Muscat – Seasoned Omani adventurer Khalid Said al Anqudi has added another feather in his cap by conquering Mount Damavand. At an altitude of 5,671m, the Iranian peak is the tallest in Western Asia and Asia’s highest volcano.

Anqudi embarked on this expedition with the dual aim of promoting Omani tourism and encouraging a spirit of adventure among the youth.

In a call to Muscat Daily from Iran, he said, “Damavand has a special place in Persian mythology and folklore. The mountain, 66km northeast of Tehran in Alborz Province, overlooks the southern coast of the Caspian Sea.”

Anqudi triumphed over harsh elements, braving strong winds and heavy snowfall, to reach the base of Damavand on July 9.

His mission was finally accomplished on July 12 at 1pm when he planted the flag of the sultanate atop the mountain. “The climb was fraught with challenges. The thin air was a formidable hurdle,” he informed.

Among his team members were fellow Omani climbers Dr Ali al Ajmi, Kawthar al Habsi and Suleiman al Maamari.

To prepare for the difficult ascend, the group engaged in rigorous physical training, including daily walks of five to six hours for two months. Anqudi emphasised the importance of mental preparedness alongside physical strength in overcoming such daunting challenges.

This recent feat is another addition to Anqudi’s impressive record. He has successfully scaled 15 mountains, including three of the Seven Summits – Kilimanjaro, Elbrus and Aconcagua. His aim is to conquer all seven.

Anqudi’s impressive portfolio includes scaling the Italian Alps, Ararat in Turkey, Toubkal in Morocco, Kala Patthar and Everest Base Camp in Nepal, Apo in the Philippines, Fuji in Japan, Cheget in Russia, Kinabalu in Malaysia, and Bromo and Semeru in Indonesia.

“I have already traversed more than 76 countries to promote the sultanate. I will persist in my quest to conquer the world’s peaks and fulfil my dream of scaling the seven global summits,” he said of his future pursuits, while encouraging the youth of Oman to embrace their dreams with patience and determination.