Nanga Parbat Climbing
fromNanga Parbat, known as the “Killer Mountain,” is a challenging peak situated in the western Himalayas of Pakistan. Standing at an impressive height of 8,126 meters (26,660 feet), it ranks as the ninth tallest mountain globally. Nanga Parbat features three immense faces—Rupal, Diamir, and Raikot—each presenting unique challenges to climbers.
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Nanga Parbat, known as the “Killer Mountain,” is a challenging peak situated in the western Himalayas of Pakistan. Standing at an impressive height of 8,126 meters (26,660 feet), it ranks as the ninth tallest mountain globally. Nanga Parbat features three immense faces—Rupal, Diamir, and Raikot—each presenting unique challenges to climbers.
The mountain has a rich climbing history. In 1953, Hermann Buhl, an Austrian climber, achieved the first successful ascent via the Raikot Face. However, Nanga Parbat gained its notorious nickname due to the numerous accidents and tragic incidents that have occurred during climbing expeditions.
There are multiple routes to climb Nanga Parbat, with the Diamir Face being the most popular. This face offers various routes such as the Kinshofer, Messner, and Schell routes, each with its own level of difficulty. The Rupal Face, known for its technical challenges, is the highest mountain face in the world and is considered one of the most demanding routes on Nanga Parbat. The Raikot Face, where the first ascent took place, still attracts some climbers despite being less popular.
Climbing Nanga Parbat poses several challenges. The mountain experiences harsh weather conditions, including low temperatures, high winds, and frequent storms, making it a laborious task. Technical difficulties such as steep slopes, rockfalls, avalanches, crevasses, and challenging ice and mixed climbing sections further add to the complexity. Moreover, the high altitude of Nanga Parbat poses risks of altitude sickness, emphasizing the importance of proper acclimatization.
Obtaining permits from the Pakistan government, specifically the Ministry of Tourism and the Gilgit-Baltistan Council, is a prerequisite for climbing Nanga Parbat. The permit process involves a detailed application and payment of fees. Additionally, a liaison officer is assigned to expeditions to ensure compliance with regulations and provide assistance when needed.
Establishing base camps on different routes is crucial for climbers to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for further ascent. Various expedition companies offer logistical support, including transportation, equipment, guides, porters, and experienced high-altitude Sherpas.
Safety considerations are paramount when climbing Nanga Parbat. Having a well-defined evacuation plan is crucial, and helicopters can be used for rescue operations, although their availability may be affected by adverse weather conditions. Maintaining communication with the outside world is challenging due to the remote location, highlighting the necessity of satellite phones or reliable communication devices.
Climbing Nanga Parbat requires advanced mountaineering skills and prior experience in high-altitude climbing. It demands physical fitness, technical proficiency, and mental resilience to tackle the treacherous terrain and extreme conditions associated with the mountain.
FACES OF NANGA PARBAT
When climbing Nanga Parbat, there are various sites or faces that offer different routes and challenges.
DIAMIR FACE: 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
The Diamir Face of Nanga Parbat extends from approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) to the summit at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
The Diamir Face is the most popular route for climbing Nanga Parbat. There are steep and challenging terrain, including icefalls, seracs, and avalanche-prone slopes. The face offers several routes, such as the Kinshofer Route, Messner Route, and Schell Route, each with its own level of difficulty and technicality.
RUPAL FACE: 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
The Rupal Face of Nanga Parbat extends from around 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) to the summit at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
The Rupal Face is the highest mountain face in the world and presents extreme technical challenges. It is characterized by vertical rock walls, ice cliffs, and massive hanging glaciers. Climbing the Rupal Face requires advanced mountaineering skills, including ice climbing and mixed climbing. The face offers fewer established routes compared to the Diamir Face.
RAIKOT FACE: 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
The Rakhiot Face of Nanga Parbat starts at approximately 1,400 meters (4,590 feet) and extends to the summit at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet).
