Resume & Milestones
Passionate Traveler. Pilot. Mountaineer. Environmentalist. Explorer.
From this beginning, he has gone on to become a Pioneer and a leading name in Adventure Travel and Tourism promotion.
The Early Expeditions
Capt. Kumar's interest in trekking and climbing started in 1969 upon joining the Delhi Mountaineering Association (DMA). Following a science degree from Punjab University, he attained his Commercial Flying License in 1971, joining the Rajasthan Flying Club as a Flight Instructor.
He completed his Basic Mountaineering Course in Darjeeling in 1974 under the direct guidance of the legendary Late Shri Tenzing Norgay, achieving an 'A' grade and summiting Vidhan Chand Peak.
Pioneering the Trails
While associated with Rochester Institute of Technology (NY) and working with Cox & King (one of India's leading travel companies), he took charge of promoting adventure tourism to the Indian Himalayas.
He traveled extensively across Japan and Europe, lecturing at alpine clubs. In 1977 alone, he single-handedly managed 17 global climbing expeditions, predominantly to the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. He also became the first to pioneer and promote Camel Safaris in the Thar Desert for foreign tourists.
Founding Shikhar Group
In 1979, he established the Shikhar Group of Companies. It rapidly emerged as one of the largest adventure tour operations in the country, organizing high-altitude climbing expeditions to the Himalayas.
This dedication to elevating India's global tourism presence culminated in Shikhar Travels being awarded the prestigious National Tourism Award by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, for outstanding achievements in 2003.
Achievements & Affiliations
Global Speaker & Advocate
Extensively traveled across Asia, USA, UK, and Europe attending international travel conventions. Served as Chairman of the 3rd PATA Adventure Travel Conference in Calcutta (1991), speaker at PATA Manila (1994), and guest lecturer at prominent institutions like IITTM Gwalior.
ATOAI Founder
Founder President of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOA), serving as its President for over six years.
ICPB Leadership
Founder Member and Vice Chairman (2002-2006) of the India Convention Promotion Bureau. Responsible for reviving ICPB to global prominence.
ASTA & ICCA
President of American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) India Chapter (2003-07). Chairman of ICPC (2006-07) and active ICCA World Congress moderator.
Rotary & Philanthropy
Charter Member of Rotary Club Delhi South Metropolitan (Dist 3010). Served as Assistant Governor in 2002-03. Organized the Rotary International Council of Legislation in India (1999) alongside numerous international events.
Prestigious Fellowships
Elected as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, UK in 1988. Consultant for UNDP/WTO on Sustainable Tourism for Nagaland (2004-05).