Sonam Wangyal – Mountaineer and National Hero
Sonam Wangyal, born in 1942 in Ladakh but closely associated with Sikkim through his mountaineering contributions, is one of India’s most iconic mountaineers. He made history in 1965 as a member of the first successful Indian expedition to Mount Everest, becoming the youngest person at the time (aged 23) to reach the summit. This landmark achievement not only marked a proud moment for India but also cemented Wangyal’s name in the annals of mountaineering history.
After his Everest triumph, Sonam Wangyal dedicated his life to adventure and service. He served in the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and later became the Principal of the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) in Darjeeling, mentoring future generations of climbers. For his extraordinary achievements, he was honored with the Padma Shri, Arjuna Award, and the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award. Sonam Wangyal remains a towering figure in Indian mountaineering and an enduring inspiration for adventurers, especially from Himalayan regions like Sikkim.