This is the route through which the first successful ascent of Nanga Parbat was made in 1953 by Hermann Buhl. Although less popular now, it still attracts some climbers. The face features a combination of rocky sections, snow slopes, and crevassed areas, requiring technical skills and proper route finding.
These three faces or sites of Nanga Parbat offer distinct challenges and experiences for climbers. The Diamir Face is known for its popularity and various route options, the Rupal Face for its technical difficulty and sheer verticality, and the Raikot Face for its historical significance and a combination of different terrains. Each face requires careful planning, proper acclimatization, and advanced mountaineering skills to navigate the challenges and reach the summit of Nanga Parbat.
What are the different Routes to climb Nanga Parabat?
DIAMIR FACE ROUTES
The Diamir Face is the most popular route for climbers. It offers various routes with different levels of difficulty, including the Kinshofer Route, Messner Route, and Schell Route.
ALTITUDE OF HIGH CAMPS ON DIAMIR ROUTE
Camp 1 (German Buhl Camp): Around 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
Camp 2 (Japanese Camp): Around 5,800 meters (19,029 feet)
Camp 3 (Italian Camp): Around 6,600 meters (21,653 feet)
Camp 4 (High Camp): Around 7,000 meters (22,966 feet)
RUPAL FACE ROUTES
The Rupal Face is the highest mountain face in the world and poses extreme technical challenges. It is considered one of the most difficult routes on Nanga Parbat.
ALTITUDE OF HIGH CAMPS ON RUPAL ROUTE
Camp 1: Around 3,800 meters (12,467 feet)
Camp 2: Around 4,500 meters (14,764 feet)
Camp 3: Around 5,300 meters (17,388 feet)
Camp 4 (High Camp): Around 6,000 meters (19,685 feet)
RAIKOT FACE ROUTE
This route was the site of the first successful ascent by Hermann Buhl. Although less popular now, it still attracts some climbers.
CLIMBING HISTORY:
FIRST ASCENT TO NANGA PARBAT THE KILLER MOUNTAIN
The first successful ascent of Nanga Parbat was made by the Austrian climber Hermann Buhl in 1953 via the Raikot Face.
NOTABLE ATTEMPTS
Over the years, Nanga Parbat has witnessed numerous attempts and expeditions, some of which resulted in tragic accidents and loss of life. The mountain earned its nickname, the “Killer Mountain,”
What are the Challenges in Climbing Nanga Parbat “The Killer Mountain?”
Weather Conditions: Nanga Parbat experiences harsh weather conditions with low temperatures, high winds, and frequent storms, making it a formidable challenge for climbers.
Technical Difficulty: The mountain presents a range of technical difficulties, including steep slopes, rockfalls, avalanches, crevasses, and challenging ice and mixed climbing sections.
Altitude and Acclimatization: The high altitude of Nanga Parbat poses a significant risk of altitude sickness. Climbers need to acclimatize properly to avoid complications.
PERMITS AND REGULATIONS
Permits: Climbing Nanga Parbat requires obtaining permits from the Pakistan government, specifically from the Ministry of Tourism and the Gilgit-Baltistan Council. These permits involve a detailed application process and fees.
Liaison Officer: The Pakistan government assigns a Liaison Officer to accompany and monitor the expedition. They ensure compliance with regulations and provide assistance when needed.
LOGISTICS AND SUPPORT
Base Camp: Base Camps are established on different routes, serving as a central hub for climbers to rest, acclimatize, and prepare for further ascent.
Support Services: Several local and international expedition companies offer logistical support, including transportation, equipment, guides, porters, and high-altitude Sherpas.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Rescue and Evacuation: In case of emergencies or accidents, it is crucial to have a well-defined evacuation plan in place. Helicopters can be used for rescue operations, but weather conditions may affect their availability.
Communication: Due to the remote location, communication can be challenging. Satellite phones or other reliable means of communication are essential for climbers to stay connected with the outside world and seek assistance if needed.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
Climbing Nanga Parbat requires advanced mountaineering skills and experience in high-altitude climbing.
