Untamed Heights Conquered: NIMAS Team Scales Unclimbed Peak in Arunachal Himalayas, Names It ‘Tsangyang Gyatso Peak’

In a dramatic twist of fate, the rugged Eastern Himalayas, often described as the untamed frontier of India, have now been conquered by a group of intrepid adventurers. These brave hearts ventured where even the clouds dare to pause, etching their triumph into the ancient rocks of Arunachal Pradesh—a land where the mountains stand like eternal sentinels, guarding secrets of the ages. As per emerging media reports, in a landmark achievement, a team from the National Institute of Mountaineering & Adventure Sports (NIMAS) has achieved an extraordinary feat by successfully scaling a previously unnamed and unclimbed 6383 MSL (20,942 ft.) peak in the Gorichen range of the Arunachal Pradesh Himalayas, in the Tawang-West Kameng region. The challenging peak, distinguished by its unexplored terrain and technical hurdles, has been formally named ‘Tsangyang Gyatso Peak’ in homage to His Holiness the 6th Dalai Lama, Rigzen Tsangyang Gyatso, celebrating this remarkable achievement. Operating under the Ministry of Defence, NIMAS is headquartered in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dirang. As per the official release, the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) was informed of the ascent, while officials followed the formal procedures to make sure the ‘Tsangyang Gyatso Peak’ was recognised on official maps.
Learning of this monumental feat prompted me to document my thoughts on the unmatched exhilaration of mountaineering, an endeavor that surpasses many others within the realm of adventure sports. A notable caveat is that the views expressed by me, in this article, leans towards an interpretive and storytelling style, prioritizing the emotional and personal dimensions of trekking and mountaineering over technical specifics.
Mountaineering is not just a physical ascent but a dance with destiny, where every step forward is like turning a page in the untold saga of these remote peaks. Overcoming the daunting cliffs, treacherous mountain passes, and relentless winds that evoke the haunting cries of a forgotten past is a feat many consider insurmountable—reaching the lofty, unforgiving summits of iconic mountain ranges like the Himalayas, Alps, and the Andes. Whenever I read or watch things with respect to mountain trekking, it always feels like stepping into a cathedral of nature, where each ascent is a hymn sung to the heavens, and each step a prayer of endurance and perseverance. In Nepal, “The Trekking Hotspot of the World,” the jagged peaks of the Himalayas pierce the sky like towering sentinels, inviting adventurers to test their limits. Trails like the Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp offer a heady mix of beauty and danger—glaciers that glisten like silver rivers, oxygen-thin air that bites at your lungs, and skies so close, they seem to hold the universe in their embrace.
In India, the Himalayan regions are no less a pilgrimage for trekkers. Uttarakhand’s Valley of Flowers is a mosaic of vibrant hues, where nature paints the mountains in shades of pink, yellow, and purple, while Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley offers desolate, moonscape terrains that stretch like ancient scrolls waiting to be unraveled. The Indian Himalayan ranges also offer cultural immersion as you pass through remote villages where life unfolds like an ancient tale, unchanged for centuries. Sikkim’s Goecha La Trek, for instance, not only takes you through lush rhododendron forests and alpine meadows but also offers awe-inspiring views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.
Adding a new jewel to this crown of trekking destinations is Arunachal Pradesh, often called the “Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains.” With its lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and snow-capped peaks, Arunachal is like an untouched symphony in the grand orchestra of the Himalayas. Within the mountaineering fraternity, Arunachal Pradesh is getting recognition for its exceptional treks, particularly the Gorichen Base Camp Trek and the Bailey Trail, which promise an idyllic blend of isolation and spectacular vistas. It’s a land where the mountains whisper stories of ancient tribal cultures and the peaks, often shrouded in mist, offer an uncharted path for the true adventurer.

Highlighted below, I have listed down few of the key trekking routes that can take you through Arunachal Pradesh’s untouched landscapes. Although not an exhaustive list, it showcases the region’s leading trekking and mountain travel destinations ::
- Bameng Trail : Located in East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, this 57.1 km long trail is perfect for experienced trekkers looking for a challenge. As per the website www.alltrails.com, “this trail is generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 20 hours to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, birding, and camping, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring.”
- Bailey Trek: Dirang – Jang Section 2 : With an ascent of 3,990 meters, this trail offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Bailey Trail Trek, which lies in the Gorichen region of Arunachal’s Eastern Himalayas, must be on the list of any mountain lover. On this trek, you will be enthralled by sky-high peaks and untouched jungles ; steady climbing through thick forests brings adventurers to Poshing La, from where one can get the most stupendous views of the Gorichen massif, as the peaks of Gorichen (6,538 m), Kangto (7,090 m), Nyegyi Kangsang (7,047 m) and Takpa Shiri (6,655 m) flood the landscape with their beauty. (Info source : www.kipepeo.in)
- Seven Lakes Trek Anini : The ‘Upper’ Dibang Valley district in Arunachal features this highly sought-after and rigorous trail, that is attracting adventure lovers from far and wide. Emudu (Sky) Trekkers, an eco-conscious tour operator based in Anini, is among the trailblazers offering guided treks through this fragile yet breathtaking environment.
- Bomdila – Tawang trail : This stretch is an adventurer’s dream, a path that winds through the untamed beauty of Arunachal Pradesh’s Eastern Himalayas. One of the crown jewels of this trail is the Sela Pass, perched at an altitude of almost 14,000 feet. The wildlife in this region is just as extraordinary. As you traverse the trail, you may spot red pandas, peeking from the canopy, or the elusive snow leopard, a master of camouflage in the high-altitude terrain. The area is also home to the Mishmi Takin, an endangered species of goat-antelope, along with herds of yak grazing in the high pastures. Birdwatchers will be enchanted by the colorful presence of species like the blood pheasant, monal pheasant, and even the rare black-necked crane, adding to the symphony of nature that fills these mountains.
- Dong Valley Trek : Nestled in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, this place holds the unique distinction of being the place where the first rays of the sun, touch the Indian soil. At the easternmost tip of the country, perched at an altitude of around 1,240 meters, Dong Valley is a hidden paradise, accessible through a challenging trek from the Kibithu – Walong area.
Before embarking on any mountain climbing or trekking adventure, especially in the challenging terrains of places like Arunachal Pradesh or the higher reaches of the Himalayas, proper preparation is not just advisable—it’s essential. Consulting and training with experts is crucial for building the necessary skills, endurance, and mental resilience to navigate the unpredictable and often harsh conditions of high-altitude environments. Expert training covers everything from acclimatization techniques to handling emergency situations, and equips adventurers with the right gear and knowledge to face the challenges ahead.
Equally important is enlisting the help of local guides. These individuals bring a wealth of invaluable experience, intimately familiar with the terrain, weather patterns and nuances of the region. The mountains, especially at high altitudes, are subject to sudden changes—avalanches, landslides, unpredictable storms, and altitude sickness can turn a trek from a scenic adventure to a survival scenario within moments. Local guides, having lived and trekked these routes, are attuned to the signs of shifting weather, difficult paths and the safest routes to take. They also bring rich cultural and historical knowledge, offering insights into local customs and traditions that enrich the trekking experience. Additionally, local guides often have strong connections with the indigenous communities, providing trekkers with the opportunity to engage with and understand the lives of the people who call these remote mountains home. In the end, having expert training and the guidance of locals can mean the difference between a challenging yet fulfilling adventure and a dangerous, ill-prepared expedition.