Masters of the Mantle – Advanced Rock Climbing & Big Wall (8 Days)

This intensive 8-day program by the Ladakh Mountain Guide Association (LMGA) is designed for experienced climbers who want to refine their skills and conquer challenging climbs, including big wall adventures. Through a combination of advanced rope techniques, big wall climbing strategies, complex rescue scenarios, and practical climbing on progressively difficult terrain, you’ll be equipped to lead expeditions on Ladakh’s majestic rock faces.

Course Prerequisites:

• Successful completion of LMGA Rock: “Fissures to Faces” (Intermediate Rock Climbing) course or equivalent experience (proof required)
• Minimum of 2 years of experience climbing outdoors (documented climbs with routes and grades)
• Solid understanding of climbing anchors, lead climbing, and multi-pitch climbing systems
• Excellent physical fitness and mental endurance for long climbing days
• Strong rock climbing skills (comfortable on trad climbs up to 5.9 or sport climbs up to 5.10d)

What to Bring:

• All equipment required for trad and big wall climbing (double ropes, slings, carabiners, ascenders, descenders, big wall rack)
• Comfortable clothing suitable for a variety of weather conditions
• Sturdy hiking boots and climbing shoes
• Helmet, headlamp, and appropriate sun protection
• High-calorie food and enough water for long climbing days (consider caching on big walls)
• First-aid kit and personal medications
• Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and a lightweight bivy sack (for big walls)
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to push your limits

Course Detail :

• Course Fees : Price on Request 
• Month : May
• Batch Size : Min 15 | Max 20
• Venue : Leh Ladakh, India

Course Schedule:

Day 1 & 2: Advanced Rope Techniques & Rescue

• Review of advanced rope management – rope systems for big walls, haul bag systems, lowering techniques
• Rescue scenarios – self-rescue techniques, lowering/hauling an injured climber, complex rope maneuvers
• Classroom Sessions & Practical Exercises on Climbing Wall

Day 3 & 4: Big Wall Climbing Strategies

• Planning and logistics for big wall climbs – route selection, wall acclimatization, food and water hauling strategies
• Big wall climbing techniques – hauling systems, jumaring, wall traverses, fixed anchor establishment
• Simulated Big Wall Scenarios on Climbing Wall

Day 5 & 6: Putting it into Practice – Multi-Day Climbs

• Ascend a pre-selected big wall route in stages, applying learned techniques under instructor supervision
• Practice big wall living – sleeping on ledges, managing weather conditions, communication strategies
• Actual Big Wall Climb with Instructors

Day 7 & 8: Project Climb & Debrief

• Attempt a challenging big wall climb (chosen based on group proficiency and weather) under instructor guidance
• Debriefing – analyze successes and areas for improvement, discuss risk management and decision-making
• Big Wall Climb with Instructors & Course Wrap-up

Assessment:

Instructors will continuously assess your skills, knowledge, and decision-making throughout the course. There are no formal exams, but successful completion relies on demonstrating proficiency in advanced climbing techniques, safe practices on big walls, and the ability to lead and support fellow climbers in challenging situations.

Note: This is a sample schedule and may vary depending on weather conditions, chosen big wall route, and instructor discretion.

Additional Information:

• Due to the demanding nature of big wall climbing, this course will likely involve long days with significant physical exertion. Be prepared to challenge yourself.
• Graduation from this program does not automatically qualify you as a professional big wall guide. It signifies your advanced skills and prepares you for further development under mentorship from experienced big wall climbers.
• Remember, big wall climbing is inherently risky. Always prioritize safety, climb within your limits, and prioritize good judgment throughout your climbing endeavors.

By successfully completing this LMGA Rock: Masters of the Mantle program, you’ll be well on your way to conquering Ladakh’s most challenging rock faces and big wall climbs!