Zhang Jingchuan, the only Chinese mountaineer to survive the deadly attack by militants in northern Pakistan has come back home. The attack left at least eleven people dead, including two Chinese mountaineers. On Wednesday afternoon, escorted by Chinese diplomats, Zhang flew back to China.

Zhang Jingchuan, the only Chinese mountaineer to survive the deadly attack by militants in northern Pakistan has come back home.

42-year-old Zhang Jingchuan got to Urumqi and was united with his family. "I can only feel at home when I am standing in my homeland."

The assault took place at the base camp of Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth highest mountain, in Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan.

Zhang said there were eight militants, all fully armed.

"We were sleeping when they caught us. Our hands were tied and we were made to kneel on the ground. After they searched everyone, the massacre began. A shot was aimed at my head, but it missed. And I began to run and got to the valley."

Zhang had been in the military for four years and was quick to move. After hiding for over an hour, he got back to the camp, and called for help.

"I really thank the country's quick reactions. In less than 7 hours, the helicopter and Pakistani forces came."

But his friends were not as lucky. Yao Jianfeng and Yang Chunfeng were just one step away from having climbed all fourteen of the world's highest mountains. The attack put an end to their dreams.

Social media in China cyberspace is now flooded with condolences from mountain climbing enthusiasts. Zhang will stay in Urumqi for a day, and then fly back to Southwest China's city Kunming on Thursday.