Srinagar, Dec 15: In a historic endeavor, the daring souls of Jammu & Kashmir Adventure Sports Club (JKASC) and Badamwari Athletes have achieved the unprecedented winter summit of Mt. Lahurkut II, standing proudly at 4487m. This extraordinary feat unfolded on a second attempt, a testament to the team’s unwavering perseverance in conquering the formidable peak.
Led by the seasoned Mountaineer Muzamil Hussain Mir, the expedition embarked on its challenging journey from Srinagar in the early hours, with headlamps piercing the pre-dawn darkness at 4 am. The true trek commenced at 5:45 am, bathed in the golden hues of sunlight, emanating from Pharao/Fraw village in the Ganderbal district.
Traversing demanding terrain, the team overcame Rumi and Parbat meadows adorned with pine trees, reaching the enchanting Dothsar Lake 1 & 2. This leg of the journey marked a significant milestone, completing the exploration of 100 alpine lakes by Zahid Kota.
The ascent to the summit presented formidable challenges, with 4ft of powder snow testing the endurance of each step. Progressing through snow as deep as 5 ft near the summit, crawling became the method of choice, culminating in the triumphant conquest of the peak at 2:50 pm.
From the summit, a breathtaking panorama unfolded – the Pir Panjal Range, Zojila Range, and the majestic peaks of Mt. Kolahai and Mt. Thajiwas, along with a bird’s eye view of alpine lakes. A surprise encounter with a Himalayan ibex herd added to the untamed beauty of the region.
Descending proved equally challenging, with the team returning to the base at 7:30 pm. While the accomplishment was sweet, the journey was not devoid of trials. Suhail Khan and Adil Ghazi reached the lakes but lacked the energy for the final push to the peak.
In the words of Zahid Kota and Muzamil Hussain Mir, “Those high on endurance can achieve this feat,” acknowledging the climb as one of the most difficult ever undertaken.
The triumph extends beyond reaching the peak; it is a testament to defying winter’s harshness and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to dream and strive against all odds.
“Heartfelt congratulations to the entire team for etching their names in the annals of mountaineering history with this extraordinary winter summit!,” JK Adventure Sports Club.
