Black Peak 6387 M Expedition Details

Black Peak  (6387 M) Expedition – Day-Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sankri (1,920m) – Gateway to Adventure

Your journey into the heart of the Garhwal Himalayas begins with a long yet scenic 200 km drive from Dehradun to the Himalayan hamlet of Sankri. As you wind your way through pine forests, river valleys, and sleepy mountain towns, the magic of the mountains starts to unfold. Sankri is nestled in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and serves as the launchpad for many iconic treks. Upon arrival, check into a guesthouse, soak in the fresh mountain air, and get a good night’s rest for the days ahead.

Day 2: Drive to Taluka – Trek to Seema (2,560m)

After an early breakfast, a short 12 km jeep ride takes you to Taluka, the roadhead for the trek. The real journey begins here as you shoulder your rucksack and start the 14 km trek to Seema. The trail meanders along the Supin River, through dense pine, deodar, and oak forests, charming wooden bridges, and remote villages like Datmir. You’ll witness the simple lifestyle of the mountain folk and the traditional wooden houses of the Tons Valley. Reach Seema and set up camp beside the roaring river.

Day 3: Trek from Seema to Ruinsara Tal (3,350m)

Wake up to the sounds of birds and gushing rivers as you begin your trek to Ruinsara Tal. This sacred glacial lake lies amidst lush meadows and alpine forests. The 14 km trail gradually ascends, offering stunning views of snow-covered peaks like Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch. Ruinsara is not just a campsite but a spiritual place for locals. Once you reach, relax by the turquoise waters and absorb the serene energy of the valley.

Day 4: Acclimatization at Ruinsara Tal

A vital day for acclimatization. Use this rest day wisely by taking short hikes around the meadows, meditating by the lake, or practicing breathing techniques. Proper acclimatization here helps ensure a safe ascent in the days ahead. With views of Kalanag and the glacier ahead, your excitement will build as you get closer to the base of the mighty peak.

Day 5: Trek to Kyarkoti – Base Camp (3,800m)

Leave behind Ruinsara and trek 7 km to Kyarkoti, a high alpine meadow that becomes your base camp for the climb. The terrain changes as you climb over glacial moraines and past trickling streams, gradually reaching the open bowl where Base Camp sits surrounded by snow-clad giants. After setting up camp, your expedition leader will brief you on the plan ahead. Technical gear familiarization and a safety session will be conducted in the evening.

Day 6–8: Load Ferry & Technical Training at Base Camp

These are buffer and load ferry days used for carrying equipment and supplies to higher camps. Simultaneously, you’ll undergo mountaineering training under the supervision of expert guides. Learn the use of climbing gear including crampons, ascenders, descenders, ropes, and ice axes. Practice ascending, descending, and crevasse rescue techniques. This phase is crucial for building team rhythm and confidence for the summit push.

Day 9: Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (4,300m)

Today, move to Advanced Base Camp (ABC), a more exposed campsite closer to the snow line. The 3–4 hour ascent takes you over rugged terrain and moraines. You’ll camp on snow for the first time, acclimating yourself to the cold and the thin air. Prepare for harsher conditions as the environment becomes more alpine.

Day 10: Advanced Base Camp to Camp 1 (5,200m)

Gear up for a steep climb to Camp 1. This stage involves glacier crossings and snow slopes, requiring roping up and proper pacing. The gradient increases to 40–50°, and you’ll start feeling the real Himalayan altitude. Set up camp in a high snowfield with stunning views of the entire Bandarpunch massif. Hydration and rest are key as you prepare for the summit push.

Day 11: Camp 1 to Summit Camp (5,500m)

A short but challenging move to Summit Camp. The air is thin, and your body is working harder than ever. The icy slopes demand focus and endurance. Once you reach Summit Camp, you’ll get your first close-up view of Black Peak’s final ridge. Early dinner and complete rest are essential tonight.

Day 12: Summit Attempt (6,387m) – Return to Camp 1

The big day starts around midnight. With headlamps on and hearts pounding, you begin your ascent on icy slopes with gradients of up to 60°. The summit climb takes 6–8 hours, depending on conditions. At the top, a vast 360° panorama opens up — Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Gangotri, and the peaks of Himachal shimmer all around. After a short summit celebration, descend cautiously back to Camp 1, exhausted but elated.

Day 13: Reserve Summit Day

This is a buffer day built into the itinerary to accommodate delays due to bad weather or health issues. If unused, it adds flexibility to your descent.

