JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波) Adventure: My Epic Birthday Expedition

Introduction: Arriving in Chengdu

I arrived in Chengdu a day earlier than my youngest sister Jo, on April 30th, 2024. Jo and I have shared many adventures, including unforgettable trek in Sapa, Vietnam. Her enthusiasm for outdoor expeditions was infectious, and knowing I was in China, she seized the opportunity to research our next challenge. We decided to celebrate my birthday with a snow mountaineering attempt on Siguniang Dafeng. Little did we know, fate had other plans.

A Change of Plans: From Siguniang to JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波)

Our excitement for Siguniang Dafeng was quickly dashed when we learned it was closed to the public for facility upgrades. We were recommended an alternative: JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波), a lesser-known snow mountain. With limited information and only a sparse brochure from the agency, we decided to take a leap of faith. The expedition was set for May 2nd, a three-day, two-night adventure with a group of 16.

Day 1: Journey to XiaoJin County (小金县)

Our journey began with a drive from Chengdu to XiaoJin County (小金县) with a gathering of 16 spirited trekkers, all eager to embark on a memorable expedition. Among them was my sister Jo, whose presence was especially meaningful to me. The meet-up was filled with palpable excitement as everybody exchanged introductions and shared our motivations for undertaking this challenge.

Our group, a diverse assembly of individuals with varying backgrounds and experiences, quickly formed bonds over shared enthusiasm and anticipation. The initial preparations were meticulous; ensuring everyone had the necessary gear and supplies for the arduous journey ahead. The atmosphere was a blend of camaraderie and determination, fostering a sense of unity that would be crucial for the days to come.

Day 2: Trekking to Base Camp

The trek to the base camp covered 10.5 kilometres, ascending from 3400 meters to 4200 meters. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and a gentle breeze. The landscape was breathtaking, with streams of water and the snow-capped mountain looming ahead. The breathtaking scenery of JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波) snowy peaks began to unfold before us.

The pristine whiteness of the snow-covered landscape, contrasted by the clear azure sky, created a picturesque backdrop that heightened our collective excitement. Each step forward was a reminder of the grandeur of nature and the unique opportunity we had to experience it up close. Upon reaching the base camp, reality set in. The accommodations were basic at best, with all 16 of us crammed into a stone shelter, sleeping on wooden floors with sleeping bags.

The plan was to summit two different peaks separately: one at 4886 meters and another at 5123 meters. Jo aimed for the 4886-meter peak, while I prepared for the more technical climb to 5123 meters.

The guides provided a crash course on using the lifting harness, adding a layer of anticipation to the climb. However, as evening fell, so did the snow.

It snowed heavily throughout the night, blanketing the base camp and beyond.

Celebrating Early: A Birthday to Remember

Jo, ever thoughtful, had arranged for a birthday cake to be carried up from XiaoJin County (小金县). We celebrated early upon reaching base camp after dinner with our fellow adventurers, guides, and a heartfelt rendition of "Happy Birthday."

Jo gifted me a sport watch, a practical and sentimental token of our journey. It was a unique celebration, surrounded by strangers in a rustic stone hut, high in the mountains.

Day 3: The Ascent and unforeseen Challenges

We woke early, geared up, and started our ascent from 4200 meters amidst relentless snowfall. The snow was ankle-deep at the base camp and grew deeper as we climbed.

By the time we reached 4600 meters, it was waist-high.

The guides, prioritising safety, made the difficult decision to retreat. Both Jo’s and my groups faced the same fate, turning back to ensure everyone’s safety.

Reflecting on the Expedition

Despite the disappointment of not reaching the summit, the experience was invaluable. We safely descended to XiaoJin County (小金县), where we shared an early dinner with our group, forging friendships and exchanging contact information for future adventures. The expedition was a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of adaptability.

Conclusion: Lessons and Future Plans

Our attempt at JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波) was filled with unexpected challenges and memorable moments. The accommodations and food may have fallen short, but the camaraderie and experiences more than made up for it. This adventure has left JiangGeGaBo’s (江格嘎波) on my bucket list, and I look forward to attempting it again under better conditions. Until then, the mountain remains a symbol of resilience and the spirit of adventure.