Charlie and his Malaysian friends’ Haba Snow Mountain Climbing Tour

Overview

In 2015, Charlie and his friends from Malaysia embarked on an adventurous climbing tour of Haba Snow Mountain in Yunnan, China. This challenging and exhilarating expedition took the group through diverse terrains, breathtaking landscapes, and culminated in the ascent of Haba Snow Mountain, known for its stunning glacial scenery and panoramic views.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang

• Welcome and Briefing: The group arrived in Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and received a detailed briefing on the itinerary, safety procedures, and climbing gear.
• Acclimatization and Exploration: Time to explore Lijiang Old Town, including the Mu Family Mansion and Black Dragon Pool, to acclimate to the altitude.

Day 2: Lijiang to Haba Village

• Travel Distance: Approximately 120 km by vehicle.
• Highlights: The journey to Haba Village included scenic views of rural Yunnan, passing through traditional Naxi and Yi villages.
• Preparation: Final preparations and gear check for the climb, with a night spent in a guesthouse in Haba Village.

Day 3: Haba Village to Base Camp

• Trek Distance: Approximately 15 km.
• Elevation Gain: From 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) to 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
• Highlights: The trek from Haba Village to the base camp involved hiking through lush forests, alpine meadows, and crossing rivers. The group enjoyed stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Accommodation: Overnight stay in tents at the base camp.

Day 4: Acclimatization and Training at Base Camp

• Activities: Acclimatization hike around the base camp area, and training sessions on using climbing equipment and techniques.
• Rest and Preparation: Ample time to rest and prepare for the summit push.

Day 5: Summit Attempt

• Summit Day: The group started the climb early in the morning to reach the summit of Haba Snow Mountain.
• Summit Elevation: 5,396 meters (17,703 feet).
• Challenges: The climb involved negotiating snow fields, ice slopes, and rocky sections.
• Summit Success: The group reached the summit, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Descent: After spending some time at the summit, the group descended back to the base camp.

Day 6: Base Camp to Haba Village

• Trek Distance: Approximately 15 km.
• Highlights: The descent back to Haba Village, retracing the scenic route taken on the way up.
• Celebration: A celebratory dinner in Haba Village to mark the successful climb.

Day 7: Return to Lijiang

• Travel Distance: Approximately 120 km by vehicle.
• Relaxation: Time to relax and explore more of Lijiang, reflecting on the adventure.

Highlights

• Scenic Beauty: The trek and climb offered stunning views of diverse landscapes, from dense forests to snow-capped peaks.
• Cultural Experience: Interaction with local villagers in Haba Village, learning about their traditions and lifestyle.
• Challenge and Achievement: The climb presented a significant physical challenge, culminating in the rewarding experience of reaching the summit.

Feedback

Charlie and his Malaysian friends praised the well-organized itinerary, the support from local guides, and the breathtaking scenery. The climb was a test of endurance and skill, and the successful summit was a highlight of the trip.

Conclusion

The 2015 Haba Snow Mountain Climbing Tour was a memorable and successful adventure for Charlie and his Malaysian friends. It combined the thrill of climbing a significant peak with the cultural richness of Yunnan, leaving the participants with lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment.