New Trekking and Mountaineering Activities for 2016 Nepal and India

Trekking In Nepal



The itineraries below provide an outline to the days' activities whilst on trek. Off the Wall Trekking has been operating in Nepal for several years but both Ian and Sarita have mountain backgrounds, in Ian's case for more than 50 years (sad old thing!) However all our staff are professionally trained and they will along with the itinerary designate acclimatisation days which depending on the group might change the daily plans, but this will only be done after discussions with the group.

Everest Base Camp; the classic Nepal 14 day trek, accommodation in lodges on B&B basis – 2,160 US $ per person (based on 2 people)

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu night 2 - Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 03: Trek night 1 - Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft): 3 - 4 hours trek
Day 04: Trek night 2 - Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,280 ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 05: Trek night 3 - Namche Bazaar: Rest day/acclimatisation
Day 06: Trek night 4 - Namche Bazzar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 07: Trek night 5 - Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300ft):5 - 6 hrs
Day 08: Trek night 6 - Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300ft): Rest Day/acclimatisation
Day 09: Trek night 7 - Dingboche - Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2 - 4 hrs
Day 10: Trek night 8 - Lobuche - Lobuche as an acclimatization day (optional)
Day 11: Trek night 9 - Lobuche - Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft) - Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) return to Gorak Shep: 8 - 9 hrs
Day 12: Trek night 10 - Gorak Shep - Kala Patthar (5545m/18,192ft) then descend to Pheriche (4280 m/14,070 ft): 8 - 9 hrs
Day 13: Trek night 11 - Pheriche to Kyangjuma (3,570m/11,710ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 14: Trek night 12 - Kyangjuma to Monjo [2,840m/9,315ft]: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 15: Trek night 13 - Monjo to Lukla: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 16: Kathmandu night 3 - Lukla - Kathmandu and shopping
Day 17: Kathmandu night 4 - Additional day (put these together to provide a better ‘weather cushion’ in the event of Lukla flights getting delayed
Day 18: International departure flight
Kathmandu - 5 days/4 nights based on twin sharing B & B basis. Sightseeing trip in Kathmandu as a group 100-140 US $ depending as to whether a micro bus or private car is required, to include entrance fees. (Optional)

Total Nepal days – 19 days

Annapurna Sanctuary



This is a short 8 day trek that gives you the very essence of trekking in Nepal, lodge accommodation on B&B basis – 1,520 US$ per person (based on 2 people)
Day to Day Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m/4264ft)
Day 02: Trek night 1 - Fly to Pokhara (823m/2,700ft): 30 minutes and trek to Ghandruk (1940m/6360 ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 03: Trek night 2 - Ghandruk to Chhomrong (2170m/7120ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 04: Trek night 3 - Chhomrong to Bamboo (2310m/7578ft): 4 - 5 hours
Day 05: Trek night 4 - Bamboo to Deurali (3230m/10,595ft): 3 - 4 hours
Day 06: Trek night 5 - Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m/13,545ft) via Machhapuchhre Base
Camp (3700m/12135ft): 5- 6 hours
Day 07: Trek night 6 - Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo: 7 – 8 hours
Day 08: Trek night 7 - Bamboo to Jhinu Danda (1760m/5770 ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 09: Trek day 8 - Pokhara night 1 - Trek to Naya Pul then drive to Pokhara: 6 hours trek, 1 hour drive
Day 10: Kathmandu night 2 - Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 11: Final Departure

Kathmandu /Pokhara - 3 nights based on twin sharing B & B basis. Sightseeing trip in Kathmandu and Pokhara – in Kathmandu as an organized trip, as a group 100-140 US $ depending as to whether a micro bus or private car is required, to include entrance fees. (Optional)

Total Nepal days – 11 days


Annapurna Circuit



The original 9 day classic Nepal trek - 1,890 US $ per person (based on 2 people)
Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu night 2 - Kathmandu: Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 03: Trek night 1 - Drive from Kathmandu to Syange (1100m/3608 ft): 8 - 10 hours
Day 04: Trek night 2 - Trek from Syange to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft): 7 - 8 hours
Day 05: Trek night 3 - Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 06: Trek night 4 - Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 07: Trek night 5 - Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 - 7 hours
Day 08: Trek night 6 - Manang: Acclimatization day
Day 09: Trek night 7 - Manang to Yak Kharka (4,110m/13,484ft): 3 - 4 hours
Day 10: Trek night 8 - Yak kharka to Thorang Phedi: (4420m/14501ft): 3-4 hours
Day 11: Trek night 9 - Trek to Thorong La (5416m/17764ft) to Muktinath (3,800/12,467ft) then drive to Jomsom: 7 - 8 hours trek, 1 hour drive
Day 12: Pokhara night 1 - Fly from Jomsom to Pokhara: 25 minutes
Day 13: Kathmandu night 3 - Drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu: 5-6 hours
Day 14: Final departure

Kathmandu /Pokhara - 4 nights based on twin sharing B & B basis. Sightseeing trip in Kathmandu and Pokhara – in Kathmandu as an organized trip, as a group 100-140 US $ depending as to whether a micro bus or private car is required, to include entrance fees. (Optional)

Total Nepal days – 14 days


Annapurna with the Tilicho Lake



A crossing of the Mesokantu La 5099m, 17 days, this is a mixed lodge and camping trek. This trek takes in some wild and remote terrain, a strenuous outing! 1,990 US$ per person (minimum 2 persons)
Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m/4,264 ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu night 2 - Kathmandu Sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03: Trek night 1 -Drive to Chamje (1,410m/4,626ft): 6-7 hours
Day 04: Trek night 2 -Trek from Chamje to Dharapani (1,960m/6,430ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 05: Trek night 3 -Dharapani to Chame (2,710m/8,891ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 06: Trek night 4 -Chame to Pisang (3,300m/10824ft): 5 - 6 hours
Day 07: Trek night 5 -Pisang to Manang (3,500m/11,482ft): 6 - 7 hours
Day 08: Trek night 6 -Manang rest and acclimatization day
Day 09: Trek night 7 -Manang to Kangsar (3745m/12286ft): 2-3 hours
Day 10: Trek night 8 -Kangsar to Tilicho Base Camp (4140m/13,583ft): 5-6 hours
Day 11: Trek night 9 -Tilicho Base Camp to Tilicho Lake
Day 12: Trek night 10 -Tilicho rest and acclimatization day
Day 13: Trek night 11 -Tilicho Lake crossing Mesokantu La 5099m to upper Lungpughyum Khola valley
Day 14: Trek night 12 -Lungpughyum Khola valley to Jomsom 2750m
Day 15: Kathmandu night 3 -Jomson to Pokhara to Kathmandu
Day 16: Kathmandu night 4 - Kathmandu sightseeing
Day 17: Depart Nepal

