Putha Hiunchuli Ski Expedition

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01:

Arrival in Kathmandu and meet with our representative at the airport and transfer to Hotel. Welcome drink and short briefing about trip.

Overnight in Hotel - 1400 meters

Day 02:

Sightseeing around Kathmandu, paper work and gear preparation.

Overnight in Hotel – 1400 meters

Day 03:

Fly to Nepalgunj in domestic airlines which will be around 50 minutes. Nepalgunj is southern west part which has very hot temperature.

Overnight in Hotel: 150 meters

Day 04:

Fly to Juphal for 40 minutes and then trek to Dunai for 3 hours. This will be the start of trekking which will be short and downhill.

Overnight in Lodge/Tent - 2140 meters
 

Day 05:

Trek to Tarakot following the barbung river and small villages.

Overnight in Tent – 2500 meters

Day 6:

Trek to Mushi Khola with small ascend and descend passing the river. We will have our tent setup in Mushi Khola near the river.

Overnight in Tent – 2880 meters

Day 07:

Trek to Kagkot via different forest line and crossing of several small bridges. Kagkot is typical small village there.

Overnight in Tent – 3265 meters
 

Day 8:

Acclimatization day and exploration of the village.

Overnight in Tent – 3265 meters

Day 9:

Trek to Pangzi via 2 passes that we cross of 4290 and 4490 meters. We can also stay in German base camp at 4500 meters looking at the current situation of the team.

Overnight in Tent - 4500 meters

Day 10:

Trek to Putha Base Camp where we will setup our camp near small stream in the middle of some giant mountains putha, Dhaulagiri IV and other.

Overnight in Tent – 4940 meters

Day 11-24:

This is our climbing period. We will start training, know about the mountains and its technical aspect. We will also acclimatize and prepare our self by doing various rotation and rest. We will adapt our body in high altitude by going to different camps. In these 2 weeks we will prepare our self for summit physically, mentally and by being familiar to high altitude. Our base camp crew and guide will help you to keep in good health, identifying problems and train you for the summit.

Overnight in Tent – 4940 meters

Day 25 - 29:

Trek back to Juphal the same way we came.

Overnight in Tent – 2470 meters

Day 30:

Fly to Nepalgunj in morning and Fly to Kathmandu on same day.

Overnight in Hotel – 1400 meters

Day 31:

Sight Seeing and Rest Day

Day 32:

Final Departure from Kathmandu

Gear Checklist

Climbing a 7,000-meter peak is a serious and technical endeavor that requires careful preparation, especially when engaging in skimo (ski mountaineering). Skiing at such high altitudes demands specialized gear that is lightweight, functional, and able to withstand extreme conditions. Below is a comprehensive gear checklist for skimo expeditions at 7,000 meters:

Skimo Gear Checklist for 7,000 Meter Peaks

Ski Equipment
1. Skis:
   - Lightweight, alpine touring (AT) skis, typically between 80-100mm wide underfoot for balance between climbing and skiing.
   - **Skis with skins**: Ensure skis are equipped with skins for uphill climbing. **Mohair or synthetic skins** are recommended for better grip on varied terrain.

2. Bindings:
   - Alpine Touring (AT) bindings: These should allow for easy transition between uphill (touring) and downhill (skiing) modes. Consider bindings with adjustable settings for performance at high altitudes.
   
3. Ski Boots:
   - Lightweight, stiff AT ski boots for optimal support and comfort.
   - Boots should be warm, waterproof, and compatible with your bindings. They should also be breathable to help with moisture management.
   
4. Poles:
   - Adjustable ski poles are important to adapt to different terrains and snow conditions. Carbon poles are lightweight and ideal for climbing.
   
5. Crampons (for skis):
   - Crampons: Necessary for steep sections where skis need to be removed and boot crampons are used for extra grip.
   - Ski-compatible crampons (small, lightweight) to attach to your ski boots if you encounter technical ice or rocky terrain.

6. Avalanche Safety Equipment:
   - Avalanche transceiver (beacon): Essential for avalanche safety, especially in high alpine environments.
   - Probe: Lightweight and durable for snowpack evaluation.
   - Shove*: A compact and strong shovel for avalanche rescue or digging camp.
   - Avalanche airbags: A backpack system with an avalanche airbag that deploys to help you stay on the surface in case of a slide.

Climbing Gear
   
2. Crampons:
   - Alpine crampons for mixed climbing (rock and ice). Make sure they are compatible with your boots.
   - Spare strap-on crampon in case of a malfunction.

