Prakash Gurung: IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide and Mountaineering Instructor
Childhood, Family, and Educational Pursuits
Prakash Gurung was born on October 25, 1992, in the captivating landscapes of Tanahun District, within the picturesque Gandaki Province of Nepal. He was raised in a close-knit joint family, his father's service in the esteemed Nepal Army and his mother's role as a dedicated homemaker shaped Prakash's early years. Prakash’s childhood was decorated amidst two younger sisters and an elder and a younger brother.
In pursuit of formal education, Prakash completed his high school education and subsequently enrolled in the BBS program at Tribhuwan University, marking the initial steps of his academic journey.
Embarking on the Trail: Early Days in Mountaineering and Training
The initiation of Prakash's mountaineering journey can be traced back to 2013 when he commenced as a porter in expeditions. Simultaneously, he explored other adventure avenues, engaging in pursuits such as rafting and mountain biking. In the year 2014, he became a certified trekking guide, a key milestone that fueled his passion in the mountaineering industry.
Prakash dedicated himself to the forefront of rescue operations after the catastrophic earthquake in Nepal in 2015. His active involvement in rescuing victims from Tashi Lapcha Pass in Chho-Rolpa showcased not only his courage but also his commitment to the well-being of others.
The year 2016 led to a new chapter as Prakash embraced mountain climbing. Conquering Island Peak and Ama Dablam, he concurrently enrolled in a comprehensive mountaineering course, a strategic move to hone his skills for the challenges that lay ahead. As the years progressed, Prakash's expertise expanded, with accomplishments including leading camping-based treks, summiting renowned peaks, and undertaking advanced mountaineering training.
Career Trajectory: From Summits to Mountaineering Instruction
Prakash's journey smoothly transitioned into a career as a mountaineering instructor. He started as an assistant in the Introductory Rock Climbing Course (IRCC) in 2021, gradually ascended the ranks, eventually attaining certification as an instructor. His instructional endeavors extended beyond Nepal, as he traveled to Ladakh, India, in 2022, to teach the Intermediate Mountaineering Course (IMC). Prakash has been engaged in providing training ranging from ice climbing to safety drills to eager mountaineering enthusiasts. He also provides private training on demand.
Cultural Exchange and Global Outreach
In 2023, Prakash Gurung seized a remarkable opportunity to explore Europe through a cultural exchange program. This experience allowed him to delve into diverse cultures, providing him with insights that expanded his worldview beyond the borders of his home country Nepal. Collaborating closely with the French Mountain Guide Association at École Nationale De Ski Et D’alpinisme (ENSA), Prakash not only deepened his understanding of mountaineering but also shared his own perspectives, contributing to the global dialogue among mountain enthusiasts.
During his time at ENSA, Prakash found it particularly exciting to observe the international mountaineering community's fascination with Alpine-style climbing. This style emphasizes self-sufficiency and minimal equipment, creating a stark contrast to the predominant trend in Nepal, where most expeditions rely heavily on Fixed Rope Climbing.
Engaging with the global mountaineering community through this program enriched Prakash's perspective on the varied approaches to climbing and highlighted the international appeal of different styles. It was more than a journey of physical exploration; it was an intellectual and cultural adventure that left a lasting impact on Prakash's approach to mountaineering. Through this exchange, he not only brought back newfound knowledge but also left a positive mark on the international mountaineering stage, showcasing Nepal's rich mountaineering heritage.
Responding to Crisis: Rescue Operations
Prakash has played a pivotal role in search and recovery missions. In 2018, during his Mt. Everest expedition, he participated in the search and recovery operation for the renowned Japanese climber Nobukazu Kuriki.
In 2022, Prakash was actively involved in the search and recovery operation after the very unfortunate Tara Air Crash. This situation needed fast and brave choices. Prakash played an important role in this rescue operation.
The Summiting Passion: A Multitude of Peaks
Prakash Gurung's journey in the mountains is filled with many successful climbs. From the grand heights of Mt. Everest to the beautiful Ama Dablam, the strong Manaslu to the tricky Lobuche Peak, each climb shows how much he loves and works hard for it.
Prakash really enjoys climbing. When he first made it to the top of Mt. Everest, he couldn't hold back his tears. And it's not just him – he's seen lots of people, his clients, cry when they reach the summit. Thinking about these moments makes his eyes sparkle with happiness. Prakash knows that being on top of those huge mountains, it's like being in the lap of gigantic Nature as a tiny child. His cheerful personality and his deep knowledge about climbing make him a true expert in the thrilling world of high-altitude adventures.
But it's not just about reaching the top for Prakash. Every mountain he climbs tells a story of his strong commitment and love for the adventure. The towering Mt. Everest, the stunning Ama Dablam, the tough Manaslu, and the challenging Lobuche Peak – each one is like a chapter in his incredible journey, showing his dedication and passion for the mountains.