The Peradeniya University Explorers’ Association achieved a remarkable feat during their 2024 Himalayan Expedition as they successfully reached the Island peak, standing at an impressive altitude of 6,189 meters. This significant accomplishment marks the first time that a team of students from a Sri Lankan University has conquered this challenging location. The team’s journey was strenuous, navigating through the treacherous sections of the Himalayas situated above 3,500 meters before arriving at the base camp.
Traversing the Himalayas presents formidable challenges, especially when crossing the three passes—Kongma La pass (5,550m), Chola pass (5,420m), and Renjola pass (5360m)—each exceeding 3,500 meters in altitude. The elevated altitude, extreme cold, and rapidly changing environmental conditions along this route add to the expedition’s difficulty.
The expedition team from Peradeniya University, consisting of six members, including five male students and a female student from the Engineering Faculty, set their sights on conquering the Island peak. Their successful ascent to this high-altitude location reflects not only their determination and skill but also highlights the growing capabilities of Sri Lankan university students in undertaking such challenging expeditions.