Sepang: Businessman T. Ravichandran left yesterday on a three-month trip to attempt climbling Mount Everest from its north side.

If he suceeds, Ravichandran, 40, will become the first Malaysian to climb the 8,848-metre Mount Everest solo and also the first climber from an Asean country to scale it from the side which faces Tibet.
"Malaysians have less knowledge about climbing from this side because theu usually climb from the south side," said Ravichandran.

"The Tibet side is new for Malaysia. I hope to be the first Malaysian to climb it from this side and add our knowledge."

The Tibetan route is more difficult to navigate. Strong winds and lower success rate.

According to Ravichandran, three out of 10 climbers do not survive the climb. This route poses more dangers but they have not dampened his spirits.

Aside from gaining a new record for Malaysia, he hopes to raise RM2 million in donations from companies to help charity organisations across the country.

Among them are the National Cancer Council, Bethany Homes Perak, Tabung Bersamamu TV3, and the National Society for the Deaf Malaysia.

Ravichandran will be accompanied by a Sherpa, who will carry 80kg of equipment.

Travelling through five base camps before reaching the peak, he expects to complete the feat on May 15.

For updates, visit his website at www.treverestcharity2006.com.

Source by: NST Sunday Times, March 26, 2006