Tenzing and Gombu Rocks in Darjeeling are two of the most iconic mountaineering landmarks in India — natural rock formations on the Lebong Cart Road, popularly known as "Monkey Rock," named in honour of two legendary Everest climbers: Tenzing Norgay and Nawang Gombu. Today, these rocks serve as the official training ground for the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) and are open to both professional climbers and adventurous tourists.
About Tenzing Rock
Tenzing Rock is a gigantic natural rock named after the great Tenzing Norgay — the man who made history on 29th May 1953 by reaching the summit of Mount Everest for the first time in human history, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand. Tenzing himself used to practise climbing on this very rock during his training years. A board at the top reads: "HMI Rock Climbing Training Area."
During a visit by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Tenzing famously demonstrated a climb on this rock without any safety equipment — an extraordinary display of skill and fearlessness. Every year, the Indian Army organises a rock climbing competition at Tenzing Rock. In 2010, an army rock climber set an astonishing record by scaling the rock in just 35 seconds.
The left face of Tenzing Rock — visible looking over the fence on the road — is for professional climbers and HMI trainees. It is steep, almost vertical, and rises dramatically from far below road level. The right face has a gentler gradient and is suitable for amateur climbers and adventurous tourists.
