Route April 2018: Irkutsk - Mondy (A-164) - Munku-Sardyk.

The height of Munku-Sardyk is 3,491 meters above sea level, this is the most high peak Eastern Saiyans. The mountain is located on the border of Buryatia (Russia) and Mongolia.

“Friends of the hikers” invited me to go on a hike to Munku-Sardyk; the dressage date was determined in advance. Since Munku-Sardyk is located on the Russian-Mongolian border, it is necessary to take care of obtaining a pass to the border zone in advance - applications from citizens of the Russian Federation are considered up to 30 days, foreigners - up to 60 days. You can submit an application remotely either through the government services website or by email. I ordered the pass through the State Services website, with delivery to the postal address, everything took 10 days and the pass was in my hands. Here you will find all the comprehensive information on obtaining a permit https://angara.net/forum/t106692

We got from Irkutsk to the border control point in Mondy in 4 hours along a good asphalt road, it took half an hour border control, after which the barrier was opened and we drove further to the bridge at the mouth of the White Irkut, where the trail to Munku-Sardyk begins. The cars were left next to the yurt in the parking lot, then from the bridge they walked to the spit (the confluence of the White Irkut and Muguvek rivers).



When collecting information on the Internet, I read many reviews and articles about Munku-Sardyk, stories about how the ascent was very difficult mentally and physically, that the rarefied atmosphere caused severe health problems for some, how sometimes there were accidents when people lost their tempers from steep slopes, about avalanches that periodically descend from mountain slopes. They make tourists feel terrible)). The information also varied on the time required for the ascent, some took 5 days, others managed to get up and down from the bridge in a day.

At the end of the article I will give my conclusion on all controversial issues.

We walked to the arrow with backpacks for 2 hours, set up a base camp on the spot and began climbing Munku-Sardyk in the morning.



A lot of snow fell overnight, and in the morning the snow still did not stop falling. The clouds hung very low; the top of Munku-Sardyk was not visible.



Climbing equipment is required to climb the glacier safely. I only rented crampons, I didn’t take an ice ax with me, trekking poles were enough for me. The climb up the mountain is very steep, and in some places it becomes very scary when you look down. It’s physically and mentally difficult, I was personally convinced of this by myself and those around me. On the way I met a girl who had a fear of heights, she didn’t go further than the ridge (a section of 100 meters to the top), they were scared.


From the top of Munku-Sardyk you can see the Mongolian plains and Lake Khubsugul, and Lake Baikal on the north side. Unfortunately, due to heavy cloudiness, we were not able to contemplate all this beauty. Catches at the top cellular, but you need to be careful with roaming since the mountain is located on the border of two countries - step to the right for Mongolia roaming, step to the left for the Russian operator.





Descending from a mountain is much faster than climbing up a mountain, but the descent is no less dangerous. With me, the man decided to slide down the slope on his butt without taking off his crampons. I ended up twisting my ankle badly. The time to climb Munku Sardyk and descend is different for everyone, we managed it in two days, on the way back I met a group that was returning, they managed to go to Munku and return back in one daylight with backpacks from the bridge. It all depends on time, physical and psychological preparation, but if you don’t rush, 2.3 days will be required for the hike. Separately, I would like to express my gratitude to my “hiking friends” without whom my conquest of the peak would not have taken place.

Price:

11,200 rubles

Duration:

4 days / 3 nights

Travel date:

  • 04/30/2019 - 05/03/2019 (held)

