Trekkers assemble in Manali, where the expedition formally begins. This day is intentionally kept slow and structured. Based on our experience, rushing preparation here directly impacts performance later in the expedition.

Equipment checks are conducted with emphasis on technical gear, layering systems, and glacier safety equipment. The expedition leader briefs the team on the nature of the CB region, expected weather volatility, and the seriousness of the terrain ahead. Hydration and early rest are enforced.

The drive to Batal is long, rugged, and physically draining despite being vehicle-based. Altitude gain is significant, and many trekkers feel the first real impact of thin air by evening.

Upon arrival, movement is restricted. Warm meals, hydration, and immediate rest are prioritized. This night often brings light headache or disturbed sleep—both normal at this altitude.

A full acclimatization day at Batal is non-negotiable.

Short acclimatization walks are conducted to stimulate adaptation without fatigue. From experience, this day plays a major role in preventing altitude-related issues once trekking begins. Equipment is rechecked, loads are finalized, and team dynamics are observed closely.

The trek to CB Base Camp follows glacier-fed terrain and rugged moraines. Although the distance is manageable, movement is slow due to uneven ground and altitude.

Base Camp is established in a remote glacial basin. Once tents are pitched, trekkers are advised to rest immediately. The sense of isolation becomes very real here—this is the point where the expedition truly begins.

This day allows the body to stabilize at sustained altitude.

Trekkers undertake short hikes toward higher ground and return to camp. Breathing patterns, hydration habits, and recovery are monitored. Route discussions for CB 14 begin, and weather patterns are assessed carefully.

Trekkers carry partial loads to Advance Base Camp (4,915 M) and return to Base Camp.

This rotation exposes the team to higher altitude while maintaining recovery by sleeping lower. It also familiarizes trekkers with glacier movement and rope protocols, which become critical later.

The team moves permanently to Advance Base Camp.

This camp marks entry into the operational zone of the expedition. Wind exposure increases, temperatures drop, and recovery slows noticeably. Trekkers minimize movement and focus on hydration, nutrition, and rest.

CB 14 is attempted first as part of acclimatization and terrain assessment.

The summit day involves glacier travel, snow slopes, and steady climbing above 6,000 meters. Though technically manageable, the altitude demands careful pacing. The summit offers expansive views across the CB massif.

After a controlled descent, the team returns to Advance Base Camp. This day provides invaluable insight into how each trekker responds above 6,000 meters.

A full rest day allows physical and mental recovery after CB 14.

From experience, skipping this rest compromises CB 13 success. Trekkers hydrate aggressively, eat well, and minimize movement. Weather windows for CB 13 are studied closely.

The team ascends to CB 13 Summit Camp, carrying essential gear.

This camp is exposed, cold, and mentally demanding. Sleep is light, appetite is low, and preparation must be meticulous. Summit strategy, turnaround times, and safety margins are reviewed in detail.

Summit day begins early.

CB 13 is longer and more demanding than CB 14, both physically and psychologically. The climb involves sustained effort in the extreme altitude zone. Decisions here are conservative—summit success is secondary to safe descent.

After reaching the summit, descent continues carefully back to Advance Base Camp, marking the completion of the expedition’s primary objective.

This day exists as a critical buffer for weather or recovery. In successful itineraries, it allows the team to descend without pressure, reinforcing Terranova Expedition’s safety-first philosophy.

The team descends back to Base Camp. Oxygen levels improve slightly, and physical recovery begins. Camp cleanup is done responsibly, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

The trek back to Batal retraces the approach route. Trekkers move steadily, enjoying the gradual return to lower altitude and warmer conditions.

The drive back to Manali marks the end of a demanding and remote expedition. The contrast is immediate—comfort returns, breathing improves, and reflection sets in.

This final return underscores Terranova Expedition’s execution philosophy on CB 13 & 14: patient acclimatization, conservative summit decisions, and structured recovery ensure that trekkers return strong, healthy, and prepared for even bigger Himalayan challenges, not depleted by them.