The main mountaineering areas in India are Garhwal Himalaya and Kumaon regions of Uttaranchal. The name Garhwal has been used interchangeably with the name Kumaon Himalaya, and has for the most part replaced the latter, although originally the two names described slightly different regions. Garhwal consists of rugged mountains and valleys while Kumaon is more gently angled.
Mountaineering in Garhwal is concentrated mainly in two areas – around the Gangotri Glacier and the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. There is some limited scope in the region that lies in between. Companies, expert guides and porters are available to organise expeditions. There are numerous peaks of varying heights and difficulty levels between 6,500 and 7000 m.
In Eastern Gahrwal, Nanda Devi (7816m, the highest peak of the area), Trisul (7120m) and Changabang are best known climbing objectives. In central part of the lies Kamet (7756m). Gangotri area has several climbing destinations, besides Gangotri group itself, especially Shivling (6543m), Meru and summits of Bhagirathi are famous. The mountaineering season is from April to November. However, a number of peaks can also be attempted during winters. The permanent snow line in the region starts at around 5,000m.
Peak booking fees, inner line restrictions, import of equipment, camera permits,
insurance, medical attention and evacuation procedures have been laid down
in detail by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation based in Delhi. This is
the national apex coordinating body for the sport in India.