German mountaineers summit West Sikkim's Mt Tenchenkhang

In a first, three German mountaineers successfully scaled Mt Tenchenkhang, a 6010-metre peak in West Sikkim's Khangchendzonga range.

The feat marks the first successful ascent of the mountain by German nationals - Andre Handrack (61), Petra Handrack (51), and Rene Specht (58).

The team began their 13-day expedition ascent from Yuksam in West Sikkim on April 28, successfully summiting Mt Tenchenkhang on May 8 at 10 am. 

The expedition concluded on May 10 with the team's return to Yuksam.

The climbers were supported by a team of six experienced local staff, including expedition leader Badal Rai, liaison officer Roshan Chettri from Tourism and Civil Aviation department, mountain guide Passang D Sherpa, and support staff Shivam Rai, Nabin Gurung, Ranu Pegha, and Nima Bhutia.

Speaking to the media, Andre Handrack expressed admiration for the natural beauty and adventure potential of Sikkim.

"The weather and landscape here are ideal for mountaineering and adventure sports. We were fascinated by the majestic peaks of Sikkim," he said.