The altitudes of the Nanga Parbat high camps beyond the base camp vary depending on the specific climbing route chosen. Here are the approximate altitudes of some commonly used high camps on different routes:
Please note that these altitudes are approximate and can vary depending on the specific climbing expedition and route conditions. It’s essential to consult with experienced mountaineering guides and expedition leaders for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding altitude and camp locations
PACKAGE OFFER INCLUDES
1-TRANSPORTATION
- Airport transfers in Islamabad and Skardu
- Domestic flights between Islamabad-Skardu-Islamabad in economy class with 20 kg checked baggage
- Air-conditioned private transportation for one-day sightseeing in Islamabad
- 4×4 jeeps/Toyotas from Chilas/Gilgit to Tarashing/Bunar Dass/
Note: Flights to the northern areas of Pakistan are subject to weather conditions. In case of a flight cancellation, the surface transfer will be provided with one-night accommodation in Chilas or Naran.
2-ACCOMMODATION
- Seven nights’ hotel accommodation in standard hotels (4 nights in Islamabad in a 3* hotel and 3 nights in Skardu in an excellent traditional tourist class hotel) on a twin/double sharing basis.
Note: Please check the single supplement charges to use a single room.
3-FOOD (MEALS)
- During hotel stays, breakfasts in Islamabad and full board (three meals) elsewhere.
- A farewell dinner in Islamabad at the end of the trip
4-MEAL DURING CAMPING
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Tea, green tea, or coffee
Menu: Breakfast: Combination of eggs, corn-flex, porridge, jam, honey, coffee, tea, etc.
Lunch: One dish lunch at the base camp and picnic lunch during the trek
Dinner: Complete meal; soup, two/three dishes (combination of rice, mutton/beef, chicken,
Pulses, vegetables, pasta, spaghetti, etc.), salad and dessert
5-TAXES AND FEES
- Trekking Fee (US $ 50/-)
- Environment Fee (US $ 150/-)
- Road taxes
- Camping fees during the trek.
- Bridge crossing fees.
6-PORTERAGE
- Porters are trekking food, camping equipment, and personal gear of trekkers.
- A free baggage allowance of 15 kilograms per trekker is for personal gear.
7-LOCAL STAFF
Services of the following staff are included in the price.
- Local trekking guide
- Cook
- Cook helper (s)
8-INSURANCE OF LOCAL STAFF
Insurance premium of a local guide, cook, cook helpers, etc.
9- CAMPING EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES
- Sleeping tent for camping shared by two pax
- Toilet tent
- Complete mess tent/table/chairs
- Mattresses
- Toilet papers etc
Note: A single tent can be provided; please check for single supplement charges
10-MESS/KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
- Complete kitchen equipment, including kitchen tent, mess tent, tables & chairs, etc.
11- EMERGENCY SUPPORT
- A set of oxygen (4 litters gas cylinder, mask & regulator) will be available for emergencies.
- A set of satellite phones for emergency calls
- Basic first aid kit (we recommend bringing your own first aid medicine from your home country)
12- WATER FILTERS
There will be water filters or purification pills. You can ask the cook to fill your bottle with boiled water every morning during the trek.
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED IN THE OFFER
Below mentioned services are not included in our package, but some can be provided on request in advance. Please contact DP for further details.
- International air ticket & airport taxes.
- Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance
- Extra hotel nights & meals due to change in plan
- Lunches & dinners in Islamabad
- Beverages & Laundry
- Sleeping bags, personal clothing, and trekking gear.
- Tips for trekking staff
- Tips for hotel & transport
- Any other service that is not mentioned in the list of services
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- All trekking members will go together in one group and come back together. The cost will also be charged if the group splits for personal reasons.
- Any extra cost due to road blockade or any other unforeseen reason will be charged in addition to the normal package offered.
