The first Indian leader to visit China in 1979 was:

Atal Behari Vajpayee

The correct answer is option (2) - Atal Behari Vajpayee

The process of normalizing relations between India and China spanned over a decade. The year 1976 marked the restoration of full diplomatic ties between these two nations. Notably, Atal Behari Vajpayee, who held the position of External Affairs Minister at that time, undertook a significant visit to China in 1979.