Yunam Peak: Conquer the Heights and surpass 20,000 Feet!

Imagine standing triumphantly on top of a 20,000 ft/6000 m summit in the majestic Himalayas – the sheer self-satisfaction is beyond words. Yunam Peak expedition is your gateway to testing your mettle at high altitudes, an ideal venture if you are contemplating the thrilling world of mountaineering.

Why Yunam Peak Summit?

Trekking and hiking have gained immense popularity in India over the past decade. As enthusiasts progress, the aspiration to conquer summits at unparalleled altitudes grows. Yunam Peak stands tall at 6100 m, a remarkable “Non-technical trekking summit” exceeding 20,000 ft. Here’s why it should be on your checklist:

• Location Marvels: Yunam is nestled just off the Manali-Leh highway, beyond Barlacha La. Positioned in the Zanskar range within Trans-Himalayas, it offers breathtaking views of Lahoul, Spiti, Chandra-Bhaga peaks, Mulkila range, and the Zanskar range.
• Acclimatization Assurance: With proper acclimatization before the summit push, Yunam ensures your safety. The itinerary includes essential height gain and acclimatization stops at Vashisht, Keylong, Zing Zing Bar, and Bharatpur.
• Unique Perspective: As you ascend Yunam, you’ll witness Lahoul and Spiti to the south, Zanskar to the east, and the Great Himalaya to the north. A visual feast for those who dare to rise above.

Yunam Expedition – Prerequisites:

To embark on this high-altitude adventure, trekkers should have:

1. Completed at least 3 high-altitude treks above ~ 4500 m/15000 ft.
2. Tackled at least one Difficult grade trek reaching beyond 5000 m/16500 ft (e.g., Pin Parvati Pass, Ronti Saddle, Parang La, etc.).
3. Excellent physical condition with no prior acclimatization issues at high altitudes.

Brief Itinerary for Yunam Peak Expedition:

• Day 1: Reach Manali in the morning – Walk 3 Km uphill to Vashisht (2050 m) – 1-hour Lodge accommodation.
• Day 2: Drive to Keylong (3100 m) – 115 Km – 5 hours – Lodge. Afternoon climb to the monastery.
• Day 3: Drive to Zing Zing Bar (4200 m) – 55 Km – 2 hours. Camp. Height gain up to 4500 m and back, 3/4 hours.
• Day 4: Drive to Bharatpur base camp (4700 m) via Barlacha La – 30 Km – 2 hours – Walk to the camping ground 30 mins. Camp
• Day 5: Rest and active acclimatization day, height gain up to 5200 m and back. 4/5 hours.
• Day 6: Climb and set up Summit camp (5300 m) – 4 hours
• Day 7: Early morning (by 2 am) start ascending Yunam peak (6100 m) – 7/8 hours – summit – descent to Bharatpur camp – 5 hours. Total 12 to 14 hours. Camp
• Day 8: Drive back to Manali – 200 Km via Keylong and Rohtang – 8/9 hours.
• Day 9: Mandatory Buffer/Reserve Day (will be utilized if needed).

Note:

• You must reach Manali on Day 1 by 10 am. Arrange your return bus tickets from Manali to Delhi/Chandigarh on Day 9 evening after 7 pm.
• The cost of the mandatory buffer/reserve Day 9 is NOT included in the TREK FEE. If utilized during trekking, an additional ₹3000 will be collected in Manali after the trek.

Best Time for Yunam Peak Expedition:

Situated north of the “Barlacha La” pass in the Zanskar range, Yunam is rain and monsoon-free. Optimal months are July to September, with early July having more snow and late September being colder.

Reaching Vashisht, Manali (Expedition Base):

The expedition base is Vashisht, 3 km uphill from Manali. Auto-rickshaws or a one-hour walk will take you to Vashisht, home to the famous Vashisht temple.

Manali is well-connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. Buses, including regular, luxury, and Volvo, operated by government and private agencies, offer services from Delhi and Chandigarh to Manali.

1. From Delhi: Volvo and regular buses start in the afternoon and evening, taking up to 13/14 hours.
2. From Chandigarh: Regular bus services start early morning till 6 am, covering around 320 km.
3. Return Journey: Overnight buses from Manali to Delhi, including Volvo services, reach in 13/14 hours. The last Volvo service is around 6:30 pm, and the last regular bus by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) starts from Manali at 9:30 p.m.

Embark on the Yunam Peak expedition and elevate yourself to new heights. It’s not just a trek; it’s a journey of self-discovery and triumph. Great Himalayan Vacations welcomes you to a thrilling adventure where every step takes you closer to the skies.