3. Rope:
   - Single rope (lightweight, dry-treated, typically 8.5mm to 9.5mm) for technical climbing sections, rappelling, and security on steep slopes.
   - Rope protectors to prevent damage when skiing over rocky sections.

4. Harness:
   - Lightweight alpine climbing harness. Should be adjustable and allow for layering.

5. Carabiners & Belay Devices:
   - Screw-lock carabiners (lightweight) for belaying, setting up anchors, and glacier travel.
   - Belay device (lightweight) such as a Petzl Reverso or similar for rappels and belaying.

Clothing
1. Base Layer:
   - Merino wool or synthetic base layer (top and bottom). Choose moisture-wicking, breathable materials to regulate temperature during activity.

2. Mid Layer:
   - Insulating jacket (down or synthetic). A lightweight down jacket or fleece for warmth during rest stops and at higher altitudes.
   - Softshell or hard-shell jacket for wind protection and light precipitation.
   
3. Outer Layer:
   - High-performance waterproof and windproof shell jacket and pants (Gore-Tex or similar) to protect from extreme wind, snow, and rain.

4. Ski Pants:
   - Ski mountaineering-specific pants with vents for temperature control, reinforced areas to prevent damage from ski edges, and light insulation for warmth.
   
5. Down Suit (optional for summit day):
   - If you're attempting summit day, consider a lightweight down suit for warmth in extreme conditions.
   
6. Gloves:
   - Lightweight gloves for skinning or climbing (light, breathable materials).
   - Thicker insulated gloves for descending or cold conditions. Consider mitten systems for summit day to maximize warmth.
   - Gloves liners (optional) for added warmth and flexibility.

7. Hat & Balaclava:
   - Windproof hat and a balaclava or face mask to protect your face from the cold wind and frostbite.

8. Neck Gaiter or Buff:
   - Neck gaiter or buff for extra warmth and breathability in windy, cold conditions.

9. Goggles & Sunglasses:
   - Ski goggles for protection from the snow, wind, and sun.
   - High-quality polarized sunglasses to protect from the sun’s glare at altitude.

Sleeping and Shelter Gear
1. Sleeping Bag:
   - Expedition-grade sleeping bag rated for extreme temperatures (around -20°C/-30°C or colder).
   - Consider a down sleeping bag for insulation, though synthetic may be better in damp conditions.

2. Sleeping Pad:
   - Inflatable or foam sleeping pad for insulation from the ground and comfort during rest.

Food & Hydration
1. Water System:
   - Hydration system (Camelbak or similar), along with insulated hose to prevent freezing.
   - Alternatively, bring sturdy water bottles that won’t freeze easily.
   
2. High-Energy Food:
   - Freeze-dried meals for expeditions or energy-dense foods like energy bars, gels, and trail mix.
   - Electrolytes and rehydration salts to help with hydration at altitude.

Safety & Navigation
1. Headlamp:
   - High-output LED headlamp with extra batteries for visibility in the dark.
   
2. Navigation Tools:
   - GPS device or smartphone with offline maps.
   - Traditional map and compass as a backup to the electronic devices.

3. First-Aid Kit:
   - Comprehensive first-aid kit with high-altitude-specific medications (acetazolamide for altitude sickness, painkillers, bandages, blister kits).
   - Altitude sickness medication (optional but recommended).

4. Personal Locator Beacon (PLB):
   - A PLB or satellite phone for emergency communication in case of distress.

Miscellaneous
1. Sunscreen & Lip Balm:
   - High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm to protect from sunburn at high altitudes.
   
2. Camera/GoPro:
   - For capturing memories of the journey (be sure to keep batteries warm in cold conditions).

3. Climbing Tape and Gear Repair Kit:
   - Climbing tape and a small repair kit for emergency fixes on skis, boots, or other gear.

4. Toiletries:
   - Minimal personal hygiene items like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and biodegradable soap.

5. Backpack:
   - Lightweight, ski mountaineering-specific pack (30-40L) with compartments for skis, hydration, and essentials.

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Important Considerations:
- Weight: Every piece of gear should be as lightweight as possible without compromising safety.
- Altitude acclimatization is crucial. Make sure you plan rest days and gradual ascents to avoid altitude sickness.
- Layering system: Be prepared for drastic temperature changes. Dressing in layers that can easily be added or removed will be key for maintaining comfort and warmth.

By carefully selecting the right skimo gear for a 7,000-meter expedition, you ensure both your safety and success on the mountain. Always test your gear before your trip and ensure it’s suitable for the extreme conditions you’ll face.