IISc Professor Arpita Patra Summits World’s Highest Volcano

Arpita Patra, a professor at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), has successfully summited Nevado Ojos del Salado, the highest volcanic peak in the world and the tallest mountain in Chile. By reaching the summit at an altitude of 6,893 metres on March 6, she became the second Indian woman to achieve this milestone. The climb represents a significant achievement in both Indian mountaineering and academic circles, highlighting the remarkable balance between scientific research and extreme adventure pursuits.

Summiting the Highest Volcano on Earth

Nevado Ojos del Salado is located in the Atacama Desert on the border between Chile and Argentina and is widely recognised as the highest volcano in the world. The climb is known for its harsh weather conditions, high altitude and technical challenges. According to Patra, the expedition pushed her to nearly 7,000 metres, the highest altitude she has reached in her mountaineering journey. The ascent involved extreme cold, strong winds and a demanding final stage that included a technical rock-climbing section in the last 50 metres before the summit.

Part of a Global Volcanic Peaks Challenge

The successful ascent of Ojos del Salado marks a major milestone in Patra’s mountaineering achievements. Prior to this climb, she had already scaled the highest volcanic peaks on four continents. These include Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, Mount Elbrus in Europe, Mount Giluwe in Oceania and Pico de Orizaba in North America. Her climb of Mount Giluwe in May 2025 made her the first Indian woman to reach its summit, while her ascent of Pico de Orizaba in October 2025 made her the second Indian woman to achieve that feat.

Balancing Academic Excellence and Mountaineering

Despite her achievements in mountaineering, Arpita Patra continues to work as a full professor in the Department of Computer Science and Automation at IISc. She noted that balancing academic research with high-altitude expeditions has been both challenging and rewarding. Patra has trained under the guidance of renowned Indian mountaineer Satyarup Siddhanta, who holds multiple records, including Guinness World Records, and has played an important role in mentoring her mountaineering journey.

Important Facts for Exams

• Nevado Ojos del Salado (6,893 m) is the highest volcano in the world.
• The mountain is located on the border between Chile and Argentina in the Atacama Desert.
• Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania is the highest mountain in Africa.
• Pico de Orizaba in Mexico is the highest volcano in North America.

Inspiration for Science and Adventure

Patra’s achievement demonstrates that demanding scientific careers and extreme outdoor pursuits can coexist successfully. Her journey across the highest volcanic peaks of multiple continents reflects dedication, resilience and careful preparation. The feat also highlights the growing participation of Indian women in global mountaineering challenges while inspiring students and researchers to pursue diverse passions beyond academic boundaries.