Q: I have completed courses in Mountaineering
and climbing in India and also have been to a few
expeditions in India and Nepal. But my main
area of interest is rock climbing. I want to know
what is the major differences (if any) between
Himalayan rock climbing and Alpine climbing?
I do not have any experience of Alpine climbing....If I want to climb in the Alps, who can help me
out?
Ciao and happy climbing,
—Arindam Chakravarty
Calcutta, India
Arindam,
Himalayan rock climbing is basically a form of alpine
climbing. Alpine climbing just means climbing in the
alpine environment, i.e. big peaks that are above tree
line and covered in snow and ice. Your best bet for
climbing in the Alps is probably just to hire a guide.
Even experienced climbers sometimes hire guides when
visiting an area just so they can get the most out of
their time. It's great to get the local tour of an area.
Look for a UIAGM-certified (Union Internationale de
Associations de Guides de Montagnes) guides; this body
rigorously tests and re-tests members, so you can be
sure they know what they're doing. You can also look in
the guides and travel section in the back of Climbing
Magazine.