Description of the trip

The peak of Munku-Sardyk is located on the border of the Republic of Buryatia and Mongolia. From this peak there is a stunning view of the Eastern Sayan Mountains and the famous Mongolian Lake Khubsugul. Climbing involves moving in ropes or with the help of individual safety equipment (crampons, ice axe, helmet, safety system) along a steep snow-talus slope of 35 degrees. One hundred meters before the top, the ascent is marked with special cables for individual belay. The ascent from base camp and back takes an average of 10 hours. The peak of Munku-Sardyk is very popular and accessible to people with different levels of training, thanks to the well-coordinated work of the team and the professionalism of the instructors. IN May holidays According to statistics, more than 5,000 people come to the border zone to climb this difficult peak. Accommodation is provided in the base camp at an altitude of 1,800 meters. We tried to create the most comfortable conditions for you to relax before and after the ascent. Life in the mountains can be more comfortable than you think. Our camp is equipped with warm tents with heating, capacity for 10 people, electricity, the ability to charge your electrical appliances, and use light in the tent and near the camp; we also install a field bathhouse with hot and cold water for our tourists. There are cooks at the camp, so you won’t have to worry about being on duty, and camp assistants will provide warmth in the tents at night, and you won’t have to think about providing firewood. They leave for the preparation of the camp a week before the ascent, collecting firewood, providing light, heat, a field kitchen, and transportation by snowmobiles. Age: from 12 years (accompanied by parents). Important: pay for the hike in full and send your passport details to issue a pass before April 14th. For foreign citizens, the deadline for submitting data is two months before the start of the tour; payment is also due April 14.

Included in cost

- transfer from Irkutsk railway station and back
- accommodation in winter tents with stoves
- services of a cook, assistants and guides
- meals from dinner 1 day to breakfast 4 days
- field bathhouse (capacity 10 people)
- use of group equipment and special
- issuing passes to the border area with Mongolia
- preparation of the camp and organization of its work
- registration at the rescue service
- medical support

Not included in price

- air and train tickets from and to Irkutsk
- meals at a roadside cafe 2 times
- souvenir products
- special equipment: helmet, ice axe, crampons, safety system (harness, self-belay and 2 carabiners) – 1000 rubles/entire trip
- delivery of cargo to the base camp by snowmobiles - 300 rubles

Program

Day 1.
The length of the transition is 5.3 km, the altitude gain is 300 m. Meeting in Irkutsk (train station 8:00). We recommend arriving/flying to Irkutsk in advance, the night before or at night. Meeting the guides. Transfer to the beginning of the active part of the route (360 km) – the bridge over the White Irkut River (Republic of Buryatia). During the trip we will visit observation deck, which offers a beautiful view of the southern tip of Lake Baikal and the Khamar-Daban ridge, glorified by Vizbor. Further our path runs through the territory of Tunkinsky national park Republic of Buryatia with its picturesque steppe landscapes and Buryat settlements. Along the Tunkinskaya Valley the peaks of Khamar-Daban and Eastern Sayan rise majestically. Lunch at a roadside cafe. We also pass the Mondy border post, present our pre-issued passes and drive another 30 km to the starting point. Today we have to walk 5.3 km, with an elevation gain of 300 m. On the way we will meet the canyon of the river. White Irkut with its tall walls. Our base camp is located at the confluence of the White Irkut and Muguvek rivers (1800 m). Dinner. Overnight in tents heated by stoves. The altitude of the overnight stay is 1800 m above sea level.

Day 2.
The length of the trek is 15.3 km, elevation gain is 1100 m, drop is 1100 m. After breakfast, proceed to the acclimatization climb to the Obzornaya peak (2900 m). The ascent is not technically difficult; self-insurance is carried out using trekking poles. From the top there is a view of the Munku-Sardyk ridge and the Oka plateau, where they originate majestic rivers Irkut, Kitoy and Oka (Sayan). Lunch (snack). Descent from the top. Return to base camp. Dinner by the fire. Overnight in tents heated by stoves. The altitude of the overnight stay is 1800 m above sea level.

