Mountaineering in Himalayas

The Himalayas have been a source of inspiration and awe to countless individuals for hundreds of years. Its ancient customs, cultures, history, art and architecture, interwoven with serene surroundings, makes it a holiday paradise. Mountaineering in Himalayas is an excellent way to combine leisure and adventure and to explore this enchanting realm.

Mountaineering have gained immense popularity among adventurers over recent years. The sheer vastness and biological diversity is sure to humble anyone, who visits this place. Mountaineers, pursuing excursions in the region, will pass numerous might peaks that will be a treat to their eyes. Mountaineering expeditions in Himalayas vary from short and easy hikes to long challenges, leading to the top of snowy peaks. Deep gorges, lush valleys, glaciers, enchanting lakes and flowery meadows make the place unforgettable. Mountaineering is the kind of experience, which will leave you with memories to be cherished for a lifetime.

The Himalayan Range is one of the youngest mountain chains on earth and has the third largest deposit of snow and ice after Antarctica and the Arctic. Widely varying cultures in the different regions within the range make Himalayan mountaineering a unique experience. The range can be divided into three parts, starting from the Terai belt and moving northwards. Mountaineering adventures in Himalayas allow you to explore the Zanskar, Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal Ranges, along with numerous others.

Mountaineering can be quite a difficult task, and you will have to be trained in order to pursue climbing here. If you have little or no training, then make sure that you are accompanied by experienced mountaineers. Before you undertake any such venture, start exercising in advance to loosen your muscles and bone joints. Getting a physical check-up done by a doctor will come in handy so that you know if you are properly fit for the task. Make sure you carry warm clothes on such trips because at high altitudes, the temperature mostly stays below freezing point. 

Best Places for Mountaineering in Himalayas

The Indian states, lying in or containing some part of the Himalayas, are Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. These states have one or the other sub-range of the parent chain, and some of the most renowned ones for trekking activities are Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and Stok.

Dhualadhar Range

Literally meaning the White Range, it is the southern part of the mountain chain. The highest peak of this range is Hanuman Tibba (approximately 5300 metres). From atop it, people get a panoramic view of numerous peaks, and this is what makes the trek to here unique.

Pir Panjal Range

It is a group of mountains, running from the southeast to the northwest, across the states of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. One of the most popular peaks here is Deo Tibba (approximately 6000 metres) where trekking excursions are organised.

Stok

Stok Kangri, with an elevation of approximately 6000 metres, is the highest mountain in the Stok Range. It is about 15 km from Leh city – the administrative headquarters of the eponymous district. The Stok Kangri Trek is considered as one of the most challenging, but at the same time among the best experiences in the region.

Another viable option for high altitude mountaineering expeditions in Himalayas is the Pin Parvati Trek in Himachal Pradesh. This trail connects the fertile land of Kullu Valley with the dry, barren landscape of Spiti.