Umbrella Peak
Duration
10 Days
Best Time
June to September
Elevation
4,800 m / 15,750 ft
Location
Kashmir
Difficulty
Fitness Level
Located above the glaciated basin of Thajiwas Glacier, Umbrella Peak offers a compact alpine objective in the Kashmir Himalaya. The approach is short but quickly transitions from grassy meadows into moraine and glacier terrain, bringing you into a high mountain environment within a limited timeframe.
The peak itself rises above the basin with multiple possible lines, most involving a mix of snow, ice, and broken rock depending on seasonal conditions. Its accessibility combined with limited documented ascents gives it a slightly exploratory character, making each attempt dependent on current terrain and route choices. The climb is typically approached via direct lines from the glacier, involving sustained snow slopes and sections of mixed ground. While not extremely high in altitude compared to other Himalayan objectives, the nature of the terrain—route finding, variable snow conditions, and short but exposed summit sections—demands controlled movement and awareness. It works well as a stepping stone into alpine-style climbing, especially for those looking to move beyond straightforward trekking peaks into more dynamic terrain.
What to expect from this Expedition
Expect a fast transition into alpine conditions—within a couple of days, the terrain shifts from green valley floors to glacial and rocky environments. The Thajiwas basin is active with glacial movement, and conditions can vary significantly through the season. Early starts are essential for summit attempts, as snow stability and weather tend to change quickly. The climb itself requires steady movement on snow and mixed terrain, with sections that may involve exposure and careful footwork. Mental focus plays a key role—route decisions, reading the terrain, and adapting to conditions are part of the experience. The region around Sonamarg still retains a strong natural character, with grazing meadows below and a quieter, less-developed alpine zone above.
Note on Itinerary: The itinerary is kept flexible to adapt to changing snow and weather conditions in the Thajiwas basin. Route selection and summit plans depend on current ground conditions and team capability. Adjustments to camp locations and climbing days may be required, with decisions made based on safety and optimal timing for the ascent.
Day 1 – Arrive Srinagar
Elevation: 5,200 ft / 1,585 m
Arrive in Srinagar. Transfer to your hotel and rest. The day is kept easy to recover and prepare for the trek.
Day 2 – Drive to Sarbal Village
Elevation: 5,200 ft / 1,585 m → ~8,900 ft / ~2,700 m
Drive from Srinagar to Sarbal via Sonamarg. The route follows the Sindh valley, gradually gaining altitude with changing landscape from urban to alpine. Upon arrival, settle into camp and take a short acclimatisation walk.
Day 3 – Trek to Durinar Meadow
Elevation: ~10,800 ft / ~3,300 m
Begin trekking from Sarbal towards Durinar Meadow. The trail ascends steadily through mixed forest and open alpine sections, gradually opening into wider grazing grounds. The day involves consistent elevation gain and serves as the first proper movement into the high mountain environment.
Day 4 – Trek to Durinar Lake
Elevation: ~12,500 ft / ~3,800 m
Continue the ascent towards Durinar Lake. The terrain becomes more open and rugged, with reduced vegetation and increasing exposure. Camp is established near the lake in a high-altitude basin beneath surrounding peaks.
Day 5 – Acclimatisation Day
Elevation: ~12,500–13,500 ft / ~3,800–4,100 m
Rest day for acclimatisation. Short hikes around camp help the body adapt to altitude while allowing recovery before moving to higher camps. Preparation for summit phase begins here.
Day 6 – Move to High Camp (Valehead Area)
Elevation: ~14,800 ft / ~4,500 m
Move to a higher camp towards the Valehead region below Umbrella Peak. The terrain transitions into moraine and early glacial features. Camp is positioned strategically for the summit attempt.
Day 7 – Summit Attempt (Umbrella Peak)
Elevation: ~15,750 ft / ~4,800 m
Early start for the summit push. The climb involves steady movement over snow slopes and mixed terrain depending on conditions. Route conditions can vary, requiring careful footing and efficient pacing. After reaching the summit, descend back to high camp.
Day 8 – Descend to Sarbal, Drive to Srinagar
Elevation: ~14,800 ft / ~4,500 m → 5,200 ft / 1,585 m
Descend from high camp through Durinar basin to Sarbal and continue by road back to Srinagar.
Day 9 – Reserve Day
Buffer day for weather delays or flexibility in summit attempt.
Day 10 – Departure
Depart from Srinagar after completing the trek.
Price
Umbrella Peak
₹86500 - 10 Days / Ex.Srinagar
- Train / Flight reservations for your expedition should be made as soon as possible.
- Please forward a copy of your travel itinerary before final payment so we can review departure and arrival dates.
- We make hotel arrangements to meet individual itineraries.