Day 3.
The length of the trek is 10 km, the elevation gain is 1700 m. Breakfast. Exit in the direction of the Munku-Sardyk peak along the Muguvek River. A sharp climb along the Muguveka icefalls, color blue ice mesmerizing. Then we continue climbing until mountain lake Echo. Dinner. We dress and prepare special equipment: personal safety system, helmet, crampons, ice axe. Note: the climb may be canceled due to deterioration weather conditions posing risks to the health of tourists (the decision is made by the instructor-guide). We continue our ascent. From the peak, whose height is 3491 m above sea level, a majestic panorama of Mongolia and the Eastern Sayan opens up; Lake Khubsugul, covered with a shell of ice, is clearly visible. Descent along the ascent path, rest, lunch. After which we descend to base camp.

This article will be of interest to beginners and hiking enthusiasts. If your physical shape is average, but you love hiking; If the romance of the mountains is close to you, but you think about your safety, you are on the same path with us.


Munku-Sardyk- eternal white char, the highest point of the Eastern Sayan Mountains in Buryatia, on the borders of Russia and Mongolia. Its height is 3491 meters.


Our hike involves moderate physical activity. We will not climb the Munku-Sardyk peak itself - this will require an ice axe, crampons, a helmet, and some other specific equipment. But that doesn’t make our trip any less interesting. We will see frozen waterfalls, snowy peaks shining in the sun, bizarre rocks flowing with water, alpine meadows with rare plants.

The peculiarity is that this route is accessible to beginners, people of average physical fitness, and children.


The unique, protected route is open only for a short two weeks from May 1-14. At other times, the river freezes and the route becomes accessible only to climbers. It’s too cold in winter (-40). In May, the conditions are ideal for a stay for 3-4 days: temperatures -5, -10 during the day and -15 at night.


This makes the nature of Munku-Sardyk purest, untouched.


Along the frozen river, as if on the road, tourists climb Mount Munku, as well as to some other destinations: the lake, the “Circus” and the Holy Place of the Buryats.
At this time, more than 1000 people annually visit these amazingly beautiful places.

Approximate equipment for a hike to Munku-Sardyk:

1. Mountaineering (trekking) boots for climbing – pair
2. Bivouac shoes - pair
4. Thin socks - more, taking into account the length of stay (a pair of dry socks is never superfluous)
5. Woolen socks - more, taking into account the length of stay
6. Thermal underwear – set, replaceable
7. Fleece pants – 1 pc.
8. Waterproof and windproof pants – 1 pc.
9. Fleece sweatshirt – you can have two pairs, thin and thick
10. Waterproof and windproof jacket with a hood – 1 pc.
11. Down jacket with a hood – 1 pc.
12. Fleece (woolen) gloves – at least 2 pairs
13. Windproof mittens (gaiters) – pair
14. Fleece hat (wool) – 2 pcs.
15. Balaclava (face mask) – if available, optional
16. Bandana (panama hat) – if available, optional
17. Thermal underwear (gaiters) – a pair.
18. Travel telescopic sticks (folding) - pair
19. Sunglasses – pair
20. Sunscreen
21. Headlamp – 1 pc. with spare batteries
22. Personal hygiene items - at your discretion
23. KLMN (mug-spoon-bowl-knife) – you can use chopsticks, of course
24. Tourist backpack 80 liters or more – 1 pc.
25. Assault backpack – if available, optional
26. Tourist mat – 1 piece, preferably 2
27. Popper (foam rubber seat mat) – 1 pc., optional
28. Sleeping bag for -10, -15
29. Tent.

The travel plan is as follows:

From Irkutsk we travel 5 hours on a special tourist bus to the border with Mongolia. For bus passengers, passports are issued with permission to stay on neutral territory between Russia and Mongolia, where the route lies. Round trip transfer 1500 RUR. per person.


We are passing Baikal. We stop in Buryatia to eat national food - poses.


Then from May 1-5 we live in the mountains. We put up tents, cook food over a fire or gas burner, and walk a lot. Many people take snowboards with them and ride.

We are going to Lake Echoy (2000 m). On the second day we go to the Circus. On the third day we go to Holy place Buryats - on a rock with through openings.
Departure on May 5th. All these days, I, your guide, and my husband, an experienced traveler, will be with you.


