Pakistan Mountain News

26/11/2023

Shehri Pakistan and UNESCO Pakistan are bringing a wonderful series on Pakistani Cultural Heritage at the Pakistan Learning Festival at Pak-China Friendship Center, Islamabad, on the 26th of Novermber.

25/11/2023

پریس ریلیز
محکمہ سیاحت، گلگت بلتستان

گلگت : محکمہ سیاحت گلگت بلتستان نے کوہ پیمائی کی مد میں وصول کی جانے والی رقوم اور اس سے متعلق اعداد شمار کے حوالے سے سوشل میڈیا پر گردش کرنے والی خبروں اور تجزیوں کی تردید کرتے ہوے وضاحت کی ہے کہ محکمہ سیاحت گلگت بلتستان ہی کوہ پیمائی اور ٹریکنگ کے لئے آنے والے قومی اور غیر ملکی کوہ پیماوں کو پرمٹ جاری کرتا ہے اور ان کوہ پیماوں اور سیاحوں سے رائیلٹی فیس اور ماحولیاتی فیس جمع کرنے کے بعد پرمٹ کا اجرا کرتا ہے، اور یہ رقم وفاقی حکومت نہیں بلکہ صوبائی حکومت کے خزانے میں براہ راست جمع ہوتی ھے۔

سال 2023 میں محکمہ سیاحت گلگت بلتستان نے 631 غیر ملکی کوہ پیماؤں اور 21 ملکی کوہ پیماؤں کو گلگت بلتستان میں موجود پہاڑوں کے لئے پرمٹس جاری کیے۔ اس کے علاوہ 1336غیر ملکی ٹریکرز اور 163 ملکی ٹریکرز کو ٹریکنگ پرمٹس جاری کیے۔ان کوہ پیماؤں اور ٹریکرز سے مجموعی طور پر چالیس کروڑ اٹھارہ لاکھ پاکستانی روپے وصول کئے گئے، جس میں سے بتیس کروڑ گیارہ لاکھ ستاسی ہزار دو سو سینتالیس (321187247) پاکستانی روپے رائیلٹی فیس کی مد میں اور آٹھ کروڑ انیس لاکھ باون ہزار سات سو پینسٹھ (81952765) ماحولیاتی فیس کی مد میں سینٹرل قراقرم نیشنل پارک کے اکاونٹ میں جمع ہوے ھے۔

واضح رھے رائیلٹی فیس 1999 کے مونٹنیرنگ اور ٹریکنگ رول کے مطابق 7 ممبران پر مشتمل ایک گروپ سے اس دن کے ڈالر ریٹ کے مطابق وصول کی جاتی ھے۔ مزید یہ کہ کے ٹو کی رائیلٹی فیس 12000 ڈالر سات ممبران کے گروپ کے لیے اسی دن کے ڈالر کے مساوی ریٹ کے مطابق جمع کی جاتی ھے نہ کہ ایک فرد سے۔ یوں فی کس فیس 1714 ڈالر ہے نہ کہ 12000ڈالر۔

محکہ سیاحت گلگت بلتستان سوشل میڈیا میں چلنے والی بے بنیاد اعداد شمار پر مبنی گمراہ کن خبر کی سختی سے نہ صرف تردید کرتا ہے بلکہ ایسی بے بنیاد اور من گھڑت افواہ پھیلانے والوں کے خلاف متلعقہ قوانین کے تحت قانونی کاروائی کیلئے مجاز اداروں سے رابطہ کریگا۔

24/11/2023

The 101 National Congress of will be held in Rome, Italy to identify shared strategies for the future of moutain territories. The theme of the event is "Mountain in the era of Climate Change".

22/11/2023

Spectacular view of Altit Fort Hunza

Picture by: Ali Noori photography

20/11/2023

Balti culture stands out for its exceptional uniqueness. It is a captivating fusion of Tibetan, Central Asian, and Kashmiri influences, forming a distinct cultural identity. The language, music, and traditional attire of Baltistan distinguish it from other regions. The awe-inspiring landscapes and the profound sense of community further contribute to the exceptional nature of Balti culture. It is a rich tapestry woven with traditions, art, and customs that render it truly special.

