Located in the Altai Mountains on the Russia-Kazakhstan border, Gora Belukha stands tall at an elevation of 4,506 meters. It is the highest peak in the Altai range and one of the most challenging climbs in the world. Its snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and unpredictable weather have attracted adventurers and mountaineers from all over the world. Let’s take a journey through the history of climbing Gora Belukha.
The Altai Mountains, where Gora Belukha is located, have been inhabited by various ethnic groups for thousands of years. The Altai people, who are indigenous to the region, have long considered Gora Belukha as a sacred mountain and a land of spirits. They believe that the mountain is the home of the gods and it is not meant to be climbed. Due to this belief, Gora Belukha remained unclimbed until the 19th century.
Attempt to climb Gora Belukha first was made in 1914. It was made by a team of climbers from Russian. However, their expedition was unsuccessful due to the harsh weather conditions and lack of proper equipment. It wasn’t until 1917 when a team of German climbers successfully ascended the mountain, marking the first recorded ascent of Gora Belukha.
In the following years, the mountain saw a series of attempts and successful climbs by various international expeditions. However, it wasn’t until 1933 when the first woman, Lyubov Uspenskaya, reached the summit of Gora Belukha. Her achievement was significant as it challenged the traditional beliefs of the Altai people and opened the doors for more women to climb the mountain. First woman attempted to Everest expedition was Junko Tabei from Everest Nepal route.
In 1956, the Russian mountaineer Vladimir Bashkirov set a new record by ascending and descending Gora Belukha in just 28 hours. This feat was considered impossible at the time, and Bashkirov’s record stood for over 30 years until it was broken in 1988.
Despite several successful ascents, Gora Belukha remained a challenging and dangerous climb. In 1991, a group of seven Russian climbers lost their lives while attempting to climb the mountain. This tragic event led to stricter regulations and permits for climbing Gora Belukha, making it more exclusive and safer.
In recent years, Gora Belukha has become a popular destination for extreme climbers, with different routes and varying levels of difficulty. The most common route, known as the “Big Chui Step,” takes climbers through a narrow gully, steep ridges, and crevasses, making it a technical and physically demanding climb.
Today, with improved equipment and technology, Gora Belukha is not as daunting as it once was. However, it still requires a high level of physical and mental strength, as well as proper preparation and guidance. The weather in the Altai Mountains is unpredictable, and climbers must be prepared for rapid changes in temperature and strong winds.
Despite the challenges, the allure of Gora Belukha continues to draw adventurers and mountaineers from around the world. Its grandeur and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. The history of climbing Gora Belukha is a testament to the human spirit and our innate desire to conquer the unknown.
In conclusion, Gora Belukha is not just a mountain, but a symbol of human determination and perseverance. Its history is a reflection of the evolution of mountaineering and the continuous push to reach new heights. As more people embark on this epic journey, Gora Belukha will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of climbers and remain a symbol of adventure and exploration.
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