Rush Peak

and the Hunza Valley

5,098m/15,540ft

The best short trek in the

Karakoram Himalaya

Do You Need an Expedition Itinerary?

This booklet is the dossier which contains information to help
you get ready for the trip. You will also need an itinerary for
the trek, which is the day-to-day description of the trekking
programme. Itineraries are sent out to people who make a
direct enquiry about a trip before having decided which
expedition to book. Therefore, you may have one already or
you may have downloaded one for our website at
www.jagged-globe.co.uk. However, if not, please call on 0845
345 8848 (overseas +44 114 276 3322) and we will put one in
the post to you as you may wish to refer to the itinerary during
the trek.
(The itinerary is not routinely reproduced in the dossier to save
duplication and wastage.)

Jagged Globe telephone numbers

General
enquiries

+44(0) 845 345 8848

+44(0) 114 276 3322

Reservations

+44(0) 114 250 2731

Advice Line

+44(0) 114 250 2732

For general enquiries

To book an expedition or
course, or enquire about
your existing booking
For advice and info about
our treks, expeditions and
courses or equipment
matters

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TREK DOSSIER
INTRODUCTION TO THE DOSSIER
This dossier is designed to give you all the information you need in order to
participate in the trek. Although some of its contents have been put in for your
own interest, much of it is essential information, which will enable you to gain the
maximum benefit from the experience. If you find that you still have some
questions unanswered, then please get in touch.
PLEASE NOTE
By its very nature, this trip may be subject to disruptions beyond our control that
can force some changes to the itinerary. Weather has the greatest influence and,
on an individual level, acclimatisation has a major effect. Our schedule allows
optimum time for acclimatisation, but it is possible that individuals who have a
slower than normal rate of adaptation may not complete the trek.
The expedition is taking part in a developing region. This means that events that
might otherwise be non consequential could prove totally disruptive to the trek.
For example, rainstorms are very likely to cause landslips, road closures or
airfield closures that could make access to and from the region impossible in the
time frame allotted to the expedition. Similarly, excessive and unseasonable
snowfall could make the route of the trek, whether by foot or by vehicle
impassable and make the trek itinerary impractical. In addition, local civil unrest
or military intervention could make it unwise to proceed with the trek as planned
or mean that the local authorities withdraw permission for the trek. In such
circumstances, the expedition leader will make whatever re-arrangements are
possible to ensure that the best alternative itinerary is followed, bearing in mind
the original aims of the trek, the resources available and the wishes of all the
team members.
PARTICIPATION
All participants must be aware that they are taking part in a serious trek to a
high-altitude mountain environment with an inherent risk of injury or death,
which cannot be eliminated. The high altitude and remoteness make this trek a
committing undertaking. Some notes on your physical preparation before the trip
and how to cope with the altitude while on the mountain are included in this
dossier. The trek leader has absolute authority regarding the welfare of the group.
If the leader decides to send somebody down, either for the team member's or
the group's safety, the leader's instructions must be followed. However, given
proper preparation and fair weather conditions, there is no reason why fit and
healthy people should not complete this trek, but this is not a guarantee!

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PAKISTAN
This aide-memoire summarises the advice in the dossier regarding what to do
next, now that your booking has been confirmed.

Things to send back to Jagged Globe

now, please

Tick when done

Booking Form (completed, signed and dated) if you

have not already sent us the form by post or have
booked via the website
Hire Equipment Order Form
Passport Photographs - 2
(And take spares with you)
Photocopy of your Passport
THIS IS ESSENTIAL FOR OBTAINING PERMITS
(And take a spare with you)
Previous Trekking & Climbing Experience Form
Medical declaration Form

Important things to do soon

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months
after your planned return.
Get insurance if you want the Jagged Globe policy
then we must have, please:
1. A recent booking form signed within 7 days of the
policy being issued.
2. The premium.
3. A completed signed copy of the important
declaration. If you have not received a copy of
this form, please ask for a copy to be sent to you.
If you use other insurance then please read the
insurance chapter in this dossier carefully. And make
sure we have a copy of your policy so that we know
you are adequately insured.
Apply for your visa directly to your Pakistan Embassy
or Consulate
Visit your doctor and arrange a vaccination schedule
Order spending money from the bank
Have a medical & get your teeth checked
(recommended)
"Land only" members to send travel details to us

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Tick when done

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PAKISTAN
Pakistan has borders to the north with China, to the northwest with Afghanistan, to the east
with India and to the west with Iran. The Arabian Sea lies to the south. In the far north is
the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir, bounded by Afghanistan, China and India.
Pakistan comprises distinct regions. The northern highlands - the Hindu Kush - are rugged
and mountainous; the Indus Valley is a flat alluvial plain with five major rivers dominating
the upper region, eventually joining the Indus River flowing south to the Makran coast;
Sindh is bounded to the east by the Thar Desert and the Rann of Kutch, and on the west by
the Kirthar Range; the Baluchistan Plateau is an arid tableland surrounded by mountains. Of
course, to the north and east, guarding the frontier with China and India, lie the Karakoram.
These mighty mountains do not restrict themselves to one country as the range is also
accessible from India, although the mountains here are usually out of bounds as they are
too close to the disputed border.
The creation of Pakistan as a nation state came about as a result of Indian independence
from the then British Empire. The Muslims of the Indian sub-continent were dissatisfied with
Hindu supremacy and worked for an independent homeland. The state of Pakistan was
established in 1947. At that time 12 million Hindu and Muslim refugees crossed the border,
dividing families and communities. Both traditions have family living across each others
border. This is particularly so in Kashmir, which, as part of India, has a very large Muslim
community whose allegiance, lies with Pakistan.
Within the present borders of Pakistan there is an astonishing variety of tribes, races and
languages; the name Pakistan is said to derive from an acronym combining Punjab, Afghan,
Kashmir, Indus, and (Baluchi)stan. What unites the country is Islam. All but a tiny
proportion is Muslim, from Lahores intellectuals to Swats nomads. The country is 97%
Muslim, 2% Hindu and 1% Christian.
RADIO RECEPTION
The BBC World Service and Voice of America can be received in Pakistan on the following
frequencies:

BBC
VoA

17.79MHz
21.55MHz

15.31MHz
15.43MHz

9.605MHz
9.760MHz

7.205MHz
6.070MHz.

LANGUAGE
Urdu and English are spoken in the major cities with regional languages of Sindhi, Baluchi,
Punjabi and Pashtu. There are numerous local dialects. You will be spending most of your
visit in Baltistan where the local language is Balti. This is an archaic form of Tibetan and has
many similarities to the Sherpa language spoken in Nepal, and the contemporary language
of Tibet. All Pakistanis who work in the tourism industry speak reasonable English.
TIME ZONE
Pakistan operates at GMT plus 5 hours. While British Summer Time is in effect the UK
operates at GMT plus one hour. This reduces the time difference between the UK and
Pakistan to 4 hours. (i.e. at 8 a.m. in London it is 12 oclock mid-day in Islamabad).

