Different layers of clothes During Peak Climbing in Nepal
Before you start packing for peak climbing in Nepal, you must understand the purpose of different layers of clothes and why they are needed. It will help you make better decisions while purchasing the clothes.
So, while trekking/climbing in the Himalayas, you will be exposed to high altitudes. Every day, you will see a rise in elevation, and the higher you go, the more the temperature drops significantly, and exposure to sun and wind also drastically increases.
Therefore, trekkers/climbers have to wear proper clothes to regulate their body temperature and feel comfortable enough to hike or climb. During climbing, you will wear three layers of clothes- base layer, insulation layer, and outer layer.
We have described each layer and its purpose below:
Base layer
The base layer is the closest layer of your skin and it is very important that you pick the right fabric that can wick moisture and protect skin and the purpose of the base layer is to make your skin feel comfortable and provide extra insulation. Your undergarments and t-shirt/trekking pants will be the base layer.
Insulation layer
The insulation layer, or what we also call the mid-layer, is there to maintain heat flow and regulate your body temperature. Its main job is to keep you warm and trap the air inside to prevent the body from losing its heat after a long day of walking. Bodywarmers, fleece, and softshells are the insulation layer.
Outer layer
As the name says, the outer layer is the outermost part of your dressing. This layer protects you from rain, wind, heat, and sun. During peak climbing, the outer layer is very important because it will help you withstand the extreme alpine environment and complete the expedition successfully.
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Packing guide for peak climbing in Nepal
You have to pack wisely for a safe and hassle-free trip. There are many small and big things to carry during climbing. Below, we have categorized all the clothes, gear, and equipment you need for peak climbing in Nepal.
Yala Peak is one of the best trekking peaks for first time climbers. It is also the most affordable peak to climb because of no peak climbing permit requirement.
Peak climbing gear in Nepal
Below, we have mentioned the climbing gear most commonly used during peak climbing in the Himalayas. Note that you may not need all the piece of gear we have mentioned for your expedition. The climb will use during on your peak's difficulty level and the condition of the climbing route.
You will be using most of these gear during Island Peak climbing, Mera peak climbing and Lobuche Peak climbing.
- Mountaineering boots: Mountaineering boots are different from trekking boots. These boots are designed to withstand Himalayan weather and provide you with strong ankle support. Likewise, mountaineering keeps your feet warm and protects them from frostbite. It is the most important gear for your lower body, and you should definitely get the best quality. We recommend opting for boots that have rigid soles and are compatible with crampons.
- Crampons: Crampons are metal spikes that you attach to the bottom of climbing boots to walk on icy/snow-covered slopes. It will help you navigate slippery, icy terrain safely and prevent accidents during climbing.
- Ice axe: We use an ice axe to balance, self-arrest (stopping a fall), and cut steps into ice and snow during climbing. There are different heights and types of ice axes. Choose the one that best matches your height and position.
- Harness and carabiners: A harness will help you secure yourself to the climbing rope. It also helps you evenly spread pressure and remain comfortable during long climbing periods. Likewise, carabiners are metal loops that connect several parts of climbing gear, such as harnesses, ropes, and protective devices.
- Slings: We use slings with harnesses. You may need one 3m (10 ft) sling and three 2 m (6 ft) slings.
- Belay device: It is used during rappelling.
- Helmet: Of course, a helmet protects your head if you fall while climbing or experience unseen rock falls or avalanches.
- Climbing rope: Climbing ropes are an essential part of mountaineering in the Himalayas and are used on all peaks. Your Sherpa guides will secure the climbing route with fixed ropes that you will use to climb up and down, which will ensure your safety and prevent you from stepping on hazardous sections.
- Ascender and descender: Ascender and descender help you ascend and descend fixed ropes. They help you move up and down the rope easily and safely. Basically, they allow you to have controlled rappelling.
- 8mm cord/16mm tape: You will attach your harness to the mechanical ascents by making a leash using cord and tape.
- Long prusik: A long prusik is a knot used to attach several cords to a single rope. A 6mm cord is best for climbing, and it is also used during rescue.
- Avalanche transceiver: An avalanche transceiver is a safety device that sends signals from avalanche victims who are using it. It is a great safety device to have in a group with all members.
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Clothing for Peak Climbing in Nepal
How you dress up during climbing affects your safety, overall experience, and comfort. Clothing properly is necessary during climbing, and it is non-negotiable. Given the unpredictable nature of the Himalayan weather, you have to be ready to face all weather conditions.
- Base layer: As explained above, the base layer is your undergarments and clothes that directly touch your skin. It should be moisture-wicking to keep your skin dry. Note that your base layer should also be breathable and comfortable.
- Thermal layer: Thermal layer is important for keeping yourself warm and adds an additional layer of insulation and keeps you warm in freezing temperatures.
- Insulating layer: The insulating layer maintains and preserves the body's warm temperature. You should always go for high-quality insulating layers, such as a climbing-grade down jacket and pants. Your insulation should not be bulky but must provide excellent insulation.