Day 14: Camp 1 to Base Camp – Back to Lower Altitude

Retrace your steps back to Base Camp. With the summit behind you, spirits are high and the descent feels lighter. The lush meadows and warmer air at Base Camp offer comfort and well-earned rest.

Day 15: Base Camp to Seema via Ruinsara

Start your return journey with a long trek down to Seema, retracing the beautiful trails through Ruinsara meadows and alpine forests. The trail is a celebration of all you’ve achieved — a time to reflect, share stories, and enjoy the descent.

Day 16: Seema to Taluka – Drive to Sankri

Trek the final leg back to Taluka and drive to Sankri. Celebrate your successful expedition with your team over warm food and campfire stories. A proper night’s sleep in Sankri feels like a luxury.

Day 17: Drive from Sankri to Dehradun – Departure Day

Bid farewell to the mountains as you drive back to Dehradun. The return journey is filled with reflections of snowy slopes, alpine lakes, summit views, and the bonds forged on the mountain.

✅ Inclusions

1. Meals During the Trek
   All meals are provided from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 17, ensuring participants are well-nourished throughout the expedition.

2. Forest Permits & Camping Charges
   Necessary permits and fees for camping in designated forest areas are included.

3. Accommodation

   • Camping: High-quality 4-season tents on a triple-sharing basis, equipped with thermal-rated sleeping bags and mats for comfort.

   • Lodging: Guesthouse or lodge stays in Sankri on Day 1 and Day 16 are covered.​

4. Support Staff
   Experienced trek guides, cooks, helpers, and mules or porters for carrying common supplies, facilitating a smoother trekking experience.

5. Expedition Leader
   An IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) approved expedition leader will oversee the trek, ensuring safety and guidance.

6. Technical Equipment
   Provision of essential technical gear, including PP ropes, helmets, ice axes, crampons, mountaineering boots, snow stakes, and dead man anchors.

7. Peak Booking Fee Charges
   The peak booking fee for Indian nationals, as charged by the IMF, is included in the package.

8. Transportation
   Transport between Dehradun and Sankri, and return.

❌ Exclusions

1. Portage of Personal Bags
   The cost for portaging personal bags during the trek is not included and may incur additional charges.

2. Travel Insurance
   Participants are advised to arrange their own travel insurance, as it is not covered in the package.

3. Personal Expenses
   Any personal expenses, such as additional meals, snacks, or personal items, are not included.

4. Unspecified Expenses
   Any expenses not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions list are excluded and will be the responsibility of the participants.

5. Early Departure Costs
   Any costs arising from early departure from the expedition are not covered.

6. Additional Costs for Early Completion
   Any extra costs incurred in the event of finishing the expedition early are excluded.

7. Personal Nature Expenses
   Expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and beverages are not covered.

8. Tips
   Tips for local guides, porters, or support staff are not included and are at the discretion of the participants.

9. Forest Permit for Foreign Nationals
   Forest permit charges for foreign nationals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.

10. IMF Peak Booking Fee for foreign nationals US$ 700 for a team of two members and US$325 for every additional participants &  Mandatory Liaison Officer Fee for foreign expeditions ( ~USD 500 for group of 10)

11. Any additional cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, political unrest, road blockages, etc.

🏔️ Expedition Highlights

🔺 Highest Peak in the Saraswati Range
Conquer Black Peak, towering at 6,387 meters — the tallest in the Bandarpunch massif.

🌲 Scenic Trail through Govind Pashu Vihar National Park
Trek through ancient forests, wildflower meadows, and alpine lakes in one of Uttarakhand’s most biodiverse regions.

🏕️ Campsites like Ruinsara Tal & Kyarkoti
Camp beside glacier-fed lakes and under starlit skies surrounded by mighty peaks.

🧗‍♂️ Intro to Technical Mountaineering
Traverse glaciers, crevasses, and 60° snow slopes with full alpine gear and rope techniques.

🏔️ Spectacular Summit Views
Catch panoramic vistas of Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, Gangotri peaks, and the upper Tons Valley.

🛕 Cultural Flavors of Sankri & Osla
Explore traditional wooden villages and immerse yourself in the customs of the Tons Valley.

📆 17-Day Comprehensive Expedition
Includes buffer days, technical training, acclimatization, and guided summit attempt.

🧭 Led by Certified & Experienced Sherpas and Guides
Safety-first approach with proper support, equipment, and medical backup.

