Question 1

If it is 20,000 ft, why are ropes not needed?

Accepted Answer

The geological profile of Yunam forms a massive, long ascending ridge entirely made of scree and snow. There are no vertical ice walls or heavily crevassed glaciers requiring roped-up travel, making it a extremely high-altitude 'trek' rather than a technical 'climb'.

Question 2

Can I do Yunam Peak as my first trek?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely NOT. Pushing above 20,000 ft requires deep physiological adaptation. You must have completed at least two treks above 15,000 ft (like Goechala, Roopkund, or Pin Bhabha) before attempting Yunam.

Question 3

Where does the trek start?

Accepted Answer

You drive from Manali all the way up the Leh highway past Darcha to Bharatpur Tent Colony, right before Baralacha La. The trek essentially starts at an insane 15,000 ft directly from the highway.

Question 4

What is the AMS risk?

Accepted Answer

Critical. Because you drive directly to 15,000 ft, rapid altitude sickness is almost guaranteed if you don't deliberately spend a few days acclimatizing in Keylong or Jispa beforehand.

Question 5

How long does summit day take?

Accepted Answer

It is a brutal 12 to 15-hour day. You will wake up at 1:00 AM, climb for 8 hours in the dark to reach the summit by 9:00 AM, and spend 5 hours descending.

Question 6

Is there mobile network anywhere?

Accepted Answer

Not after Keylong. You will be entirely cut off from the outside world once you cross Darcha.

Question 7

What temperatures should I expect on summit night?

Accepted Answer

Ambient temperatures on the final summit push drop to -15°C to -20°C. With the wind chill at 20,000 ft, it can feel like -30°C.

Question 8

Do I need to carry my own heavy backpack on summit day?

Accepted Answer

No. From the advanced base camp, you only carry a small daypack with water, snacks, and extra layers. Your main luggage stays in the tents.

Question 9

What if the weather turns bad on summit day?

Accepted Answer

Because it is an expedition, there is usually a buffer day built into the itinerary. If a whiteout occurs, the guides will hold at base camp and use the buffer day for the summit push.

Question 10

Are there any river crossings?

Accepted Answer

The approach to the base camp involves crossing shallow but violently cold glacial streams. Neoprene socks are highly recommended.

Yunam Peak Expedition

Get Trek Intelligence Before You Book

Yunam Peak Expedition

Get Trek Intelligence Before You Book