National Mountain Climbing Day

August 1 marks National Mountain Climbing Day. It was established in honor of Bobby Matthews and his friend Josh Madigan, who successfully climbed the 46 high peaks of New York State’s Adirondack Mountains. These two young men climbed the final 46th peak (Whiteface Mountain) on August 1, 2015, and were formally inducted into the “Adirondack 46er Club” in May 2016.

Mountain climbing and reaching its peak is a thrilling experience, a big sense of accomplishment for reaching new heights and everyone should climb a mountain at least once in their lives. Bachendri Pal became Indian first woman mountaineer to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain peak. She accomplished it on May 23, 1984, just a day before her thirtieth birthday.

Mountain climbing is a challenging hike. On occasion, a difficult climb may require using both your arms and legs on a steep portion of the climb. Rappelling a mountain, like you see when adventurers, climb Mount Everest, is not part of the climb. Depending upon the size and difficulty, your first climb on an easy mountain will only take a couple of hours. You need a lot of stamina and mental than strength if you plan to climb a mountain than make a plan before setting out for the climb.

Plan your hike

Firstly don’t forget your camera.
Stay on the Trail.
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As you get close, even though you may not see it, you will get to the top.
Bring plenty of water in your backpack.
Bring high energy bars on long hikes.
There is no shame in turning around, especially if the weather gets bad, or you are injured.
Wear good quality hiking boots, no sneakers.
If you get lost, retrace your steps.
Study trail maps. Most can be found online.

Best Mountaineering Expeditions In India

India is a land of lofty mountains and high passes so it is always better to be accompanied by the experts in this vertical. Respect Mother Nature and keep the sanctity of the mountains as it is. Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Jammu, and Kashmir act as great places for climbers to kick-start their adrenaline rush. Every place has a perfect setting and its own unique adventure experience.

Himalaya is the official abode of climbers that are nestled not only in India but across the world. Beauty, wilderness, and roughness of the Himalaya act as an attraction for many of the mountaineers and climbers to encompass its beauty. Himalaya welcomes everyone with open arms. Even on an international platform, peak climbing can be best enjoyed on sharply perpendicular slopes of Himalaya.

The delight of climbing high peaks and mountains is a resplendent, peaks and mountains like Shivlinga, Mt. Nanda Devi East, Satopanth, Kamet, Bhagirathi Group of Peak, Bandarpunch, Chaukhamba, Kedar Dome, Trishul, Deo Tibba, Indrasan, Kharcha Parbat, Frey Peak, Dom Khang, Dom Khang, Nun Kun, Kang Yatse, Saser Kangri, Padmanabha, and Tughmo Zarpo are always ready to face the trekking enthusiast. Slowly and gradually, peak climbing is gaining momentum as a favorite adventure activity in India. Some of the best Mountaineering Expeditions in India are.

1. Mt. Kamet expedition – Places Covered: Delhi – Rishikesh – Joshimath – Malari – Niti Village – Shepu Kharak – Base Camp – Summit of Kamet 7756 M – Base Camp – Niti Village – Malari – Joshimath – Rishikesh – Delhi

2. Mt. Kang Yatse II – Places Covered: Delhi – Leh – Chilling – Skiu – Markha – Thachungtse – Nimaling – Base Camp – Summit – Base Camp – Chuskrimo – Leh – Delhi

3. Mt. Indrasan Expedition – Places Covered: Delhi – Manali – Chikka – Seri – Tenta (BC) – Summit – Chikka – Manali Delhi

4. Mt. Papsura Expedition – Places Covered: Delhi – Chandigarh – Kasol – Tosh – Kutla – Saran Thatch – Samsi Thach – Kuta Thach (Bc) – Summit Mt. Papsura (03 High Camp) – BC – Tosh – Chandigarh – Delhi

5. Mt. Dharamsura Expedition – Places Covered: Delhi – Chandigarh – Kasol – Tosh – Kutla – Saran Thatch – Samsi Thach – Kuta Thach (Bc) – Summit Mt. Dharamsura (03 High Camp) – BC – Tosh – Chandigarh – Delhi

Mountain Climbing Safety

Climbing to reach the top of a mountain can be a rewarding experience but you need to understand the health and physical challenges you may face when seeking adventure at high altitudes. There are certain steps you need to check to stay safe during mountain climbing.

Bring the right gear – It is important to wear proper hiking gear for mountain climbing which will help you to move and maneuver comfortably. It’s a good idea to carry gear for all types of weather. The air is thinner at high altitudes. This can lead to extreme and rapid changes in temperatures. Pack layers of clothing that you can add or remove as needed. Don’t forget rain- and windproof outerwear made of lightweight material.

Prevent altitude-related illnesses – Beside hardship in hiking high peaks the high altitude itself can cause serious health concerns. There are many sicknesses related to high altitude commonly known as altitude sickness which you must consider first.

Stay safe on your mountain climb – With proper preparation and careful attention to safety, high-altitude hiking and mountain travel can be a fun, challenging, and truly inspiring experience. Always pack appropriate gear. Take time to acclimatize yourself to higher altitudes. And ask your doctor about the potential benefits of taking acetazolamide and iron supplements. Always carry Navigation, Sun protectants, First aid, Fire, Shelter and extra food, and clothes.

Himalayan Mountain Climbing Documentary “Glory or Death: Climbing Mount Everest”

This HBO documentary delves into the lives of Sherpas, the indigenous people who make it possible for tourists to climb Mount Everest. Often carrying loads bigger (and sometimes heavier) than themselves, Sherpas guide the tourists up the mountain by setting all the ropes and ladders necessary, at great personal risk.

While this documentary takes a look at the darker side of climbing in the Himalayas, it is important to recognize the skill and absolute necessity of Sherpas as mountain guides, since it would be nearly impossible to summit Everest without their help and guidance.

10 Inspirational Quotes About Mountains which will inspire you to climb higher in life

“The Mountains are calling and I must go” – John Muir

“It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” – Sir Edmund Hillary

“Every mountain top is within reach if you just keep climbing.” – Barry Finlay

“After climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb.” – Nelson Mandela

“Never measure the height of a mountain until you have reached the top. Then you will see how low it was.” – Dag Hammarskjold

“Every man should pull a boat over a mountain once in his life.” – Werner Herzog

“The choices we make the lead up to actual experiences. It is one thing to decide to climb a mountain. It is quite another to be on top of it.” – Herbert A. Simon

“For a climber, saying that you are stopping by Everest is like saying that you are stopping by to see God.” – Roland Smith

“Chasing angels or fleeing demons, go to the mountains.” ― Jeffrey Rasley

“If the Ganges is the mother, Himalayas is the father. One nurtures and nourishes, the other provides and protects.”
― Vinita Kinra

Suggested Read: Important Days In August