First Batch of the Basic Mountaineering Workshop 2025 Successfully Concludes
December 2025 | Kathmandu, Nepal
The mountains reward preparation, discipline, and knowledge just as much as strength and determination. With this philosophy at its core, 14 Peaks Mountaineering Institute proudly conducted the First Batch of the Basic Mountaineering Workshop 2025, bringing together 35 aspiring mountaineers, adventure enthusiasts, and outdoor professionals for an intensive seven-day training program.
Led by internationally certified mountain professionals, the workshop combined classroom instruction with practical field training, providing participants with a strong foundation in safe and responsible mountaineering.
Course: Basic Mountaineering Workshop 2025 – First Batch
Duration: 7 Days
Date: December 2025
Participants: 35
- Days 1–2: Pasang Lhamu Sports Climbing Center, Kathmandu
- Days 3–7: Hattiban Rock Climbing Spot
The workshop was led by an exceptional team of experienced mountain professionals:
- Chief Instructor: Oswaldo "Ossy" Frierie – IFMGA Mountain Guide
- Supporting Instructors:
- Jenjen Lama
- Sona Sherpa
Together, the instructors shared decades of experience from climbing, guiding, rescue operations, and high-altitude expeditions, ensuring participants received both internationally recognized techniques and practical knowledge from Nepal's mountain environment.
The first two days of the workshop were held at the Pasang Lhamu Sports Climbing Center in Kathmandu, where participants were introduced to the essential principles of mountaineering through classroom sessions and controlled practical exercises.
These sessions established the theoretical knowledge required before moving into technical field training, covering mountain culture, safety systems, equipment familiarization, and climbing fundamentals.
The remaining five days took place at the renowned Hattiban Rock Climbing Spot, where participants transitioned from theory to practical application in a natural outdoor environment.
Under close supervision, participants practiced climbing systems, rope work, rescue techniques, and movement on rock, gradually building confidence while learning to make safe and informed decisions in mountainous terrain.
The outdoor setting allowed every participant to gain valuable hands-on experience while understanding how mountaineering techniques are applied in real situations.
Throughout the seven-day workshop, participants developed practical skills across a comprehensive range of mountaineering topics, including:
- Introduction to mountaineering
- Course methodology
- History of mountaineering
- Sports ethics and mountain culture
- Basic mountaineering equipment
- Proper use of climbing gear
- Fixed-rope travel systems
- Equipment inspection, maintenance, and replacement
- Basic progression on fixed ropes
- Short-rope techniques
- Ascending and descending fixed ropes
- Standard rappelling techniques
- Assisted rappel techniques
- Hazard identification
- Route planning
- Risk assessment
- Emergency procedures
- Crevasse rescue fundamentals
- Special mountain maneuvers
- Team communication during emergencies
Participants also received an introduction to mountain first aid, including:
- Initial casualty assessment
- Gathering essential medical information
- Effective communication with rescue and evacuation teams
- Decision-making during mountain emergencies
Recognizing that responsible mountaineering extends beyond technical ability, the course emphasized:
- Leave No Trace principles
- Environmental conservation
- Local mountain regulations
- Sustainable outdoor practices
Participants explored the importance of professionalism while working in the mountains, including:
- Ethical decision-making
- Respectful conduct with clients
- Teamwork and leadership
- Professional responsibility toward fellow climbers and colleagues
The Basic Mountaineering Workshop was designed to do far more than teach technical climbing skills. It aimed to develop confident, safety-conscious individuals who understand that successful mountaineering depends on preparation, teamwork, sound judgment, and respect for both people and the mountain environment.
Whether participants plan to pursue trekking, alpine climbing, expedition support, or professional guiding in the future, the workshop provided a strong platform upon which they can continue building their mountain careers.
The successful completion of the First Batch marks an exciting milestone for 14 Peaks Mountaineering Institute as we continue our mission of raising the standard of mountain education in Nepal.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Chief Instructor Oswaldo "Ossy" Frierie, supporting instructors Jenjen Lama and Sona Sherpa, whose dedication and expertise made this workshop an exceptional learning experience.
Most importantly, we congratulate all 35 participants for their enthusiasm, commitment, and willingness to embrace the challenges of learning in the mountains.
This is only the beginning of their mountaineering journey.
We look forward to welcoming many more future climbers, guides, and outdoor leaders to upcoming workshops as we continue building a stronger, safer, and more knowledgeable mountaineering community in Nepal.
