British Chaukula 2001

Despite experiencing repeated problems in obtaining a permit to climb in the sensitive Rupshu area of Ladakh, the leader has persevered in his hope of achieving the first ascent of Chaukula, 6,529m. In 1997 (MEF Ref 97/34) deep soft snow forced the attempt to be abandoned at 6,000m. On this occasion, from an ABC at 5,600m, a route was forced up a line of rock flanking the E side of the S Face to 6,000m and from there via the face to the summit ridge. The summit was reached by Mothersdale and Willis at a grade of AD+, Denney and Ratty giving up some way short of the top four days later when they ran out of time.