Kathmandu - 4 nights based on twin sharing B & B basis. Sightseeing trip in Kathmandu as an organized trip, as a group 100-140 US $ depending as to whether a micro bus or private car is required, to include entrance fees. (Optional)

Total Nepal days – 17 days


Upper Dolpo


A remote wilderness trek 22 days camping throughout 5,150 US$ per person (Min 4 people)
Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrival day in Kathmandu
Day 02: Kathmandu night 2 - Kathmandu valley sightseeing & trek preparation
Day 03: Nepalgunj night 1 - Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj
Day 04: Trek night 1 - Fly from Nepalgunj to Juphal & trek to Dunai, 2-3 hrs
Day 05: Trek night 2 - Trek to Ankhe, 5-6 hrs
Day 06: Trek night 3 - Trek to Sulighat, 5-6 hrs
Day 07: Trek night 4 - Trek to Phoksundo Lake 4-5 hrs
Day 08: Trek night 5 - Rest Day at Phoksundo Lake
Day 09: Trek night 6 - Trek to Phoksundo Khola, 4-5 hrs
Day 10: Trek night 7 - Trek to Phoksundo Bhanjyang, 6-7 hrs
Day 11: Trek night 8 - Trek to Shey Gompa via Kang-La pass, 5-6 hrs
Day 12: Trek night 9 - Rest day at Shey Gompa the Crystal Mountain Monastery
Day 13: Trek night 10 - Trek to Namduna Gaun via Saldang La 6-7 hrs
Day 14: Trek night 11 - Trek to Saldang, 4-5 hours
Day 15: Trek night 12 - Trek to Yangze Gompa, 4-5 hrs
Day 16: Trek night 13 - Trek to Sibu, 6-7 hrs
Day 17: Trek night 14 - Trek to Jeng-la Phedi, 5-6 hrs
Day 18: Trek night 15 - Trek to Tokyu Gaon via Jeng la, 5-6 hrs
Day 19: Trek night 16 - Trek to Dho Tarap, 4-5 hrs
Day 20: Trek night 17 - Rest Day at Dho Tarap
Day 21: Trek night 18 - Trek to Tarap Khola ( Kamakharka), 6-7 hrs
Day 22: Trek night 19 - Trek to Khanigaon, 4-5 hrs
Day 23: Trek night 20 - Trek to Tarakot, 4-5 hrs
Day 24: Trek night 21 - Trek to Dunai, 5-6 hrs
Day 25: Trek night 22 - Trek to Jhuphal, 2-3 hrs
Day 26: Kathmandu night 3 - Fly from Jhuphal to Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
Day 27: Kathmandu night 4 – Kathmandu sightseeing
Day 28: Depart Nepal

Kathmandu/Nepalgunj - 5 nights based on twin sharing B & B basis. Sightseeing trip in Kathmandu as an organized trip, as a group 100-140 US $ depending as to whether a micro bus or private car is required, to include entrance fees. (Optional)

Alternatives to the above are Upper Dolpo Juphal to Jomsom, or, Lower Dolpo an 18 day trek.
Total Nepal days – 28 days (Upper Dolpo trek)

Everest Base Camp and Island Peak



The classic trek that includes climbing Island Peak 22 days 3,190 US $ per person (based on 2 people)
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Kathmandu night 1 - Arrive in Kathmandu (1,300m /4,264 ft)
Day 02: Kathmandu night 2 - Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 03: Trek night 1 - Kathmandu - Lukla - Phakding (2,652m/8,700ft): 3 - 4 hours trek
Day 04: Trek night 2 - Phakding - Namche Bazaar (3,440m/11,280 ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 05: Trek night 3 - Namche Bazaar: Rest day/acclimatisation
Day 06: Trek night 4 - Namche Bazzar to Tengboche (3,870m/12,694ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 07: Trek night 5 - Tengboche to Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300ft):5 - 6 hrs
Day 08: Trek night 6 - Dingboche (4,360 m/14,300ft): Rest Day/acclimatisation
Day 09: Trek night 7 - Dingboche - Lobuche (4940 m/16,207 ft): 2 - 4 hrs
Day 10: Trek night 8 - Lobuche - Lobuche as an acclimatization day (optional)
Day 11: Trek night 9 - Lobuche - Gorak Shep (5,170 m/16,961ft) - Everest Base Camp (5,364m/17,594ft) return to Gorak Shep: 8 - 9 hrs
Day 12: Trek night 10 - Gorak Shep - Kala Patthar (5545m/18,192ft) then descend to Dingbouche (4360m / 14,300ft): 8 - 9 hrs
Day 13: Trek night 11 – Trek to Chuddim collect essential climbing equipment
Day 14: Trek night 12 - Trek to Base Camp
Day 15: Trek night 13 – Rest day and familiarization day
Day 16: Trek night 14 – Climb to High Camp
Day 17: Trek night 15 – Summit and return to Base Camp
Day 18: Trek night 16 – return hired equipment and trek to Dingbouche
Day 19: Trek night 17 - Pheriche to Kyangjuma (3,570m/11,710ft): 5 - 6 hrs
Day 20: Trek night 18 - Kyangjuma to Monjo [2,840m/9,315ft]: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 21: Trek night 19 - Monjo to Lukla: 4 - 5 hrs
Day 22: Kathmandu night 3 - Lukla - Kathmandu and shopping
Day 23: Kathmandu night 4 - Additional day (put these together to provide a better ‘weather cushion’ in the event of Lukla flights getting delayed
Day 24: International departure flight

Off the Wall Trekking can provide various options based on not only the above treks but many other treks and climbing opportunities in Nepal. Please go to our website www.offthewalltrekking.com for a full list of the areas and itineraries that we can offer.
In principle the costs stated above will cover the following options: -
What Is Included
All airport/hotel transfers
The appropriate number of nights’ accommodation in 4-star hotel in Kathmandu/Pokhara or in other locations as identified in the itinerary, nights in guest house in Nepalgunj/Jupal and tented accommodation in mountain
All domestic flights as identified either in the itinerary or as discussed with clients
Guided sightseeing tour in Kathmandu
Breakfast in Kathmandu and all meals and boiled water in mountain
All ground transportation as per the itinerary program by private vehicles
All necessary qualified English speaking guide and climbing leader other staff to include cook, assistant trekking leader (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and Sherpa porters to carry luggage (2 trekkers:1 porter), other helpers (1 trekker: 2 helpers) including their salary, insurance, equipment, flight, food and lodging
All necessary paper works; special trekking permit for the appropriate trek
Off the Wall Trekking duffel bag, t-shirt, and trekking map
Camping equipment North Face Client tents, kitchen, dining, toilet tents, mattresses, and kitchen equipment
Travel and rescue arrangements (client insurance is not included)
Exclusive Medical Kit Bag
All government and local taxes