PASSPORT AND VISA
Participants of all nationalities are required to have a valid passport with six months remaining validity and a visa for Pakistan. Visas must be applied online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/
The main category is MOUNTAINEERING EXPEDITIONS and the sub-category is K2 CLIMBING. You will need a climbing permit which is managed by your us in Pakistan. You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) which our office will provide along with the requisite documents like a Discover Pakistan license copy and the National Identity Card of the issuing authority.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VISA FOR PAKISTAN
CLIMBING PERMIT
A climbing permit is required and the security clearance process usually takes 30-45 days. It is highly recommended to apply at least 60 days in advance to avoid delays. Your application for visa is linked with the application for the climbing permit.
PERSONAL INSURANCE
As the climbing is of a strenuous nature, it is a mandatory requirement to have an insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $ 30,000.
VACCINATIONS
Currently, all passengers entering Pakistan require a COVID-19 vaccination CERTIFICATE (fully vaccinated). Those who do not have vaccination due to medicate reasons will need a certificate from a doctor. Those entering Pakistan without a Covid vaccination certificate need to show negative PCR as well.
You do not need to show proof of any other vaccination but highly recommend having other vaccines.
DRESS
In cities like Islamabad, there is no problem if you are in Western dress but in remote regions including Skardu, you will need to have a full dress (covering your body)
LOCAL CREW
The local crew includes a liaison officer, licensed guide, cook, assistant cook, porter’s Sirdar, and porters. Our guides and cooks are well-experienced, strong, supportive, and friendly. They performed their duties with full dedication to facilitate our valued clients.
GROUP JOINING INSTRUCTIONS
The tour starts and ends in Islamabad. Discover Pakistan, a guide or representative will be at the airport to pick up the clients with the welcome signboard of Discover Pakistan. We can also make reservations for pre and post-nights if anyone arrives early or departs late.
HIKING AT ALTITUDE
The K-2 Base Camp Trek is rated as a strenuous hike on the rocky, glacial terrain and some exposed section makes a tough trek but provides some of the most stunning views in the world. All members must be physically fit and capable of walking for about 6-8 hours a day as the highest point of the trek is above 5000m. However, the itinerary is designed in such a way that provides acclimatization by gaining height gradually, which allows the body to adjust to reduce air pressure at higher altitudes. For more details, you can click on the link below.
https://www.backpacker.com/skills/backpacking-fitness/how-to-hike-strong-at-altitude/
PERSONAL GEAR
A list of personal equipment is provided below you can make personal kits according to your needs.
- Climbing gears
- Gore-Tex Trekking Shoes (1 pair)
- Socks (2-3 pairs)
- Gaiters (1 set)
- Crampons (1 set)
- Slippers (1 pair)
- T-shirts (2-3)
- Trousers (2-3 pairs)
- Fleece Jacket
- Warm Clothing including inner dress/thermals
- Gore-Tex Jacket (1 piece)
- Down Jacket (1 piece)
- Sun Cap (1 piece)
- Warm Hat (1 piece)
- Neck Cover (1 piece)
- Hand Gloves/Mittens (2 pairs)
- Rucksack (backpack) 50-60L
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping Bag (-20C—30C)
- Umbrella
- Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Ultraviolet Protection Sun Glasses
- Sun Cream
- Chap Stick or Lip Balm
- Water bottle
- Personal medication (if advised by the physician)
- Note: Some equipment is available for rent or sale in Skardu.
LOCAL TIME
Pakistan uses a one-time zone, which is Pakistan Standard Time (PKT). This is UTC+05:00 — that is, five hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time.
ELECTRICITY
The power plugs and sockets in Pakistan are of type C and D. Type C plug has two round pins & the type D plug has three round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. It is recommended to bring a power plug adapter. Apart from these, high-powered solar panels are recommended for climbers beyond the base camp during the climbing for higher camps.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
Most major currencies are the US Dollar and euro, these are easily changed in Islamabad and Skardu as well. However, the exchange rate in Skardu is not as good as compared to Islamabad. You can check the foreign currency exchange rate at https://www.nbp.com.pk/RateSheet/index.aspx. The exchange rates in the open market differ from the bank rate.
