In a remarkable achievement, 16-year-old Selina Khawaja and her father Yousaf Khawaja have made history by becoming the youngest and oldest pair to camp overnight on the summit of a 6,000-meter mountain.
The pair reached the top of Khusar Gang (6,040m) in the Gilgit-Baltistan region on July 10, 2025, climbing in alpine style—a self-sufficient method that involves carrying all their own gear without any porters or guides.
Selina, who hails from Abbottabad, already has several major climbs under her belt. However, this climb is considered a standout moment in her mountaineering journey due to the added challenge of spending the night at such an extreme altitude.
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Unlike most climbers who descend quickly after summiting, the Khawajas chose to camp overnight at the top, despite rough weather, exhaustion, and a lack of external help. Selina later shared that the experience tested their limits but ended up being more comfortable than expected.
The clear skies the next morning allowed them to document their feat before descending safely. Their alpine approach, without fixed ropes or external aid, further highlights the difficulty and determination involved in the climb.
Selina is now aiming even higher, with plans to attempt Gasherbrum I and II, two of Pakistan’s most difficult and towering peaks.
