Ice Climbing

What is Ice climbing ?

Does the thought of chipping away at towering walls of ice in subzero temperatures excite you? On an ice climbing holiday, the challenges ahead of you can range from the mundane (a frozen, red nose) to the mind-boggling (avalanches and snowstorms). Ice climbing is an offshoot of mountaineering, with climbers using the same basic equipment, techniques and safety measures, yet with a few more tools to help them scale vertical sheets of ice.

To be an ice climber, you need training, experience, control and good judgement. You also need special tools such as crampons, ice axes and ice screws. An ice climber digs the front points of his crampon into the ice. He rests his body weight on the crampon and swings his axe up. Once the axe is lodged firmly in the ice above him, he repeats this entire exercise and takes step after careful step.

Where to go ?

The Himalayas throw up every kind of challenge that a climber could ask for. In Uttaranchal and Manali in Himachal Pradesh are the hot spots. Zanskar, Ladakh and Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir, Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba, Pir Pangal range, Dhauladhar ranges and Manali in Himachal Pradesh are other popular destinations.

What you need to know ?

As a sport, ice climbing is still evolving in India. When ice climbing, let your guide decide the route and allow him to initiate you. Balance, focus and the right technique go a long way in making you a good ice climber.

Ice climbing is recognised by the Union Internationale Des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA) which conducts annual climbing competitions. (www.uiaa.ch).

What you must carry ?

You will need ice tools and mountaineering boots. Ice tools should have reverse curve sharp picks, wrist loops and hammer attachments. Mountaineering boots should be suitable for winter climbing. Wear non-cotton garments that are waterproof and offer insulation. Include three layers of insulation for your upper body, a synthetic parka, and two layers for your lower body. Gloves, mittens, hat, sunscreen, goggles, gaiters and extra woollen or synthetic socks are very important. Carry water in insulated bottles. Avalanche beacons, shovels, crampons, long ice axes, helmets, harnesses and ropes should be part of your gear.

Ice climbing : Do's and Don'ts