Brief Description
CB (Chandra Bhaga) are a group of peaks located in the Lahaul massif. Mt. CB 13 (6264M) and Mt. CB 14 (6078M) are two beautiful peaks that rise high overlooking the beautiful Chandra Tal Lake near Batal. The summits of these two peaks present to you fantastic views of the entire Kunzum range, the Chandra Tal lake and the gushing Chandra River. Known to be two of the best peaks to climb in this region of Himachal Pradesh, Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 expedition is meant only for experienced trekkers and aspiring mountaineers who wish to take it up a notch and experience a thrilling climb to the summit. The route to these twin peaks is infested with crevasses, boulders and a few technical sections before presenting you a steep climb to the summit. Prior technical knowledge of the use of jumars, crampons and rope-up procedures is a must to successfully undertake the trek. Even though the peaks are not as high as their counterparts in Uttarakhand, Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 must not be taken lightly and thus one must be physically and mentally fit to undertake this expedition. June to October is the best season for this expedition. Stay on this page for more information on Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 expedition.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Show complete Itinerary
Arrival in Manali
Arrive in Manali and meet our team. We will get you checked-in to a hotel. Relax while we take care of the official formalities. Meanwhile, there will be an introduction and briefing session. We will check and divide the equipment required for the expedition. Enjoy the rest of the evening exploring Manali.
Manali to Batal - 6 to 8 hrs Drive
Today we will leave early and drive to Batal from Manali. It will take a total of 6-8 hours to reach Batal. The lovely views of the Spiti valley will keep you company. We will pitch tents in Batal. Have dinner and overnight in tents.
Acclimatization day at Batal (14,000 FT)
Today we will spend the day resting at Batal for acclimatization. We will also go for an acclimatization walk to Chandratal Lake. Overnight in Batal.
Batal to Base Camp
Today we will move from Batal to Base Camp. Once you reach the Base Camp there will be briefing session on the use of equipment, self-arrest techniques, ascending and descending techniques. Have dinner and retire for the night. Overnight in tents.
Acclimatization Day at Base Camp
Today we will study the route, weather conditions and other information necessary for our expedition. We will also practice and take acclimatization walks. Overnight in Base Camp.
Base Camp to Advanced Base Camp (ABC) and back to Base Camp
Today we will load ferry from Base Camp to ABC and return back to Base Camp where we rest for the night.
Base Camp to ABC
Today we will move forward and capture ABC. We will spend the night here.
ABC to Summit Camp of CB 13
Today we will leave the ABC and move to Summit Camp of CB 13. We will establish the summit camp and prepare for next days summit to CB 13.
Summit Camp to CB 13 Summit (20,552 FT) and back to ABC
Today we will attempt to summit CB 13. The summit push will begin by 2-3 am. Once we have summited the CB 13 peak, rejoice the moment and make your way down to ABC. Overnight in ABC.
Reserve Day for CB 13 Summit
Reserve a day for summit climb if the weather does not allow you to summit the day before.
Rest day at ABC
Today we will rest at ABC and prepare for our summit climb to CB 14
Summit push to CB 14 (19,941 FT) and back to ABC
Today we will start the summit push to CB 14 and then retrace back to ABC.
Reserve day for CB 14 summit
Reserve a day for summit climb if the weather does not allow you to summit the day before.
ABC to Base Camp
We retrace back to Base Camp from ABC and rest for the night.
Base Camp to Batal
Today we retrace our steps and come back to Batal where we stay for the night.
Batal to Manali - 6-8 hours Drive
Today we will drive to Manali.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pick your question
Eligibility: Is this trek good for me?
In accordance with the rules and regulation set forth by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) for mountaineering expeditions, out of 12 seats per batch:
- 6 seats are reserved for aspirants with a certificate in Advanced Mountaineering Course (AMC)
- 4 seats are reserved for aspirants with a certificate in Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC)
- The remaining 2 seats are reserved for aspirants with previous trekking experience of expeditions above 5500 - 6000 meters
Foreign Nationals - Due to a specific set of guidelines for Foreign Nationals it is recommended to call our support team to gain information on the list of documents and procedure involved in booking a mountaineering expedition with us.
CB 13 and CB 14 peaks are made only for experienced trekkers who want to test their limits. The challenges faced in the trek should not be underestimated. You should attempt this trek only If you have already done treks that climb to 4700-5500 metres. It is recommended not to opt this trek if you cannot get acclimatized in high altitudes. Besides you need to have a strong physical endurance to complete this trek. For details on trek difficulty level, please read on Bikat Rating Scale
Eligibility: Experience required
A basic mountaineering course is recommended though not mandatory in case of highly experienced & skilled trekkers. At least 2-3 challenging treks along with 20 – 25 total trekking days in the Himalayas. Medical fitness certificate from CMO of a recognized hospital.
Eligibility: Fitness benchmark
Jog/Run for 5 Kms in 25-30 mins Or Walk continuously for 10 kms (with 3-4 small breaks) on plain terrain (slight incline is better) and
Hold your breath for 40 seconds and
3 sets of Climbing 30 – 40 steps in one stretch and
Push Ups – 10 and
Lunges & Squats – 15 X 2 sets
If you are not meeting these benchmarks, please use the preparation schedule to improve your fitness till you achieve the above benchmarks.
Eligibility: Requisite skills
How to use an Ice Axe
How to use Climbing boots & Crampons
How to rope up & follow queued climbing/descending
How to self-arrest using an ice axe
Knowledge of Basic First aid
Best Season: What are the best months to visit this trek?
June to October are the best months to undertake the CB 13 and CB 14 Expedition.
Packing List: What to pack
Click here for packing list.
Packing List: How should I pack my rucksack?
Packing List: How should I select my trekking shoe?
Age limit: What is the minimum & maximum age limit?
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Accommodation type: What will be the accommodation type in this trek?
When you arrive in Manali, your stay will be made at a hotel.The rooms will be provided on twin or triple sharing basis. You will receive the details of your accommodation through email few days prior the trek. On trekking days you will be accommodated in tents on a twin sharing basis.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of tents and sleeping bags will be provided to us?
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accommodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees Celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius. If you carry your own sleeping bag, you will get a cashback reward provided that you inform us as soon as you have booked your trek.
Equipment and facilities: Are there any washroom/toilet facilities on the trek?
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek. These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go through our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks.
Equipment and facilities: If we trek in snow, what equipment will you provide?
Since this is a technical climb at extremely high altitudes on snow and ice, all required technical equipment such as Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Jumar, Descender, Harness will be provided. You can refer to the inclusions section for more details.
Equipment and facilities: What kind of food will be provided for the trek?
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, bread, and butter served for breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are trekking. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food. The meals consumed on the journey and arrival day are not included in our cost.
Equipment and facilities: What equipment can I rent from you?
You can rent the following items from us- Trekking Pole, Trekking Shoes, Fleece Jacket, Rucksack.
Weather conditions: What will the temperatures be like during this trek?
You can expect temperatures to drop to as low as -10°C to -20°C at higher camps on the climb. The more altitude we gain the colder it gets. However, the weather is always unpredictable so be prepared with all the essential layers required to keep yourself warm and dry.
Weather conditions: When will there be snow on this trek?
Since this is a technical climb at 6200 M, you can expect snow and ice on the expedition.
Miscellaneous : Is there an option to offload my backpack?
If you want to offload your rucksack, you will have to make a request for offloading a few days prior to the trek through an email so that arrangement can be made in advance. You will be charged per day for offloading your rucksack. In case you decide to offload on the spot, you may have to pay a higher price than usual. However, offloading your rucksack is not recommended since it is not a safe practice.
Miscellaneous : Who will lead us on the trek?
A team of participants will be led by an IMF certified mountaineering guide. All participants are requested to abide by what their leader says. There will also be a team of kitchen staff and porters on the trek. We maintain a 1:8 ratio of trek leader and participants. All our trek leaders and staff have certified training in first-aid and rescue operation.
Miscellaneous : Is the trekking pole necessary?
Yes, the trekking pole is necessary. If you don’t want to buy one, you can rent it from us on minimal daily basis charges. You can request the renting link from us.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Yes, there are stores/shops in Manali from where you can buy necessary stuff. Though it is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Are there any local stores/shops from where I can shop trekking necessities?
Yes, there are stores/shops in Manali from where you can buy necessary stuff. Though it is recommended that you come prepared with all the stuff. Please do not leave anything for last minute buying.
Miscellaneous : Is it safe for solo woman traveller to trek in Fixed departures?
Yes, it is absolutely safe for a solo woman to travel in fix departures. Women on the trek will be sharing a tent with each other. In case you are the only woman on the trek, you will be given a separate tent.
Miscellaneous : Will you give certificates on completion of trek?
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the trek.
Transport: In case we opt for the transport with you, where will you pick us from and where will you drop?
You will have to arrive in Manali on your own. Our vehicles will take you to the base camp Batal and drop you back in Manali after the expedition, the cost of which is included in the price of the expedition.
Transport: What time will you drop us at the end point on last day of the trek?
Expect to reach Manali by evening. Plan your further travels and accommodation accordingly.
Mandatory documents: What are the mandatory documents required for the expedition?
ID Proof (Soft Copy to be sent to us in Advance & original to be carried), Medical Certificate (Soft Copy to be sent to us & original to be carried) and Photocopy of ID Proof and passport size photos are the mandatory documents required for the trek.
About the Trek: Why should I go for this trek?
Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 Expedition
Mt. CB 13 and CB 14, Chandra Bhaga (CB) 13 and 14 are astounding peaks located in the Lahaul massif with heights of 6264M and 6078M respectively. The route to these twin summits is a rough terrain with technical boulders and a steep summit making it a technically challenging and thrilling expedition meant only for experienced trekkers and mountaineers with prior experience of climbing a non-technical peak at least. The summit gives you stunning views of the entire Kunzum range, the Chandratal lake and the Chandra river.Nearby attraction: What are the nearby attractions that I can explore?
