Kangchenjunga climbs past and present

Three questions. Maybe someone can help:

1. Kangchenjunga was first climbed in 1957 (Charles Evans: The Untrodden Peak, London 1958). The next ascent was not until 1975 and the third 1977. Does anyone know why this long gap?

2. The first party turned some 100 feet below the summit (the Maharajah of Sikkim only allowed the ascent under this condition, so as not to annoy the gods. Has anyone been up Kangchenjunga and can tell me if this custom is still in place?

3. Anoyone knows an organisation that organises Kangchenjunga climbs?

Cheers for your help, Anselm

: The next ascent was not until 1975 and the third 1977. : Does anyone know why this long gap?

I am not sure but since this is usenet, I think it was off-limit because of religious/political reasons.

: : 2. The first party turned some 100 feet below the summit (the Maharajah : of Sikkim only allowed the ascent under this condition, so as not to : annoy the gods. : Has anyone been up Kangchenjunga and can tell me if this custom is : still in place? :

I remember a party (at least with one American, if that evidence can help you find the historical fact) decidedly had the summit trodden.

: 3. Anoyone knows an organisation that organises Kangchenjunga climbs? :

No. If you have enough money, I am sure some teams wouldn't mind you joining in. Ask the local govnment who have been granted permission and call the team leaders. Kangch sees attempts quite often.

Ultimate Ascents at www.ultimateascents.com/climbing