What Is Not Included
Nepal Visa fee (bring accurate US$ cash and two passport photographs)
International airfare to and from Kathmandu
Excess baggage charges (if you have more than 20 kg luggage, cargo charge is around $1.5 per kg)
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, early return from mountain(due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary (or in other appropriate destinations due to weather caused delays)
Altitude chamber (PAC) or oxygen where appropriate
Lunch and evening meals in Kathmandu (and also in the case of early return from the trek than the scheduled itinerary)
Travel and rescue insurance
Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery recharge, extra porters, bottled water, shower, heater, etc.)
Optional trips and sightseeing if extended
Tips for guides and porters

Accommodations
Accommodation is included in the trip cost in good best value hotels where appropriate. Tented accommodation will include a foam mattress and dining equipment, just bring your own personal gear. We aim to provide a good standard of comfort based on the conditions enforced on the trek in terms of the weather and local conditions. All hotel and camping accommodation is on twin sharing basis, however, we can provide you single supplement or if there is different sex pairing we will provide this without extra charge. Single supplement is 350 US$.

Meals
You will be provided with freshly cooked hygienic and nutritious meals on a full board basis while on trek this will consist of typical Nepali food, different ethnic cuisines as well as all types of continental cuisine. If you have a vegetarian request please indicate that when booking your trek.

India - Trekking and Mountaineering


For 2016 we have decide to offer an ‘Indian Trekking and Mountaineering ‘experience.

Trekking and climbing in India is a completely different experience to that in Nepal. There are very few lodges and virtually no infrastructure once away from the towns so it is very much a camping experience. The areas covered here are relatively unknown and it is very unlikely that you will meet other people other than locals on your trek or expedition. These itineraries were specifically selected to provide an opportunity to travel into the mountains during the summer months avoiding the monsoon as the locations are in the rain shadow areas of the Himachal Pradesh.

These next six itineraries all start from Manali. Flights would be into Delhi and then your onward journey would be via a luxury Volvo overnight bus leaving Delhi at approximately 6pm and arriving in Manali at approximately 10am the following day. It is suggested that you then have at least a day better still two to relax and enjoy the district before commencing with your next part of your adventure.

Kalihani Pass Trek – 7 Days



Though limited to the Kullu valley, the trek takes you to upper reaches of the Pir Panjal range with excellent views of Hanuman Tibba, Indrasan and other peaks. Kalihani Pass also forms the pathway to the remote Bara Bangal village in the Kangra valley. Best season June - October
Trek Cost: 1,100 US $ per person (based on 2 person)
Day 01: Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel
Day 02: Manali - Lamadugh (3017m): 4 hours trekking up through thick forests, however, but there is no water point after departing from Manali so be prepared and well stocked! As height is gained the distinctly different views of the faces of Indrasan, Deo Tibba and the peaks of Bara Shigri Glacier come into view. Eventually the path turns to the right and one traverses the ridge to the campsite on an alpine plateau studded with a thick growth of alpine flowers.
Day 03: Lama Dugh - Riyali Thach (3400m): 6 hours. The trek continues along a steep a ridge below Thanpri Tibba (4000m). From this point, there are magnificent views of Manali, situated on the left bank of River Beas and the upper Kullu valley, which appears swathed in the different colors depending on the season.
Day 04: Riyali Thach - Base of Kalihani Pass (4010m): 6 hours. This is a longish day. The trail proceeds over open meadows initially followed by a steep descent to a stream. Crossing it, the path continues in a steep climb for about three hours till you arrive at the camp site at the base of the Kalihani Pass. Make sure you catch the views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks from the campsite.
Day 05: Base of Kalihani - Kalihani Pass (4725m) - back to Base: 8 hours. Today will be a long day with a steep climb to the pass crossing a stretch of scree, a morraine and the Kalihani glacier. Take time off at the pass to get a splendid 360 degree view of hanging glaciers, the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar rangees. A steep descent will bring you back to the camp.
Day 06: Base of Kalihani Pass - Rani Sui (3400m): 6 hours. The trail traces back to Riyali Thach and goes further to Rani Sui, where there is a small mountain pond.
Day 07: Rani Sui - Manali (2100m): 5 hours. Today's we retrace our path through Lamadugh and down to Manali.
Day 08: Depart from Manali to Delhi.

Himalaya Expedition - Deo Tibba 6001m



This is an 18 day mountaineering expedition starting from and returning to Manali
Expedition cost: 3,900 US $ per person to include all technical equipment or 2,700 US $ per person without hiring equipment (supplying your own) (based on 2 people)
Overview:
Deo Tibba is a technical peak that can be graded PD on the Alpine grading scale. Set back in the Manali valley, Deo Tibba is popular among climbers who have some mountaineering knowledge. The approach is through the ancient village of Jagatsukh and the nearest town is Manali. Best months June to October
Our Tentative itinerary would be:-
Day 01: Arrive in Manali overnight in Manali hotel/ Camp.
Day 02: Manali - Jagatsukh (by jeep) and then trek to Chikka. 5 Hrs
Day 03: Chikka to Seri (base camp)
Day 04: Day 14: Climbing days on Deo tibba (6001m)
Day 15 - 17: Retreat days from the Mountain and return to Manali
Day 18: Depart from Manali.

The cost includes:
Tents, Carry mats, Mess Tent, High altitude tent.
Nutritious, high calorie food will be served
Guide, cook and camp helper
All high altitude rations and cooking gear like MSR stoves or Butane propane stoves with canister
Horses/ Porters to carry all our equipment.
Two people will be accommodated in one tent.
All High altitude personal technical gear.
IMF fees, LO charges, Wildlife and camping charges.
Large Backpack, Plastic Mountaineering boots all Technical gear needed for the climb
All Rations
Transport to and from Manali to road head and return to Manali.
Accommodation in Manali before and after the trip.

