Masherbrum: The Queen of Mountains
Masherbrum is the 22nd highest mountain in the world and the first peak in the Karakoram range, hence called K1. The name "Masherbrum" means the Queen of Mountains, and it is the highest peak of the Masherbrum Mountains. This majestic mountain is surrounded by many 8000-meter peaks such as K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I & II. Located south of the Baltoro Glacier and at the north end of the Hushe Valley, Masherbrum stands as a remarkable landmark.
Masherbrum was first climbed by George Irving Bell and Willi Unsoeld in 1960. Earlier, in 1911, William H. Workman and his wife, Mrs. Fanny Workman, attempted to climb Masherbrum from the south side but were unsuccessful. Over the years, a total of 9 more attempts were made, with 6 successful ascents and 3 failures. A famous alpinist, David Belden, detailed his dramatic adventure in climbing Masherbrum in his book "Voyage au Bout du Vide: Une Cordée Alpine au Masherbrum." He recounted his 3-month journey, the harsh weather conditions, and how avalanches devastated his camp, causing injuries that forced him to return home without achieving climbing success.