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer: Because of unpredictable weather, a waterproof/windproof layer is a must. A reliable hardshell jacket and pants will protect you during snowfall, rain, and strong wind.
- Climbing gloves and liners: Your hands are one of the actively used body parts during climbing. It is important to keep it safe from injury and frostbite. Glove liners will provide you with extra insulation in colder climates. Likewise, you will wear climbing gloves on top of it for extra protection and a nice grip.
- Hat and balaclavas: You must keep your head, neck, and face warm while climbing. Under your helmet, wear a beanie to maintain insulation. Similarly, wear a balaclava to protect your neck and almost full face from the cold.
- Gaiters: We wear gaiters as a protective layer over mountaineering boots. They help prevent snow, debris, and moisture from entering your boots. Overall, gaiters will keep your feet dry and offer a more comfortable walking atmosphere.
- Climbing socks and liner socks: Like gloves, you also have to wear two or three layers of socks to keep your hands warm and prevent frostbiting. Liner socks should be moisture-wicking and comfortable. On top of it, you will hear warm, thermal socks and climbing socks.
Personal items during Peak Climbing in Nepal
Apart from technical climbing gear and clothing, you will also need a few other things to climb a peak in Nepal. These things will make your climbing journey much better.
- Headlamp with spare batteries: On your summit day, you will walk, starting climbing at dawn to reach the summit and returning before the afternoon strong wind hits. Therefore, a headlamp is important for flexible climbing. Climbers should also pack a few spare batteries if they or their team need them.
- Alpine sunglasses with UV protection: The sun's rays are intense at high altitudes. The higher you climb, the more intense the sun's rays will get. Not only that, you will also be exposed to harmful UV rays. So, you have to wear proper alpine sunglasses that provide 100% protection from the sun. Also, ensure that your sunglasses protect from snow reflections, preventing snow from blinding.
- High SPF and SPF lip balm: Peak climbing in Nepal takes you 6,000 meters above sea level. You can imagine the intensity of the sun at this altitude. Likewise, harmful UV radiation also increases with the increase in the sun's intensity. So, it is very important that you wear high SPF and SPF lip balm during climbing. Note that you have to apply it multiple times a day to prevent your skin from getting burned and tanned.
- Toiletries: Peak climbing usually takes 16 to 22 or more days. Therefore, you have to pack all the necessary toiletries for the trip. You will need every little thing from your shampoo and face wash to toilet paper, moisturizer, body lotion, toothbrush/toothpaste, comb, and skincare. Because of the dry climate at high altitudes, your skin will need extra moisture and hydration, so make sure your products fit the climate.
- Personal first-aid kit: Though the group will be equipped with an extensive first-aid kit, you should always have a personal first-aid kit in your daypack. Your personal first-aid kit should include gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, ointment, bandages, pain relievers, blister pads, general medicine, etc. Likewise, if you have any medicine on a daily basis, make sure to pack ample to last the entire trip.
- Snacks, pocket knife, small mirror: Food will be simple during climbing. You will have a variety of options for main meals, but snacking options are limited. So, we recommend climbers to pack their favorite snacks, bars, chocolates, etc. A pocket knife may be handy if you need to cut rope or anything. Likewise, a small mirror is handy to have when climbing to check yourself quickly.
Communication and navigation during Peak Climbing in Nepal
The most unreliable part of peak climbing in the Himalayas is the communication. The higher you go in the mountains, the worse the network will get. Once you are above 3,000 meters, do not always expect WiFi or a mobile network.
Likewise, you will be off-grid once you are in the base camp. Therefore, climbers have to be knowledgeable of directions, know how to use GPS devices, and read maps. These are basic necessities that will help you in case you get lost.
Below, we shared a few communication and navigation devices that will help you stay connected and on the main route while climbing.
- GPS device: A GPS device is quite a valuable tool to have on hand during climbing. Your guide will be there with you all the time to show you the route, but having a GPS device is a good backup. A modern GPS will also help you track the elevation and distance you have walked. Make sure your GPS is weather, water, cold, heat, and breakage resistant. Pre-load the maps because you cannot access the network in the mountains.
- Maps and compass: Map and compass are two other highly reliable navigational tools that will be very helpful if your digital device does not work. These items will not take that much space, so they are also easy to carry.
- Two-way radio or satellite phone: Once you climb above the base camp, you will stay connected with the base camp crew with a two-way radio. It is a vital communication gear because mobile networks are nonexistent.
Likewise, you will use a satellite phone to regularly update your whereabouts to your family and stay connected with the management team in Kathmandu. We provide both two-way radio and satellite phones to our expedition group. You can also carry your own.
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Camping equipment
You spend nights in alpine tents at the base camp and above it because there are no lodges or teahouses. Your camping gear must meet Alpine standards because the weather is very unpredictable and can get harsh anytime.