On the way back, if desired, I recommend stopping in the Zhemchug (Vyshka) area in Buryatia. There are hot springs with a temperature of +54, and there are places for swimming. This methane-containing water has a powerful strengthening effect on the body.

Another place that deserves attention in this article is the Arshan balneological resort. Arshan is called in Buryatia

Munku-Sardyk– the highest point of the Republic of Buryatia. From the top of the mountain there is a picturesque panorama of Lake Khubsugul, located in Mongolia, of the Eastern Sayan Mountains. Munku-Sardykh is considered sacred mountain, spectacular religious ceremonies are held here. Every year the mountain attracts a large number of lovers of active and extreme recreation. The program includes training in the basics of mountaineering techniques.

In May 2015, more than 15,000 people took part in the ascent, and the number of participants is growing every year. To visit a mountain is not only to climb, but to get in high spirits and see the beauty mountain peaks and connect with nature. A wonderful holiday in the mountains leisure. We invite you together climb the highest point of the Eastern Sayan Mountains during the May holidays!

Passport details must be provided at least 30 days before the start of the trip.. Please provide your passport details after making payment for the tour (or part of the payment) to obtain the necessary pass and registration with the Ministry of Emergency Situations. You must order passes at least 30 days before the trip! For foreign citizens 2 months in advance. You can also apply for a pass yourself on the government services website.

Participants cook their own food one at a time along the entire route, set up tents, prepare firewood and carry all the necessary equipment.

The instructor leads along the route, but does not act as a guide. If you want to receive more information about Lake Baikal, then perhaps you should purchase sightseeing tour, since in active tour the main goal is still the safe and comfortable passage of the route from start to finish, as well as the opportunity to visit picturesque places where they never go excursion groups, acquire certain skills that may be useful in further travels. This is what the instructor will try to provide for you, so if you have any questions about using equipment or overcoming certain obstacles on the route, contact the instructor immediately.

IMPORTANT! We inform you that the national teams include participants of different ages and physical fitness.

Program by day

Day 1

Meeting at the station in Slyudyanka at 6-00 o'clock. Departure at 6-30 o'clock. It is recommended to take tea in a thermos and sandwiches with you on the road. Arrival at the beginning of the route approximately at 12-00 o'clock. On foot crossing from the bridge over the river. Middle Irkut to the base camp location(about 2 hours). The hike will take place along the White Irkut River (waterproof shoes are required), along picturesque canyons and cliffs.

Dinner. Setting up camp and setting up tents. Instruction and training to work with special equipment . Dinner. Acquaintance. Overnight in tents, so we recommend taking a comfort sleeping bag - 20 degrees or additionally taking a down or padding blanket. Tents for 3-4 persons.

Attention! The bus will leave exactly on time, so try not to be late.

Day 2

After breakfast we get ready and go to the ice waterfall. Lessons on ice, using crampons and ice equipment. During the classes you will learn how to use crampons and an ice ax, as well as climb vertical ice obstacles.

Dinner. We go out to the lake. We have dinner as a snack. We spend the night on the lake (at an altitude of 2700m).
Overnight on the lake gives an advantage when climbing. The ascent will be more comfortable in terms of physical activity. It’s especially beautiful on the lake at sunrise! Plus, you can recuperate at the lake on the way back. Participants bring a tent (for 4 people), a sleeping bag and a rug to the lake. And some food.

For those who have climbed or just come to relax- hiking to Mount Obzornaya and Contrasts Pass. Overnight at base camp.
With good visibility, a panorama of the Oka Plateau and the neighboring peaks of Mount Munku-Sardyk opens from Mount Obzornaya.

Day 3

Early snack at 6-00 o'clock and We begin the ascent to Mount Munku-Sardyk(3491m). The ascent is carried out in a bundle without things. The group walks together in one moderate rhythm. Snack at the top. Photo as a keepsake against the backdrop of Lake Khubsugul, which is located on the border with Mongolia.

