Uttarakhand’s Kavita Chand Scales Mount Vinson, Highest Peak of Antarctica

Indian Mountaineer Advances Seven Summits Dream with Vinson Ascent

Indian mountaineer Kavita Chand from Almora district, Uttarakhand, has achieved a major milestone by successfully climbing Mount Vinson , the highest peak in Antarctica. She reached the 4,892-metre summit on December 12 at 8:30 pm local time , marking one of India’s notable recent achievements in extreme-altitude mountaineering and moving closer to completing the prestigious Seven Summits challenge.

Climbing in One of the World’s Harshest Regions
Mount Vinson lies deep within the Antarctic interior and is considered among the most challenging of the continental high points. The climb demands endurance in sub-zero temperatures, long periods of isolation, and rapidly changing weather. With minimal rescue options available in Antarctica, the expedition required precise planning, physical conditioning, and strong mental resilience. Kavita’s successful ascent has been widely praised, particularly in her home state of Uttarakhand.

Expedition Route and Team Support
The expedition began on December 3 when Kavita departed India. After transiting through Punta Arenas, Chile , she flew to Union Glacier before being transported to Vinson Base Camp at around 2,100 metres using a ski-equipped aircraft. The summit push was guided by renowned climber Mingma David Sherpa , with logistical support from Indian mountaineer Bharath Thammineni . A nine-member Indian team completed the climb following structured acclimatisation.

Step Forward in the Seven Summits Journey
Having already summited Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Vinson marks Kavita’s second continental high point. Carrying the Indian tricolour at the summit, she described the moment as deeply emotional and a source of national pride. She hopes her journey motivates others to pursue ambitious goals alongside professional lives.

Beyond Mountaineering
Now based in Mumbai, the 40-year-old is also an accomplished endurance athlete, having excelled in Hyrox events and marathon challenges after leaving her corporate career in 2024.

Exam-Focused Points

• Mount Vinson (4,892 m) is the highest peak in Antarctica.

• The Seven Summits are the tallest mountains on each continent.

• Punta Arenas, Chile serves as a gateway for Antarctic expeditions.

• Antarctic climbs rely heavily on ski-equipped aircraft for logistics.