I would like to be remembered for the schools and hospitals and bridges and all the other activities that we did with the Sherpas. Unquestionably, they are the things I feel that were the most worthwhile of everything I was involved in.

When you're climbing at high altitudes, life can get pretty miserable.

On the summit of Everest, I had a feeling of great satisfaction to be first there.

I think that a good mountaineer is usually a sensible mountaineer.

Motivation is the single most important factor in any sort of success.

Becoming a 'Sir' is slightly uncomfortable at first, although it is a considerable honor. It is amazing how quickly you become accustomed to it.

My most important projects have been the building and maintaining of schools and medical clinics for my dear friends in the Himalaya and helping restore their beautiful monasteries, too.