First Ascent of Chumik Kangri in Karakoram

Great news from the Karakoram: the Polish-Slovak team of Michał Czech, Wadim Jabłoński, and Adam Kaniak has successfully completed the first recorded ascent of Chumik Kangri (6,754 m) in the Saltoro Range.

The trio stood on the summit at 8:00 a.m. local time on September 15, after conquering the mountain’s steep 1,000-meter south face. Following a demanding descent, they safely returned to ABC camp at 10:00 p.m., wrapping up the three-day expedition.

This climb is more than a remarkable personal achievement. It is also a breakthrough for Himalayan exploration. Chumik Kangri rises above the Gyong Glacier, a remote and politically sensitive area of the Karakoram, almost entirely unvisited by climbers until now. With Pakistan officially opening this region to mountaineering in 2025, the ascent marks a pioneering step into previously forbidden territory.

Wadim Jabłoński and Michał Czech, Photo: W. Jabłoński

The purpose of the expedition went beyond reaching a summit. The team aimed to document and capture the virgin six-thousanders of the Gyong Glacier, climbing them in the purest possible alpine style.

Summiters Club congratulates Michał Czech, Wadim Jabłoński, and Adam Kaniak on their spectacular first ascent of Chumik Kangri – an achievement that opens the door to new exploration and sets the stage for future expeditions in this long-closed corner of the Karakoram.

More details coming soon.