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SOURCES OF FURTHER INFORMATION
You may find that learning more about the history, mountains and people of Pakistan and the
Karakoram Himalaya before your expedition will enhance your enjoyment of the experience.
There are several sources of such information that can be accessed easily before the start of
your trip. Many sources of information can be found via the internet. Stanfords Travel
Bookshop in Covent Garden London (also mail order and website) has an excellent selection
of materials. Good maps and satellite photographs of the Karakoram Himalaya are available.
Trekking guides produced by several publishers contain up to date information on the
Northern Areas of Pakistan as well as useful background information and helpful hints for the
visitor. There are many accounts of mountaineering expeditions who have climbed the
famous peaks of the karakoram during the past century. Reprints of historical accounts of
the early exploration of this area are also available.
CLIMATE & TERRAIN
The months of July and August are the most popular times for trekking in the Karakoram,
and this when most of the higher altitude treks (between 4,000 and 5,000m) take place. At
lower altitudes conditions can be very hot and dusty in mid summer. For this reason we have
chosen to offer the Rush Peak trek in early September. Most of the trek takes place between
3,000m and 4,000m and temperatures should be pleasantly cool. The weather is usually
quite settled at this time of year. Sunshine and clear blue skies can be expected on 60-70%
of days. The temperature during the day should be pleasant for walking at altitudes between
3,000 and 4,000m. Below 3,000m it can be quite hot during the day, while night
temperatures above 4,000m can dip below 0C. A few days of precipitation can be expected.
At lower altitudes this will take the form of mist or rain. Higher up this could fall as snow.
During the trek there are a variety of conditions underfoot. On many days we will be walking
on good paths. Some days will involve crossing sections of glacial moraine and scree. There
is usually an adequate path for much of the way, although there are sections where the path
is very poor or non-existent. Each of the glacier crossings is on 'dry' sections of ice with no
danger from crevasses. The glaciers will usually be covered with stones although short
sections of bare ice will be encountered. About half of the trekking trail is on regularly used
paths, and half passes through infrequently visited terrain where there is no distinct path.
The path on Day 11 from Bericho Kor to Chidin Harai climbs steeply for 700m with little
opportunity for comfortable rest stops, followed by 300m of gentler climbing to camp. This
path is dry, dusty and unrelentingly steep. The ascent of Rush Peak is very straightforward
except for the 150m leading to the summit. This final section is made up of loose blocks of
rock that are reasonably stable in dry conditions but can be tricky if covered in fresh snow.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE QUESTIONNAIRE
You will find enclosed a questionnaire asking for details of your previous mountaineering and
climbing experience. Please complete this to give as full a picture as possible of your
climbing and mountaineering background. If you need more room then please continue on
additional sheets. Alternatively, if you already have a prepared climbing CV then we would
be pleased to receive this instead. However, the declaration on the climbing questionnaire is
important, so please complete this section and sign the form before returning it to us.
This form can be found on-line on our secure web-server, assuming you have an active
account, at www.jagged-globe.co.uk/accounts/
If you have not received an email confirming your account details already, but would like to
take advantage of the facilities on offer, then please contact the office and we will set up an
account for you (you will need an active email address to do this.)

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PAKISTAN - VISAS
Visas are required by most nationalities. You must obtain your Pakistan Visa before you
travel to the country. Visas are not available on arrival. Note that visa requirements for
Pakistan can change. Contact your nearest Pakistan consulate before applying for a visa to
confirm the latest requirements and current visa fee.

Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required?

Full British

Yes

Yes

Yes

Australian

Yes

Yes

Yes

Canadian

Yes

Yes

Yes

USA

Yes

Yes

Yes

Other EU

Yes

Yes

Yes

Japanese

Yes

Yes

Yes

Restricted entry and transit: The Government of Pakistan refuses entry to nationals of
Israel, even for transit.
PASSPORTS: Passport valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay required by
all.
VISAS: Required by all except the following: Transit passengers continuing their journey by
the same or first connecting aircraft, provided they are holding onward or return
documentation and not leaving the airport.
Types of visa and cost: Price of visa varies according to nationality. For UK nationals,
prices are: Single-entry (40); Double-entry (54); Multiple-entry (66). Certain nationals
are issued visas free of charge, but they must be obtained prior to travel. For further
information, consult the High Commission or Embassy.
Validity: 6 months from the date of issue for stays of up to 3 months. A Multiple-entry visa
allows six journeys in a total period not exceeding one year, with a maximum 3-month stay
at any one time.
Application to: Consular section at High Commission in London - or - Pakistan Consulates
in Bradford, Birmingham, Glasgow or Manchester.
Application requirements:

Valid passport.
1 completed application form.

2 passport-size photos.

A self-addressed, pre-registered, stamped envelope.

Visa fee (postal order).

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Important notes;
When applying for your visa you should avoid any ambiguity by entering tourism under the
heading Purpose of Journey.
You will need an address in Pakistan, you should use our agent and also the first hotel
contact details which are;
Himalaya Trek & Tours,
112 Rahim Plaza, Murree Road, Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Tel: 00 92 51 515371
Hotel Margala
M-2 Near Convention Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan. Tel: 00 92 51 227 6500

High Commission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

36 Lowndes Square, London, SW1X 9JN
Tel: 020 7664 9200. Fax: 020 7664 9224.
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 1000-1230 and 1400-1730; Friday 1000-1200 noon
Consular section: Monday to Friday 1000-12:30PM and 1400-1730
Consulates in: Bradford, Birmingham, Glasgow and Manchester.

British High Commission

PO Box 1122, Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: (51) 822 131/5. Fax: (51) 823 439 or (51) 279 356 (consular section).
E-mail:bhcmedia@isb.comsats.net.pk
Web site: http://www.britainonline.org.net.pk/new
Consulates in: Karachi and Lahore.
Non-UK Residents
Non-UK residents must apply through their own Pakistan Embassy. Please ring them to
ascertain the application fee and any other special requirements. The application form and
letter of financial assurance are enclosed. You may need an application form specific to the
country where you intend to apply for your visa.

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MONEY MATTERS
INSURANCE

Only available to those who reside within the EU, or, for those who have
resided in the EU for at least 6 months out of the last 12 month period.
Full details of our insurance package are outlined in our brochure. If you have paid the
premium and completed both a booking form and important declaration online your
insurance booklet should accompany this dossier.
If you have paid the premium but not completed our booking form or the ID then we require
you to complete both forms and return to us before your insurance is issued.
Please read the insurance certificate carefully to ensure that you are happy with the cover
provided. Please note that the cover for personal possessions is 2000, which is common to
most travel policies. You should also note that within this cover, the single item limit is 400,
and for computers, radios, cameras and other such optical or electrical equipment, or
valuables the limit is 500.
It is likely that your equipment, as a total, will be worth more than 2000 and you could
have individual items, or equipment sets, worth in excess of 400. If this is the case, you
should ensure that you have made adequate provision elsewhere (normally home contents
insurance with a world-wide, all risks extension).
You do not have to use Jagged Globe insurance, but we will need documentary evidence of
your own insurance, which must provide adequate cover for medical expenses as well as for
the cost of search, rescue and repatriation. The Jagged Globe policy allows for evacuation
by any means, including helicopter, to be arranged under the authority of the expedition
leader, without reference to the insurers, or their emergency assistance company, in the
event of an emergency, which is covered within the terms and conditions of the policy. If
you elect to use an alternative policy then you must ensure that the expedition leader is
authorised by your insurers to act on your behalf to arrange search and rescue without
getting their approval first. Most policies insist that the insurers or their emergency
assistance company are contacted in order to sanction any expense for which they may
subsequently be responsible. If your insurers take this view, then the policy is not
acceptable, bearing in mind the nature of the expedition, the difficulty of communication and
the immediacy of action that will be required if an evacuation is needed.
AIRPORT DEPARTURE TAX
UK departure tax is payable if you are flying out from the UK with the main expedition
group. We are not able to include this tax in the cost of the expedition. This is to safeguard
us in case of future increases and to make sure you are aware of all taxes levied in respect
of this trip. If you have booked the flight with us, you will notice that the tax has been
shown as a separate and additional entry on your invoice for the expedition. The UK
departure tax is 20.
SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT
If you have paid the single room supplement then please be aware that this applies to all
hotels listed in the itinerary: Islamabad, Hunza and Gilgit. If you travel by road between
these cities you will use overnight hotel stops on this journey. Single rooms will be provided

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if available but this is not always possible. Payment of the single room supplement does not
entitle you to a single tent on the trek.
CURRENCY
The following figures, showing the value of 1 or $1 (US), are included as a guide to the
value of the Pakistani Rupee against Sterling and the US Dollar (correct on 1/06/08):

Currency

UK

UK

US Dollar

0.50

Pakistan Rupee

100

0.83

US$

Pakistan Rupee

2.0

130
65

1.66

Currency restrictions: The import and export of foreign currency is unrestricted. On

departure up to Pk Rupees 500 (less than USD $10) may be reconverted into foreign
currency, provided official exchange receipts are shown. In practice this is often difficult and
you are advised not risk getting stuck with unnecessary Pakistan currency.
Credit Cards: are not widely accepted outside 5 star hotels and overpriced tourist shops. It
can be very difficult to obtain cash advances from Banks or ATMs. You may wish to consider
carrying a credit card as an emergency source of funds, but should not rely on it for day to
day expenses.
Travellers Cheques: are not widely accepted outside 5 star hotels, overpriced tourist
shops and banks (with erratic opening hours). We do not recommend their use.
Cash: To avoid possible problems, you should take should take the bulk of your spending
money in cash. This can be easily changed into local currency at banks, money changers
and hotels. UK sterling is widely accepted. There is no advantage to taking US$ dollars.
Banking hours: 0900-1330 Monday to Saturday (0900-1200 Friday). However a variety of
civil and religious holidays can close the banks for several days at a time.
PERSONAL MONEY
You are advised to bring not less than 200 sterling or US$400 in spending money. You can
expect to spend about half of this for meals, drinks and gratuities and other necessary
expenses. You should consider the remainder as a contingency fund and it is not necessary
to convert this into local currency unless it is needed. If you wish to buy souvenirs then you
will need to take proportionally more money. You may be tempted by the many handicrafts
produced locally so you should ensure that you have enough money to take home some
mementoes of the expedition.

