The Indian Mountaineers Archive: Col Balwant Singh Sandhu

Col Balwant graduated from the Indian Military Academy in 1957 and joined the Mahar Machine Gun Regiment. Transitioning to the Parachute Regiment in 1962, he served with distinction, commanding the 6th Battalion from 1971 to 1975.

Colonel Balwant Sandhu wasn’t just a climber; he was a Himalayan lifer. For a span of over 50 years, he explored remote regions, led prestigious institutes, and earned the respect of mountaineering communities worldwide.

His achievements are numerous but the highlights include:

· First ascent of Changabang (1974) alongside Chris Bonington

· First solo ascent of North Peak of Bamba Dhura (1962)

· Principal of Nehru Institute of Mountaineering (1980–85)

· President of the Himalayan Club (1983–84)

· Numerous other challenging first ascents across the Himalayas

Balwant excelled in technical, alpine-style ascents of uncharted mountains. His notable achievements include the first ascents of Changabang in 1974 and Nanda Devi in 1981, which significantly influenced Indian Himalayan climbing.

As Principal of the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering from 1980 to 1985, he led by example. Even in his later years, he frequently accompanied trainees to base camps at the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi, the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering & Winter Sports in Nunwan Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling.

In 1981, he received the Arjuna Award for his dedication to mountaineering. He was awarded the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award, in 2010. Despite his passing in 2010, Sandhu’s legacy as a skilled climber, leader, and explorer endures!

Read more on legendary mountaineers