DIMAPUR, NOV 1 (NPN): Two senior instructors of the Nagaland Sport Climbing Association (NSCA), Yierhevitso Vakha and Marnungden Walling, successfully summited Mount Saramati, the highest peak in Nagaland at approximately 3,840 metres (12,598 feet), on October 31, 2026.
According to NSCA, the expedition was undertaken with the objective of promoting mountaineering, sport climbing and adventure activities across Nagaland, while encouraging the younger generation to explore outdoor pursuits, embrace physical fitness and develop a spirit of adventure.
Both climbers are trained and qualified mountaineering professionals, having completed the Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC), Advance Mountaineering Course (AMC) and Method of Instruction (MOI) at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI), Darjeeling, securing Grade A in all three courses.
They have also undertaken multiple mountaineering expeditions across different regions of India and successfully climbed several Himalayan peaks ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 metres. Their experience in high-altitude mountaineering and challenging terrain has further strengthened their technical expertise.
Beyond their personal achievements, both instructors have contributed to the development of sport climbing and rescue skills in Nagaland. Through NSCA, they have been actively involved in training and mentoring climbers, including athletes who have represented Nagaland at national and Asian-level competitions.
Their contribution also extends to disaster preparedness and rescue training. In 2015, they imparted rope rescue training to personnel of the Nagaland State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), sharing technical knowledge and practical skills required for emergency response and rescue operations.
The instructors believe mountaineering is not merely about reaching mountain summits but also involves discipline, physical endurance, mental strength, teamwork and respect for nature. They have also encouraged trekkers and climbers to practise responsible tourism by avoiding plastic waste, carrying back non-biodegradable materials and adopting a zero-plastic-waste approach during expeditions.
Their successful ascent of Mount Saramati highlights the growing potential of Nagaland in mountaineering and adventure sports. As the state explores greater opportunities in the sector, they believe homegrown mountaineering professionals deserve greater recognition, institutional support and opportunities for advanced expeditions.
Looking ahead, both instructors aspire to undertake an expedition to Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, with the aim of carrying Nagaland’s name onto the international mountaineering stage and inspiring more young people from the state to pursue the sport.
Their journey, NSCA stated, serves as a reminder that with proper training, determination, encouragement and institutional support, Naga mountaineers too can aspire to conquer some of the world’s highest summits.