This expedition offers a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness, making it a memorable experience for trekking enthusiasts.​

🏕️ Essential Mountaineering Gear Checklist

Clothing – Layer Up Wisely

• Base layers (thermal innerwear – top & bottom)

• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic for sub-zero temps)

• Fleece jacket or softshell

• Waterproof windcheater or hardshell jacket

• Waterproof pants or rain pants

• Trekking pants (2–3 pairs)

• Quick-dry t-shirts or shirts (2–3)

• Innerwear (thermal & regular)

• Insulated gloves (waterproof)

• Fleece or liner gloves for layering

• Woolen cap or balaclava

• Neck gaiter or buff

• Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat

• Trekking socks (4–5 pairs)

• Woolen socks (2 pairs for cold nights)

Footwear

• Trekking shoes (high-ankle, waterproof)

• Snow boots (Scarpa or equivalent – often provided by organizers)

• Camp sandals or crocs for evenings

• Gaiters (to keep snow and debris out – usually provided)

Bags & Packs

• Backpack (50–65L) with rain cover

• Daypack (20–30L) for summit day

• Duffel bag or rucksack (for mule load)

• Dry bags or plastic ziplocks for waterproofing

Mountaineering & Technical Gear (mostly provided)

• Crampons

• Ice axe

• Climbing rope

• Carabiners and harness

• Helmet

• Snow goggles

• Gaiters

• Ascender or descender if needed

Camping Essentials

• Sleeping bag (rated for -15°C to -20°C) – usually provided

• Sleeping mat or foam pad

• Headlamp with extra batteries

• Trekking poles

• Water bottles (total 2L capacity) or thermos

• Mug and lunchbox

• Power bank

• Sunglasses (UV-protected, category 3 or 4)

Toiletries & Personal Hygiene

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap

• Tissue roll and wet wipes

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm

• Hand sanitizer and face towel

• Menstrual hygiene products (if applicable)

Medicines & Personal Care

• Personal medications

• Diamox (for AMS – only with doctor’s advice)

• Paracetamol or painkillers

• Broad-spectrum antibiotics

• Band-aids or blister patches

• ORS or electrolyte sachets

• Muscle relaxant spray like Volini

• Altitude sickness tablets

Documents & Miscellaneous

• Valid ID proof (original and photocopy)

• Medical certificate (if required)

• Passport size photos (2–3)

• Some cash (ATMs may not be available)

• Notebook and pen

✅ Pro Tip: Pack light but smart. Stick to essentials, keep your backpack waterproof, and test your gear before the expedition.

Train your lungs, legs, and mind – all three matter equally.

🏋️‍♂️ Extended Fitness Tips for High-Altitude Mountaineering:

1. Build Endurance Over Speed:
You’re not training for a sprint; you’re preparing for a long-duration challenge. Go for long, slow hikes with a backpack (gradually increase weight). Weekend treks are excellent real-time simulators.

2. Train with a Backpack:
Start adding 5–10 kg weight in your backpack during your stair climbs or trail hikes to mimic the actual load you’ll carry during the expedition.

3. Strengthen Your Ankles & Knees:
Do step-ups, box jumps, and single-leg balances to reduce the risk of injury. Downhill walks strain knees—practice them intentionally.

4. Flexibility & Mobility:
Add yoga and dynamic stretching to your regime. A flexible body handles terrain variations better and helps avoid cramps or joint stiffness.

5. Altitude Acclimatization Strategy:
Get used to climbing high, sleeping low. If you live in the plains, consider weekend hikes at moderate altitudes (2,000m–3,000m).

6. Improve Recovery Time:
Monitor how fast your heart rate returns to normal post-exercise. Better recovery = better adaptation at altitude. Try interval training (HIIT or hill sprints once or twice a week).

7. Mental Conditioning:
Mountaineering tests your grit. Practice meditation, cold showers, solo walks in nature—anything that builds patience and tolerance in tough conditions.

8. Nutrition Discipline:
Eat clean. Focus on complex carbs, good fats, and protein. Hydrate constantly. Add electrolytes to your water when training hard or sweating a lot.

9. Simulate Trek Days:
Try doing back-to-back long hikes over weekends. It mimics multiple trekking days and builds resilience.

10. Sleep Hygiene:
Altitude can mess with sleep. Get into a regular sleep cycle now, and train your body to rest and recover even after late-night activities.

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