An expedition I was part of to the Indian Himalaya this summer just fell apart. I've had to resort to my plan B, a month-long excursion in and out of Ladakh, which goes as follows:

First Phase - Crossing the Kang La (5500m) - From Lahaul into Zanskar - June 20 (or thereabouts) to June 27th

Second Phase - Zanskar to Ladakh with an ascent of Kang Yatse II (6200 m) - June 30 - July 10 - This is the route from Padum/Zangla thru the Jumlam gorge into the Markha valley. Not the best time to be crossing the jumlam, but it might be possible if conditions are fine. Emerge out of the gorge into the Nimaling plains, spend a few days here and try and climb KY II, and then head on out to Leh.

Third and Final Phase - Tsomoriri/Rupshu to Spiti with an ascent of Lungser Kangri (6666m) - July 18 - End july - Lungser Kangri is straightforward by most reports and can be done in about 5 days from the lake (given good acclimatization). Onwards from there to Spiti over the Parang la.

I'm looking for partners for either of the three phases. I will have the necessary equipment for common use (ropes, 4 season tent, stove etc.) and the idea will be to rent a local guide and a porter (or two) for the first phase, guide and ponies for the second and third. I will only require of you basic gear, like a harness I suppose and other basic protection, and your company.

Is there anybody up for this?

Good luck Pilgrim. I've been up the Miyar to the Kanga La. As you know, precip could be significant in June.

PM me if you need local contacts for your Phase I

BTW, you need local contacts for the Visa app.

Then there's this. Has to be filed six weeks prior to the ascent. Four Passport Photos.
Hell yeah. I'm on my way!!

BIO-DATA FORM

(Particulars of Leader and all Members of the Expedition)

1. Name of Leader/Climbing Member/Reserve Member
Mr/Mrs/Ms:
2. Father’s Name
3. Nationality
4. Correspondence Address




5. Permanent Address




6. Fax No/Telephone No
7. Age and Date of Birth
8. Occupation/Profession
9. Passport Number
10. Place of Issue of Passport
11. Date of Issue of Passport
12. Name and Address of the Next of Kin (for notifying in the event of injury/death)




13. Most recent dates of visit to India with places (for last one year only)

14. Mountaineering and Trekking Experience




15. Are you a member of Armed Forces/Para Military Forces/Diplomatic Corps?


Signature of the Leader/Member ____________________________________________________


Date: ___________________


Place: _________________________________________

Sounds a great plan. Enjoy it! Let us know how it goes.