Edmund Hillary, who was first to conquer Mount Everest along with his Sherpa guide more than 50 years ago, will miss his annual trip to this Himalayan nation where he is considered a hero, a close associate said today.

On the eve of the 50th anniversary of his historic conquest of Mount Everest, Edmund Hillary complained that legions of modern-day climbers were holding drunken parties at base camp and then scrambling to the summit on fixed ropes and ladders.

Half a century on from his great achievement, Sir Edmund Hillary still plays down being one of the first two men to set foot on the summit of Everest.

Mount Everest conqueror Edmund Hillary was lauded today for his skill, courage and endurance in being the first to climb the world’s tallest peak in the Himalayan mountains nearly 50 years ago.