Cost Excludes:
Any expenses of a personal nature
Food outside of the itinerary
Sleeping Bags
Transfer from Delhi
Personal insurance
Tips and gratuities


Hampta Pass Trek - 7 Days


This is one of the most delightful treks in the Manali region, affording views of lush green valleys, towering snow-clad mountains and barren hills with surrealistic forms and shapes. Leaving the Manali valley, the trek proceeds through forests of walnut, oak and the occasional alder, once atop the Hampta Pass (4270m), another spectacular panorama of the Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks appear.

The trek cost: 1,100 US $ per person (based on 2 people), the best season is June – October, the trek begins in Manali and ends in Chatru

Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Manali and transfer to your hotel.
Day 02: Manali / Prini - Panduropa / Setan (2700m) via Chhalet & Hampta villages: 4 hours
The steepest part of the trail takes about 2 hours to negotiate. It passes through apple orchards and forests of blue pine, cedar, oak, fir and chestnut. The trail passes through the villages of Chhalet, Hampta and Ghoratbari; all have an interesting legends associated with them. They lie on the way to heaven and when people die, their souls have to pass through these villages. It is said that people here hear sounds of crying if the soul is condemned to hell and sounds of a trumpet if it is ascending to heaven.
Day 03: Panduropa - Chikka (3530m): 5 hours. The trek passes through some spectacular landscape to our campsite situated on a grassy bank sloping down from the cliffs just below the Hamta Nulla. The impressive grandeur of immediate surroundings, the nearness of the Tokru-Shakru peaks, the wonderful coloring of the rocks and mountainside, all make this one of the best campsite on the route.
Day 04: Chikka - Bhalu Ka Ghera (3780m): 5 hours. The trail now begins to ascend towards Hamta Pass and with close up views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks. During summer, it's a grazing pasture or halting place for the shepherds on the way to the Lahaul valley.
Day 05: Bhalu Ka Ghera - Hampta pass (4270m) - Shea Goru: 8 hours. The trail now begins to ascend towards Hamta Pass and one can have close views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks. The massive mountains of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges dominate the entire landscape.
Day 06: Shea Goru - Chatru (3530m): 4 hours. The day's walk is quite easy, along the river up to a boulder field, which is hard to cross during the monsoons. The river has to be forded at one point from where one can see the valleys of Lahaul and Spiti. The massive mountains of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges dominate the entire landscape till the campsite at Chhatru. Chhatru is a confluence point of paths from Rohtang Pass, Hamta Pass and Spiti.
Day 07: Chatru to Chandertal and drive back to Manali: 7- 8 hours. Today after breakfast a vehicle picks you up and will drive us to Chandertal. We will spend some time by the lake and then drive back to Manali. Reach Manali by evening.



Cost Includes:
1. Tents, Sleeping bags (Holofill), Mess tent and Carry mats.
2. Nutritious, high calorie vegetarian food will be served.
3. Guide, cook and camp helpers.
4. Horses with horsemen to carry loads.
5. Transport from Manali to Prini.
6. One day of accommodation before the trek and one day after the trek in manali. In good clean
budget hotels
7. Transport Manali to Prini and return Chartu to Chandertaal and return to Manali.

Cost Excludes:
1. Any expenses of a personal nature
2. Food outside of the itinerary
3. Sleeping Bags
4. Transfer from Delhi
5. Personal insurance
6. Tips and gratuities

For those who would like the excitement of travelling in remote India without the effort of trekking then Off the Wall trekking would like to suggest the following:-

Ladakh Lakes Jeep Safari



This is a 5 night 6 day jeep safari through one of the most beautiful and remote regions of the world; the Changthang Plateau. Discover the mesmerising blue water of Pangong. You even get to travel along the ancient Silk Route, the link between India and Central Asia and to the highest motorable pass in the world, Khardungla La 5606m as well as the Tanglang La, Chang La Passes.
Trip Cost per person - 1,280 US $ based on 2 person starting from Ley. (Fly from Delhi cost not included) Breakfasts and evening meals are included but lunches are not
Day 01: Arrive in Leh. (B&D) Arrive Leh and check into hotel. In the afternoon visit the Shey, Thikshey and Hemis monasteries.
Day 02: Leh - Pangong Lake, overnight at Pangong Lake in local accommodation. (B&D)
Day 03: Return to Leh (B&D)
Day 04: Drive Leh to Nubra Valley, overnight at Nubra in local accommodation. (B&D)
Day 05: Return to Leh. (B&D)
Day 06: Take the morning flight out of Leh to Delhi. Trip ends. (Only Breakfast)

Manali - Lahul - Spiti - Kinnaur Jeep / camping Safari 8 day 7 nights
Best season July to September. Cost: 1,100 US $ per person based on 2 people
Day 01: Arrive Manali - Check in at Hotel for your overnight stay. (B&D)
Day 02: Manali – Batal (115 km) -Travel by jeep from Manali to Batal via the Rohtang Pass (4000 m). Overnight in tents at Batal (B&D)
Day 03: Batal - Chander Taal - Travel by jeep from Batal up to the base of Chandra Taal and over night at Chandra Taal in tents. There will be 2 - 3Kms of trekking involved before reaching Chandra Taal as jeeps do not go all the way to the lake. (B&D)
Day 04: Chandra Taal - Batal – Kaza - Travel from Batal to Kaza by jeep over the Kunzam Pass (4558 m). Overnight in tents at Kaza (B&D)
Day 05: Kaza In the mMorning visit the Ki monastery, 12 km from Kaza. This centuries old gompa is a labyrinth of rooms and corridors and at one time also acted as a fort. It houses valuable thangkas and offers a panoramic view of the area. Also visit the small gompa at Kibber, 9 km further ahead. Kibber at 4205 m has the distinction of being the highest permanently inhabited village of the region. Overnight at Kaza (B&D)
Day 06: Kaza - Dankar – Tabo - Travel from Kaza to Tabo by jeep enroute visiting Dhankar gompa. Dankar gompa rests high over the valley and is a stupendous example of local architecture. It is regarded to have once been a fort and was also the residence of the ruler of Spiti – the Nano. Founded in 996 AD by the great teacher Richensang-po, Tabo is renowned for its breathtaking murals and stucco images and is often called "The Ajanta of the Himalayas". The largest monastic complex in Spiti, the old section has 9 temples, 23 chortens, a monk’s chamber and a nun’s chamber. There are several caves adorned with frescoes and contemporary structures too. In trans-Himalayan Buddhism, Tabo's sanctity is next only to Tibet's Tholing gompa. Overnight at Kaza (BD)
Day 07: Kaza – Manali -Today we drive back to Manali.
Day 08: Manali – Delhi – unless otherwise arranged you will transfer back to Delhi by the evening bus

