28/03/2025
Route Name: Second Storey
Difficulty: WI4
Location: Mane Yogma, Spiti Valley (Ong-Dang Gorge)
Elevation: 3680m
Approach: 15 minutes
Length: 40m
Pitches: 1
Route Description:-
Second Storey (WI4) is a striking ice climb located in the Ong-Dang Gorge of Mane Yogma. It is positioned just above Drokpa’s Spear (WI5) and is easily visible on the left, sunny side of the gorge. The name “Second Storey” originates from its unique ice formation—its lower portion does not form, resembling a two-story building with the upper icefall standing alone above the gorge.
The climb consists of solid, vertical ice, with the entire route maintaining a consistent 90-degree angle. A traverse is required at the start to reach the best climbing line. The route offers a good belay station but lacks bolted anchors. Due to its exposure to the sun, slight water melting may occur after midday.
Approach:-
The approach for Second Storey follows the same route as King (WI5).Before crossing the bridge towards Mane Yogma village, hike upwards until you reach the water channel.
Follow the water channel for approximately 150m.
The approach is straightforward, but in deep snow, extra effort may be required.
First ascent - First climbed by Prerna Dangi and Susanne Submeier.
Technical Details:-
Bolted anchors: No
Descent: Rappel down, no top out.
Ice Quality: Solid blue ice, especially from mid-December to late March
Climbing Style: Single long pitch
Hazards & Wildlife:-
Avalanche Risk: None
Wildlife: The gorge is home to a variety of wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan/Tibetan foxes, snow leopards, Himalayan wolves, rabbits, and pikas (small mouse-like mammals).
Nearby Ice Climbing Routes:-
The Ong-Dang Ice Park offers several other high-quality ice climbing routes, including:
Second Story (WI4+),
Mane Madness (WI3)
Nizer Sunshine (WI4)
Drokpa's Spear (WI5)
The route requires a traverse at the start to reach good ice. It has a good belay station but no bolted anchors. Sunlight causes minor melting after lunch. Can see full depth of gorge from the route.