First Ascents on Pheker and Mirshikar Peak in Pakistan's Karakorum

A joint Pakistani - French team comprised of Hassan Aljabbal, Adnan Khan, Sebastién Carniato and James Price has completed new routes on Pheker Peak (5465m) and Mirshikar Peak (5464m) in Pakistan's Karakoram.

The team set up a high camp on the east col of Mirshikar. This they accessed on 1 September via a steep snow gully from Kachelli to the south. The following day Price set off solo, climbing westwards towards Pheker Peak. He weaved a line through seracs on the north face of Pheker to gain the NW ridge and summit.

A day later, climbing as a team, the alpinists scaled Mirshikar via the east ridge and bivouacked at the summit before descending the SW ridge to complete the first traverse of this beautiful peak. Returning to the valley there was much celebration. It is hoped the alpine style ascent will encourage more young Pakistanis to explore the legendary mountains that surround them.

Historical Note: The first recorded ascent of Pheker Peak is by Lindsay Griffin via the east ridge (2/08/1984). Lindsay Griffin also made the first recorded ascent of Mirshikar peak on the 16/08/1984.