Mount Everest. The 1966 Chinese attempt on Everest through the north face failed, although it was made in May when all successful climbs have been made. The 26-member team was given French high-altitude clothing, but this was not adequate. They were told that what they had to do to keep warm was to remember the teachings of Mao Tse Tung. Two days after the attempt started, two members returned to Base Camp almost frozen with cold. The others refused to retreat, asserting that they were climbing in Mao Tse Tung’s name, which they must still be doing, as they were never seen again. A jeepable road has been built by the Chinese right up to Base Camp.

Kamal K. Guha, Himalayan Club