Rock climbing is becoming popular in India now and many mountaineering clubs in the country are imparting training to the novice. Since it is a part of any expedition, the mountain climbing enthusiasts have to learn and practice this game before one can think of joining the expedition. Rock climbing is a test of strength, concentration and coordination as well as skill and technique. A climber learns from experience that the mountain must not be taken for granted. It can be rough and antagonistic to those who venture to come to grips with it. Nevertheless, as a sport, climbing continues to offer a thrill and challenge that is compulsive.
Rock Climbing in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
The high snow clad Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas form a magnificent backdrop to the hill resort of Dharamshala. This is the principal township of Kangra and overlooks the wide spread of the plains. With dense pine and deodar forests, numerous streams, cool healthy air, attractive surroundings and the nearby snowline, Dharamshala has everything for a perfect holiday. It is full of life and yet peaceful. And not surprisingly, the headquarters of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is here. Covering a wide area in the form of a twin settlement, Lower Dharamshala (1380 m) is a busy commercial center, while Upper Dharamshala (1830 m) with the suburbs of McLeodganj and Forsythganj, retains a British flavour and colonial lifestyle. The charming church of St. John in the wilderness is situated here and this is final resting place of Lord Elgin, a British Viceroy of lndia during the l9th century. There is also a large Tibetan community who have made this their home. Numerous ancient temples like Jawalamukhi, Brijeshwari and Chamunda lie on the plains below Dharamshala.
Rock Climbing in Garhwal, Uttaranchal
In Uttranchal Gangotri in the Garhwal Himalayas too sees excellent high altitude rock climbing but one should always try out the rocking expedition in the summer and autumn months. Rock climbing courses in Uttaranchal are conducted at George Everest House in Mussoorie, Buranskhanda near Dhanaulti, Phoolchatti near Rishikesh. GMVN provides NIM trained instructors, complete climbing equipment with transport, TRH / camping, catering and first aid.
Rock Climbing in Nepal
The growing Himalayas are a temptation for those that want to be tethered to them - or want to free climb the mountains. Whatever your pleasure, these young mountains are sure to offer enough finger-clinging holds to give a lifetime of memories. Most trekking outfitters offer all the gear you'll need for mountaineering. But for more specific climbing needs, consider coming loaded with your own gear.
Rock Climbing is perhaps one of the least promoted sport in Nepal. However, some rock faces have been developed as training ground for enthusiastic climbers both local and foreign. Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has been providing separate training on rock climbing for the last six years to school children and to college students basically to arouse their interest in this field as well as in mountaineering.
