Corps of Signals conquers 3 Himalayan peaks in Ladakh

In a remarkable display of courage, endurance and collective resolve, the Corps of Signals Mountaineering Expedition 2026 has successfully completed its ambitious mission to summit three formidable Himalayan peaks in Ladakh – Mt Kiagar Ri (6,100 metres), Mt Mentok Kangri (6,250 metres) and Mt Chamser Kangri (6,622 metres).

Undertaken under the inspiring theme “Dreams of Valour – Three Peaks, One Mission, Infinite Resolve,” the expedition represented far more than the conquest of three mountain summits. It was conceived as a demanding test of physical endurance, mental strength, leadership, teamwork and the ability to operate effectively in extreme and unpredictable high-altitude conditions.

The daring mission also formed part of the Corps of Signals’ larger vision to revive its distinguished mountaineering tradition and prepare a new generation of military mountaineers. The expedition was flagged off on 18 June 2026 by Lt Gen Vivek Dogra, SM, Signal Officer-in-Chief, who encouraged the team to uphold the highest traditions of the Indian Army and the Corps of Signals.

Before undertaking the three-peak challenge, the team underwent rigorous pre-induction training and systematic acclimatisation at the Army Mountaineering Institute, Siachen Base Camp. The training was conducted progressively to prepare the members for the severe physical and technical demands of climbing at altitudes exceeding 6,000 metres.

The initial phase focused on acclimatisation, physical conditioning and familiarisation with the harsh high-altitude environment. The members were gradually exposed to reduced oxygen levels, sub-zero temperatures, strong winds and rapidly changing weather conditions. This carefully calibrated process enabled the team to adapt safely before undertaking more strenuous activities.

The subsequent phases included intensive training in rock, snow and ice craft. The members practised rope work, jumaring, rappelling, glacier movement, load carriage and route negotiation across steep and technically challenging terrain. Special emphasis was placed on teamwork, communication, risk assessment and the safe crossing of hazardous glaciated areas.

The demanding training at Siachen Base Camp strengthened the team’s confidence, technical competence and ability to make sound decisions under pressure. It also forged a strong bond among the members – an essential requirement for a mission in which the safety and success of every climber depended upon mutual trust and coordination.

The expedition registered its first major success on 13 August 2026, when a 20-member team led by Lt Col Lakshmi Narayan successfully scaled Mt Kiagar Ri, standing at 6,100 metres.

Achieved as the nation prepared to celebrate its 80th Independence Day, the summit carried profound significance. Atop the snow-covered peak, the team proudly unfurled the National Flag and the flag of the Corps of Signals, dedicating the achievement to the courage and selfless service of Indian Army personnel serving across the country.

The ascent demanded careful route selection, sustained physical effort and precise coordination over steep and difficult terrain. By successfully negotiating these challenges, the team gained the momentum and confidence required for the more demanding objectives that lay ahead.

After safely descending from Mt Kiagar Ri, the expedition regrouped and began preparations for its second objective—Mt Mentok Kangri at 6,250 metres.

On 24 August 2026, the team successfully reached the summit of Mt Mentok Kangri. The climb tested the mountaineers against extreme altitude, freezing temperatures, strong winds and rapidly changing weather conditions. At such elevations, every step demanded considerable effort, while reduced oxygen levels placed immense strain on both body and mind.

Despite these formidable conditions, the team maintained its focus and cohesion. The ascent demonstrated exceptional leadership, technical proficiency, discipline and mutual support. The successful summit marked the completion of the second major milestone of the expedition and brought the team within reach of its ultimate objective.

With two peaks conquered, the mountaineers turned their attention to the highest and most demanding challenge of the mission – Mt Chamser Kangri.

Following the successful ascent of Mt Mentok Kangri, the team returned to Karzok, recuperated and meticulously prepared for the final summit attempt. Equipment was checked, loads were organised, and the route and weather conditions were carefully assessed before the team commenced its climb.

In the early hours of 29 August 2026, a summit team made the final push towards **Mt Chamser Kangri, rising to 6,622 metres.

Braving darkness, intense cold, high winds and the debilitating effects of extreme altitude, the climbers pressed forward with determination and successfully reached the summit of Mt Chamser Kangri, completing the third and final objective of the expedition.

The summit represented the triumphant culmination of weeks of preparation, acclimatisation, technical training and sustained effort in one of the world’s most challenging mountain environments. After unfurling the National Flag and the flag of the Corps of Signals at the summit, the team descended safely and commenced its return journey to Karzok.

The successful ascent of Mt Kiagar Ri on 13 August, Mt Mentok Kangri on 24 August and Mt Chamser Kangri on 29 August 2026 brought the Corps of Signals Mountaineering Expedition to a historic and fitting conclusion.

Conquering three challenging Himalayan peaks in succession required far more than individual strength. It demanded meticulous planning, effective leadership, technical expertise, careful logistics, sound judgement and unwavering teamwork. Every member – from the summit climbers to the personnel responsible for training, administration, communications, medical support, logistics and coordination – played an indispensable role in the success of the mission.

The achievement is a tribute to the hard work, perseverance and collective resolve of the entire expedition team. Throughout the mission, its members displayed exceptional courage in the face of danger, resilience during moments of extreme physical strain and complete faith in one another.

The expedition exemplified the finest traditions of the Indian Army and reflected the enduring ethos of the Corps of Signals – courage, teamwork, leadership, resilience and service before self.