Manali - Ladakh Jeep Safari



This is an 8 night/9 day safari in one of the most beautiful high altitude and remote regions of the world, the Changthang Plateau, the route crosses three high passes, the Tanglang La, Chang La, Khardung La. The trip starts in Manali and ends in Ley.
Cost: 1,280 US $ per person (based on 2 people)

Day to Day Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Manali. (B&D) Arrive Manali and check into hotel. Spend the day at leisure in Manali.
Day 02: Manali – Jispa / Sarchu (250 km). (B&D) Travel by jeep from Manali to Jispa/ Sarchu over Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La. Overnight in tents / Hotel at JIspa, Sarchu and Kilan Sarai.
Day 03: Jispa/ Sarchu - Leh. (B&D) Arrive in Leh and check into hotel.
Day 04: In Leh (B&D) Visit the Shey, Thikshey and Hemis monasteries.
Day 05: Leh – Pangong Llake, overnight at Pangong Lake. (B&D)
Day 06: Return to Leh (BD)
Day 07: Drive Leh to Nubra Valley, overnight at Nubra. (BD)
Day 08: Return to Leh. (BD)
Day 09: Take the morning flight out of Leh to Delhi. Trip ends. (Only breakfast included on this day)

Ladakh – The Frozen River Trek – Chadar 10th January to 26th January 2015 (15 days)
To include a down parka, synthetic down pants, -20 sleeping bag, down mittens, thermos, Chadar boots: (please indicate your requirements at the time of booking) US $ 2,780 per person



The Chadar trek is one of the most stunning and most unusual winter treks on the planet. From Delhi you will travel to remote Leh (by air) in the heart of the winter season and then trek up the semi-frozen Zanskar river gorge. You will experience the Zanskari culture during the best season. The winter scape of the rough landscape is one major attraction but the wildlife is another highlight of the trip. The surrounding hillside is the home of the Ibex, snow leopard, blue sheep, and lammergeier; experiencing these hardy species is a unique treat. You will trek with local staff and guides, who’ve trekked the river since childhood and know its history, its subtleties, and when to sing to scare away the demons that are believed to lurk beneath the ice. This is a true adventure in a wild land. We are the safest team on the river, hands down. No one else has swift-water and ice rescue training. Receive instruction for safe travel on the river, and go with a professional.

What’s the difference between us and everyone else? We provide all cold weather equipment, sleeping bags, western leader trained in swift water rescue, no budget on our food shopping (healthy meals with three to four dishes for dinner, large healthy breakfasts, and hot lunch on the trail), excellent lit dining tent, solar charging for electronics (when there is sun). After you do the maths, we offer the best value.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Sunday 10 January 2016 – arrive in Leh 3500m
Film of the Chadar Trek during the evening
Day 2 – Leh 3500m
We will go tour Shey and Spituk monasteries today. This day is important in case your flight is delayed. You’ll feel the altitude so not much hiking today.
Day 3 – Drive to Chilling, the road-head and trek to Tilad Do camp 3100m
First day on the ice, you are now at a lower altitude than Leh, and it feels better.
Day 4 – Trek to Gyalpo camp 3170m
Day 5 – Trek to Dib Cave 3225m
Tonight we camp next to a huge cave where the local guides and porters will sleep next to a roaring fire.
Day 6 – Trek to Nyeraks camp 3390m
Day 7 – Trek to Oma Chu, drive Zangla 3400m
Trekking one of the more impressive sections of the gorge today and reaching the road in Zanskar. You’ll hop in a jeep and be in the warm traditional Zanskari home in Zangla tonight. Welcome to Zanskar!
Day 8 – Jeep to Karsha, Sani monasteries 3491m
Today we’ll tour the monasteries of Zanskar, and get to see what winter life is like in a remote Himalayan pastoral valley.
Day 9 – Explore Jumlam gorge 3491m
A treat that few have experienced, the Jumlam gorge starts just out of Zangla, and we are excited to explore its “Chadar” today. Not even the locals often get up here in winter!
Day 10 – Jeep to Oma Chu / Trek Nyeraks 3500m
Day 11 – Trek Dib Cave
Day 12 – Trek Gyalpo Camp
Day 13 – Trek to roadhead, drive Leh
Day 14 – Leh
Important contingency day, if we have an extra day we will go snow leopard sighting from Leh. If the ice goes out on the river and we have to wait for it to refreeze upstream ice, we’ll need this day.
Day 15 – Sunday 24 January 2016 – depart Leh
Note your domestic flight is a fine weather flight only and can occasionally be delayed. Also note that flights can be delayed by fog in Delhi in winter.

What’s included:
Airport transfers (not flights)
3 star heated hotel in Leh, single supplement
All other accommodation while present on scheduled trip itinerary
Group transportation by private vehicle
‘Himalaya Trekking Guides’ expedition-style trekking:
Delicious meals, French press coffee & herbal teas, all porterage on trek, western leader, local guides and staff, single, roomy Mountain Hardwear & Big Agnes tents (double for couples) and our ‘equipped’ dining tent with solar charging for cameras.
Well equipped porters for personal equipment, you carry only a day-pack with thermos, warm layer, and camera.
Himalaya Trekking Guides duffel bag

What’s not included:
Meals while not on trek
Domestic flights
Rescue insurance
India visa
International flights
Bar bills, laundry, tipping and other items of a personal nature
Gratuities and Extra Costs
Allow approx $250 for meals (while not on trek), drinks (not on trek), and tips. We recommend $100-$150 per trekker thrown into the tips pool for the porter staff.

Climbathon 2015

Climbathon 2015 - An Introduction

The team of Climbathon 2015

In 2011, Col Chauhan, IMF President, conceived the idea of providing young people with an opportunity to develop mountaineering skills as part of an 'expedition' program offered by the IMF. By August 2013 this idea had become reality with the first Climbathon taking place on the Bara Shigri Glacier, Himachal Pradesh. At this point the IMF had been in contact with the UIAA and they had expressed an interest in the program and offered the 

IMF support. 

The Assessors

In 2014 the UIAA funded an observer to attend Climbathon and support the initiative and to help with fine tuning the program to meet the criteria to gain UIAA recognition.

