Kerala mountaineers become first from state to summit Ramjak peak

Four from Munnar scale remote Ramjak mountain in Himachal Pradesh

A team of four mountaineers from Munnar in Kerala has returned after summiting Ramjak, a 6,318-metre peak in the remote Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, claiming to be the first group from the state to conquer what is widely regarded as one of the most technically challenging mountains in the region.

Kannan M., Vinod Jacob, Prince Jacob, and Shijo Jose, all residents of Munnar, completed the arduous expedition in 10 days. The team reached the summit around 8.30 a.m. on September 10, 2026 after setting out at 1 a.m..

Extreme conditions and technical challenges

According to Vinod Jacob, one of the team members, the expedition carried high risks. "The temperature on the mountain hovers between -35°C and minus -40°C, demanding immense physical and mental strength," Mr. Jacob said. "Unlike commercial routes on peaks like Mount Everest, where established pathways exist, Ramjak requires fixed ropes across hazardous terrain. Every single step involves danger," he explained.

He said specialised technical equipment was critical to their success. "Our past experience on treacherous terrains helped us achieve this goal," Mr. Jacob added. "Despite the health risks, difficult terrain, and harsh weather, we stayed committed to the mission," he said.

Strategic acclimatisation

The team established their base camp at 4,700 metres and their summit camp at 5,800 metres. "Acclimatisation was the most crucial preparation. To prepare our bodies for the altitude and conditions, we completed rotational acclimatisation hikes, climbing 1,000 metres and descending before making the final push," Mr. Jacob added.

Experienced climbers with rescue credentials

All four members are certified mountaineering instructors. Mr. Kannan is a former special officer at the National Adventure Academy. Mr. Vinod Jacob serves as the managing director, Mr. Prince Jacob as the executive director, and Shijo Jose as director of Munnar Adventures.

The group previously summited Shitidar Peak, Friendship Peak, Mt. CB 14, and Mt. Shinkun East. Their future ambitions include exploring an unclimbed Himalayan peak and an expedition to the Mount Everest.

Beyond mountaineering, the team regularly assists in disaster-rescue operations and conducts training for officials. "Our team was actively involved in rescue operations during the Pettimudy landslip in Munnar on August 6, 2020," Mr. Jacob said.

Source: The Hindu