TIPS
Tips for a guide, cook, assistant cook, Porter’s Sidar, and porters are customary. However, it is absolutely at the discretion of clients to decide about the amount of tips.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers 20 kg (1 piece) on a domestic flight in economy class to/from Skardu. For extra baggage (1 piece up to 20 kg), they charge PKR 5800 currently which is subject to change.
EQUIPMENT (SHOPPING/RENTAL)
Personal clothing, packing items or bags, personal medical kits, and personal trekking gear can be purchased/rented in Skardu. Some of the items may not be available for rent and need to be purchased. Please confirm with us in advance.
DEPARTURE TAXES
No departure taxes are applicable at Pakistan international airports. However, you can check with your concerned international carrier before traveling.
MEALS
3 meals a day will be provided during the hotel stay except for lunches and dinners in Islamabad. There will be one farewell dinner in Islamabad at the end of the trip.
FOOD ON TREKKING
We do cater to any special food requirements during the trekking if any client has food allergies or special dietary needs like vegetarian and vegan etc.
BREAKFAST
Below is the list of major items we provide in the breakfasts with a combination of four or five items a day.
- Porridge
- Corn Flacks
- Eggs (Omelets/Fried or according to demand)
- Paratha (a local form of bread)
- Muesli
- Jam
- Honey
- Marmalade
- Black tea
- Coffee
- Milk etc.
LUNCH
- Below is the list of major items we provide at the lunches with a combination of three to four items a day during trekking.
- Peanut butter
- Tuna Fish
- Sardine Fish
- Paratha (Continued on next page)
- Cookies Sweet
- Cookies Saltish
- Dry Fruit
- Tin Fruit
- Potatoes/peas
- Green tea/Mixed tea
- Tang etc.
DINNER
You will have a complete dinner with soup, two curries plus rice or Spaghetti or Macaroni & chapatti. There will be a dessert & green tea and coffee etc. as well.
- Chapatti
- Spaghetti
- Macaroni
- Pasta
- Meat (Chicken, Mutton & Beef)
- Fresh vegetables
- Backed beans
- Green peas
- Noodles (Maggi)
- Salad
- Lentils
- Green tea etc.
DESERT
- Pudding
- Kheer Mix
- Custard
- Jelly
Fruit (Water Melon, Mangoes) for the first weeks.
Any intolerance or allergies to the food items must be communicated in advance. If you have any personal choices that we can meet will also be provided.
DRINKING WATER
It is highly recommended to use mineral water in the cities and boiled/ filtered or purified water during the trekking. Do not drink running water from the rivers and streams.
WEATHER
The weather in Islamabad is extremely hot during the summer season. You can expect a temperature between 30-40 degrees centigrade. If you travel by road to Skardu, expect the weather to be very hot as well. In Skardu, the weather is similar to Islamabad, except 25-38 degrees centigrade. During the trekking on sunny days, expect the weather to be warm without any shade. Especially during the trek between Askole/Jhula to Urdukas, the weather will be extremely hot on those days. It is advised to have proper sun protection in the form of an umbrella, a wide-brim hat, and plenty of sunscreens. However, the weather in the nighttime is cooler above 4000 meters, you can even expect the temperature to get down to below zero and experience snowfall.
WHO SHOULD DO THE CLIMBING?
K-2 climbing is the most strenuous one, with no access to towns/villages and limited inhabitants during the whole duration of the climbing. You will hike as high as 5560 meters (K-2 Base Camp) and the trekking route is strenuous with river crossings, uneven terrain, glaciers, and boulders on the way. The climb is recommended for individuals with physical fitness and in good health. And should also know the techniques for using climbing equipment.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved as an initial deposit of 30% at the time of booking. The initial deposit shall not be refunded but can be transferred for a future trip.