Therefore, climbing gear such as tents, fuel, sleeping bags, etc., are expensive. The good thing is you do not need to buy all these things. Your climbing partner will provide you with all the camping necessities. They usually charge the service fee in their package cost.
Below, we have shared all the camping gear you need during peak climbing in Nepal:
- Alpine tents: You will need different tents for sleeping, dining, washroom, etc. All tents must be of the alpine category that is specially designed to withstand harsh high-altitude conditions like cold, heat, snowfall, snowstorms, and strong winds. The alpine tents are four-season tents.
- High-quality sleeping bags: You have to sleep in sleeping bags to resist the extreme cold during the nights and mornings. Your sleeping bags should be rated for sub-zero temperatures. Likewise, you also have to use an insulated sleeping pad.
- Duffel bags and day packs: You will pack all the heavy clothes and necessities in the duffel bag and essentials like money, water bottles, first-aid kit, documents, snacks, SPF, lip balm, etc., in the day pack. Porter carries a duffel bag. You will carry the daypack. Your company will provide a duffel bag, and you will only have to purchase a daypack.
- Camping stove, fuel, food, ingredients: At the base camp and high camps, your cook will prepare the meals for you. At Outfitter Himalaya, we pre-plan our meals as per our climber's liking and requests. Our support crew carries all the ingredients for the set menu. Climbers can bring their own snacks and bars. Likewise, all cooking ware, utensils, and fuel are also provided by your climbing partner.
- Water purification system: It is a must-have equipment during your voyage in the mountains of Nepal. You can choose to carry water purification tablets or UV sterilizers to purify water before drinking.
Important documents and miscellaneous things
Below, we have mentioned the documents you need for peak climbing in Nepal, as well as some additional things that will make your experience better:
- Passport: Your passport is used to issue climbing and national park permits. As per the current policy, your passport must have at least six months of validity.
- Passport size photos: You need 2 to 4 photos for permits. Also, keep a few in your backup.
- Ticket to/from Kathmandu: Buy your international flight ticket to/from Kathmandu. Also, get a print of your ticket if you lose the digital copy.
- Nepal travel visa: Foreigners must obtain a Nepal travel visa to enter the country for peak climbing. You can get a Nepal travel visa from your country's Nepalese Embassy or Consulate Office. Likewise, travelers from many countries can apply for an on-arrival visa upon landing at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu or any land border. You can check more details about on-arrival travel visas.
- Travel insurance: Travel insurance is mandatory to climb a peak in Nepal and should cover helicopter evacuation and medical bills. Bring your travel insurance documents and make a few copies. You need to provide a copy of your travel insurance to your climbing partner and guide because they will arrange evacuation in case of emergency.
- Board games, movies, podcasts, music, and books: Your late afternoon/evenings will be mostly free. To avoid getting bored, we recommend you bring your own entertainment. Easy-to-carry games and books are good options for travelers. Likewise, you can also download movies, podcasts, and music for the journey.
Expert tips for peak climbing packing in Nepal
You have to be knowledgeable and mindful of what you are packing. Over packing is discouraged, but at the same time, you have to be equipped with every small thing for the journey.
We have already shared everything that you will need for a peaking climbing trip in Nepal. Below, we have shared some additional tips/information that will help you a lot while packing for peak climbing:
- Research the peak and its difficulty level. Even though the base clothing and gear are the same for every peak, you may need a few extra pieces depending on the peak's difficulty, location, and demands.
- Talk to your travel partner with whom you will climb the peak in Nepal and ask them to provide you with a packing checklist. It will help you stay on the track.
- If you are on a tight budget, ask your climbing agency if they provide climbing gear to rent or if they can help you rent climbing gear in Kathmandu. Climbing gear is expensive, and renting it will save you money.
- If you are climbing for the first time, do whatever you can to broaden your climbing knowledge. You can take part in beginner climbing training that will teach you the basics of mountaineering, safety guidelines, and gear operation. You do not have to be super knowledgeable and experienced, especially for trekking peaks in Nepal, but a base knowledge will help you a lot.
- The quality of climbing gear matters a lot. You have to wear high-quality climbing suits, boots, and other gear to have a safe journey and protect yourself from extreme cold, wind, and sun rays while climbing.
- Many climbers underestimate sun, wind, and cold exposure during peak climbing. You will feel hot and cold at the same time. Covering your exposed body parts with high SPF (50++) is very important if you do not want your skin to burn.
- Use merino wool or synthetic layers to manage sweat and insulation.
- Summit day usually starts around 2 AM to 3 AM to avoid afternoon winds. Your team leader will share the summit push plan with you.
- Prepare your mind accordingly. We highly recommend packing an extra pair of gloves, some snacks, and a thermos with a warm drink.
Conclusion
I hope the article is useful to you if you are planning peak climbing in Nepal and we also have shared a general packing list for treks and tours in Nepal, which are:
