༄The Pangong Peaks Exploratory is something I created in the Spring of 2014. The basic goal of these expeditions are to go into the region and explore its many unclimbed and climbed granite glaciated peaks. There are many and we choose the best ones for the ability levels and interests of the group. Pangong has easy peak scrambles that do not require equipment beyond a trekking pole, more moderate 6000 meter peaks that require crampons and an axe, all the way up to full on alpinism test pieces with pitched out technical climbing on big North faces with granite and alpine ice. Additionally, the trekking is spectacular. Grassy meadows, yaks grazing and interesting local Changpa nomads to visit with. Join us to explore more in this region this summer, our fourth Pangong Peaks Exploratory. –Luke Smithwick
From a guest:
“Just want to thank you again for looking after us on the recent expedition and making sure we had everything…I had a great great time and experience with you all.”
-L. Tanpian, Indonesia – 2014 Pangong Peaks Exploratory
View previous successful Pangong Peaks Exploratories here: http://himalaya-alpine.blogspot.com/2015/08/2015-pangong-peaks-exploratory.html.
First Ascents in Ladakh?
For many of the peaks in the Changtang there are no records of prior ascents. We also oftentimes find no evidence of other humans visiting the summits of peaks before. Instead of looking at these peaks as our being the first to put bootprints on the summit, we like to simply enjoy the solitude of the region. With the popularized trekking routes being fairly busy from day to day in Ladakh, we usually don’t see another soul in the Changtang region, save for a local boy out searching for his grazing yaks.
SAFETY
The Pangong region is a quiet and unique corner of the Changtang plateau of India. It has zero political problems, is relatively easy to access (for the Himalayas), and boasts a lot of unclimbed peaks. Go with guides who have the local knowledge and technical expertise to make your trip an enjoyable success.
THE SETUP
Each member will have their own roomy 2 person Mountain Hardwear tent (4 person tent for couples). The dining tent is set up with each member having their own camp chair, books pertinent to the trek/climb, maps, solar charging for electronics, and snacks as you would like them when we arrive to camps.
THE PLAN
- Pangong region peak 6000m mountaineering and climbing
- Our kind of trekking, relatively flat without the massive ups and downs of Nepal. Plus, you fly into 3700m / 12,099ft.
- Team mentality
- Instruction in mountaineering for those interested in learning or honing their skills in glacier travel, crampon technique, ice axe use, technical climbing and the “nuts and bolts” of Himalayan mountaineering.
Jullay and Namaste.
ITINERARY
Day 1 – arrive Leh 3500m
2 – Leh monastery visits 3500m
3 – drive Sasakul, camp Rukheru 4200m
4 – trek base camp
5 – climb peak 6230m
6 – move base camp
7 – climb peak 6340m
8 – rest day
9 – climb peak 6140m
10 – rest day
11 – climb peak 6280m
12 – trek road
13 – drive Leh, downhill mountain biking
14 – depart Leh
*option to stay one more week
Dates
July-August (14 days)
Region
India
Difficulty
Moderate
Price
US$2???
Trip Deposit: US$500