Wishing everyone a Happy Balti Cultural Day!

17/11/2023

National Olive Expo, Islamabad

16/11/2023

Ecological Baseline Survey Report of Tharparker Launched

IUCN-Pakistan) in its report on Tharparkar’s natural ecosystem underscored the need for the establishment of a conservation program for critically endangered plant species, including the development of a seed bank and the promotion of sustainable harvesting practices.
The report also indicated the need for implementation of a community-based conservation program for the threatened animal and plant species, including awareness-raising campaigns and the development of alternative livelihoods for local communities.
The survey discovered 149 plant species in the area, including some previously unknown to the region while the survey documented a total 205 bird species, 41 mammal species, 31 reptile and amphibian species, and 1065 invertebrate species in the region.
The documented species were also assessed against the IUCN Red List of threatened flora and fauna and found 3 birds and 1 plant species to be critically endangered, 2 birds and 1 plant species to be endangered, 6 birds vulnerable, 10 birds, and 1 mammal and 1 reptile to be near threatened.

16/11/2023

The Diamer Basha Dam is set to reach a significant milestone as the flow of the River Indus will be redirected for the project by the end of this month. The dam, slated for completion in 2028, aims to store 8.1 million acre-feet of water and generate 4500 megawatts of clean, green, and affordable electricity.
Source: WAPDA

15/11/2023

IWMB inaugurated the Margallah Ridge Trail on 4th November 2023, accessible from Talhar Mor on Daman E Koh Road. This mountaintop trail extends all the way to Ghora Gali (44 km), but for now, IWMB has inaugurated the section from Talhar Mor to Kot Jandan (10 km). The trail offers a delightful experience with scenic views of the capital city and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa!


Pictures by IWMB FB

15/11/2023

21st Kraków Mountain Festival,
Saturday, December 2, 2023 - Sunday, December 3, 2023

Do you have a passion for exploration, experimentation, hiking, and travel? We have fantastic news for you! Embark on a celebration of mountains and the individuals united by their curiosity about the world and the drive to push boundaries.
The Krakow Mountain Festival stands as one of the most significant mountain culture and sports events in Poland. The concept of this film festival was conceived two decades ago, and today, the Krakow event proudly ranks among the largest festivals of its kind in Poland and Europe.
Visit Krakow Mountain Festival to experience an incredible array of events. The festival has grown to become one of the premier events in Poland and Europe. This edition promises exceptional guests, captivating lectures, engaging workshops, and a thrilling film competition.
Renowned specialists from various climbing disciplines will grace the event in Krakow, offering a diverse range of insights from rock climbing to conquering eight-thousanders. Hear inspiring stories from outstanding personalities, including Chris Sharma, Edu Marin, Seb Berthe, Klaas Willems, Bartek Ziemski, Oswald Rodrigo Pereira, Wadim Jabłoński, Marcin Kimel, Adam Bielecki, Krzysztof Wielicki, Leszek Cichy, Marcin Tomaszewski, Paweł Hałdaś, Jasiek Gurba, Mariusz Hatala, Dorota Rasińska-Samoćko, Józek Soszyński, and even a representative of the Ski Bums generation - John Hunt.

14/11/2023

Leszek Cichy, Climber

Today, on November 14th, 1951, the renowned Polish climber Leszek Cichy was born. Cichy is a distinguished Polish mountaineer celebrated for his remarkable achievements on Everest and Gasherbrum II.
In collaboration with fellow climbers, Cichy achieved the conquest of Gasherbrum II (8035m) in 1975, thereby becoming one of first Poles to stand atop the main peak of G-II. Situated in the Karakoram mountain range within the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, this ascent stands as a testament to Cichy's prowess in high-altitude climbing.
One of Cichy's most notable feats was his participation in the first successful winter ascent of Mount Everest. This historic accomplishment marked the inaugural instance of any team successfully reaching the summit of Mount Everest during the formidable winter season. Cichy's invaluable contribution to this expedition is widely acknowledged and revered within the global mountaineering community.

