Photo gallery: People who conquered the world with... their fingertips.

Mountain climbing is an extreme sport, a double-edged sword, as the most exhilarating moments are often accompanied by danger and risk. The same landscape, where climbers can reach the peak of their emotions, can also claim their lives. Nevertheless, many people around the world remain passionate about this sport, even enjoying more daring challenges such as conquering mountain peaks on sheer cliffs and giant icebergs in harsh weather conditions.

Mountain climbing is not just a physical activity requiring overall athletic skills; it also demands mental effort. A moment of distraction, an unsteady step, a second of hesitation, or any wavering can lead to unpredictable consequences – from hitting your head on a rock, slipping, to worse, plunging straight into the abyss…

So why do some people still brave the dangers of this extreme sport? It depends on each climber's personal ideals. Some want to achieve great feats, some enjoy challenging themselves, some yearn to explore the world's almost inaccessible places, while others want to prove their confidence and effort to everyone.

The photos below showcase the allure and spectacular nature of mountain climbing, and above all, the courage of those who reach the world's summit using... their fingertips.

Huyen Chau