Kohima: Students and educators from the Livingstone Foundation Group of Institutions conquered six of Nagaland’s highest peaks during a synchronized October expedition. The project, themed Beyond the Peak: Discovering Strength Within, aimed to push participants past classroom boundaries. Organizers Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema and Director Ani Yepthomi coordinated six teams across the state to boost adventure tourism and advocate for peace.
The teams scaled Mt. Saramati in Kiphire, Mt. Khelia King in Noklak, Mt. Mol Len in Meluri, Mt. Japfü in Kohima, Mt. Pauna in Peren, and Mt. Kapamoudzü in Phek. Coordination was tight. On October 19, the groups reached their summits. Dr. Sema noted the strategy behind the climbs during a November 7 press conference in Dimapur. "We wanted peace to prevail in Nagaland. If there is peace, there will be tourism and more people coming from outside. We also need unity among our people. Without peace and unity, there cannot be prosperity," he said.
Conditions were brutal. Trekkers faced steep slopes, leeches, darkness, and limited connectivity. Mt. Khelia King, standing at approximately 3,476 meters, proved particularly difficult. The route near Chokla village required roughly 24,000 steps without established trails. Despite the strain, the expedition recorded no injuries. Participants aged 15 and older underwent months of physical training to prepare for the heavy packs and rugged terrain. While most high-altitude climbs excluded female students, two girls successfully completed the ascent of Mt. Mol Len.
For the students, the journey offered grit. They carried heavy gear, navigated ancient forests, and slept in tents. Alemmeren Jamir, a Class 11 student, described the experience as his first major test of physical endurance. He credited team motivation for his success. Khaplem, a Class 10 student, learned that mountain climbing demands individual strength rather than just physical maturity. Organizers suggest that future trekkers must pack first-aid, survival gear, and extra food to handle the unpredictable, cold environment of the high-altitude peaks.
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