FINAL PAYMENT
We accept full trip cost 30 days prior to the commencement of the tour. The payments are only accepted in cash/bank transfers in a bank account. We don’t accept payments through credit cards. Please do not accept any invoice which is not generated by Discover Pakistan and sent through the official email id.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Discover Pakistan or the agent through which the trip is booked. Cancellation charges shall be levied as follows:
Cancellation before 30 days or more-After a deduction of 30%, the remaining amount will be refunded. If the deposit is retained with the consent of our client no cancellation charges will be applied. The full amount will be adjusted with a future trip.
Cancellation within 2 weeks before departure –50 % of the package offer
Cancellation within one week of departure or no-show –Loss of full payment
2) There shall be no refunds if you leave the trip for any reason whatsoever, either voluntarily or involuntarily, after the trip has begun. No refunds shall be made for any meals, accommodation or services not utilized.
WHY BOOK WITH DISCOVER PAKISTAN?
Discover Pakistan is one of the leading Destination Management and Tour servicing company founded to meet the travel needs of explorers, researchers, mountaineers, and trekkers from all around the world. We always strive to focus on the safety, integrity, and comfort of our valued clients without any discrimination.
Our Values
We have a designed set of values for our company that guides us to deliver the best travel experience to our clients, these values include:
- Integrity
- Communication
- Client Safety and Security
- Customer Oriented Services
- Continuous Improvement
- Customer Satisfaction
RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS COMMUNITY
We are aware of our responsibility towards the local communities, their customs, and the environment. Therefore, a part of our income is specifically allocated towards humanitarian activities including student support, skill development programs & micro-credit loans to women without interest, etc. Details can be provided on request.
OUR CLIENT
We have worked with both local & foreign clients, and are proud to say that Discover Pakistan has a long list of satisfied partners and individual clients around the world. We maintain a balance between cost and quality. Our business philosophy, and the secret to our success, is “LESS PROFIT EQUALS MORE CLIENTS AND MORE PROFIT.”
Nanga Parbat is one of the world’s highest mountains located in the western Himalayas of Pakistan. It stands at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet) and is famously known as the “Killer Mountain.”
The most popular route for climbing Nanga Parbat is the Diamir Face, which offers various routes with different levels of difficulty, including the Kinshofer, Messner, and Schell routes.
Climbing Nanga Parbat is extremely challenging due to its harsh weather conditions, technical difficulties such as steep slopes and crevasses, and the high altitude, which poses risks of altitude sickness. It requires advanced mountaineering skills and prior experience in high-altitude climbing.
Yes, climbers are required to obtain permits from the Pakistan government, specifically from the Ministry of Tourism and the Gilgit-Baltistan Council. The permit process involves a detailed application and payment of fees.
Nanga Parbat has a history of accidents and tragic incidents, earning it the nickname “Killer Mountain.” The challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and high altitude increase the risk of accidents. Proper planning, experienced guides, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to mitigate these risks.
Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness when climbing Nanga Parbat. It involves gradually ascending to higher altitudes, allowing the body to adjust to the lower oxygen levels. Climbers typically spend several days at intermediate camps to acclimatize before attempting the summit.
Climbing Nanga Parbat is not recommended for individuals without prior mountaineering experience. It requires advanced skills in ice and mixed climbing, technical knowledge, physical fitness, and mental resilience. It is essential to gain experience on lower-altitude mountains and receive proper training before attempting Nanga Parbat.
Several local and international expedition companies offer logistical support for climbing Nanga Parbat. They provide services such as transportation, equipment, guides, porters, and high-altitude Sherpas to assist climbers during their expedition.
Communication can be challenging due to the remote location of Nanga Parbat. However, climbers can use satellite phones or other reliable means of communication to stay connected with their support team and seek assistance if needed.
Ensuring safety during a Nanga Parbat expedition involves thorough planning, following safety protocols, proper acclimatization, using experienced guides, and having a well-defined evacuation plan in case of emergencies. It is crucial to stay updated on weather conditions and be prepared for unexpected situations.
Package Confirmed Dates | Trip Status Trip Status | Price (PP) Excluding Flights | Price (PP) Including Flights | |
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May 5, 2025 - July 30, 2025
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Available
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$10,000.00
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$265.00
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