The Peaks of Himachal

The Himalayas have been an object of reverence, mystery, awe and wonder right from the Vedic period. Himalaya is very well depicted in the epic like Puranas. In its praise, the Sikand Purana says, “He who thinks of Himalaya, though he may not behold it, is greater than who performs worship in Kashi and he shall have pardon for all his sins. Those beings who, while dying, think of its snows are freed from their sins.” It further quotes “In hundred ages of God, I could not tell thee of the glories of Himalayas, as the dew is dried up by the morning sun, so are the sins of mankind by the sight of it”.

There are a number of peaks in this region, which are very tempting and attract the novice mountaineers to scale them and learn the art of climbing. These peaks are of alpine nature and ascents can be suitably planned in less time and with low budget. The heights of these peaks vary between 4500 m to 5000 m. This mighty range has vast trekking, mountaineering and skiing potential. It is known for its unspoiled, unexplored, unfrequented and improvised treks. Some of the peaks in this region have been identified and scaled by Britons, since 1924.

These peaks are the Moon (4610m) to the north of Dharamshala, Kailash (5656 m), in the Manimahesh region, Christmas (4581m) and Toral (4386 m) above Khaniyara, Dhauladhar Matterhorn or Gaurijunda near Talang pass Lantern (4950 m) near Thamsar Pass, Slab (4496 m) near Indrahara Pass, Dromedary (4553 m) between Bhimghasutri and Gag Pass and Riflehorn(4400 m) above Nag Chhatri Dal.

In addition to these, the region has a few small and unnamed virgin peaks. They offer an opportunity for the amateur mountaineers, experienced trekkers and beginners to visit the unfrequented areas and open new vistas for adventure. One has the choice to taste the climbing in different seasons i.e. summer, post summer and winter months. Winter mountaineering is becoming more and more popular among foreign trekkers.