Photo: Wikipedia

14/11/2023

landmark achievement of the approval of management and operational plans of CKNP, DNP and Wildlife Connectivity Corridor between Himalayan and Karakoram Ranges.
The approval of the Management and Operational Plans of Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP), Deosai National Park (DNP) and Wildlife Connectivity Corridor between Himalayan and Karakoram Ranges by the government of Gilgit Baltistan at its forum Wildlife Management Board (WLMB) chaired by the Chief Secretary GB is a landmark achievement towards the improved conservation and employing environment friendly management practices of the national parks in GB. This momentous accomplishment has been possible with the support from the Italian government under its initiatives for conservation of environment in Gilgit-Baltistan provided through AICS Pakistan executed through UNDP and implemented by EvK2CNR.
Protected areas require management and operational plans because they provide a framework for habitat protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource use. These plans enable effective wildlife monitoring, ecotourism through visitors’ management, and community engagement. It also formulates a robust mechanism of the waste management challenges underlying the responsibilities of all stakeholders visiting the fragile mountain, glacier, wetland and forest ecosystems. By addressing challenges such as climate change adaptation and illegal activities, they contribute to the long-term vision and collaborative efforts needed to ensure the sustainable health of protected areas.
EV-K2-CNR in collaboration with government institutions, community organizations have developed these operational and management plans which aims at the conservation of fragile of ecosystems in national parks and GB at large. This also included the formulation of the first ever management plan of the biodiversity corridor established between Himalayan and Karakoram ranges in Baltistan. These plans have received official approval from the Government of Gilgit Baltistan through the Wildlife Management Board (WLMP), chaired by the Chief Secretary. The approval was granted on October 6, 2023 which recently been notified.
These management plans can serve as a model for the other protected areas to adopt the practices for the conservation so that the challenges of climate change are addressed.

14/11/2023

KP Pavilion at Lok Mela Festival Islamabad

The Lok Mela, bringing artists and artisans together, succeeded in promoting cultural diversity and preserving centuries-old traditions. The KP Pavilion stood out as a testament to the vibrant cultural identity of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, winning hearts and accolades at the festival.

12/11/2023

The Black Glacier

Hoper Glacier is a glacier located in the Nagar Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is one of the major glaciers in the region and is a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning beauty. The glacier is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, including the Rakaposhi and Diran mountains, which add to its picturesque setting.

The strange thing about the H-Glacier is its black tone which makes it stand out among the others. The black color is due to the presence of debris or impurities within the ice. The glacier collects rocks, sediments, or other materials as it moves downhill or through valleys, results in a darker appearance, such as a gray or black hue. These impurities come from the surrounding terrain and are carried by the ice as it flows.

Hoper Glacier is fed by the Hoper River, which originates from the Barpu Glacier. The glacier flows down from an elevation of about 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) and stretches for approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) before ending at an altitude of about 2,900 meters (9,500 feet).

Aside from its breathtaking scenery, Hoper Glacier offers various recreational activities for adventurous tourists. Visitors can engage in trekking and hiking expeditions to explore the surrounding valleys and peaks. Additionally, the glacier is a gateway to the mesmerizing Rakaposhi Base Camp, which provides a thrilling trek for mountaineering enthusiasts.

Let's have a view of the black giant

10/11/2023

8th Edition of TDCP Thal Desert Rally 2023 inaugurated

In an exciting turn of events, the 8th Thal Desert Jeep Rally, organized by the Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) commenced as a total of 86 racers completed their registration for the four-day rally.
Racing enthusiasts and adventure-seekers are in for a treat, as this event guarantees an excellent refreshing experience with a challenging 200-km track in Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, and Layyah districts. It's a test of skills for both seasoned male and female jeep racers, who are hailing from various corners of the country.
Renowned names in the racing circuit, such as Nadir Magsi, Salma and Tishna Patel, will display their exceptional talents on November 9, showcasing their skills in the exciting competition.
Video by TDCP

09/11/2023

Fall in Nagar, Fall in Love

Nagar Valley is a stunning region located in the Gilgit-Baltistan province of Pakistan. It is known for its exceptional natural beauty and is often referred to as the "Paradise of Gilgit-Baltistan." In fall, Nagar Valley transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant colors, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.

