New Delhi: A joint expedition from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (NIM), Uttarkashi, and the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports (JIM&WS), Pahalgam, achieved the Mt Aconcagua summit in Argentina on February 22, 2026.
The six-member team reached the peak at 14:10 hours after a demanding climb. The expedition marked a significant milestone for Indian mountaineering institutions. Mt Aconcagua stands as the highest mountain in South America and the second-highest peak outside Asia.
Col Hem Chandra Singh, Principal of NIM and JIM&WS, led the team. Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh ceremonially flagged off the expedition on February 5, 2026. Subsequently, the climbers arrived in Argentina on February 8 to begin preparations for the ascent.
To adapt to high-altitude conditions, the team first scaled Bonete Peak at 5,050 metres. This acclimatisation climb helped them prepare for lower oxygen levels and steep terrain. After completing this phase, they moved towards the higher camps on Aconcagua.
The climbers encountered strong winds and severe cold during the final push. Temperatures ranged between -20°C and -30°C. Despite these harsh conditions, the team maintained steady progress through coordinated effort and careful planning.
Preparations and leadership behind the Mt Aconcagua summit
Along with Col Singh, the team included Capt G Santhosh Kumar, Deep Bahadur Sahi, Vinod Gusai, Nb Sub Bhupinder Singh and Hav Ramesh Kumar. Each member played a defined role during the ascent. Their training at premier Indian mountaineering institutes proved crucial in managing risks.
The expedition required careful logistics, including load ferrying and camp establishment at multiple altitudes. In addition, the team monitored weather windows before attempting the final climb. Such planning reduced exposure to sudden storms and altitude-related illness.
Officials said the successful climb reflected the world-class training standards at NIM and JIM&WS. Moreover, it highlighted India’s growing presence in international mountaineering expeditions.
The achievement also demonstrated institutional coordination between Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir-based training centres. With this expedition, Indian mountaineers strengthened their reputation on one of the world’s most challenging high-altitude peaks.