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TIPPING
It is normal practice to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants and to give a small tip of a few
Rupees, or equivalent, to hotel staff for carrying your bags and opening doors, for example.
Do not tip taxi drivers. We take care of tips for porters at main airports.
In support of the team, the effort put in by the local expedition staff will be of essential value
to a successful climb. For their work and companionship during an expedition it is usual to
tip all local personnel employed for the duration of the expedition. The level of tipping
should adequately reflect the effort that they will have made to ensure the success of each
team member, whether by direct support, in the carrying of loads or by working in base
camp. For these reasons, each team member should consider giving a tip in the region of
GBP 30 / US $60. The money collected from the team will be distributed among all the
local staff along with any other gifts such as personal clothing and equipment that you may
wish to make.
Of course, tipping is a privilege and not a right and in the event that you are not entirely
satisfied with the service provided, you are asked to make your feelings known to the leader.

INTERNATIONAL AIR TRAVEL

If you have asked us to arrange your flight for you, the main expedition group will be flying
from London Heathrow to Islamabad on Pakistan International Airways. Flights may also be
available to Islamabad from Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow airports. Please contact
the Jagged Globe office if you would prefer to travel from one of these regional airports. We
will confirm your exact flight times and flight numbers within 6 weeks months of departure.
You should arrange to arrive at the airport check-in desk at least 2 hours before departure.
Your expedition leader who will have your flight ticket will meet you there. The leader will
then handle the check-in for the entire expedition when everyone has assembled at the
airport. Once the check-in is complete, you will be given a boarding card, which you must
not lose. The expedition can then proceed to the departure lounge.
BAGGAGE
Airline baggage allowances are subject to change. We hope to arrange a larger than
average allowance for members of this expedition flying with the main group from the UK.
The exact allowance will be shown on the flight documentation sent to you from the Jagged
Globe office. If you anticipate your baggage being heavier than your allowance try to put
small, heavy items in with your hand baggage to help keep the weight in your main baggage
down. The airline should accept small rucksacks or grips as hand luggage but there is a limit
to the size of cabin baggage and the airport staff may insist that big items go in the hold.
EXCESS BAGGAGE
Excess baggage should not be necessary given the generous allowance. However, if you are
carrying an enormous amount of gear, you should be prepared to meet the cost of any
excess baggage when you check-in. Please be warned that excess baggage is expensive and
the cost for even a few kilograms over your allowance can be exorbitant. Although airlines
do not always charge passengers when they leave London, they can demand payment if they
so wish. It is more likely that the local airport staff will charge for excess baggage on
departure from Pakistan. This inevitably leads to much wrangling and argument at the
check-in culminating in the payment of a rather large, even if reduced, bill.

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Each piece of baggage must not exceed 32kg your airline baggage allowances
still apply
From 1 June 2004 all airlines operating from UK airports will not accept any single bag
weighing more than 32kg (70lbs). The 32kg limit on an individual bag does not affect your
total baggage weight allowance, as set by your airline. Passengers are urged to check the
weight of their bag before setting off for the airport, if however you are already at the
airport and your bag weighs more than 32kg you will be asked to re-pack before checking in.
Passengers who need to carry items that exceed the 32kg weight limit such as some
sporting equipment, should make special arrangements with their airline in advance. The
new bag limit, endorsed by the Health and Safety Executive and in line with international
recommendations is being brought in by BAA at UK airports to lessen injuries among airport
staff.
AIRPORT SECURITY
Increased security checks in recent years have restricted certain items from being carried in
hand luggage. Familiarise yourself with the current regulations prior to departure and ensure
that any prohibited items are packed safely in your hold baggage. All sharp objects such as
Swiss Army knives, scissors etc should be in your hold baggage.
HOTELS & CAR PARKING AT UK AIRPORTS
Flights Hotel Reservations (01342 717372) provide discounted airport hotel accommodation
at Gatwick and Heathrow; including free parking for up to 15 nights (for all UK international
airports) please mention Jagged Globe, Sheffield, when booking.

INTERNAL (AIR?) TRAVEL

Jagged Globe purchases domestic air tickets for all members (clients/leaders/local guides) of
our Pakistan treks and expeditions. These internal flight routes to Skardu and Gilgit from
Islamabad are operated by Pakistans state owned airline PIA. There are three flights
scheduled to fly each way per day between Islamabad and Gilgit. They depart from
Islamabad between 8.00am and noon each day. The duration of the flight is 45 minutes.
The same aircraft then leave Gilgit and return to Islamabad. The exact times change slightly
from year to year. The aircraft used are small turboprops with approx 60 seats. The flight is
subsidised by the Pakistan Govt and local people benefit from inexpensive fares. Foreigners
pay a higher price to fly. The flight is always fully booked, and there are usually a lot of
people on the waitlist.
The airstrip at Gilgit is surrounded by a ring of high mountains and there is no automatic
landing equipment installed. The flight will only operate if conditions on the ground permit
an entirely visual approach and landing. Flights are also liable to be cancelled even on good
weather days, leading some to suspect that PIA are less than fully committed to operating a
full service on this route. Low clouds either at Gilgit or along the flightpath from Islamabad
is the most common reason for flights being cancelled. Throughout the summer months this
flight operates on average on about 40% to 60% of the time. When the flight is cancelled all
the passengers holding tickets are entitled to either a full refund or can exchange their ticket
for the following day. This has the consequence that most of the passengers already holding
tickets for that following day are themselves bumped back a day. The net effect of this that
over the last few years Jagged Globe groups have flown on a little less than 50% of the
times that they have tried.
The Rush Peak itinerary has been written to enable the group to travel by road on the
outward journey, and make the return journey by air. This is to avoid possible delays at the
start of the trip that could cause problems on a short trip. For the road journey we will hire

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the best quality bus available (usually air conditioned) and ensure that there is plenty of
space for our group. We usually put no more than 10-12 people in a 24 seat bus thus giving
everyone plenty of space to stretch out. The duration of the journey can change greatly
from one year to the next. The total driving time between Islamabad and Hunza can vary
from 16 to 20 hours depending on the condition of the road. We will split the journey over
two days where possible, making an overnight stop at either Besham or Chilas, depending
which is more convenient. The hotels at both these locations are basic but clean.
The road journey along the Karakoram Highway is not an uninteresting experience. The
scenery is varied and the trip gives a good chance to view the changes in lifestyles from the
outskirts of Islamabad into the high mountain areas. Many people chose to make this road
journey as a holiday in its own right, although in fairness they would chose to spend more
time on the project and travel for fewer hours each day. Those intent on trekking and
climbing in the mountains of the Karakoram can find the road journey long and tiring, but we
do our best to make the travel as comfortable as possible.
The nightmare scenario is also a possibility: flights cancelled due to bad weather and the
Karakoram Highway blocked by landslides. In such circumstances it is possible that a
returning group could fail to reach Islamabad in time for their homeward international flight.
This has not yet happened to one or our groups!