By 2015 the Climbathon program had developed and the management team had addressed the concerns raised in 2014, putting in place, among other issues, a vigorous assessment program to run alongside the Introductory 'course'. At the same time the current IMF President was in negotiations with the Ministry of Skill Development, Govt. of India in a bid to get the Climbathon Himalayan Mountain Leader Certification recognised as a valid program resulting in those participants who have undergone training and assessment receiving 'credits' towards vocational courses in the higher education sector. 

The Assessment Candidates

This innovative program has come into being as a result of the dedicated effort and vision of the IMF President supported by the IMF Board and implemented in the field by the Program Leader, Wing-Commander S Kutty and Program Director Dr A Gutoo.

Why Climbathon?

In the 21st Century adventure sports are playing a greater role both in and affecting society and in presenting challenges in everyday life, in many cases these adventure sports are alternatives to the more accepted past-time activities; base-jumping, wing-suit flying, extreme caving, canyoning, the list is almost endless in what people will participate in to get a 'buzz' into their everyday life.

Mountaineering is now up at the top of the 'adventure sports' list. This addiction is driven by several forces, namely commercialism and a personal 'tick-list' that gives the individual a confidence (ego) boost. These 'ticks' are perpetuated by not only market forces but also by a step aside from the norm. The highest, the fastest, the coldest (winter), the most audacious, etc. In 1970 Chris Bonington completed the first climb on the South Face of Annapurna in around four weeks, two years ago Ueli Steck climbed it in 18 hours, descending in another six or so hours. There are unique challenges in mountaineering that are now the 'way to make a name for yourself', to become a motivational speaker, to change life's opportunities - The Seven Summits, The Eight Summits (including the two Poles), the 14 - Eight-Thousanders, and now many of these challenges are being put under time scrutiny. If you reach the summit of Everest then your life will be changed forever.

However, the biggest 'threat' to what mountaineering is all about is 'commercialism' and fast track summit fever. It is said that money can buy anything, and so it can, with virtually no experience, or mountaineering apprenticeship, people can buy their way to the summit of Everest, what would Mallory have to say about that?

This fast growing 'buy it' culture sadly fails to give people a basic understanding of the ethics and techniques involved in our sport. With the modern mountaineering equipment, GPS and Sat navigation tools, rescue services and guides etc, many people get lulled into believing they are invincible, safe and assured of success, if anything goes wrong just call for a helicopter rescue, 'I have a guide I'll reach the summit - and get down again!' In India, as well as in many other high mountain ranges of the world these rescue services are not readily available, the only safe 'rescue' is the individual's own ability to get themselves out of their own mess.

Today's' mountaineers and especially mountain leaders and guides need to be not only experienced but also qualified against a national or internationally recognised standard. To many participants in 'mountaineering' activities failure is not an option and death is even less so. Without experience or a recognised 'leader' qualification the person in charge of a group of trekkers/mountaineers is exposing him or herself to all sorts of litigation and retribution - the world of mountaineering is a changing place.

The IMF, with a view to the future, recognition of a developing tourism market and the fact that more people are looking for a mountaineering experience, accept the value of transferable skills in what is always a potentially dangerous environment (mountain regions). With this in mind the IMF instigated the Climbathon program to meet many of these new challenges combining transferable leadership skills with team building skills and using mountaineering as the main theme to accomplish its mission.

Background to Mountaineering Expeditions (and Leadership) in India 

A Climbathon Expedition about to leave Base Camp

The development of mountaineering in India has followed a completely different route to that of mountaineering in Europe. [This must be kept in mind when it comes to reviewing the Assessment process.] The senior services of India very much lead the way in terms of developing mountaineering and mountain related activities, even today there are virtually no private expeditions, all fall under the leadership of one or other of the 'Services'.

The IMF was formed in 1957 as the Sponsoring Committee for the 1958 Indian Cho Oyu Expedition and which subsequently summited on May 15 of that year. Encouraged by this Indian achievement the Committee continued to encourage and sponsor future expeditions. In 1959 the organisation changed its name to the 'Sponsoring Committee of Everest Expedition and in the following year, 1960, to the `Sponsoring Committee for Mountaineering Expeditions. Finally, on January 15, 1961 a permanent organization was set up as the national body, with headquarters in New Delhi and was registered as such on November 3, 1961. Its building was inaugurated by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1980.

The main objectives of the IMF are to organize, support and provide a base for mountaineering expeditions, rock climbing, trekking at high altitudes and to promote, encourage, support and execute schemes for related adventure activities and environmental protection work in the Himalaya. With this in mind many of the Climbathon 2015 participants have been on large Service backed expeditions to the high mountains, including Everest, Kamet, Cho Oyu, Nanda Devi, Saser Kanri and Kanchenjunga, yet they lack having gone through an 'apprenticeship' stage of mountaineering missing out on the intuitive learning gained from finding their own way into the 'adventurous' aspect of making mistakes and learning from them. Despite reaching the highest places on Earth these members were totally unprepared for the style of expedition approach presented to them by Climbathon.

Historically all the main Indian mountaineering expeditions have been backed by one of the three armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) and the para-military forces. The leadership of such expeditions was delegated according to rank and command, discipline and all aspects of planning and implementation was carried out in line with the standard protocol of the chain of command. Less attention was paid to developing a team spirit modelled around what, today, would be called 'leadership skills'.
 

Ouch! Watch those fingers in the pulley.

Keeping in mind the IMF remit to promote, encourage, support and execute schemes for related adventure activities and environmental protection work in the Himalaya the IMF now deliver courses on High Altitude and Mountain Medicine Course (HAMMC) for MBBS doctors, the Wilderness First Aid Responder Course and is now developing the 'Climbathon Brand' with the Climbathon Introductory Himalayan Mountaineering program and the Climbathon Himalayan Mountain Leader Certification, based on a vigorous assessment program and soon to be considered, a Climbathon Survival Program.

  
Climbathon - Concept to Assessment 



Originally Climbathon was designed as an Himalayan Mountaineering Program where the objective was for each participant to develop his or her climbing skills on rock, snow, and ice. The course provided a comprehensive introduction to all the skills associated with mountaineering in India. The first Climbathon in 2013 contained several elements that might be seen on a services training camp, route marches, a strong service based discipline and an expectation where participants would conform to the ethics as perceived and valued on a services mountaineering expedition. Sadly this was not the case and the overall program fell far short of the IMF anticipated outcome.

