Scaling peaks, tying sacred knot: Mountaineer couple wed at Uttarakhand’s Triyuginarayan after engagement atop Kilimanjaro

Dehradun: They say marriages are made in heaven, but for mountaineers Shweta and Ankit, their bond was forged both in the heights of Africa’s tallest peak and at the sacred wedding venue of Shiva and Parvati in Uttarakhand.

On September 19, the couple became the first Indians to get engaged on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Battling glaciers, steep slopes, and biting winds, they exchanged rings at the summit, promising to walk life’s journey together. Just two months later, on December 2, they solemnized their vows at Triyuginarayan temple in Rudraprayag, where mythology says Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married.

Shweta’s dream, Ankit’s support

Shweta (32), a resident of Gautam Colony in Delhi, lost her eyesight in childhood due to a disease. Yet her passion for trekking never dimmed. Despite discouragement and lack of training opportunities, she dreamed of conquering high peaks.

Her journey changed when she met Ankit (33), a mountaineer from Clement Town, Dehradun. Listening to her dream, Ankit decided to help. He first guided her across smaller treks, gradually building her confidence. On July 17, Shweta conquered Jongo peak, becoming the first disabled woman mountaineer to achieve this feat.

Engagement at Kilimanjaro

Encouraged by her success, the duo set their sights on Kilimanjaro. After days of climbing through glaciers and treacherous paths, they reached the summit on September 19. There, Ankit proposed, and Shweta said yes. Their engagement at the snow-capped peak became a symbol of courage, love, and determination.

Wedding at Triyuginarayan

The couple chose Triyuginarayan temple for their wedding, a site steeped in mythology. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were married here, with Lord Vishnu himself witnessing the ceremony. The eternal flame at the temple is believed to have burned since that divine wedding.

On December 2, surrounded by family and friends, Shweta and Ankit tied the knot at this sacred venue. Their union blended adventure with spirituality, making their story one of inspiration and devotion.

An inspiration for all

For Ankit, Shweta’s passion and resilience were qualities he admired deeply. For Shweta, Ankit’s acceptance and support made him the life partner she had always hoped for. Together, they proved that love knows no boundaries—whether of disability, distance, or difficulty.

Their journey from conquering peaks to sacred vows has inspired many. It is a reminder that dreams, when pursued with courage and companionship, can lead to extraordinary milestones.