New Delhi: A mountaineering team from the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM & WS), Pahalgam, has successfully completed a challenging expedition to the Khyam Tso Massif in the remote Rumtse Phu region of Ladakh, scaling multiple high-altitude peaks under extreme weather conditions.
The 22-member expedition, led by Colonel Hem Chandra Singh, began on June 26 and followed a carefully planned acclimatization schedule before attempting the demanding ascents.
The team’s first major achievement came on July 2, when it reached Peak Pt 5901 metres despite harsh weather. Marking a significant milestone during the expedition, the team leader also carried out what has been described as the first paragliding flight from an altitude of 5,600 metres in the area.
Building on this success, the mountaineers went on to scale another technically demanding 6,090-metre peak of the massif along with Peak Pt 5944 metres on July 3. The climbs tested the team’s endurance, technical skills, and coordination as they navigated difficult terrain and unpredictable mountain conditions.
The expedition concluded on July 5 with the successful ascent of Mount Khyam-III (6,018 metres), after which the team safely descended to the road-head camp, completing the mission without incident.
Officials said the expedition highlights the high standards of training and adventure capabilities developed by the institute while showcasing the determination and teamwork of the participants. The successful climbs also contribute to the exploration of lesser-known mountain ranges in the Ladakh region and underline India’s growing presence in high-altitude mountaineering and adventure sports.