- Visas & Passports To enter India – You must have a passport that is up to date and valid for at least six months after the end of your intended trip in order to enter India.
- Citizens of SARC nations do not need visas, but they must have a valid form of identification with them at all times (see country-specific rules before travelling).
- It is the responsibility of participant to ascertain and meet entrance criteria for their passports or nationalities.
- We are delighted to assist with this procedure. We advise you to review the entry requirements on the relevant country’s official website.
Flight to / from Srinagar : The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, which is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jammu. This trip requires that you arrive in Srinagar on Day 1 of your expedition. Early afternoon arrival is preferred. You may plan your onward travel any time after 12:00 Hrs on the last day of your itinerary.
Train to / from Srinagar : Srinagar is now connected via railway to Jammu through the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla line. Jammu remains the primary major railhead, well connected to the rest of India. From the railway station, onward travel to Srinagar is by road.
Road to / from Srinagar : Srinagar is connected by road to Jammu via National Highway. The journey typically takes 8–10 hours depending on road and weather conditions. This route passes through mountain terrain and is subject to seasonal closures or delays, so buffer time is recommended.
Early Arrival/Late Departure: For those arriving early or departing after the scheduled itinerary, we can make hotel and transport arrangements at an additional cost. Please contact our office in advance if you would like us to make additional reservations.
Missed Flights / Trains: If you miss your flight / Train or if your flight / Train is significantly delayed, please contact Swapnil Rachelwar on +91 94076 89444 and follow the prompt for 24-hour contact. Citizens of SARC nations do not need visas, but they must have a valid form of identification with them at all times (see country-specific rules before travelling). Participants are responsible for determining and meeting entry requirements for their passports or nationalities.
- Accommodations as per the Itinerary
- International certified Mountain guide fees
- Guide with First aid Certification
- Porters, Camp staff
- Breakfast and dinner in the during stay at town / city
- All food and lodging during the trek and climb. No expense is spared in providing high-quality food. (If you have particular dietary requirements, please give us specific details and we will accommodate your needs.
- All transportation as per the Itinerary
- All group equipment needed to reach Base Camp and climb the mountain: cooking gear, fuel, stoves, ropes, all forms of rock and ice protection, radio communications, medical supplies etc.
- Permit & Park / Forest fee
- Waste disposal bags
- Wire transfer fee (if applicable)
- IFMGA-certified mountain guide fees (You need to inform us prior to book)
- India entry visa and airport fees (If Required)
- Any extra nights’ lodging
- Single room supplement
- Meals not listed above
- All personal snack/lunch food
- Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks (bottled water)
- International & Domestic Airfare / Trainfare
- Excess baggage charges and airport taxes
- Any transportation not mentioned
- Personal gear, clothing and sleeping equipment
- Forest Charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.
- Personal communication (phone, fax, email)
- All expenses incurred in the event of early departure (evacuation fees, transport, extra hotel nights, etc.)
- Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Pahadi Bakra Adventure
- Insurance. Trekkers are required to have a comprehensive medical insurance policy in order to embark on this expedition.
EXPENSES
For purchases and supplemental costs in India, we advise combining cash and credit/debit cards. After Manali, there aren’t many establishments that accept cards or UPI permits, therefore we advise you to bring additional cash. Request modest denominations of change when exchanging money because bigger note change is difficult to get outside of major cities. Alcoholic beverages and bottled beverages are not included with your meals, and as we do not promote the use of single-use plastic, it is advised that you bring your own water bottle. If you intend to purchase refreshments (which are not permitted during the excursion), please bring some additional cash. Ahead of Schedule/Evacuation You are in charge of paying any costs incurred (such as extra hotel nights, transportation costs, and evacuation fees) if you have to leave the adventure before it is finished. It is advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance so that these expenses may be paid for should they arise.
TIPPING
Every effort is made by our staff to make sure your trip or excursion is successful, safe, and as fun as possible. Gratuities are a great way to express your gratitude after a satisfying encounter. Since we think gratuities should depend on the quantity and quality of services, as well as an amount that fits your budget, it’s challenging to suggest a precise sum. Your lead guide and coordinator can accept any contributions to the guides’ tip fund, and the entire team will be grateful.
- 25% cancellation of the package cost after confirmation/issuing the hotel voucher.
- 30% cancellation of the package cost Between 60 to 45 days of the traveling date.
- 50% cancellation of the package cost Between 44 to 30 days of the traveling date.
- 100% cancellations Between 29 – 0 days of the travels date.
- 10% amount is non-refundable at any point.
- If the customer cancels his/her booking because of reasons like Illness, personal problems death, accident or No Shows amount will be deducted according to the policy.
- All cancellations must have interacted in writing.
- Policy may be different for Foreigners or International traveler / participants.
TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE
- As there are many unforeseen circumstances that may occur during or leading up to the trip, we highly recommend trip cancellation insurance.
- In many situations, this may be the only way to receive a refund for unused services.
- In brief, trip cancellation insurance may allow you to get reimbursed if you need to cancel your expedition when you are not entitled to a refund from Pahadi Bakra.
PACKS & BAGS
Backpack (1 Piece, 40L)
For carrying gear during approach and summit phases. Technical bagpacks are ideal, which has multiple attachments.
Duffel Bag (1 Piece, 90–100L)
Transport bag for expedition gear.
Dry Bags / Liners (1 Set)
Protection against moisture.
CLOTHING SYSTEM
Base Layers (1–2 Sets)
Thermal regulation in varying conditions.
Softshell / Mid Layer (1 Piece)
Breathable insulation for movement.
Insulated Jacket (1 Piece, Expedition Weight)
For high camps and cold exposure.
Hard Shell Jacket (1 Piece)
Weather protection in alpine conditions.
Hard Shell Pants (1 Piece)
For snow, wind, and summit days.
HEAD, HAND & FOOTWEAR
Warm Hat (1 Piece)
Cold protection.
Sun Cap (1 Piece)
For lower altitude sections.
Buff (1 Piece)
Wind protection.
Gloves (2 Pairs – Light + Insulated)
Layered hand protection system.
Mountaineering Boots (1 Pair, Semi-stiff / Stiff Sole) – Can be rented
Required for glacier and mixed terrain.
Gaiters (1 Pair)
Snow and debris protection.
Socks (4–5 Pairs)
Layering for moisture and warmth.
CAMPING GEAR - Can be Rented
Sleeping Bag (1 Piece, Comfort -10°C to -20°C)
Insulated system suitable for sub-zero high-altitude conditions.
Sleeping Mat (1 Piece)
Ground insulation to reduce heat loss and improve recovery.
PERSONAL TECHNICAL GEAR - Can be Rented
Crampons (1 Pair, compatible with boots)
Essential for glacier and summit sections.
Ice Axe (1-2 Piece)
Primary tool for movement and safety.
Harness (1 Piece)
Used in rope systems.
Helmet (1 Piece)
Protection from rockfall and ice.
Carabiners (2 Locking)
Personal attachment points.
Prusik / Sling (1 Set)
Basic rope work and safety.
PERSONAL ITEMS
Headlamp (1 Piece)
Hands-free lighting system for early starts and camp movement. With extra battery or Charger.
Sunglasses (2 Piece, Category 4 or with UV Protection)
High-altitude eye protection against UV exposure and snow glare.
Sunscreen (1 Piece, SPF 50+)
Protection against intense solar radiation.
Lip Balm (1 Piece)
Prevents cracking and sun damage at altitude.
Personal First Aid Kit (1 Set)
Basic medical kit tailored to individual needs.
HYDRATION & NUTRITION
Water Bottles (2 Pieces, 1L each)
Carrying capacity for maintaining hydration at altitude.
Personal Snacks (1 Set) Optional*
Supplementary nutrition for energy during long trekking days.
MISCELLANEOUS
Trekking Poles (1 Pair)
Aid in balance, load distribution, and reducing joint strain.
Power Bank (1 Piece)
Backup power source for essential electronics.
Repair Kit (1 Set)
Basic field repair tools for gear maintenanc
DOCUMENTS
ID Proof (1 Piece)
Mandatory for permits and identification.
Insurance
Travel insurance copy printed.
Cash (Small Amount)
Required for remote regions with no digital access.
Customise This Expedition
Most of our climbing expeditions run as small, fixed teams, but many objectives—especially in mountaineering and alpinism—require a more focused and flexible approach. While group climbs offer a strong shared experience, certain peaks, routes, or styles are better suited to private or custom-led expeditions. Over the years, Pahadi Bakra has organised private climbing trips across multiple Himalayan regions, working with individuals, rope teams, and small groups aiming for specific objectives. This allows for better control over decision-making, movement on the mountain, and overall expedition flow.
Build It Around Your Objective
Every climb is different. Whether you’re looking at a specific peak, a technical route, or an alpine-style objective, the structure needs to reflect that. We can support recce trips for new routes, exploratory climbs, or return attempts on unfinished objectives. If you already have a plan and just need logistics support for a known climb, we can structure that as well—handling access, permits, local staff, and base operations while you focus on the climb. This also works for training-based climbs, team expeditions, film projects, or cause-driven journeys, where the goal goes beyond just summiting. The approach remains practical—right team size, proper planning, and flexibility on the mountain.
Get in Touch
If you have a specific goal for this climb in mind, need specific support, or want to shape something from scratch, reach out. We’ll work with you to build an expedition that fits your experience, intent, and approach to the mountains.
Why Climb With Us!
