KATHMANDU, April 4: The French Embassy in Nepal, in collaboration with the Alliance Française Katmandou, inaugurated the exhibition "Summit of Friendship: 75 Years of Annapurna Ascent" on Friday. The exhibition will be on display at the Alliance Française in Pulchowk until April 18, 2025.
Curated by Swaraj Man Chitrakar, the exhibition revisits the historic first successful ascent of Annapurna I (8,091 meters) on June 3, 1950, by a Franco-Nepali team. This achievement—marking the first human conquest of an 8,000-meter peak—was a significant milestone in mountaineering history and helped forge a strong bond between Nepal and France.
Anniversary of first ascent to Mt Annapurna being observed toda...
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the French Ambassador to Nepal Virginie Corteval highlighted the vital role played by Nepali Sherpas in the success of the 1950 expedition. The Ambassador noted that their expertise and dedication have remained essential to mountaineering achievements ever since.
The exhibition also showcases the contributions of Nepali climbers, the evolution of mountaineering, and key milestones over the decades. It is part of a broader series of events organized by Team France throughout 2025 to commemorate the landmark ascent.
The upcoming events include a screening of a documentary on the 1950 Annapurna expedition on April 23, 2025, followed by a discussion with experts on sustainable mountaineering. In June 2025, the Nepali translation of Annapurna: Premier 8000, the classic book by expedition leader Maurice Herzog, will be launched. This translation, funded by the French Government, was completed by Alliance Française. Additionally, a panel discussion on climate change in the Himalayas will take place in October or November 2025.