CHANGING RETURN TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS

We hope that every one of our customers will have an enjoyable experience and remain part
of the team until the scheduled end date of the trek. In the event of Illness or injury the
leader and local agent will provide the most appropriate transport arrangements to get you
to the best place for any necessary treatment. Any services required over and above those
needed by the main trek group will need to be paid for. In most cases all essential costs will
be met by your insurers.
Should you chose to leave an expedition early for personal reasons our in country agent will
help to organise suitable transport for you. They are under instructions to provide one night
hotel accommodation in Gilgit (full board) and one night hotel accommodation in Islamabad
(B & B) at Jagged Globes expense. Additional nights should be paid direct to the agent who
can obtain discounted rates on your behalf. You will need to pay for the cost of jeep
transport from the roadhead (Hopar) to Gilgit (approx 50). If there is an available flight
from Gilgit to Islamabad the agent will change the date on your existing ticket and you will
be able to use this at no extra cost. However sometimes there are no flights for several
days, and you may choose to travel by road at your own expense. The local bus from Gilgit
to Islamabad costs approx 10, but we would not recommend this uncomfortable journey. A
private jeep or minibus for the trip would cost 100 - 150.
The international flight tickets that we purchase from PIA are fully flexible and your return
flight can be changed to another date. This may be free of cost or there may be a small
administration charge. In recent years we have found that it has become increasingly
difficult to change the dates of return flights due to lack of available seats, and several
customers have had to pay for expensive upgrades to first class or purchase new tickets with
different airlines.
We would ask you to be aware of all these factors when considering leaving this trek early. It
is possible that a person leaving the group one week before the end of the trek would only
get back to the UK one day ahead of the team, after a journey involving considerable hassle
and expense.

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GENERAL ADVICE AND INFORMATION

TREK BAGGAGE
This trek takes place in a high altitude wilderness beyond any permanent human habitation.
Therefore, all the supplies for the group, local staff and porters must be carried by porters.
The wages for porters makes up a significant proportion on the trek cost, and larger
numbers of porters cause more damage to the mountain environment. Team members are
frequently surprised at the number of porters required for trekking in the Karakoram. It is
not uncommon at the start of a trek for porters to outnumber trekkers by 4 or 5 to 1. On
this short trek we would hope that the number of porters will be 2-3 times the number of
trekkers. A group of 10 trekkers would therefore have 25-30 porters at the start of the trek.
We want you to be able to take all the items that you think are essential for your enjoyment
of the trek. However we also wish to limit the total number of porters that must be engaged
for the expedition. We therefore set a maximum weight for the baggage that each person
gives to the porters to carry at 15kg
SECURITY
While we do what we can to ensure the security of your baggage, it is ultimately up to each
climber to ensure that his or her personal possessions are safe and secure throughout the
expedition. Rucksacks should be tightly secured with their contents concealed from view.
We supply a kit bag to each expedition member. Although these are only fabric and could be
cut with a sharp knife, the zip can be padlocked. Whilst this will not stop a determined
attempt, it will serve to deter the casual thief and reduces the temptation put in such
peoples way. We recommend that you lock all baggage whenever possible.
Do not attach items to the outside of your rucksack as these are likely to get lost or
damaged. Important items such as money, passports and other vital documents should be
carried in a money belt or inside zip-pockets, particularly when touring cities and towns.
PHOTOGRAPHY
We would advise you to take a good Digital Camera, and preferably an SLR for the best
results. An SLR has a number of significant advantages over a compact camera, but the
most important one is the quality of the lenses commonly available and the ability to shoot
with a wide variety of focal lengths (very wide-angle to telephoto.) Taking photos in the
Himalayas variously demands this, with great panoramas or views inside monasteries best
taken with a wide-angled lens, and portraits better taken, unobtrusively, at a distance with a
long lens. If choosing an SLR, we would recommend lenses ranging from 28 mm to 200
mm, as a standard guide. If you are a keen photographer then extending this below 28mm
and beyond 200mm will open up more opportunities. Remember, that beyond 300 mm, it
becomes increasingly difficult to compensate for hand-shake without resorting to an
expensive image stabilised lens or to a tripod. As a guide, when shooting at long focal
lengths, use a shutter speed of one over the focal length, to ensure hand-shake does not
blur the image. So if youre taking a picture of a shy Himalayan goat at a distance of about
200 metres, with a 300mm telephoto lens, make sure its a bright day and your shutter
speed is 1/300 second, or faster.
If you chose a compact or an SLR, you will have to decide what size sensor it should have.
For high-quality reproduction of prints of about A4, you will need 7 to 8 million pixels. For
standard sized family prints, you could rely on 5 million pixels. We would not advise any

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less than 4 million pixels as, for a new camera, this would imply one of limited quality.
Although they have a limited focal length (do not rely at all on digital magnification) compact
cameras have the advantage of being easy and quick to use, especially as they can be
carried around the neck when trekking and remain always to-hand. The one drawback is
that there is often a lag between releasing the shutter and the image being captured.
Using the preview screen on any camera seriously shortens the life of the battery. Either
take new batteries or plenty of fully-charged rechargeable batteries with you. To be selfreliant is quite easy these days, by carrying a small solar panel, and a dc charger.
See www.selectsolar.co.uk <http://www.selectsolar.co.uk> for advice.
We would expect most trekkers to take no less than 200 images during the trek, so you
should buy memory cards accordingly. Keen photographers could reasonably take 500
images.
BROCHURE PHOTOGRAPHS
We would like to use your photos on our website please, as the pictures taken by climbers
during our treks and expeditions provide us with an invaluable resource as well as an insight
into expedition life. For each trip, we would like to build a photo album, which would be of
interest to climbers, past, present and future. Therefore, we invite you to showcase your
photos on the Jagged Globe website (and we will give you full credits).
In addition, you might like to submit your images for print publication, or to use them on the
Jagged Globe or Adventureworks websites as well. Please contact Tom Briggs tom@jaggedglobe.co.uk if you have photos we could use - in slide, print or digital (Max 99Kb please)
format. Alternatively, just send them in, as we would be delighted to see them.
PASSPORT PHOTOGRAPHS
Please bring some spare passport photographs with you. These inevitably come in useful
when dealing with the vagaries of bureaucracy in developing countries. Photocopies of your
passport (personal data page and Pakistan visa page) can also be useful.
MOBILE PHONES
There are several mobile phone networks in Pakistan and coverage is expanding all the time.
If you are driving on the Karakoram Highway the signal extends as far as Manshera, 6 hours
north of Islamabad. There is also coverage in Gilgit and Hunza.
SATELLITE PHONES
This trek will be equipped with a Satellite telephone. The trek leader will use this for
communication with the Jagged Globe office and for organising local transport and logistics.
This telephone will be available for trek members to make outgoing calls. Any call charges
should be paid directly to the trek leader in cash at the time of use. Clients use of the
Satellite telephone will be at the discretion of the leader. If there is an emergency situation
and weather conditions prevent frequent recharging of the equipment the leader will need to
keep the telephone available for essential calls.

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HEALTH AND MEDICAL

All of our trek leaders carry comprehensive medical kits. You should also bring your own
personal first aid kit as outlined in the equipment section of the dossier. In the event of
somebody becoming seriously ill or injured, the evacuation of the casualty would be difficult.
We discourage people, therefore, who have known medical problems from joining our trips.
If you are in any doubt about this, please consult your doctor.
The trek leader holds a mountain first aid certificate and has experience in dealing with
altitude related illness. The most important aspect of medical care on the expedition will be
for you to bring any symptom of illness to the leaders immediate attention - even, but
especially, at 5,000 metres plus and at 2 o'clock in the morning!
Members of the medical profession who would be willing to be expedition medic are asked to
contact us. If a doctor or nurse has not already been appointed for the trip, a discount will
be available.
IMMUNISATION
At least 6 weeks prior to departure, you will need to consult your doctor to work out an
immunisation schedule. For Pakistan and the Karakoram, you should be immunised against
the following:

Polio.
Diphtheria.
Typhoid.
Hepatitis (see below).
Yellow Fever (see below).

Vaccinations against the following diseases may be useful, although they are difficult or
expensive to obtain. Your doctor will let you know if they are appropriate:

Rabies.
Meningitis.
Japanese Encephalitis.

Notes on Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required of all travellers coming from any part of a
country in which yellow fever is endemic. Countries and areas within the endemic zone are
regarded as infected. The UK is not an endemic area.
A cholera vaccination is not available, however, cholera is a serious risk in this country and
precautions are essential.
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking,
brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but
make sure that it is reconstituted with sterilised water. Avoid dairy products that are likely to
have been made from un-boiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served
hot. Salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit
peeled.

