Friendship Peak Expedition – Organized by The Travel Vogue
Overview
- Location: Pir Panjal Range, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Duration: 8 Days
- Starting Point: Manali
- Ending Point: Manali
- Maximum Altitude: 5,289 meters (17,352 feet)
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Hard
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Expedition Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Manali (2,050m) - Acclimatization & Preparation
- Arrival in Manali via road or air. Transfer to designated hotel.
- Expedition briefing covering safety, itinerary, and equipment checks.
- Light acclimatization walk and rest before the trek.
Day 2: Manali to Dhundi (3,140m) to Bakarthach (3,300m) - Trek Initiation
- Drive from Manali to Dhundi, the trek starting point.
- Trek to Bakarthach through meadows and streams (~3-4 hours).
- Overnight stay at campsite in Bakarthach.
Day 3: Bakarthach to Lady Leg Base Camp (3,900m)
- Trek to base camp with gradual altitude gain (~4-5 hours).
- Camp setup and acclimatization activities.
- Briefing on mountaineering techniques and safety protocols.
Day 4: Acclimatization and Load Ferry
- Skill training: crampon use, ice axe techniques, and rope work.
- Load ferry to a higher camp to ease summit day logistics.
- Medical checkup and final briefing before summit push.
Day 5: Lady Leg to Summit Camp (4,000-4,400m)
- Gradual ascent to Summit Camp, setting up tents and preparing gear.
- Hydration, rest, and early sleep before summit attempt.
Day 6: Summit Day – Friendship Peak (5,289m) & Return to Base Camp
- Early morning summit push (starting around 2-3 AM).
- Challenging ascent through snow, glaciers, and steep inclines.
- Reach the summit, enjoy breathtaking Himalayan views, and celebrate.
- Long descent back to Base Camp for well-deserved rest.
Day 7: Base Camp to Dhundi & Drive to Manali
- Trek back to Dhundi, then drive to Manali.
- Expedition debriefing, followed by a celebration dinner.
Day 8: Departure from Manali
- Morning checkout and departure from Manali.
Inclusions
- Accommodation in tents/hotels on twin/triple sharing basis.
- All vegetarian meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast.
- Experienced mountaineering guides and support staff.
- Trekking and camping permits.
- Technical gear: ropes, ice axes, crampons, and harnesses.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
Exclusions
- Personal expenses.
- Travel to and from Manali.
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, clothing, backpack).
- Insurance and emergency evacuation costs.
- Porter services (available at extra cost).
Essential Gear List
- Clothing: Thermals, fleece jackets, windproof outerwear, gloves, and trek pants.
- Footwear: High-quality trekking boots with ankle support.
- Gear: Backpack (50L), trekking poles, sunglasses, headlamp.
- Health & Hygiene: Personal medications, sunscreen, hydration packs.
Important Notes
- Fitness: Prior high-altitude trekking experience and endurance training recommended.
- Weather Considerations: The summit attempt depends on weather conditions.
- Safety First: Our team ensures proper acclimatization and risk management.
- Eco-conscious Trekking: Leave No Trace principles are strictly followed.