On May 18, 2025, the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS), based in Arunachal Pradesh, achieved a significant milestone by successfully summiting Mount Khangchendzonga, the third-highest mountain in the world and the highest in India at 8,586 meters. This ascent was part of their ‘Har Shikhar Tiranga’ mission, aimed at hoisting the Indian national flag on the highest peaks within Indian territory.
However, this achievement has sparked a cultural and legal debate. Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed deep concern over the expedition, stating that it violated both the prevailing legal provisions and the sincerely held religious beliefs of the people of Sikkim. In a letter dated May 24, 2025, addressed to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Tamang emphasized the mountain’s sacred status and urged for measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The Sacred Significance of Mount Khangchendzonga
Locally known as ‘Dzoe-Nga’, meaning “Five Treasures of the High Snows”, Mount Khangchendzonga holds immense religious and cultural significance for the people of Sikkim. The indigenous Lepcha community reveres the mountain as “Mayel Lyang,” their sacred abode. It is considered a “beyul” or hidden holy land in Tibetan Buddhism.
This sacred landscape, with its diverse lakes, natural streams, and caverns, embodies Sikkimese unity and celebrates the coexistence and cultural exchange between different religious traditions. Rituals and festivals like Pang Lhabsol are performed to honour the mountain’s guardian deity, Dzonga, reinforcing its central role in the socio-religious fabric of Sikkim.
Legal Protections and Prohibitions
Recognizing the mountain’s sanctity, the Government of Sikkim has imposed a complete ban on any attempts to scale Mount Khangchendzonga. This prohibition is enforced under the Sacred Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, and reaffirmed by official notifications issued in 1998 and 2001. These legal measures aim to preserve the mountain’s sacred status and prevent activities that could desecrate it.
Cross-Border Dynamics and Diplomatic Concerns
Mount Khangchendzonga straddles the border between India and Nepal, with the summit lying on the boundary. While climbing from the Nepal side is legally permissible, such expeditions raise concerns when they disregard the cultural sentiments of neighbouring regions. CM Tamang has urged the Union Home Minister to engage with Nepalese authorities to prevent future violations and ensure that the mountain’s sanctity is respected from all sides.
Balancing Adventure and Cultural Sensitivity
While mountaineering is a celebrated sport, it must be balanced with respect for local cultures and beliefs. Encouraging climbers to choose alternative peaks or routes that do not infringe upon sacred sites is essential. Promoting awareness among adventure enthusiasts about the cultural significance of certain regions can help preserve these holy landscapes.
Conclusion
The recent ascent of Mount Khangchendzonga by NIMAS has highlighted the delicate balance between adventure pursuits and cultural sensitivities. Respecting cultural and religious sentiments is paramount, especially in regions with rich heritage like Sikkim. Authorities and adventure organizations must collaborate to ensure that expeditions are conducted responsibly, honouring both the spirit of adventure and the sanctity of sacred sites.
