Two women from Arunachal Pradesh have achieved a significant mountaineering milestone by successfully scaling the formidable 7,077-meter high Mt Kun in the Zanskar region of Ladakh. January Tali and Hachu Lombo reached the summit at 6 a.m. on July 27, marking a proud moment for mountaineering in the northeastern border state. Tali, a resident of Yingkiong in the Upper Siang district, and Lombo, from Anini in the Dibang Valley district, have demonstrated exceptional prowess in high-altitude climbing.
The accomplishment has drawn widespread praise, with Arunachal Pradesh Governor K.T. Parnaik commending the mountaineers on Sunday. He described their feat as a source of immense pride for the state, highlighting their extraordinary courage, determination, endurance, and mental fortitude. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the governor further stated that their success is expected to inspire the youth of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly women, to engage in adventure sports and prioritize physical fitness. This sentiment was conveyed through an official statement released from Lok Bhavan.
Mt Kun, situated in the Zanskar range of the Indian Himalayas, is recognized as one of the nation’s most challenging high-altitude technical climbs. Its ascent is fraught with difficulties, including steep snow slopes, hazardous glaciers, and unpredictable weather patterns, making it a test of a climber’s skill and resilience. The expedition that conquered Mt Kun comprised a mixed team of nine individuals, consisting of two women and seven men, excluding the support staff of Sherpas. The extreme nature of the terrain was underscored by the fact that only four out of the nine climbers managed to reach the peak.
For January Tali, this ascent adds another notable achievement to her already impressive mountaineering resume. She has previously conquered six Himalayan peaks within a span of two weeks. Her prior expeditions include double summits on UT Kangri, which stands at 6,080 meters, and Mentok Kangri-III, at 6,126 meters. Additionally, she has scaled Mentok Kangri-I, reaching an altitude of 6,268 meters, and Mentok Kangri-II, at 6,218 meters. These previous climbs demonstrate her consistent dedication and growing expertise in challenging mountain environments.
Both Tali and Lombo will be formally recognized for their remarkable achievement with official summit certificates from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) in New Delhi. This recognition from the national mountaineering body further validates their accomplishment and contribution to the sport. The successful ascent of Mt Kun by these two women from Arunachal Pradesh not only highlights their individual capabilities but also brings attention to the growing participation and success of women in high-risk adventure sports from India‘s border regions. Their journey serves as a testament to the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence against formidable natural obstacles, inspiring future generations of climbers and adventurers from across the country.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.