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Hepatitis A and E occur and hepatitis B is endemic. Trachoma is common and visceral
leishmaniasis occurs in the northern areas.
MALARIAL PROPHYLAXIS
Malaria is present in Pakistan, in low-lying areas below 2,000 metres. As this trek will be
passing through such areas in Pakistan at the start and end of the itinerary, you should
ensure that you have adequate protection against malaria. Please consult you doctor to
make sure that the recommended prophylactics are effective in Pakistan and that they are
personally prescribed for your use. There is a very low risk of Malaria in the mountain areas
where you will spend most of your time, and biting insects are very rare above 3000m.
ALTITUDE
When trekking to heights in excess of 3,500 metres, there is a risk of altitude illness.
Symptoms of acute mountain sickness are common to virtually everyone going to altitude
for the first time on any one expedition, until the body has had time to acclimatise.
However, severe cases necessitate descent and, in the extreme, death can occur. Individual
susceptibility is unpredictable as people acclimatise to altitude at differing rates. All
expeditions have an appropriate acclimatisation period but this cannot avoid altitude illness
entirely or totally negate the more extreme symptoms. All of our teams carry appropriate
medication but oxygen may not be available.
On any trekking expedition there is always a possibility of climbers contracting Acute
Mountain Sickness (AMS). This is a condition in which the person may suffer from
headaches, loss of appetite, lethargy, insomnia and nausea. This is usually caused by too
rapid a gain in altitude. Although this trek has been planned to avoid this, acclimatisation is
very much a personal idiosyncrasy, which is impossible to predict in any one person. AMS is
best avoided by not walking or climbing too quickly during the early stages of the trip. The
trek leader will ensure that a sensible pace is adopted.
There is a diuretic drug (Acetazolamide), which has been used in the prevention and
treatment of AMS. The most common form of this drug is Diamox, which usually has a
positive effect on personal acclimatisation. Climbers, who have used the drug before, with
successful results, are welcome to use it on this trek, but it should not be necessary given
the gradual rate of ascent, which is implicit in the trek itinerary.
PHYSICAL CONDITIONING
This trek is likely to be one of the most physically demanding things you have ever done.
You will push your body towards the extremes of its physical capabilities. In order to have a
realistic chance of completing the trek and of enjoying the experience, you must ensure that
you are as fit as possible.
Any arduous physical exercise (for example: running, cycling or swimming) is ideal for this.
The main emphasis must be put on cardiovascular improvement and, of course, the legs.
Unlike for rock climbing, upper body strength is not important for Himalayan trekking of this
type. Long distance walks with a rucksack of approximately 20Kg will be beneficial and will
give you the opportunity to test out your personal equipment and, if necessary, break-in
your boots. Whatever form of exercise you do, make sure you enjoy it, that way you will
keep it up!
Himalayan trekking is about stamina, mental as well as physical. You must go to the
mountain with a positive frame of mind and be ready to deal with all the situations that are
likely to arise. We would recommend that in preparation, you read as much as possible
about mountain travel and trekking in the Karakoram. This will help you focus on the
challenge ahead. You should also train hard as mental stamina has to be built on physical

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stamina, as you will need to be confident in your body and its ability to get you through.
Fit individuals,
puts excessive
not 'peak-out'
fitness up until

who carry no excess weight, rarely perform well in an environment, which

demands on the body for long periods of time. It is important that you do
in fitness before the expedition, but slowly increase your overall state of
departure.

Preparation for a high altitude trek is a very individual matter, but no matter which approach
you favour, you must have CONFIDENCE in your physical condition.
We all feel
psychologically on the back foot during the acclimatisation process and it will be reassuring
to know that you are in good physical shape to cope with the initial phase of the trek. Good
luck!
DIET
Diet is important because there is always weight loss during a high-altitude trek and it is
best to start the trip with just a little surplus body fat. Do not overdo the accumulation of
this body fat, as you have to carry it in the mountains and feed it valuable oxygen! Theories
abound regarding diet and acclimatisation, but while there is no definitive ideal pre-trek diet,
it would be wise to eat strictly low fat, high protein foods in the weeks before the trip. The
main aid to acclimatisation is liquid and lots of it. Before departure, start drinking large
quantities (of water!) to get used to forcing it down on the mountain.
HYGIENE
Experience has shown that maintaining a high standard of personal hygiene within the group
can significantly reduce the risk of contracting illnesses. In towns and cities there will be
ample facilities for washing hands after toilet visits and before meals. At our established
camps throughout the journey similar hand washing facilities will be available. However
there will be many times during the trek when you wish to wash your hands and there is no
soap and water available. We recommend that you bring a supply of anti bacterial (alcohol
based) hand wash gel and use it as often as necessary throughout the trip.
DENTAL CHECKS
You should have a thorough dental examination before the trek, and have any necessary
treatment carried out. Fillings often dislodge at the start of a trek if they have not been
thoroughly inspected by a dentist immediately before a trip. Dental treatment on the
mountain is likely to be drastic and traumatic, so do everything you can to avoid it.
SMOKING
Experience has demonstrated that smoking is prejudicial to fitness and good acclimatisation.
MEDICAL DECLARATION
You will find enclosed a medical questionnaire. Please complete this and return it to us as
soon as possible. If there are any points of concern to us, your declaration will be referred
to our company doctor. Concerns may arise from medication, your medical history or
current medical status whereby we need to be assured that your taking part in the
expedition would not put you, or those with you, at undue risk. For example, we have to
check that the effects of altitude will not exacerbate any pre-known condition and that any
drugs you may be taking would not impede acclimatisation or have an adverse reaction with
any drugs that you could be given if suffering from altitude sickness.

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Once our doctor has received your declaration, he may seek your permission to consult
further with your own medical practitioner or he may offer immediate advise to you. Our
doctors aim will be to assist and allow your participation on the trek whilst making you fully
aware of any possible outcomes or additional risks that you may face as a result of your
medical history. If you decide to withdraw from the trek, and this decision is in keeping with
our doctors advice, then we will refund everything that you have paid in respect of the cost
of the trip.
In providing you with this advice and by vetting your medical declaration, neither Jagged
Globe nor our appointed Company Doctor, assume the responsibility for ensuring that you
are sufficiently fit and healthy for this trek, as we cannot assess this on the basis of a written
declaration. The responsibility for your own medical well-being is yours and the advice of
your own medical practitioner remains paramount. This form can be found on-line on our
secure web-server, assuming you have an active account, at www.jaggedglobe.co.uk/accounts/
REMOTE AREA WARNING
Being away from populated areas in remote regions, with difficult access, carries certain
risks. This trek will take you away from normal emergency services and medical facilities.
Therefore, the trek will need to be self-reliant in terms of first-aid. However, in case of
serious injury to you which requires hospital treatment, it has to be accepted by you that
getting you to hospital may take several days rather than hours, which may impede your
ensuing recovery. Given the constraints of communications and of local infrastructure, not
all regions have the ability to respond to requests for emergency evacuation from remote
areas, assuming such a call for help could be placed. Helicopters are the most usual means
of recovery but they are not universally available and, even where they are, they may be
hindered in reaching you by the weather or by the altitude of the evacuation area.
Injury whilst trekking may result for many reasons, most of which are commonly accepted
when walking in familiar places such as the British Isles. Such injuries may stem from
crossing rough terrain or rivers and range from a fall leading to a sprained ankle or a lower
limb fracture, to allergic reactions caused by insect bites. Although of no major significance
in Britain, the delay in hospital treatment could exacerbate otherwise minor injuries caused
in the routine of walking, let alone more serious injury as a result of a fall whilst trekking on
steep mountain paths. In addition, travelling abroad also carries risks not otherwise
encountered at home. These include disease and the potential for encounters with wild
animals or exotic creatures such as leeches, snakes, spiders and malarial mosquitoes, to
name but a few. Obviously, such risks are well documented and all team members will be
advised accordingly in advance of the trip and during the trek.

