Shetidhar Peak(17060 feet)
The Shetildhar Peak Expedition typically refers to climbing the Shetildhar peak (approximately 5,200 meters/17,060 feet) located in Himachal Pradesh, India. Trekkers often undertake this challenging expedition due to its relatively accessible location and stunning panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range. The climb involves navigating steep ascents, rocky terrain, and potentially snow-covered areas, requiring a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization. Organized expeditions usually provide experienced guides, necessary equipment, and logistical support for a safe and successful climb.
Itinerary (9 Nights / 10 Days)
#### Day 1: Arrive in Manali
- *Altitude:* ~2,050 meters (6,726 feet)
- *Activities:* Arrive in Manali via road (e.g., overnight bus from Delhi) or other transport. Check into a hotel or guesthouse. Meet the expedition team for an orientation and briefing session. Complete paperwork, gear checks, and last-minute shopping for essentials. Rest and acclimatize to the altitude.
- *Overnight:* Hotel/guesthouse in Manali.
#### Day 2: Manali to Dhundi to Bakar-thach
- *Altitude:* Dhundi (~2,800 meters / 9,186 feet) to Bakar-thach (~3,260 meters / 10,695 feet)
- *Activities:* Drive from Manali to Dhundi (approx. 20 km, 1–1.5 hours). Begin the trek to Bakarthach (also spelled Bakkar Thach), a scenic meadow campsite (3–4 km, 4–5 hours). The trail passes through forests and offers views of surrounding peaks.
- *Overnight:* Tents at Bakarthach.
#### Day 3: Bakarthach to Beas Kund / Lady Leg (Base Camp)
- *Altitude:* ~3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
- *Activities:* Trek from Bakarthach to the base camp near Beas Kund or Lady Leg (4–5 km, 6–8 hours). The route involves crossing meadows, moraines, and possibly streams, with views of the Beas Kund glacier and nearby peaks like Hanuman Tibba.
- *Overnight:* Tents at base camp.
#### Day 4: Rest and Acclimatization at Base Camp
- *Altitude:* ~3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
- *Activities:* Rest day to acclimatize to the altitude. Training session with guides on using mountaineering gear (crampons, ropes, ice axes) and techniques for the summit climb. Short acclimatization walk if energy permits.
- *Overnight:* Tents at base camp.
#### Day 5: Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (ABC)
- *Altitude:* ~4,300 meters (14,108 feet)
- *Activities:* Trek to Advanced Base Camp (5–6 km, 5–6 hours). The trail becomes steeper, crossing snowfields and rocky terrain. Set up camp and prepare for the summit push.
- *Overnight:* Tents at ABC.
#### Day 6: Summit Attempt – Shetidhar Peak and Return to Base Camp
- *Altitude:* Summit at ~5,250 meters (17,224 feet), return to ~3,900 meters
- *Activities:* Early start (around 1–2 AM) for the summit bid (10–14 hours round trip, ~12 km). Climb involves steep snow slopes, possible crevasses, and rope work. Reach the summit for panoramic views of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, including peaks like Deo Tibba and Indrasan. Descend to base camp (Lady Leg or Beas Kund) after summiting.
- *Overnight:* Tents at base camp.
#### Day 7: Reserve Day for Summit Attempt
- *Activities:* A buffer day for the summit attempt in case of bad weather or fatigue on Day 6. If the summit was successful on Day 6, use this day for rest or exploration around base camp. Alternatively, descend to Bakarthach if the schedule allows.
- *Overnight:* Tents at base camp or Bakarthach.
#### Day 8: Base Camp to Bakarthach
- *Altitude:* ~3,260 meters (10,695 feet)
- *Activities:* Trek back from base camp to Bakarthach (4–5 hours). Enjoy the descent through familiar terrain, reflecting on the expedition.
- *Overnight:* Tents at Bakarthach.
#### Day 9: Bakarthach to Dhundi to Manali
- *Altitude:* Return to ~2,050 meters (6,726 feet)
- *Activities:* Trek from Bakarthach to Dhundi (2–3 hours), then drive back to Manali (1–1.5 hours). Check into a hotel, relax, and celebrate the expedition with the team. Optional local sightseeing or shopping in Manali.
- *Overnight:* Hotel/guesthouse in Manali.
#### Day 10: Depart from Manali
- *Activities:* After breakfast, depart Manali for your next destination (e.g., overnight bus to Delhi or other travel arrangements). Expedition concludes.
### Key Notes
- *Best Season:* May to October (pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods offer stable weather and manageable snow conditions).
- *Difficulty:* Moderate to challenging; requires basic mountaineering skills and good physical fitness.
- *Gear:* Provided by operators typically includes tents, meals, and group climbing equipment (ropes, pitons). Personal gear like crampons, ice axes, and clothing may need to be rented or brought.
- *Permits:* No Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) clearance is required, but forest and camping permits are arranged by the expedition team.
- *Altitude Gain:* Gradual ascent from 2,050 meters to 5,250 meters, with proper acclimatization built into the schedule.
This itinerary provides a balanced approach to climbing Shetidhar Peak, ensuring safety and enjoyment. For a tailored plan, consult a reputable mountaineering operator, as they may adjust days or camps based on real-time conditions and group needs. Let me know if you'd like more details!