Mountaineering in Sikkim

A wonderland, blessed with world famous Himalayas, Sikkim offers plethora of scope for adventure sports like mountaineering, trekking, bicycling etc. Among the variety of adventure sports, mountaineering in Sikkim is gaining immense popularity year-by-year. Kabru, Kirat Chulior Tent Peak (7,365 mts) and Sinolchu (6,887 mts) are some of the popular peaks of Sikkim where mountaineering is allowed. You can undertake mountaineering in these peaks by gaining special permits from the concerned authority.

However, what might be a disappointing for some of you is that due to sentimental, religious and other environmental reasons, mountaineering to Khangchendzonga peak (8,534 mts) in not permitted by Sikkim government. Also, although, Rathong (22,000 ft) has some of the open peaks from mountaineering, but rules are very strict there and you have to fulfil several official formalities to scale those peaks.

Ideal Period for Mountaineering in Sikkim
May to October is the ideal period to undertake mountaineering in Sikkim. During this period, weather remains pleasant and chances of slipping are minimum due to less precipitation.

Essential Gears for Mountaineering
Essential gears required for any mountaineering expedition include Mountaineering harness, mountaineering ice-axe, plastic boots, crampons with front points, climbing sling and two locking carabiners, prussik loops, telescopic ski- sticks, climbing helmet etc. You can hire or purchase equipments, either from clubs or the agencies in Sikkim. Before setting out on an expedition test all equipment and team members must familiarize themselves with the use of the equipments.
Guidelines And Information for Mountaineering in Sikkim

• You need to be healthy for undertaking the adventure sport of mountaineering in Sikkim. If you are physically fit, you can easily conquer the mountain peaks.
• IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) is India’s apex body that helps in organizing as well as sponsoring mountaineering expeditions in India. IMF works as a clearing house for foreign expeditions and provides a liason officer to accompany foreign climbers.
• It is necessary for foreigners to book a peak in advance alongwith the respective peak fee.
• You are advised to give at least a six month’s notice before undertaking an expedition in Sikkim mountains. You have to forward all request to IMF for clearance.
• For mountain expeditions in Sikkim, it is necessary to take along a liason officer from the Sikkim Mountaineering Association and also the liason officer from the IMF.
• The liason officer looks after all emergencies and accidents. He can also take help from the Indian Air Force for rescue purpose.

Royalties for Climbing Peaks in Sikkim

Peaks more than 8,000 mtrs.	US$ 8,000.
Peaks between 7,501 to 8,000 mtrs.	US$ 7,000.
Peaks between 7,001 to 7,500 mtrs.	US$ 6,000.
Peaks between 6,501 to 7,000 mtrs.	US$ 5,500.
Peaks below 6,500 mtrs.	US$ 5,000.

* The royalty charges mentioned above has to be paid in Gangtok, after the permit is granted by the IMF, New Delhi.