Muztagh Tower (7545)

Muztagh Ata Expedition

The Muztagh Ata Expedition is an extraordinary high-altitude adventure that takes climbers to the summit of Muztagh Ata (7,546 meters / 24,757 feet), also known as the "Father of Ice Mountains." Located in the Xinjiang province of China, Muztagh Ata is part of the Karakoram mountain range and stands as one of the most accessible 7,000-meter peaks in the world. The climb, though technically non-difficult, offers a challenging and rewarding experience for mountaineers, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Karakoram and Pamir ranges.

Itinerary

Day 01 Upon arrival at the Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel 

Day 02 Flight to Skardu (1 hour) or drive to Chilas (10-12 hours)

Day 03 Free day in Skardu or drive from Chilas to Skardu (7-8 hours)

Day 04 Skardu Briefing In Ministry Of Tourism & Preparation Of Expedition With Staff

Day 05 Drive from skardu to Askoli (6 hours)

Day 6 Trek to Jhola (5-6 hours)

Day 07-08 Trek from Jhola to Paiju (6 hours) Rest day at Paju  

Day 09 Trek from Paiju to Khuburtse (5 hours)

Day 10 Trek from Khuburtse to Urdukus (5 hours)

Day 11 Urdukas to Lhungka:A long walk on Baltoro Glacier to Lhungka

Day 12-32 Trek from Lhungka to Muztagh Tower Base Camp : 3 /4 hrs trek to reach the Muztagh Tower BC  

Day 33 Climbing days

Day 34 Trek Back from Muztagh Tower bc to paiju

Day 35 Trek back from Paiju To Askoli

Day 36 Drive from Askoli to Skardu

Day 37 Flight to Islamabad or Drive to Chilas

Day 38 Drive from  Chilas to Islamabad or Explore Islamabad

Day 39 Transfer to Islamabad Airport for the departure flight. 

Key Features and Highlights

1. Location and Accessibility:

• Muztagh Ata is located in the remote Kunlun Mountains, near the town of Kashgar in China's Xinjiang province, close to the borders of Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

• The mountain is easily accessible by road from Kashgar, a historic Silk Road city. From Kashgar, it takes about 7-8 hours to reach the base of the mountain.

• The mountain is located near Karakul Lake, a scenic destination that adds to the beauty of the region.

2. Expedition Difficulty:

• Muztagh Ata is considered a non-technical climb, making it an excellent choice for experienced mountaineers looking to climb a 7,000-meter peak without the need for advanced technical skills.

• Although the route is not technical, it requires physical fitness and stamina due to the altitude and long ascent. The use of ski touring or snowshoes is common, as the slopes are ideal for ski ascents.

• The primary challenge is altitude and weather conditions, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes, and climbers must be well-acclimatized to avoid altitude sickness.

3. Duration:

• The full expedition generally lasts between 20 and 25 days, allowing sufficient time for acclimatization, rest days, and summit attempts.

• The expedition includes time for travel to and from Kashgar, acclimatization hikes, and time at the higher camps on the mountain.

4. Best Time to Climb:

• The best time for the Muztagh Ata expedition is from June to August. During this period, the weather is more stable, and snow conditions are suitable for ski touring or snowshoeing.

• Winter attempts are highly challenging due to severe weather conditions, including strong winds and extremely low temperatures.

5. Trek and Climb Highlights:

• Base Camp (4,400 meters): The expedition starts at Subashi, where the trek to Muztagh Ata’s Base Camp begins. The base camp is located at around 4,400 meters, offering spectacular views of Karakul Lake and the surrounding peaks.

• Camp 1 (5,300 meters): After spending a few days acclimatizing at base camp, climbers gradually ascend to Camp 1, situated on the glacier at 5,300 meters. The route involves moderate climbing over snowfields and moraine.

• Camp 2 (6,200 meters): From Camp 1, climbers ascend gradually to Camp 2, which lies on the snow slopes. This section of the climb involves long, steady ascents with stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and valleys.

• Camp 3 (6,800 meters): The final camp, Camp 3, is located just below the summit at 6,800 meters. Climbers prepare for their summit push from here, acclimatizing and waiting for a weather window.

• Summit Day (7,546 meters): The climb to the summit is long but not technical, with climbers following the snow-covered slopes to the broad summit plateau. From the summit, climbers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Karakoram, Pamirs, and Tian Shan ranges.

6. Accommodation and Logistics:

• Accommodation is in tents at all high-altitude camps. At Base Camp, basic facilities may include mess tents, kitchen tents, and sleeping tents.

• Mules or yaks are often used to transport equipment and supplies to base camp, while climbers carry personal gear during the ascent.

• Experienced guides are essential for navigating the glacier and high-altitude conditions, and many expeditions include local support staff such as cooks and porters.

7. Expedition Support:

• Most expeditions to Muztagh Ata are organized through mountaineering companies, providing comprehensive logistical support, including guides, high-altitude gear, and safety equipment.

• Oxygen is generally not used on Muztagh Ata due to its non-technical nature and the relatively lower altitude compared to 8,000-meter peaks, though it can be carried as a precaution.

8. Wildlife and Nature:

• The region around Muztagh Ata is known for its diverse wildlife, including ibex, Marco Polo sheep, and a variety of bird species.

• The barren, windswept landscapes of the Karakoram desert and the snow-covered peaks of the Karakul range create a unique, almost otherworldly backdrop for the expedition.

Scenic Beauty and Photography:

The Muztagh Ata expedition offers some of the most scenic views in the world. The vast glaciers, snowfields, and distant peaks create a stunning panorama, especially at sunrise and sunset. Climbers also enjoy views of Karakul Lake, a picturesque alpine lake located near the base of the mountain. The contrast of the lake’s deep blue waters against the snow-covered peaks is a sight to behold, making this trek a paradise for landscape photographers.