“Something hidden, go and find it, go and look behind the ranges.” -R.Kipling
- Most Indians will probably assume it’s a joke and shake their heads in disbelief. But are you aware of the fact that you can take part in this spine-tingling adventure sport right in your country?
- Most of us have not even envisioned the gorgeousness of the ice-capped peaks of the Himalayas and are entirely bemused by its beauty. In such a case ice climbing is something that sounds attractive as well as mystifying to us.
- Yes, ice climbing is something that is gaining immense popularity gradually and people are continuously searching for the best ice climbing spots in India. But it isn’t that easy. Mountaineering or rock climbing in summer is one thing, but when the environment is icy and blood-curdling cold and the peaks are slippery and dangerous? Ice climbing indeed requires a fit and healthy mind and body and a lot of courage. Don’t forget balance is the ultimate key when it comes to this sport.
- Don’t worry! There are a lot of institutes that can teach you ice climbing and if you are a mountaineer yourself, it won’t be a problem for you! Let’s get into some of the best ice climbing spots in India now.
- Kashmir is an enchanting place when it comes to the adventure sport of India. With the places as pretty as a picture, Kashmir is home to many ice climbing spots in India.
Pahalgam is a popular tourist spot in Kashmir, well-renowned for its snow-clad mountains and numerous winter sports like skiing, sledding, and many more. But did you know it is an iconic ice climbing spot too?
Kashmir Tourism organizes day- ice climbing events in Chandanwari. You can even go mountaineering or glacier trekking. The 60-feet ice-fall at Phrislan in Chandanwari acts like the mecca for the ice climbing enthusiasts all over the world and is definitely for the weak-hearted folks.
They are training the young generations and hope that someday this will be a regular sport among the new generation.
Several other spots in Kashmir are not easily accessible but welcome the skilful mountaineers with open arms.
Are you an amateur when it comes to ice climbing but wants to try out your hand at this adventure sport? Sonmarg is one of the best spots for beginners who want to try the sport at least once in their lives.
Thajiwas glacier is the most iconic spot of Kashmir and tourists from all around the world flock to this destination to try out their luck here. Located two hours away from the capital city of Srinagar, Sonmarg is quite an enthralling location and backpackers acknowledge this spot as the ‘Jannat of India’.
Don’t forget to try out the Rogan Josh and boiling rice after a tough day of battling with the mountains.
Apart from being the highest mountain of the Jammu and Kashmir region, Kolahoi is indeed a mountaineer’s paradise. Rising from the Kolahoi glaciers, this snow-covered alpine peak is accessible both from Aru in Pahalgam as well as Sonmarg. But experienced trekkers advise starting from Aru. The mesmerizing view of the Lidder river which originated from the Kolahoi glacier is sure to melt your heart.
Though an incredibly difficult spot, Kolahoi will not make you regret it in any way.
The various peaks of the Pir Panjal Range make the best locations for your ice climbing trip. Named as Panchaladeva, the mystical peaks provide vast opportunities for trekking, skiing, mountaineering, and ice climbing.
Though it is not for beginners, fresh air, warm sunlight on ice, and views of our very own Swiss Alps never hurt anyone!
A couple of months back, Kieren D’Souza, a well-known mountaineer, tackled the Friendship Peak of Pir Panjal Range in just 12 hours. Want to try and beat him at his own game? Look into this spot during your next adventurous trip!
Being full of greenschist boulders and ice formations, Leh Ladakh is another iconic destination for ice climbing in India.
Many of you who have experienced the majestic Leh-Ladakh, have gone through the Chadar Trek before but have you heard of the Zanskar gorge? This magnificent spot provides ice climbing trips for both beginners as well as experienced climbers.
After taking a flight to Leh, drive through Chilling and then trek Tilad Do till the first waterfall. From then on you can start ice climbing!
This incredible ice climbing spot gets a lot of snow during the winter months. This triangular behemoth provides dramatic scenic beauty and lies near Kargil.
This valley in Ladakh is a bit offset and can be considered a hidden gem located in the bosom of North India. The scanty snowfall and perfect ice formations provide immense spots for ice climbing.
Now we are going to talk a bit about the frozen waterfall of Spiti Valley. This can be called the most famous ice climbing spot of India and it was for this that India made a name in the book of best ice climbing spots of the world.
A frozen waterfall in India- Spiti Valley is the place where magic comes to reality and nature is worshipped here. Though there are many frozen waterfalls in Spiti Valley, you need to choose a few.
But to explore those, you have to reach Kaza initially and then you will experience the enchanting powered snow while walking in almost -30˚C. This is an extremely remote location and if you want to enjoy the tranquillity of nature- Spiti is perfect.
Apart from being India’s highest peak, Nanda Devi is considered to be sacred too.
But for adventurers, this pristine peak rising from a gorgeous meadow provides the most beautiful spot for ice climbing.
This attracted so many trekkers in its early days, that it was even banned from visiting for a long time. But thank god, the place is open for tourists again and you can enjoy the beauty of this place to your heart’s content.
Are you from the North-East and tired of noticing that every peak belongs to North India? Don’t worry, we have something for you too!
Home to a plethora of sky-high peaks- Sikkim has one of the best ice climbing spots as well. Lush green forests, pristine Alpine beauty, Rhododendron fields are something that can awaken the adventurer soul in anyone. Though trekking trails are challenging, you need to have a zeal for ice climbing in Sikkim.
Also renowned around the world of the Matterhorn of India, Frey Peak is a must-visit spot for all you adrenaline junkies out there. The natural beauty is undulant here and provides breath-taking views of Rathong glacier and Kokthang as well.
Please note that this spot can be fairly difficult for beginners. It is located in the Chauringang region of West Sikkim.
Mt. Jopuno attracts tourists from all over the world to come to try out their luck. It has some of the most striking views and wonderful ambience as well. Another spot in West Sikkim, Jopuno is just adjacent to Mt. Tenchenkhang which is an excellent spot for mountaineering.
These were some of the best ice climbing spots in India according to us. Equip yourself with protective gear, take a skilled guide if you must, and learn about the basic tricks and techniques of ice climbing. You might as well start planning for your next trip from today onwards!
