Pankaj Lagwal has been a certified mountain guide and educator since 1998.
Following vast international travel, In 2010, he established Ascent Descent Adventures to provide safe and fun mountain adventure travel in the Indian Himalayas. Masters in Philosophy.
Pankaj Lagwal, the visionary founder of Ascent Descent Adventures (ADA), embodies the spirit of adventure and outdoor exploration. With a deep-rooted passion for alpinism and mountain education, Pankaj has dedicated his life to fostering a love for the great outdoors and inspiring others to embark on transformative journeys.
Born in Shimla, Raised by Mountains
Born and raised amidst the picturesque landscapes of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Pankaj Lagwal’s connection to the mountains began early in life. He is not just a mountaineer; he is an adventurer in every sense of the word. Whether it’s scaling towering peaks, navigating raging rivers as a raft guide, embarking on epic biking expeditions, or capturing the world’s beauty through his lens, Pankaj’s adventurous spirit knows no bounds.
A Multifaceted Adventurer
Pankaj’s remarkable journey in the realm of adventure started in 1995, and since then, he has been conquering the world’s most challenging terrains. From the majestic Himalayas to the pristine Patagonia Icecap in Chile and the rugged Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, USA, he has left his footprints on diverse landscapes. Notably, in May 2009, he made history as the official lead climber and cameraman during the first Indo-Bangladeshi expedition to Mt. Makalu, the world’s fifth-highest peak.
A Trailblazer in the World of Mountains
One of Pankaj Lagwal’s defining qualities is his acute attention to detail. He has undertaken numerous reconnaissance trips, conquered virgin peaks, and blazed new trails and routes for adventure enthusiasts. His dedication to the art of adventure is complemented by his academic pursuits. Pankaj holds a Master’s degree in Philosophy and, though he embarked on a pragmatic path by dropping out of a Ph.D. program, his philosophical outlook enriches his adventurous endeavors.
Balancing Philosophy and Adventure
Beyond his exploits, Pankaj Lagwal is a globetrotting consultant for corporate and experiential educational programs. He has shared his wisdom and love for the outdoors with educational institutions across the United States, Chile, Mongolia, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, and Nepal, thereby spreading the transformative power of experiential learning.
Educator and Global Explorer
Pankaj Lagwal’s journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a fusion of adventure, philosophy, and education that continues to inspire countless individuals to explore the world’s heights and depths, both inside and out.