In 2014 steps were taken to address many of the issues raised as a result of the 2013 Climbathon experience. Certain elements were taken out of the program to be replaced by many new 'leadership' skills and training elements along with the techniques required for roped teams to move safely on glaciers and leading on snow, rock and ice. This was all in preparation for an expedition to a small non-technical summit in which all of the skills developed during the program would be employed in a mountain setting. The overall safety of the group expedition was carried out by instructors that had been invited to attend the program and who accompanied the participants on the expedition. Unfortunately again gaps appeared that had not been envisaged during the course of planning Climbathon 2014. There was a big disparity within the participant group in their concept of what the Climbathon mission was focused on, their previous experience and physical fitness differed widely and in some cases participants from both the introductory group and the instructor group believed that once in the mountains it was acceptable for 'summit fever' to replace training sessions.

During the running of the actual program many discussions took place between the Climbathon Program Director, the Course Director and the UIAA Observer with the aim of identifying the areas where it was felt Climbathon could make changes to positively focus on the main objectives of developing leadership skills and team building alongside the core elements of developing mountaineering skills. Once back in the IMF Headquarters in Delhi extensive talks took place between the President and the UIAA Observer so as to get a clear picture as to where the IMF wanted the Climbathon Program to go in the future and also the expected outcomes concerning the UIAA.

By 2015 the Climbathon management team had addressed many of the previously identified concerns and issues. A Participant Log Book was established so as to gain a deeper insight into the participant's previous experience and a doctor's certificate was requested clarifying the state of participant's health. With regard to the way forward as identified by the IMF President in 2014 an Assessment element was added in 2015 to create qualified IMF Himalayan Mountain Leaders. The core activity for Climbathon 2015 was to focus on 'Leadership Skills' and 'Team Building Skills' centered round the ethics of mountaineering and mountaineering skill development. This included introducing topics on Leadership and Communication skills using role play, Responding to Disaster, Crisis and Team Conflict, Gender Issues and Expectations, First Aid, Mountain Health and AMS issues, Mountaineering Ethics, Assessing Hazards and Managing Risks, Decision Making and Judgement, and Developing a Mountain Sense. The program concluded with all groups completing a reccy of their intended mountaineering objective before setting off on their final expedition.

There is strong evidence of the Service background within the way the Assessment Program is run and the approach employed by both the Assessment team and the Program Directors, this is to retain 'discipline' and to give added value to the overall Climbathon team building experience. Participants fall in every morning in group ranks, they address all staff as 'Sir' and follow protocol, if 'senior' officers deliver presentations then the perceived 'junior' officers leave the area. In reality this initially caused a lack of understanding as many of the concepts being delivered by the Program Director were new to participants, at all levels; the soft-core elements of leadership (Gender, Leadership styles, Disaster management etc are, on service expeditions, the domain of the senior officers.) In the modern world of small team expeditions all members need to share and understand this knowledge. There are many different styles of learning and to ensure the participants fully understand the concept under discussion the presenter uses different techniques to deliver the message, role-play, interactive learning and simulations as well as the more traditional teaching methods.

Climbathon 2015 and the Assessment Process

The IMF have conducted three Climbathon programs, 2013, 2014 and 2015. With an eye to the future developments in education, vocational skill development, the tourism sector and with the aim of getting UIAA accredited the IMF has now introduced an Indian base-line quality bench-mark assessment program for potential Indian Himalayan Mountain Leaders.

Pre - Climbathon 2015 a three-day Assessors' Training Workshop took place at the IMF Headquarters in Delhi prior to leaving for Manali. This included sessions on What is Climbathon?, the Role of the Assessor (and the Assessment Candidate), Teaching and Learning Methods, Professionalism and Expected Behaviour, Managing Conflicts, Complaints and Problem Solving, Feed-back Skills, The Process of Assessment and finally and in depth, Developing a Consensus on Core Competencies.

The Assessment process keeps in mind the historical Service background of mountaineering in India, the 'hard-core' mountaineering elements (knots, rescue, belays, techniques etc) while also addressing the 'soft -core' elements (Gender issues, leadership styles, Resolving Conflict, Meeting Expectations etc) of leadership.

Candidates wishing to attend an Introductory Climbathon program will be provided with an electronic Log Book to ensure they meet the IMF criteria and thus avoid any issues that have previously occurred during the Climbathon program.

The pre-requisite for applying for assessment is that every participant successfully completes an Introductory Climbathon program and log-book. He or she will then enter the program and then gain personal experience over the next year (minimum time gap) at which point they may apply for assessment. However in the early stages of establishing the Assessment program and the Himalayan Mountain Leader qualification suitable and promising Introductory Candidates will be invited for Assessment. Some Assessment candidates may be exempt from the Introductory Program on submitting a personal log-book indicating exceptional experience and/or other qualifications.

Once enrolled and accepted onto an Assessment program an assessment candidate is in charge of leading a group of approximately 6 Introductory Participants through all the activities programmed, giving instructions, coaching or supporting where necessary and throughout the duration of the program will ultimately be responsible for absolute group safety demonstrating good leadership skills, dealing with any of the problems that the group or the chosen route may present and in general presenting a good role model. The final element of the Assessment is to lead their group on a small expedition to a local peak 6000m - 6500m to underline their leadership and mountaineering ability.

The Assessors are selected instructors from leading Mountaineering Institutes in India and possess not only evidence of exceptional leadership and instructional skills in the field of mountaineering but also have good and relevant expedition experience. The Assessors shadow each assessment candidate throughout the Climbathon Program, only intervening when safety becomes an issue. Assessors have a predetermined 'Assessment - Core Elements' Monitoring sheet on which they mark each candidate's ability according to a predetermined tariff. At regular intervals throughout the program the Assessors meet to discuss individual candidates. To avoid issues of either a personal or personality nature the Assessors rotate so each Assessment Candidate will have at least two different Assessors giving an over-view of his/her performance. During the course of assessment the Assessor will try to identify candidates who show both outstanding leadership and mountaineering skills and who might provide the right and exemplary role model so as to act as assessor in the future.

On completion of the Assessment Program a candidate will be provided with a passport sized log-book (hard copy) for his/her individual use, relevant comments of a constructive nature will be entered into this by the IMF based on the Assessors' reports and the assessment process. The Log-book will also act as a record of individual continuous professional development (CPD) and also as a license and proof of qualification.

The Log-book will consist of several sections:-

Pre Climbathon Introductory program experience - completed by the participant and substantiated if possible

Climbathon Introductory Program - completed by the group leader if there are any outstanding features

Experience gained between Introductory and Assessment programs - completed individually

Assessment Climbathon - completed with outcome/relevant constructive comments by the Assessor, including recommendations as to future Climbathon involvement.

