Bandarpunch (Bandarpoonch) means “Monkey's Tail" or "Hanuman's Tail" is a beautiful range located in the Western Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. The said name is taken from Epic Ramayan where Lord Hanuman fires the whole Lanka through his tail. Bandarpunch is a chain of three mountain ranges, namely Bandarpunch I (6316 M), Bandarpunch 2 (6102 M) and Kalanag (Black Peak - 6387 M) mountain. It is situated on the western edge of the high Himalayan range where it turns the corner to the north-west. This mountain range is part of the Sankri Range and is located within the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park and Sanctuary. It is the origin of the river Yamuna, whose source lies above Yamunotri, which is situated at the western end of the massif below the White Peak. Yamunotri is the westernmost of the four holiest pilgrimage sites (Chota Char Dham) and a major pilgrimage center for thousands of pilgrims annually. The northern side of the Bandapunch massif meets the 12 km long glacier Ruinsar Gad which flows into the Yamuna at the border. To the south, at the base of the Bandarpoonch peak, the glacier meets the Hanuman Ganga river which joins the Yamuna at Hanuman Chatti.
From summit can see the mesmerizing view of Garhwal Himalayan range of Kinnaur, Jogin peaks, Thelu, Sudarshan Parbat, Chandra Parbat, Satopanth, Matri, Swetvaran, Gangotri group of peaks and Jaonli. Bandarpunch 1 mountain is ideal for those who want to scale peaks above 7000 meters. This trek is only for experienced trekkers who have technical knowledge like rope-up procedures, jumers and crampons. Unpredictable weather and climbing with the help of crevasse is thrilling for adventure lovers.
Best Time To Do Bandarpunch
The best time to attempt a climb of Bandarpunch is typically during the months of May to June and September to October. These periods offer the most favorable weather and climbing conditions:
May to June (Spring/Early Summer): This is considered one of the best times to climb Bandarpunch. During these months, the weather in the Indian Himalayas is relatively stable with clear skies and milder temperatures. Snow and ice conditions on the mountain are generally good, making it easier to navigate the slopes. The days are longer, providing more daylight hours for the ascent. However, it's important to be prepared for colder temperatures at higher altitudes.
September to October (Post-Monsoon/Autumn): Another excellent window for climbing Bandarpunch is in September and October. After the monsoon season, the weather stabilizes, resulting in clearer skies and improved visibility. The temperatures are generally more comfortable, making it a favorable time for climbing. Additionally, the autumn season offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes, with colorful foliage in the valleys.
Difficulty Level Of Bandarpunch
The Bandarpunch expedition is considered to be a challenging and demanding undertaking, with a difficulty level that ranks among the more strenuous climbs in the Indian Himalayas. Several factors contribute to the challenging nature of this expedition.
Firstly, the altitude of Bandarpunch is a significant challenge. Standing at 20,721 feet (6,316 meters) above sea level, climbers are exposed to reduced oxygen levels, which can lead to altitude-related issues such as altitude sickness, making acclimatization crucial. Secondly, Bandarpunch involves technical climbing aspects that require a high level of mountaineering proficiency. Climbers must navigate steep and icy slopes, crevassed areas, and glacier crossings, necessitating skills in rope work, ice axe and crampon usage, and crevasse rescue techniques. The variable weather conditions in the Himalayas further contribute to the difficulty. Climbers may encounter unpredictable and harsh weather, including sudden storms, strong winds, and plummeting temperatures, all of which require careful preparation and the ability to make critical decisions in adverse conditions.
Preparation For Bandarpunch Expedition
Preparing for a Bandarpunch expedition is a comprehensive endeavor that demands thorough planning, physical fitness, technical proficiency, and mental resilience. Here's how to prepare for this challenging climb in the Indian Himalayas:
First and foremost, prioritize physical fitness. Develop a well-rounded training regimen that includes cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Incorporate uphill trekking, long-distance hikes, and endurance workouts into your routine to simulate the physical demands of high-altitude climbing. Next, acquire essential mountaineering skills. Enroll in a reputable mountaineering course to gain proficiency in rope techniques, ice axe and crampon usage, glacier travel, and crevasse rescue. Practical experience in technical climbing is invaluable, especially when navigating steep and icy slopes.
Acclimatization is critical. Spend time at higher altitudes to adapt to the lower oxygen levels. Gradual ascent and rest days at designated altitudes are essential to minimize the risk of altitude-related illnesses. Gather the necessary gear and equipment, ensuring it is of high quality and in good condition. This includes harnesses, helmets, ropes, ice axes, crampons, and clothing suitable for extreme cold weather. Comprehensive gear checks and maintenance are essential.
Plan your expedition meticulously, including securing permits, arranging transportation, and organizing provisions. Be self-sufficient and carry ample food, water, and camping gear for the duration of the climb. Stay informed about the weather conditions in the region and monitor forecasts regularly. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including storms and strong winds. Flexibility in your expedition schedule is key to adjusting to weather challenges.
Develop a robust emergency plan with protocols for injuries, evacuations, and communication. Ensure that your team has a clear understanding of these procedures and carry communication devices such as satellite phones or radios. Climbing with an experienced guide or joining a guided expedition significantly enhances safety and increases the likelihood of a successful summit bid. Their knowledge of the terrain and local conditions can be invaluable. Lastly, mentally prepare for the expedition. Maintain a positive attitude, stay focused on your goals, and be ready to make critical decisions in challenging situations.