Manali is the gateway to Solang Valley where you can participate in adventure activities like paragliding, and zorbing in the summer months when the snow melts. This famous tourist hill station has so many places to visit in Manali. Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple which has an interesting mythological tale associated with it. Walk through the charming lanes of Old manali. Visit the bazaar to buy some souvenirs. Jogini Fall and Vashisht Temple are other famous attractions in Manali. You can also visit Rohtang pass while you are in Manali.
Connectivity: How to Reach the base of the trek & how to go back from the end point?
The start point of Mt. CB 13 and CB 14 expedition is Batal which lies on the way to Spiti from Manali. The ideal way to reach Batal is by hiring a shared jeep, local bus or a private taxi from Manali. Manali is well connected to Delhi through road and air. There are no direct trains from Delhi though.
By Road:
The road distance from Delhi to Manali is 536 km. There are overnight HPRTC Volvo buses from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi for Manali. There are also private Volvo buses which can be booked online. However, their services are highly unreliable, especially on Long Weekends. It is a 14-hour journey by bus. You can book your bus tickets online through hrtchp.com or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi.
By Rail: To reach by train, take a direct train from Delhi to Pathankot. Some of the trains that run on this route are Delhi-Pathankot Express, Jammu Tawi Express, Delhi-Dhauladhar Express. You can then take a bus from Pathankot to Manali. Or you can take a connecting train from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar which is the nearest station to Manali. There are buses running frequently between Joginder Nagar and Manali.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar airport which is located 50 km from Manali. There are taxis available at the airport which will take you to Manali. You can also take local buses that keep running from Bhuntar to Manali at very regular frequency. Buses are decent and very cheap compared to taxi that can cost you around INR 2000 to 2500 depending upon season.
Connectivity: What is the cellular network connectivity for this trek?
One can expect cellular connectivity till Gulaba and few kilometers ahead of Manali. There might be no signals available by the time you reach Batal.
Why Bikat
Why Bikat
Learning Experience
- We are an Adventure Learning Organisation first.
- We want you to not just complete a trek safely but also pick up some basic trekking knowledge and skills along the way.
- To achieve this we have integrated learning modules into our itineraries.
- These modules will help you build the necessary skills to progress from trekking to mountaineering over time.
Loyality Programs
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
- Currently we have three levels:
- Basic Membership
- Summiteer Membership
- Leader Membership
Personalized Attention
- Our group sizes on treks don’t exceed 15 members in order to maintain a healthy Participants : Leader Ratio of 8:1.
- Over time we have found this number to be optimum when it comes to ensuring personalised attention to every member of our group.
- On mountaineering expeditions this number is even smaller. Our group sizes are capped at 12 members ensuring a Participants : HAP Ratio of 2:1.
Best Expedition Leaders
- Our Expedition leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified, specially trained in rescue procedures from NIM and certified first-aid responders.
- Even our local guides are certified first-aid responders.
Eco-friendly Practices
- Group sizes are capped at 15 people.
- Batch sizes are capped at 250 people per trail per season.
- We follow a rolling campsite model.
- We are constantly exploring and introducing new trails to reduce the burden on existing ones.
Safety
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
- To ensure this:
- Every region of ours is mapped with an emergency evacuation plan.
- The equipment we use is UIAA certified.
- Our trek leaders are AMC certified with specialisation in rescue procedures.
- Our support staffs are trained in first aid as well.
Reviews
What's Included
Whats Included
- Food as per menu on the trek
- Forest Permits/Camping Charges (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- 4 season Dome Tents, Thermal rated Sleeping bags, Sleeping mats
- Safety Equipment includes static rescue rope, seat harness, carabiners, pulleys
- Expedition guide, cook, helpers, HAP and LAP for carrying common supplies
- Course certified & experienced Expedition Leader with Wilderness Emergency Responder & Rescue. course from NIM Uttarkashi
- Technical Equipment - PP Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Snow Stake, Dead Man/Boy
- Peak Booking Fee Charges (upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
Whats Not Included?
- Portage of personal bags during the expedition
- Meals during hotel stay in Manali
- Cost of any kind of Travel Insurance.
- IMF Peak Booking Fee for foreign nationals US$ 250 for a team of two members and US$ 110 for every additional participants
- Forest Permit / Camping Fee for foreign nationals (USD 880-1000 upto group of 10)
- Mandatory Liaison Officer Fee for foreign expeditions ( ~USD 500 for group of 10)
Cancellation Policy
Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Voucher Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Please note
- Cash refund is applicable only in case of bookings made without using any promotional offer code or vouchers.
- This is only a brief of cancellation terms. For finer details please refer Detailed Cancellation Policy.
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