin works as a customer service associate at a branch of the same bank in Delhi.
Mountaineering Training and Early Success
In 2016, she received formal mountaineering training from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Skiing in Manali. During her training, she received the 'Best Trainee' award, further boosting her confidence. Following this, Chonjin successfully climbed several peaks in Ladakh. She has also climbed in the most challenging areas of the Siachen Glacier under Operation Blue Freedom.
In this mission, a special team of former armed forces personnel, 'Team Claw', guided her. In Siachen, she conquered Kumar Post at an altitude of 15,632 feet and an unnamed peak at 19,717 feet.
Education and Family
Chonjin Angmo is the second of five siblings. Her father, Amar Chand, and mother, Sonam Chomo, never let her spirits falter. She enrolled at the Mahabodhi School in Leh, which offered special facilities for visually impaired children. She then completed her 11th and 12th grades in Chandigarh and subsequently graduated from the prestigious Miranda House College, Delhi University.
In recognition of her achievements, the Indian government awarded her the National Award for 'Best Disabled Person' in 2024. This award is official recognition of her courage, struggle, and inspirational life.
