Hectic, hectic, hectic... That's been the catch-word for the last two months. Has it been two months already?!
There was the successful Chanderkhani Pass trek, the first from Responsible Travel. Even though the pass was snow-bound, we managed to cross it in early April, opening the route this year for more treks. Then there was a break for a couple of weeks, trekking-wise. The camp, though, took up all the time with continuous groups from Nagpur, Sanawar, Pune, Nasik... The kids seem to be enjoying the whole experience and since that is the aim, there is not too much to crib about the amount of work.
Early in May, we attempted to do Bara Bhangal. But the weather gods who had been kind for the first few days decided to play havoc on the day we reached the base of Kalihani. With more then 3 ft of snow, crossing the pass was out of question though we were confident that if the weather had held for one more day we would have crossed over. So we trudged back through more snow to Riyali Thach and then down to Shangchar, two days short of the intended dates. However, Lin and gang seemed to enjoy the impromptu detour and after promises to try Bara Bhangal again soon, departed to Dharamshala.
A mountaineering course then got underway in Beas Kund for Tesh and Xieheng from Singapore. The aim was to finish training and climb three peaks - Friendship, Shitidhar and Ladakhi. The course and climbs are scheduled to get over on the 31st, so will get a feedback then.
Unfortunately more camp work and a spot of illness kept me at home. In typical reverse logic, I contracted cold and fever when the temperature topped at an unbearable 30C. The mountain sun is quite unbearable when it's hot and minus the humidity, it just drains you.
- K
Now, the virgin trek to Goru Pass is underway. The group has managed to cross Chanderkhani and will attempt to reach Goru tomorrow. It's a relatively unknown pass but a good option for those who have done a couple of treks. Topographically, it lies behind and to the north of Chanderkhani Pass, connecting back to the Kullu Valley above Jagatsukh, near Chota Chandertal. It completes a circuit and looks like a good 10 day option for future groups.
The weather's been a bit moody with spots of snow and sleet, according to K who had called today. Let's hope it holds atleast for tomorrow.
Next in the pipeline, a trek to Hampta Pass after a good 2 years, two back to back climbs on Menthosa followed by a Kang Yatse climb. So no sign of any rest till end of July, atleast.