Post Assessment Experience - this demonstrates general skill development in terms of leadership including non-mountaineering activities

First Aid qualification

Renewals. 

Candidates may present themselves for Assessment if they possess and can substantiate their experience and a solid base of mountaineering knowledge at which time they may be considered for an exemption to the Introduction program. Exemption at Assessment level is not permissible.

Environment Cleaning Program

There is an increasing awareness and concern in India over environment negative impact. Climbathon is particularly concerned over the negative impact of climbing expeditions in the Indian Himalaya, to this end throughout its Climbathon program participants regularly conduct environmental audits of their passing through the rural and remote area - what waste is created and of what specific nature, wet, dry, bio-degradable, recyclable etc. The IMF in collaboration with other organisations organises and supports Environment Base Camp Cleaning programs.

Climbathon 2015 - Outcomes

Climbathon 2015 was conducted with 30 participants entering the Introductory program, five candidates were assessed by five Assessors and a Moderator Assessor also acting as a Chief Instructor. From of these: -

Candidates who fulfilled the Assessment criteria - 2 Assessors who met the Assessment criteria and were thus were exempt Assessment - 6

Assessment Candidates recommended for an Assessor role in 2016 - 2

Assessment Candidates who were failed - 2

Assessment Candidates who were deferred pending further experience - 1 requiring additional 'leadership/feed-back experience, log-book to be resubmitted to the IMF by the end of March 2016

Seven people received the IMF Climbathon Indian Himalayan Mountain Leaders Award thus creating a tourism mountain related qualified workforce of 7 plus the expected success of the one 'deferral' in March 2016.

Overview of the total process

Pre Climbathon Application Process

Application via submission of log-book evidence - vigorously scrutinised - in some cases application rejected on grounds of lack of experience - process excellent and transparent

Submission of a medical certificate, signed off by a GP, in some cases application rejected on grounds of a condition that might be aggravated by altitude - process excellent and transparent

Participation in Climbathon - performance monitored by assessors, issues of concern are openly discussed by the Assessment Team, constructive advice or warnings are given, usually on grounds of behaviour - an outcome is reached as a result of moderation by the staff, the process is excellent and transparent.

Selection of participants for Assessment - performance monitored by Assessors on the Introductory Program, performance and attitude are 'graded', cross referencing by Assessors and a jointly agreed grade, against Assessment Criteria is decided upon - process is excellent and transparent - recommendations forwarded and recorded.

Assessment participants - are invited by the IMF if previously recommended but in future individuals may apply on the submission of a log-book when completion of an Introductory program might be exempted, all participant evidence of practice are recorded and filled in the IMF, rejected candidates are usually rejected on the grounds of lack of appropriate experience - process is excellent and transparent .

Assessment - all participants, at this level are subjected to an assessment program, all candidates will be assessed by at least two assessors, regular assessor meetings are held to moderate results, rolling records are kept and referred to at each assessor meeting - final outcome -Pass, Deferral, Fail - process is excellent and transparent.

Future continuous professional development - assessment participants who show aptitude and all the relevant skills are recommended, subject to experience, to become assessors, these discussions take place at the final moderation meeting - this is not a pass/fail situation but it is based on suitable role models with the appropriate skill - process is excellent and transparent.

The aim if the IMF cross referencing Mountain Leadership and Vocational Training

The IMF has continued with its mission of supporting those young people who wish to develop and succeed in mountaineering activities and to that end the IMF, through the President, are pursuing a program of vocational skill training. This is being conducted by identifying roles within mountaineering that match jobs within industry, for example, catering, environmental management, logistical management, man management etc. These experiences would then be linked into the vocational training qualification scheme whereby an individual could gain 'mountaineering' credits to support a lack of formal education thus enabling a wider percentage of the disadvantaged population access to higher education. The Himalayan Mountaineering Leadership program contributes to this development policy building on the experiences gained in trekking and mountaineering expeditions.

Summary of Climbathon 2015

Climbathon 2015 was organised and delivered in a highly professional manner. It maintained discipline through a combination of both the tried and tested 'Service' methods with the inclusion of a more 'rounded' approach. Climbathon delivered what it had previously announced it would deliver and in the per-prescribed manner.

Learning sessions included both the hard-core mountaineering skills as well as the soft-core leadership/team building skills. Teaching methods included a spread of different styles, ranging from role-play to interaction through formal teaching sessions and group presentations and experience sharing.

The program included specific planning to incorporate acclimatisation and rest days, although the latter were ostensibly the times for 'class-room' learning sessions.

The time-table was adhered to in terms of daily activities and sessions. Assessment was vigorously pursued with in-depth monitoring of Assessment Candidates being scrutinised at all times against a per-determined Assessment Concept. The Assessment took place in sections - Batal to Snout Camp, Snout Camp to Base Camp, Base Camp to Advanced Camp and then the expedition element. At the end of each section the Assessors reviewed each candidates performance and then present their conclusions amongst themselves giving time for Assessor interaction and feed-back. At this point the Assessors also changed groups so as to allow for several Assessors to ultimately review and assess a candidates performance.

Climbathon - Participant and Assessment Program

In Delhi - a 3 day Training of Assessors Program was conducted. This program included:- An Overview of Climbathon, Role of the Assessor (teaching/learning methods), Professionalism and Expected Behaviour, Managing Conflicts, Complaints and Behaviour Problems, Feed Back skills, The Assessment Process and Log-Books and Developing Consensus and Core Competencies.

In Manali - a 2 day program for the Assessment Candidates in which registration was completed and teams were designated. Sessions included, Leadership, Communication and Responding to Disasters.

In Snout Camp - the Introductory participants were lead by the Assessment Candidates on the topics of River Crossings, Avalanche Search, Acclimatisation, Crisis and Team Conflict, Gender Issues, First Aid, Mountaineering Ethics, Assessing Potential Hazards, Managing Risk, Camp Hygiene/Sanitation and Developing a Mountain Sense.

At Base Camp - Situation Awareness, Survival/bivi skills, mountaineering skills; rope work and knots, improvisation, glacier work, climbing mixed terrain, using crampons and ice axe, assessing snow bridges, crevasse rescue, avalanche Risk, belays

Expedition - selecting a suitable expedition peak taking into account expectations and ability, completing a reccy, preparing for the expedition and completing the expedition over three days.

Return to Manali for the final debriefing.