First Pole, second in the world to conquer the Crown of the Himalayas

Challenge The Vertical
Jerzy Kukuczka

The incredible story of passion, mountains, and human limits. All 14 of Earth's highest peaks – including 10 new routes and 4 first winter ascents. Completed in half the time of Reinhold Messner.

Buy e-book →
14
Eight-thousanders in the Crown of the Himalayas
10
New routes established on peaks
4
First winter ascents above 8000m
13
Without supplemental oxygen
7
In pure alpine style
🏔️

Jerzy Kukuczka

1948–1989 · Katowice, Poland

Considered one of the greatest Himalayan mountaineers in history. As the second person on Earth to summit all 14 eight-thousanders — achieving it in half the time of Reinhold Messner — his legacy is unmatched.

His book "Mój Pionowy Świat" (My Vertical World), translated as "Challenge The Vertical", is not only a record of Himalayan expeditions but a story of determination, overcoming one's weaknesses, and the strength of the human spirit.

For the first time I touched rock on a Saturday afternoon, September 4th, 1965. I touched it, pulled up with my hands, and felt that not only can I grip this rock but I can also overcome it. That's how I discovered my new, vertical world.
— Jerzy Kukuczka, "Mój Pionowy Świat"
Publications

Choose Your Format

English edition e-book — instant delivery after payment. Secure payment via Przelewy24.

Ready for the vertical adventure?

Buy your copy →