Puncak Mandala, Mountain summit in Highland Papua, Indonesia
Puncak Mandala is a summit reaching 4,760 meters (15,617 feet) in the Jayawijaya Mountain Range and ranks as the second-highest peak in Oceania. The mountain rises in a remote highland region with challenging terrain and steep slopes.
The mountain was first successfully summited in 1959 when an expedition team reached the peak, marking the beginning of its recorded climbing history. The achievement opened the mountain to further exploration and scientific study.
Local communities call this peak Aplim Apom and regard it as a sacred site where creation took place according to their traditions. The mountain holds profound spiritual meaning in the worldview of the indigenous people.
Most ascents begin from the village of Bime to the north, where climbers can arrange their expedition and hire local support. Above 4,000 meters, navigation becomes difficult due to weak electronic signals, so careful planning and local guidance are essential.
The mountain once had an ice cap that completely melted away due to warming temperatures. This dramatic environmental change is now visible in the barren summit landscape and stands as evidence of climate shifts in the tropical highlands.
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