HELICOPTER EVACUATION
The emergency services available in the mountain areas of Northern Pakistan are very basic.
There is no organised search and rescue capability and access to helicopters is much more
restricted than in Europe or other parts of Asia. Private aviation (fixed wing and helicopter)
is not permitted and all flying activities are under the direct control of the Pakistan Army and
Airforce.
Medical rescue and evacuation missions are only available from Askari Aviation, a
commercial subsidiary of the Pakistan military. The number of missions flown on behalf of
foreign climbers and trekkers has been increasing in recent years. The authorities who
control the missions and the flight crews who operate the aircraft are developing greater
expertise at meeting the needs of foreign visitors.

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A major obstacle remains which makes this service considerably more difficult to access than
similar services in other countries. All Jagged Globe clients will be travelling with insurance
policies that should provide cover for the costs of any evacuation required on medical
grounds. In most countries the helicopter operators (private or state owned) are prepared
to fly first and recover the cost of the mission from the casualtys insurance company
afterwards. This is not the case in Pakistan.
Askari Aviation will not fly any rescue mission until a substantial cash deposit has been paid
to their HQ in Rawalpindi. Even straightforward missions to collect people from the popular
trekking routes can cost in excess of USD$10,000. Clearly it is unrealistic to expect Jagged
Globe clients to carry this amount of cash during an expedition.
In order to facilitate the prompt evacuation of any client needing urgent medical treatment
Jagged Globe have made arrangements for this amount of cash to be available via our agent
in Rawalpindi. No Jagged Globe client requiring evacuation by helicopter should suffer any
delay arising from issues concerning payment.
However Jagged Globe will require to be reimbursed in full for any amounts spent in this way
on behalf of a client. In the vast majority of cases clients should be able to reclaim the full
cost of any helicopter evacuation from their insurance company. Ultimately it is the
responsibility of the client to ensure that Jagged Globe is repaid in full for the cost of any
helicopter flights that have been flown on their behalf.

GUIDELINES FOR VISITORS

When people visit the Greater Himalaya, particularly for the first time, they are often
unaware, and sometimes insensitive to the environment, the local people and their religions.
During the expedition, we should be aware that, in their eyes, we are incomparably wealthy,
and that we have a very strong effect on their way of thinking. Like it or not, they draw
example from us, copy our habits and want what we have. It is extremely important,
therefore, that before visiting the Karakoram you are aware of a number of issues that will
ultimately affect the preservation of the environment and the culture of the local people.
ISLAM
Pakistan is a Muslim country. The customs differ greatly from ours and women, in particular,
must be careful not to cause offence. Loose and baggy shirts and trousers will attract less
unwanted attention than tight fitting sports clothing.
Until we get well away from
civilisation, everyone should dress modestly and keep shoulders and legs covered up. Even
then, you should remain very much aware of and sympathetic to the susceptibilities of our
porters and other base camp staff.
ALCOHOL
Pakistan is one of the Islamic nations that prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol.
Non Muslim foreigners can purchase locally produced alcohol from government run permit
rooms in major cities. However the paperwork required makes this an unattractive option
for visiting tourists. It is not a serious offence for foreign tourists to possess alcohol that
they have brought with them into Pakistan. Duty free bottles purchased before arrival in
Pakistan should be carried discreetly in hand baggage to prevent it being confiscated at
Islamabad airport, although in reality bags are rarely searched.
PRESERVATION AND CONSERVATION
1. Please do not litter the countryside. You will see the locals have no litter sense and it
may be tempting to follow suit, but it is much better to set a good example. Elementary

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precautions should be that we burn our loo paper.

2. It may be tempting to take things like interesting coloured rocks, mani stones (carved
religious stones set into prayer walls), animal horns or antiques as souvenirs. Please
leave the environment as you find it.
Remember the maxim "leave nothing but
footprints, kill nothing but time, shoot nothing but photographs".
3. Streams are, of course, the locals' water supply and we should avoid using detergent or
polluting them in any way. When going to the toilet keep at least 20 metres away from
the edge of any watercourse.
PROTECTING HIMALAYAN CULTURE AND CUSTOMS
1. We are visitors in another nation's house, we should respect local laws, customs and
beliefs, even if we think that a particular religious idea is ridiculous, we should not
ridicule it. At religious festivals we should remain as unobtrusive as possible.
2. Public affection is frowned upon. Kissing or holding hands in public places is disrespectful
of local custom.
3. Ask first before taking any photos. Similarly, respect people's right to privacy. Make
friends with people first, then ask if taking a photo is OK. Many of the older generation
think a photo is a theft of part of their soul, therefore do not shoot unless permitted.
4. Time has a totally different meaning in the Himalayas and one of the greatest virtues you
can possess while travelling is patience. In the west, we expect things to happen on
time and rapidly, it is quite the reverse in the country you are visiting. By becoming
impatient you will only slow things down further and you will not ingratiate yourself with
the locals.
5. Many people will stand around just watching what you are doing, sometimes touching
you and your things. Be patient and do not get angry with them.
6. Because of the effects of television and videos, locals sometimes get a completely wrong
idea of the western world. Try and show them a realistic view; put across the bad points
of western society as well as the good. They will appreciate it if you showed them
photographs of your town, house, family and way of life.
7. It is useful to pick up a little of the language if you can. Locals really appreciate this and
you will establish a much more friendly relationship with them.
8. Do not expect to be able to just walk
showing that you would like to look into
They will usually invite you in any way.
country knocked on your door and asked

into their village houses. There are ways of

their house without being obtrusive or forceful.
Imagine how you would feel if a tourist in this
to come in for a look round!

9. Be as friendly as you can to your guides and porters. They are often your best way of
discovering more about the way of life of the people and their customs.
10. Dress demurely. Locals often find that short shorts, skimpy tops, skintight lycra wear is
rude and offensive. Your expedition staff, of course, are more used to our more relaxed
habits, but look to the Expedition Leader if in doubt about your dress. Dress is very
important when visiting religious shrines although western visitors often ignore local
sensibilities. It is appropriate to wear long sleeves and long trousers or a long skirt when

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visiting monasteries.

11. Do not give sweets or presents to village children - it only encourages begging and
without toothbrushes or toothpaste, giving sweets will rot the children's teeth. If you
want to show your friendship, it is best to give presents of pens to the local school.
12. It is not good to give money to beggars in the main cities; it would be better to give to a
recognised charity.
Your observation of the above guidelines will be much appreciated
STAFF WELFARE & PORTER PROTECTION
We owe a great deal to the efforts of the local staff in the countries we visit and
acknowledge the vital contribution they make to the success of our trips. We do not take
them for granted. When appointing agents, we look for them to prove that they have a
positive and caring policy towards the employment of local staff. Our leaders, who take
overall responsibility for the running of the trip whilst in country, ensure that porters and
camp staff are adequately clothed and equipped for the task. We invite team members to
comment on this in our post-trip questionnaires.
In Nepal, in association with Kit Spencer and Summit Trekking, we make a contribution to a
staff welfare fund for each person who travels with us. The purpose of this fund is to pay for
any medical treatment needed by our staff and their families and to pay them if they are
unable to work for medical reasons. In addition, we support and apply the guidelines of
several charity organisations, including the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG) www.ippg.net <http://www.ippg.net> and the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project
(KEEP) - www.keepnepal.org <http://www.keepnepal.org/>
In Pakistan the social. political and cultural basis of the porter economy is very different from
Nepal. There is a government enforced minimum wage which is quite generous compared to
other forms of income in the mountain areas. There is also a mandatory insurance scheme
that provides basic benefits to porters and their dependants in the event of injury or death.
However there are still instances of porters being treated poorly by local agents and foreign
trekkers. Jagged Globe works with the local agent in Pakistan to ensure that our porters are
treated fairly.
A newly formed organisation Khurpa Care has launched a number of initiatives to improve
porter welfare in the Karakoram. Jagged Globe intends to work with Khurpa Care to put
something back into the mountain communities of the Karakoram that have given so much
enjoyment to the members of our groups over the years. We collect donated clothing and
equipment for Khurpa Care in the UK and ship this to Pakistan. Our core staff of Guides,
Cooks and High Altitude Porters (HAP) have worked for us for many years and are well
known to our regular guides and the clients who have travelled to Pakistan with us more
than once.

