The Indian Himalaya covers a vast area and variety of mountain terrain, from the remote ranges of Sikkim to the Eastern Karakorum. Many areas are slow to access, but there are a number of superb climbing regions that can be reached relatively quickly - allowing for a productive trip in shorter timescales.

The Indian Himalaya are accessed from Delhi either by road or an internal flight depending on the region being visited. From the road head, one or two days approach march are neccesary to reach most regions that we climb in. For a taste of the region and scenery, here are a couple of photo galleries to look at: nature + scenery, travel + base camp (to see what our guides get up to on there own holidays to the region - take a look here: ARWA SPIRES - gallery 1, gallery 2).

Climbing Season There are two main climbing seasons, either side of the summer monsoon. They typically run from mid April - late May and mid September - late November. Spring is snowier with warmer temperatures, but the weather becomes increasingly less stable as the summer monsoon approaches. Autumn sees less snow lying on cols and passes, the weather is generally more stable, but with much lower temperatures as winter arrives.

Possible Itineraries India boasts a limitless range of possible objectives accessible in a 3-4 week trip from the UK. Possible areas include:

• Manikarin - super quick access, easy logistics and great quality granite peaks.
• Lahul - little frequented area, 1st good ascent opportunities on snow and ice.
• Gangotri - home to world famous peaks such as Shivling - numerous other objectives too.

For these and other itineraries, contact us to discuss your ambitions in more detail - as fitness and experience requirements vary widely and are specific to each trip.

Food and Accommodation  Whilst travelling we stay in good quality hotels and visit restaurants during the day. In the mountains, base camp will be fully stocked with expedition quality tents, stoves, food and a cook. Nevertheless these are still high mountain camps where expedition quality sleeping bags and sleeping mats will be neccesary.

Travel  Full travel details are provided with your joining instructions. You may buy your own flight to Delhi independently, or use our recommended ATOL booking agent (who will have seats reserved on the same flight for us). Any internal flights are arranged by our recommended booking agent - All other internal travel is simply paid for on the spot.

Fitness  To climb successfully at high altitudes you need good cardiovascular fitness and plenty of stamina (see fitness levels 2-4) so we advise you to prepare well in advance with regular training and big days out in the UK hills.

Experience  You need previous alpine climbing experience and a proven track record of acclimatisation at altitude (eg in the Alps or on a trekking trip) in order to climb succesfully in this region.

Safety Awareness and Altitude Warning High altitude mountaineering has certain risks that can never be eliminated, but they can be minimised by good acclimatisation and appropriate safety decisions made by your guide – even if this means forsaking the summit. Nevertheless, dangers such as rock fall, icefall and altitude illness are not always predictable. If you are unsure about any of the hazards involved, we are happy to explain them to you.

Equipment  All communal safety equipment (ropes etc) is provided by us.  You are expected to come equiped with personal clothing and climbing kit, sleeping equipment, a rucsac and mountain boots. Local equipment hire is not generally available in India, so you must arrive fully kitted out for the trip.