Harish Kapadia(79) is an “explorer for peace” who has made significant contributions to the accumulation, analysis, and dissemination of the exploratory knowledge in the Himalayas, as well as to peace efforts in mountain conflict zones. 

During his 40-some years of explorations, Kapadia has climbed more than 30 high peaks and crossed over 170 remote mountain passes. He has also authored 18 books on exploration geography and served as the editor of the prestigious Himalayan Journal for 35 years, dedicating his life to expanding the horizons of exploration. Particularly noteworthy is his pioneering the peace efforts surrounding the Siachen Glacier in the Karakoram Range, a region marred by violent border disputes persisting over half a century, leading the campaigns for the “Siachen Peace Park” initiative. He has been recognized for turning a personal tragedy into a catalyst for peace activism after his soldier son died while serving in that region.

Kapadia has been widely recognized for his significant contributions in the Himalayan explorations through prestigious awards from around the world, including: the Royal Geographical Society’s “Patron’s Medal” bestowed by the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, the “Tensing Norgay National Adventure Award” awarded by the President of India, the “King Albert Gold Medal” from Switzerland, and the “Joss Lynam Medal” from Ireland. In 2017, he visited Korea to be awarded with the “Piolets D’or Asia”, which is considered to be the Oscar award of mountaineering. 

Kapadia’s unwavering passion for exploration and the ensuing faith in peace resonates deeply in a world full of conflict and environmental degradation.​