Overview
Since its launch in 2011 with 3 instructors and 10 participants, the Ice Climbing Training, organized by the Nepal Mountaineering Instructors Association (NMIA), has been a specialized intensive program for individuals with little to no experience in technical waterfall ice climbing. This course equips participants with the skills needed to tackle steep snow and ice routes, including multi-peak ascents above 5,500 meters above sea level. Conducted in the stunning Himalayan landscapes of the Kathmandu Valley and high-altitude ice climbing sites in Nepal, the training combines theoretical instruction, hands-on practice, and real-world scenarios to foster safe, competent, and environmentally responsible climbers. With high demand for skilled climbers in Nepal’s tourism industry and a critical need for qualified national professionals, this program supports the development of a responsible climbing community in affiliation with government and non-government organizations.
Goals
- Equip participants with technical ice climbing skills for safe and confident ascents on steep snow and ice routes.
- Develop proficiency in anchor construction, rope management, and hazard assessment for alpine environments.
- Promote teamwork, communication, and self-dependent climbing techniques in high-altitude settings.
- Foster environmental stewardship and adherence to Leave No Trace principles during ice climbing activities.
- Contribute to building a qualified national cadre of professional climbers to enhance safety and professionalism in Nepal’s tourism industry.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the training, participants will be able to:
- Execute ice climbing movement skills, including proper crampon and ice tool techniques.
- Select, construct, and equalize snow and ice anchors for secure climbing systems.
- Manage anchor stations effectively during multi-pitch ice climbing.
- Apply ice protection techniques to ensure safety in alpine environments.
- Perform rope management, rappelling, and belaying in ice climbing scenarios.
- Demonstrate multi-pitch climbing techniques for routes above 5,500 meters.
- Assess objective and subjective hazards, including avalanche danger, rockfall, and icefall risks.
- Select appropriate clothing and equipment for survival and efficiency in alpine ice climbing.
- Apply Leave No Trace ethics to minimize environmental impact during climbing activities.
- Build confidence, competence, and self-reliance in technical ice climbing scenarios.
Program Details
- Duration: 10 days (60 hours total)
- Location: Kathmandu Valley and high-altitude ice climbing sites, Nepal
- Instructor-to-Participant Ratio: 1:3
- Total Participants: 25 per session
- Target Audience: Mountaineers, trekkers, guides, and outdoor enthusiasts with basic climbing experience or prior NMIA/NMA training, seeking to develop technical ice climbing skills
Mandatory Requirements
To enroll in the Ice Climbing Training, participants must provide:
- Photocopy of citizenship or passport
- Two passport-sized photos
- Insurance coverage: NPR 10,00,000 (accident insurance) and NPR 3,00,000 (medical insurance)
- Completion of one of the following:
- NMIA’s Introductory Rock-Climbing Course (42 hours / 7 days)
- Basic Mountain Rescue Training (42 hours / 7 days)
- Rock Climbing Level-1 Training (84 hours / 14 days)
Training Fees
- Nepalese Participants: NPR 28,000
- Foreign Participants: USD 450
Contact Information
For inquiries or registration, please contact:
Email: training@nmia.org.np
Website: www.nmia.org.np
Phone: +977-1-4533660
