The explorer took great pride in his contribution to Nepalese people. "My
most worthwhile things have been the building of schools and clinics. That
has given me far more satisfaction than a footprint on a mountain," he had
said.
Recognising his contribution to Nepal, the Himalayan nation's government
conferred honorary citizenship upon Hillary on the occasion of the 50th
anniversary of the first successful ascent of Everest.
His native New
Zealand also honoured him and various schools, organisations in New
Zealand and around the world have been named after him. In India, a
primary wing house at St Paul's School in Darjeeling is named after him.
Photograph: Getty Images
Caption: Sir Edmund Hillary unveils a memorial garden at his old school, Tuakau Primary, in Auckland to mark the 50th anniversary of his ascent of Mt Everest.
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