In a notable development for the autumn climbing season in Pakistan, a trio of mountaineers has achieved the first recorded ascent of Chumik Kangri Peak, standing at an elevation of 6,754 meters. This impressive feat took place within the Saltoro section of Pakistan's expansive Karakoram mountain range.
The successful ascent was accomplished by Michal Czech and Wadim Jablonski from Poland, alongside Adam Kaniak from Slovakia. They successfully reached the pinnacle on September 15th at 8 AM, following a strenuous three-day push up the mountain's imposing 1,000-meter south face. The Polish Mountaineering Association confirmed their safe return to Advanced Base Camp at 10 PM local time after a demanding descent.
This climbing expedition was particularly pioneering due to the recent opening of the Saltoro area to international teams. Having been closed for several decades owing to its proximity to the contested territories of Kashmir, the region offered an untouched landscape for exploration. The climbers navigated through the largely uncharted Gyong Glacier to reach their objective.
While comprehensive details regarding the ascent are still forthcoming, the team's ambitions might extend beyond Chumik Kangri. Adventure Alpine Guides Pakistan, the expedition's outfitter, indicated to ExplorersWeb that the climbers were also considering an attempt on Gharkun Tower, another unclimbed peak in the vicinity. The broader objective for the Polish Mountaineering Association remains the documentation and first ascents of unclimbed 6,000-meter peaks, executed with exemplary style and respect for the mountains.