For those who have climbed- walk to the ice stream, activities on the icefalls. or, if possible, a walk along the Middle Irkut canyon.

Day 4

Breakfast. Descent early in the morning to the bridge. Lunch at a cafe along the way (pay for yourself). If desired, we stop by the Springs (baths are paid for independently).
Departure to Slyudyanka. Arrival around 19-00 hours. We can book accommodation in the city on our own or upon request. Completing the program

The program can be adjusted by the instructor based on weather or other rational factors (physical training of the group, disruption of transport, etc.)–without changing the volume and quality of services provided.

Tell your friends!

Climbing Munku-Sardyk (3491 meters) - highest point Sayan is a serious test for prepared tourists. In summer the route is quite simple, but in winter its complexity increases significantly: short daylight hours, negative air temperatures, icy snowy slopes - all this makes the climb difficult.

  • 6 years of experience in organizing winter ascents
  • Dozens of climbers of different ages have reached the summit
  • Upon completion, a certificate of ascent is issued, as well as a commemorative badge of the tourist club
  • All necessary group winter equipment is provided

This region of the Eastern Sayan Mountains compares favorably with the rest due to its lack of snow. In the foothills there is almost no snow at all. This allows you to hike and climb on foot, without skis or snowshoes. The region is also characterized by clear, frosty weather in winter. Average temperatures are -25°...-35°С, which for us, residents of central Russia, may seem very impressive. But for the Eastern Sayan region this is not so much; children continue to go to school, since the air is dry and such temperatures are tolerated much more easily than here.

The peak of Munku-Sardyk is located on the very border of Russia and Mongolia. Climbing this inaccessible peak requires excellent physical fitness and sufficient sports training. Only in this case will you be able to climb the majestic peak.


The ascent to Munku-Sardyk passes through the most beautiful and harsh places, the passage through which brings a lot of positive emotions and impressions. The highlight of the area is the abundance of ice and icefalls; you are unlikely to see such huge blue icefalls anywhere else. Well, visiting Lake Baikal in winter is also worth a lot. Overnight stays in a special tent-hangar “Arttika” for winter hikes with a stove, so we won’t freeze.

Why choose us?

Equipment rental

We will provide you with quality equipment at a reasonable price. You have the opportunity
travel lightly and save a lot of money.

This route has been successfully completed by our club many times, all organizational details have been checked and worked out to the smallest detail.

Discount

Those who go on a hike with our tourist club for the second or more time receive a discount on participation from 5%.

Great climb

A personal manager will advise you at all stages of preparation, help you get ready for your trip, and give recommendations on purchasing tickets and equipment.

Fill out the application and, closer to the start, make a small advance (from 10%) in the most convenient way for you. The rest of the amount is due on the start day.

Reliability

Our tourist club is officially registered, enters into contracts and pays taxes. Experienced instructors on the routes. Only modern and high-quality equipment is used.

1. Route and requirements 2. Hiking plan 3. Cost of participation 4. Equipment recommendations

Slyudyanka station - Lake Baikal - Kyren village - Mondy village - White Irkut river - Muguvek river - Mount Munku-Sardyk (3,491 meters) - White Irkut river - Zhemchug village - Lake Baikal - Slyudyanka station.

Required documents: passport, medical insurance policy

Physical training requirements for participants: The ascent is quite difficult, it requires both physical and technical preparation, good equipment, taking into account the winter conditions of the ascent

1 day

Meeting at the Slyudyanka railway station. The city of Slyudyanka is located on the shores of Lake Baikal, a 2-hour drive from Irkutsk. The city is connected to Irkutsk by regular bus services (minibuses depart from the bus station every 30 minutes), and there are also electric trains. The group gathers before lunch, local time, since several trains arrive around lunchtime, which the participants usually take to get there. Those who arrive earlier can still take a walk to Lake Baikal. Next, transfer by car to the mountains; the journey takes 4-5 hours. Along the way, stop in the Buryat village of Kyren for a snack in a cafe. Throw to a height of approximately 1,600 meters. Setting up camp, overnight.