During autumn, the foliage in Nagar Valley changes its hues, showcasing a spectacular blend of red, orange, yellow, and golden colors. The valley is surrounded by towering mountains, which further enhance the beauty of the landscape.

One of the most prominent attractions in Nagar Valley during the fall season is the Hunza River, which flows through the valley. The crystal-clear waters of the river, coupled with the colorful trees and mountains, create a mesmerizing sight.

Exploring the Nagar Valley in the fall season allows you to witness nature's artistry at its best. The stunning colors and scenic landscapes make it a truly remarkable destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Nagar.

09/11/2023

WTM London 2023 Concludes
Three days long World Travel Market (WTM), one of the premier global festivals of tourism, has concluded in London on 8th November, 2023. , marking a momentous occasion for Pakistan's vibrant tourism sector.
The Federal Government and the Provincial Departments of Tourism have come together to participate in the world's most extensive travel show.
The Pakistan Pavilion at the WTM, presented the richness of the country's tourism, captivated a significant number of tourists, representatives from international travel companies, and social media influencers.
PC: PTDC

08/11/2023

The administrators of Pakistan Mountain News extend a warm Welcome to all our followers. We deeply regret the interruption in our page's updates, but we are pleased to announce that we are back. You can expect the page to be highly active, providing you with all the latest updates from Pakistan's magnificent mountains, its vibrant people, and its rich cultural heritage. We are grateful for your continued support and for staying connected with us. Thank you!
Photo by PMN ( Wild rose enroute to great Baltoro)

09/08/2022

The Savage Mountain.

Yesterday, I flew to K2 basecamp with my friend John Snorri’s family. His incredible wife Lina, his daughter, along with two sisters, braved the journey to Pakistan to heal, to find closure and to ideally bring their beloved John home. While the journey to Pakistan has been a great success, the mission to bring John down from where he rests was not. He remains where I last saw him less than 200m below the summit of K2.

I’ve been very quiet lately. Unable to say the things I want to say. I have obsessively chased the truth and explored almost every layer of this story while coming to terms both with K2 winter and our search expedition last summer with Sajid that my brother Pasang Kaji (PK) Sherpa and I led. The Savage Mountain destroyed me - or perhaps I destroyed myself? The unbecoming of the self that I knew has been the greatest gift. A gift that cost me nearly everything. But alas, I’m on the other side. As much as this has been cathartic for the families, it has also been profoundly healing for me.

We saw 150+ summits on K2 this season which included a long conga line of humans directly under and around the bend from the bottleneck. If one piece of that serac would have released, it would have been fatal for many. They were lucky. Very lucky. And thankfully so. K2 was kind.

It takes courage to walk into the fire. Loss, grief, trauma, fracture of the psyche - it’s a lethal cocktail that is enough to destroy anyone. This family’s bravery has inspired me beyond feeling and words. I’m grateful to be here, to contribute and support them.

As impossible as it’s been, I’m also grateful the Universe placed me here. It’s changed my life forever.

Thank you, Pakistan. Thank you Lina and the Snorri family. 🇮🇸❤️🇵🇰

One love.

03/08/2022

03/08/2022

A wonderful hat-trick
Three beautiful mountains climbed with the style I like
A special "THANKS" to my sponsors and friends
CAMP 1889 - Outdoor
Acerbis Sport
Kayland

Broad Peak - 8051mt
Gasherbrum II - 8035mt
K2 - 8611mt

03/08/2022

Making a record!! Again!! 💪💪

Often People called K2 as a dangerous mountain to climb and a savage mountain among the eight thousanders.
It is not a easy mountain to climb where you find every bigger challenges going higher.
House’s chimney
⬇️
Black pyramid
⬇️
Bottle neck
⬇️
Summit 🏔🏔

I already climbed K2 as fixing team leader before winter in 2021, I felt familiar to this gigantic mountain when I always come over here.
In winter it was all historic to cross all these section to reach on summit but this year I came up with my team member for Elite Exped]] K2 expedition on a job to guide to the summit.
On July 22, 2022 I made my fourth summit with my brother and after heading back to basecamp I already make up mind to go again for testing my limit which was fun though.

