Risk Assessment

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A 2001 expedition to Ulugh Muztagh in the Western Kunlun was unable to get within 100km of their goal. By selecting peaks that are closer to a trade route (Route 219 connecting Kashgar, Xinjiang to Ali, Tibet), we increase our chances of setting up a base camp within a reasonable distance of our goal. Our use of custom built expedition rickshaws will allow us to continue towards our goal in the event that we encounter problems with the Landcruisers and/or terrain. By allowing for the use of three Landcruisers and an on-board mechanic, we provide redundancy in that two will be able to continue the journey with all people and equipment, and only a bit less comfort.

Through our local agent we will also have a professional ex-military routefinder joining us, who can track the remote military roads leading into the foothills of the Aksai Chin. Because we are lining these people up now, and because we have already started with the permit application process, we will greatly reduce the chances that our expedition is ended or foreshortened by the logistical nightmares so often associated with expeditions in regions of underdeveloped infrastructure and complicated political red tape.