Day 2

Along the frozen river, on ice up the valley of the White Irkut River. Gradually the river is surrounded high cliffs, the river flows in the canyon. At the top through a cascade of blue icefalls. The transition from Camp 1 to Camp 2 takes about 5 hours. On the way we stop for lunch. The final section is quite steep and consists of a cascade of low waterfalls. It requires crampons, some years even rope to hold on. Overnight on the border of the forest, at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters.


Day 3

The ascent climbs along a wide valley to a frozen lake. The journey takes 3-4 hours. The forest is left behind, only snow and rocks are ahead. Setting up an assault camp at an altitude of 2,600 meters.


4 day

Early rise. Climbing to the highest point of the Sayan Mountains - Munku-Sardyk (3,491 meters). At the top there is a rise in crampons. There are often strong winds, which, combined with frosty weather, poses a serious challenge. The peak of Munku-Sardyk is located right on the border of Russia and Mongolia. It offers a beautiful view to the south, Lake Khubsnugul and the surrounding area. Descent along the ascent path.




5 day

Reserve day in case of bad weather. If you're lucky with the weather, you can go back down to the edge of the forest and climb the blue waterfalls.


Day 6

Descent in the valley of the White Irkut River. A chartered bus awaits us at the bottom of the road. We are going to Slyudyanka. On the way we will stop at hot springs. From there to the Slyudyanka railway station. Estimated arrival time is 19-20 hours local time. In the evening, you can plan to travel by train or bus to Irkutsk. The bus station in Slyudyanka is located 10 minutes from the railway station. Buses to Irkutsk depart every 30 minutes, the journey takes 2 hours.




The route or schedule along the route can be adjusted on the spot, based on weather conditions, the preparedness of the group and other circumstances.

Program cost: 15 900 rub.

Included in the price:

  • Transfer from Slyudyanka station to the White Irkut River and back (by car);
  • Meals along the route (we cook over a fire, on burners);
  • Visit to hot springs;
  • Group equipment (winter hangar tent “Arctic”, tourist stove, GAS, burner, pharmacy);
  • Instructor;
  • Registration of a pass to the border zone (issued a month before the start, a copy of the passport is required);

The price does NOT include:

  • Transport to Slyudyanka-1 station and back (runs every hour regular bus from Irkutsk, journey 2 hours);
  • Snack on the road, while being dropped off by car;

Clothes and shoes:

  • Insulated boots for crampons;
  • Rubber boots or EVA (for driving along the river, when walking the route in the spring);
  • Gaiters or shoe covers with galoshes;
  • Socks: 2-3 pairs of cotton, 1-2 pairs of wool or insulated;
  • Thermal underwear top + bottom;
  • 2 pairs of pants, trekking trousers (cotton, membrane, fleece, etc.);
  • Windproof pants, raincoat;
  • T-shirts 2-3 pieces, warm jacket or sweater 2-3 pieces;
  • Jacket with a hood, anorak, down vest;
  • Warm down jacket with a hood;
  • Gloves, insulated gloves or mittens;
  • Several hats, a cap or bandana, a balaclava;

Personal equipment:

  • Backpack 90-120 liters, backpack cover;
  • Sleeping bag (comfort temperature -5C°), mat, popper;
  • Headlamp + spare set of batteries;
  • Dishes: mug, spoon, bowl, knife, thermos 0.5-1 L, matches;
  • Sunglasses or ski mask;
  • Personal first aid kit: remedies for colds and food poisoning, wide bandages, elastic bandages, medications prescribed by doctors;
  • Hygienic lipstick;
  • Hygiene kit: toilet paper, toothbrush and paste, soap and towel;

Special equipment:

  • Helmet;
  • Ice ax;
  • Cats;
  • Harness or safety system + 3 carabiners + self-belay;
  • Trekking poles;

Cost of equipment rental for climbing participants

*The cost is indicated in rubles for the climbing period