THE KIT BAG

You will be given a Jagged Globe kit bag in which to pack your equipment. This is particularly
useful for the hold of the aircraft and for transporting your equipment during the trek. You
are advised to lock this kit bag with a small padlock whenever it is out of your sight.
Your Jagged Globe kit bag will be sent to you one month prior to your departure.

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SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST

This exhaustive list does not have to be followed to the letter. We appreciate that trekkers
and climbers have their own preference regarding clothing, but we hope this list will ensure
nothing is overlooked.

TOWN & TRAVEL CLOTHING

UNDERWEAR
SHIRT
TROUSERS
SOCKS

TEE-SHIRT
SHORTS
SHOES/ TRAINERS
SANDALS /TEVAS

TREKKING CLOTHES

UNDERWEAR. One set longjohns and tee-shirt. . All major manufacturers produce a
range. Helly Hansen have a good range, Patagonia Capilene is a favourite brand, NZ
Merino wool is a luxury option.

WALKING TROUSERS. One pair of lightweight trekking trousers.

LIGHTWEIGHT SHIRT. Long sleeved to give maximum protection from the sun.

WALKING TROUSERS. One pair of warmer trousers (Fleece or similar). Several major
manufacturers have suitable products. Newer soft shell products offer an alternative.

FLEECE SHIRT. One lightweight or mid-weight fleece shirt. Patagonia, North Face, Mt
Hardwear, Mt Equipment and Berghaus are among the most popular brands in the Uk.
Cheaper generic versions are often just as good

FLEECE JACKET. One thick full-weight fleece eg Polartec 200 or equivalent.

Windstopper fleece or soft shell garments are other options, but not essential.

WEATHERPROOF JACKET. A waterproof and windproof outer shell. Make sure the
jacket has an adequate roomy hood and ventilation zips. Should be breathable, in
Gore-Tex or similar fabric. E.g. Mt Equipment. Changabang

WEATHERPROOF TROUSERS. Waterproof, windproof trousers preferably with braces

and long leg zips for ease of fitting over boots. Should be breathable, in Gore-Tex or
similar fabric.

DUVET JACKET. Light weight down duvet like RAB Summit. Useful to keep warm in
the mess tent in the evenings and for cold days.

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WARM HAT. Heavy weight wool, fibre pile or fleece. Make sure it covers your ears and
the back of your head.

INSULATED GLOVES. A good pair of mountaineering or ski gloves should be

considered. Gloves should have a weatherproof breathable outer, a reinforced palm and
(ideally) a removable fleece liner.

FINGER GLOVES. 2 pairs lightweight gloves. Terra Nova Thicky Stickies recommended.

SUN HAT. Peaked cap or wide brimmed hat.

SCARF. For sun protection and snow proofing the neck. Silk or cotton.

SOCKS. 3 sets. A set is what you normally wear with your boots, possibly one thin pair
and one thick, loop-stitch pair.

WALKING BOOTS or SHOES. Comfortable, lightweight 3 season walking boots for the
trek. Leather or synthetic. *See footwear note below

GLACIER GLASSES or MOUNTAINEERING SUNGLASSES. One pair with perhaps a

spare lightweight pair in case of loss or damage. Full UV protection.

GENERAL EQUIPMENT

DAYSACK / RUCKSACK. Suitable for carrying items that you will need during the trek.
Also useful as cabin baggage. Size is a matter for personal preference. Sizes from 3050 litres will be suitable.

SLEEPING BAG. Good quality 3 or 4 season down bag eg: Mountain Equipment Iceline,
Rab Ladakh 1000 . * see note below
A compression stuff-sack is also very useful
RAB Sleeping Bags are available for hire from Jagged Globe.

SLEEPING MAT. Therm-A-Rests or generic inflatable mats (full length inc repair kit)
are ideal and very comfortable. If you have a small/thin one you might like to consider
bring a cheap closed cell foam mat to put underneath (see suggestion for lining kit bag).

WATERBOTTLES. Enough to carry 2 litres. Strong and watertight. Sigg Aluminium

bottles are popular as are wide neck Nalgene plastic bottles.

PENKNIFE. Swiss Army knives or "Leatherman" tools are particularly useful.

TREKKING POLES. One pair. Telescopic models are easier to transport.

HEAD TORCH. Traditional bulb or new LED type, but not a minimalist ultra light model
with a limited beam length. Bring a spare bulb and batteries as necessary. Petzl Tikka
not suitable, a good example is Black Diamond Zenix IQ.

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SUN SCREEN. Must be highest factor available.

LIP BLOCK. At least 2 sticks.

WET WIPES. Useful for keeping clean when soap and water is not readily available.

ANTI-SEPTIC HANDWASH. Alcohol based gel available from pharmacies or

outdoor/travel shops. Two bottles.

FOOT POWDER. Important for keeping feet in good condition.

INSECT REPELLENT. One small bottle.

STUFF SACKS. Useful for storing clothing etc in your tent.

CAMERA & LENSES. Protective bag essential. Bring spare batteries.

CAMERA FILM. Do not underestimate your requirements; and lens tissues and /or
brush.

WATER PURIFICATION TABLETS. Approx. 40 iodine based, water purification

tablets / available with taste neutralising tablets.

TOILETRIES. As required. Small mirror useful.

A BOOK. Suitable for passing around the team.

PASSPORT.

MONEY, TRAVELLERS CHEQUES & CREDIT CARDS.

ADDRESS BOOK.

PERSONAL REPAIR KIT

SEWING KIT. Needles, nylon thread, canvas and rip stop patches, etc.

THERM-A-REST. Some patches for your inflatable mattress are useful.

MISCELLANEOUS. 5m of 2-3mm cord, several short straps (350mm).

SUGGESTED PERSONAL FIRST AID KIT

PAINKILLERS. Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin.

ANTIBIOTICS. Two courses as prescribed by your own GP. One for chest and upper
respiratory tract infections and one for abdominal, bowel infections.

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COUGH LOZENGES. Lockets and Strepsils are good.

WOUND DRESSING. One.

TRIANGULAR BANDAGE.

MELONIN DRESSINGS. (10cm x 10cm) four.

PLASTERS. Assorted.

REHYDRATION POWDER. Dioralyte, Gastrolite or similar. Six sachets.

ANTISEPTIC CREAM. One small tube.

DIARRHOEA TREATMENT. Immodium, Arret or Lomotil recommended.

WOUND DRESSING. One

TRIANGULAR BANDAGE. One

N.B. The group medical kit contains more of the above plus extensive supplies for a wide
range of medical problems and emergencies.

EQUIPMENT NOTES
KIT BAG
you should aim to have all your personal equipment transported during the
trek in your Jagged Globe kit bag. This will survive the rough handling of jeep and porter
transport much better than a fragile and expensive rucksack. You can give the contents of
the kit bag extra protection by using a cheap karrimat (cut in 2) as a liner. This can be
removed at night and used to add extra comfort to your bed.
FOOTWEAR There is a large element of personal preference involved in the type of footwear
that people chose to bring on a trek of this type. Most people will bring lightweight footwear
for use while travelling and for walking in towns and cities. This could be sandals or trainers.
Much of the trek passes through hot, dry and dusty terrain and some people may find
wearing heavy leather boots uncomfortable on this type of ground. There is also a fair bit of
rough ground where many people will prefer to use footwear that gives good ankle support.
One approach is to bring a separate pair of light trekking boots (or shoes) for the lower
sections of the trek, and a stronger pair for the more difficult ground.
With all footwear, correct fit is important and you should ensure that any shoes or boots
intended for trekking are sufficiently roomy not to constrict your feet.
SLEEPING BAG You will encounter a wide range of temperatures during this trek. On the
lower sections the nights can be quite warm. At this stage of the trek it is essential to have a
sleeping bag with a full length zip so that you have the option of sleeping under the bag
rather than in it. There will be a few nights when you are sleeping at the highest camps
when overnight temperatures will be close to freezing. If you think that you feel the cold
more than average you may wish to consider using a 4 season sleeping bag. If you are less
concerned about spending a few nights at low temperatures and wish to avoid the expense
of purchasing a 4 season sleeping bag, a 3 season bag will be adequate for most people.