On July 28,2022 I reached the summit and got my record of highest number of summit ascent of K2.
I can now proudly input the number 5 for the summit ascent of K2 in my portfolio.

But remind guys! Records are made to be broken!
👀👀👀👏👏👏

I hugely wanna thank to support from my brother Nirmal Purja MBE - NIMSDAI] and my company Elite Exped]], my sister اسماء بنت ثاني ~ Asma Al Thani] , my brother Ant Middleton] and Lola Falana Cosby] .

Supporting sponsors:
Nirmal Purja MBE - NIMSDAI]
Elite Exped]]
اسماء بنت ثاني ~ Asma Al Thani]
Ant Middleton]
Lola Falana Cosby]

30/07/2022

24/05/2021

اسکردو کے قریب واقع خوب صورت 'چندا ویلی' جہاں قدرت نے حسن کے تمام جلوے بکھیرے ہیں۔ سطح سمندر سے 10 ہزار فٹ بلند یہ ہری بھری وادی سیاحوں کی آمد کی منتظر ہے

20/05/2021

کوئٹہ کے قریب کوہ چلتن میں نایاب نسل کے تیندوے کی موجودگی کی تصدیق کی گئی ہے۔ محکمہ جنگلی حیات نے چھ ماہ کی مسلسل کوششوں کے بعد ایک جوڑے کا سراغ لگایا ہے۔
ویڈیو: خیر محمد، بلال احمد

12/05/2021

Congratulations to Young climber Sirbaz Khan on the successful summit of Mount Everest at 6.05am as part of his mission Summit 14*8000ers.

11/05/2021

Yesterday famed Polish Skier and Climber Andrzej Bargiel managed to take advantage of the short weather window together with Jędrek Baranowski and reached the Laila Peak summit. The mountain is exceptional, and even though they did not manage to get down from the very top, it was a piece of skiing adventure for both of them. Additionally, it is the first Polish ascent to Laila Peak! 🇵🇱

11/05/2021

Congratulations to Shehroze Kashif on his Great achievement.
At 5:02 AM today on Tuesday 11 May 2021
Pakistan's youngest climber Shehroze Kashif successfully climbed Mount Everest 8848-m
19-year-old Shehroze Kashif becomes the youngest Pakistani to climb Mount Everest (8849 m) as a part of
SST Expedition 2021.
Hailing from Lahore, Shehroze started climbing at the age of just 11 from 3000m and took his passion to the next stage by reaching 4000 and then 6000 and then to 8000.
His expedition to the Broad Peak (8047m) earned him the title “The Broad Boy” .
Makra Peak (3885m), Age 11
Musa Ka Massalah (4080m), Age 12
Chembra Peak (4600m), Age 12
Minglik Sar Shimshal (6050m), Age 13
K2 Gondogoro La K2 Base Camp (5585m), Age 14
Khurdopin Pass (5890m), Age 15
Broad Peak (8047m), Age 17
Khusar Gang-Alpine Style (6050m), Age 18
Mount Everest ( 8849m), Age 19
Source: Alpine Club of Pakistan

10/05/2021

China will set up a “separation line” on the peak of Mount Everest to avoid possible Covid-19 infections by climbers from virus-hit Nepal, state media reported, after dozens were taken ill from the summit's base camp.

Over 30 sick climbers were evacuated from base camp on the Nepalese side of the world's highest peak in recent weeks as Nepal faces a deadly second wave, raising fears that the virus might ruin a bumper climbing season.

Tibetan authorities told reporters at a press conference they would take the “most stringent epidemic prevention measures” to avoid contact between climbers on the north and south slopes or at the top, reported the official Xinhua news agency.

Mountain guides will set up dividing lines on the summit of the mountain before allowing mountaineers to start the gruelling climb up, the head of the Tibet Mountaineering Association was quoted as saying by Xinhua.