From Determination to the Roof of Africa: An NTPC Woman Scales New Heights
Bongaigaon: In a remarkable feat of grit and determination, Ms. Cheme Serdeon, Senior Manager (P&S), NTPC Bongaigaon, and a native of Gangtok, Sikkim, successfully scaled Mount Kilimanjaro on 23 January 2026.
Rising to an imposing height of 5,895 metres (19,341 feet) above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro—often referred to as the Roof of Africa—is the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, located in northeastern Tanzania. Ms Serdeon reached the summit via the Lemosho Route (8 days), one of the most scenic and established routes to the peak.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to this achievement, Ms Serdeon undertook the expedition alongside her parents, Mrs Pema Tsomo Bhutia and Mr Tshering Tashi Bhutia. Despite physical constraints, her parents courageously trekked up to 5,200 metres, stopping just 695 metres short of the summit. Their presence, encouragement, and blessings played a vital role in her successful ascent.
Reflecting on the journey, Ms Serdeon shared that she had not undergone extensive mountaineering training, but it was determination, mental strength, and unwavering family support that helped her overcome the physical and emotional challenges of the climb.
What makes this accomplishment truly inspiring is that Ms Cheme Serdeon achieved it without formal mountaineering training, relying on daily fitness, resilience, and sheer willpower—embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that NTPC stands for.
Cheme’s parents accompanied her on this trek, crossed the Base Camp, and climbed up to 5,200 metres. Physical constraints stopped them short of the summit, but their courage, determination and support truly deserve to be celebrated.
The NTPC family takes immense pride in her exemplary achievement and contribution, which not only brings laurels to NTPC Bongaigaon but also serves as a powerful source of inspiration for employees, families, and the larger community to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.