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CLOTHING You will encounter a wide range of temperatures during this trek. Temperatures
in the area can vary greatly from day to day with the weather. On hot and sunny days light
trekking wear (shirt and trousers) can be adequate even at altitudes up to 5000m. Heat and
strong sunlight can pose serious hazards to your health and wellbeing. Light loose fitting
clothing and a proper sunhat are essential items in hot conditions. On overcast days with
wind (and possibly rain) conditions can be considerably colder. While walking it should be
reasonably easy to keep warm even in bad weather. However there may be times when
there is a certain amount of waiting around (for example if the group reach a campsite
before the porters carrying the tents). In such cases you need to have warm weatherproof
clothing available. You should aim to travel on the trek with one two sets of clothing: one
suitable for hot conditions, and one suitable for cold conditions a good layering system is the
key!

EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS
COTSWOLD OUTDOOR STORES. On production of a receipt or invoice bearing our
Account Code, and before the date of travel, Cotswold will offer all
Jagged Globe climbers a discount on full price items. A list below
shows the locations of their stores or you can order on-line at
www.cotswoldoutdoor.com

Location
Bournemouth
Cirencester
Glasgow

Address

Tel

Unit 1, Westover Retail Park

2-16 Castle Lane West
Bournemouth, Dorset, BH9 3LJ
Gateway Visitors Centre
A419/Spine Road East Junction,
South Cerney, Cirencester, GL7 5TL
West End Retail Park
Crow Rd, Partick, Glasgow G11 7RY

Fax

01202
529123
01285
863930

01285
863938

0141
3575353

0141
3575111

Grasmere

Former Lamb Inn, Red Lion Square

Grasmere, Cumbria, LA22 9SP

01539
435778

01539
435931

Harrogate

8-10 West Park

Harrogate HG1 1BL

01423
701100

01423
701111

Keswick

16 Main St, Keswick. CA12 5JD

01768
781030

01768
781039

Kingstonupon-Thames

72-76 Clarence St
Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey KT1 1NW

0208
5499500

0208
5499590

London

Ground Floor, St Clements House

Leyden Street, London, E1 7LL

0207
6554660

0207
6554990

London

23/26 Piccadilly, London

W1J 0DJ

0207
4377399

0207
434159

Manchester

6A Oxford Road
Manchester, M1 5QA

0161
2365851

Nottingham

Castle Buildings, Castle Boulevard

Nottingham, NG7 1SA

0161
2364123
01159
576890

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01159
576899

Jagged Globe
Royal Oak Hotel, Holyhead Road
Betwys-y-Coed, LL24 0AY

01690
710710

01690
710810

Rock Bottom, Holyhead Road

Betwys-y-Coed, LL24 0AP

01690
710234

01690
710304

Reading

271 Basingstoke Road

Reading, RG2 0KY

0118
9875177

0118
9875188

Southampton

13 Lower Northam Road

Hedge End, SO30 4FN

01489
799555

01489
790010

St Albans

91-93 Victoria St
St Albans, AL1 3TJ

01727
847888

01727
841143

North Wales

OTHER SHOPS OFFERING discounts to Jagged Globe's clients

Outside, Main Road, Hathersage, Hope Valley S32 1BB (01433 651 936)
www.outside.co.uk. We have organised a 10% discount with Outside.
Peglers, 70a Tarrant Street, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9DN (01903 884 684)
www.peglers.co.uk. 10% for Jagged Globe customers.
The Outdoor Shop, 27-31 High Street, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, MK11 1AA
(01908 568 913) www.the-outdoorshop.co.uk. Up to 20% for Jagged Globe customers.

PRE-EXPEDITION WEEKEND
Presentations Venue: Church Hall, St Marys Church, Betws-y-Coed
Hotel Venue:

Waterloo Hotel - Best Western

Betws-y-Coed
Gwynedd LL24 0AR
Tel: 01690 710411
Email: reservations@waterloo-hotel.info
Web: http://www.waterloo-hotel.info/

Directions: Entering Betws-y-Coed on the A5 from the south, the hotel is

immediately on the left-hand side of the road after you cross over the
Waterloo Bridge. The hall for our presentations is at the back of St Marys
Church, also on the left-hand side of the main road, just before Cotswolds.
Jagged Globe Cost: 50 payable at the weekend by cash or cheque please.
This pays for dinner on Saturday and for the instruction. You do not have to
stay at the Waterloo to have dinner there with us.
Hotel Costs: You must book yourself and pay separately for the hotel. To
get better rates, tell the Waterloo you are with Jagged Globe.
Confirmation of Attendance: To confirm attendance and confirm your
dinner choices, call us (0845 345 8848), send an email (info@jaggedglobe.co.uk) or return the enclosed form, no less than 10 days before the
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weekend, please. We will book your dinner, and send a kit bag to North
Wales for you we cannot book hotel accommodation for you.
What should you bring? Hill-walking clothing and equipment including full
waterproofs, warm clothing, and boots. Also bring any equipment you would
like approved for your trip. For winter weekends, bring an ice axe and
crampons.

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WEEKEND ACTIVITY PROGRAMME
We hope that you will join and enjoy the entire weekend. But we know time
is precious, so if you cannot do it all please come for as much as you can.
The outline programme will be:
Friday: We meet in the bar of the Waterloo Hotel, from 8 p.m. Friday
evening. If you cannot arrive until Saturday, please be in the church hall for
registration at 0900 a.m.

Saturday: Morning 0900 till 1230 (with a coffee break):

Registration at 0900. Then Clothing and Equipment for your

Trek/ Climb - what to take and tips, plus what not to take.
Health and Hygiene on Expeditions.
Afternoon from 1400 to 1800 (with a tea break):

Sunday:

Acclimatisation - Symptoms and Treatment of Altitude Illness.

Porter Welfare.
Expedition Slide Presentation
Evening
1930 to 2100: Dinner at the Waterloo Hotel (as selected from
Table dHte Menu)
Expedition Slide Presentation

0930: Meet at the Waterloo, ready for a day of outdoor activity.

We will complete a hill-walking and easy scrambling route across the Welsh
mountains, such as an ascent of Snowdon, Tryfan or a traverse of the
Glyders or the Carneddau. We will add skills training appropriate to your
expedition, such as:

Ropingup for glacier travel.

Using fixed ropes.
Abseiling and rock-climbing.
Team Building.
Cold Injury - Avoidance and Care.
Crevasse Rescue Drills.

The weekend will end at 4 p.m., when you will be invited to complete a
questionnaire to give us some feedback.

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SHOPPING
We have an arrangement with Cotswold Outdoors that gives you a discount of 15%
off normal retail prices. As the shop is in Betws, you can go shopping whenever you
want throughout the weekend and one of our instructors will go with you, if you ask
them for their advice and help. The shop staff will be expecting you during the
weekend, from Friday onwards.
U.I.A.A. ETHICAL CODE FOR EXPEDITIONS
(SUMMARY)

1.

Ensure all members of the team are aware of the regulations set by the host country,
the objectives of the Kathmandu Declaration and the U.I.A.A. ethical code for
expeditions.

2.

To adopt a sporting approach to the expeditions objectives and not to use equipment
or other resources out of proportion to these objectives.

3.

To conduct the expedition in a way which maintains the safety of its members and
especially those it employs.

4.

Whenever possible to provide technical advice and training to members of the

expedition from the host country.

5.

To give an accurate report about the expedition to the appropriate bodies.

6.

Not to use equipment and materials owned by other expeditions without permission
and be prepared to help local people or other expeditions if the need arises.

7.

To leave the mountain environment as clean as possible at the end of the expedition.
OBJECTIVES OF THE KATHMANDU DECLARATION

1.

Protect effectively the mountain environment, its flora, its fauna and its natural
resources.

2.

Reduce the negative impact of man's activities.

3.

Respect the cultural heritage and dignity of local populations.

4.

Stimulate activities, which restore and rehabilitate the mountain world.

5.

Encourage contact between mountaineers of different countries, in a spirit of

friendship, mutual respect and peace.

6.

Make available all information and education necessary to improve the relationship
between man and his environment.

7.

Use only technology respecting the environment for energy needs and the disposal of
waste.

8.

Support developing mountain countries in efforts for the conservation of the

environment.

9.

Widen access to mountain regions unfettered by political considerations.

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GOOD LUCK!

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