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Location: Starts behind the Lower Cable Station with a clear track that mostly follows the line of the cables up the front of the mountain. OSM map
Overview: In spite of all the warning signs that this is not an easy way up or down, it is attempted by large numbers of locals and visitors, either because it is so visible and seems to be the direct way to the top, or because the Cable Car may not be operating.
After an exceptionally high number of accidents and fatalities occurred in 2009, one awkward rock section has been secured with stainless steel staples and chains. There are however still many other tricky rock steps, so it is important to note that this route is Grade B scrambling and not merely an easy walk.
A number of other advanced, potentially very dangerous routes are encountered along the way. It is important to be familiar with the India Venster route details and not accidentally veer off onto other routes or vague trails.
Route Description:
Start at the path behind the Lower Cable Station (on the right hand side) and follow it up to the Contour Path. Here you will find a sign pointing the way to Platteklip Gorge and the Lower Cable Station, with the India Venster Route starting behind this sign. The path ascends to the right to reach a open gully which needs to be ascended. The "Venster" can be seen on your left as an rectangular gap in the buttress a little way up the gully. Close to the top of the gully the path forks, take the left-hand path that leads to a platform on top of the middle section of Venster Buttress.
Looking up you will see a large amphitheatre extending out to the left, in the middle of India Ravine. Continue up the path on the right hand side of the amphitheatre and traverse across it, aiming for the extreme left hand corner of the amphitheatre. The latter part of the amphitheatre traverse include three rock steps.
This brings you to the base of a 60m rock pitch in a broken up section just to the right of the Arrow Buttress ridge. This scrambling section is fitted with staples and chains, which makes it easier but great care is still required, especially because of the exposure to heights. At the top of this scramble you emerge from a narrow gully / chimney.
Here the path is clear and ascends diagonally right to a grassy terrace which leads left to join up with the ledge below Arrow Final (the high face below the cableway). From here you need to skirt right, around Arrow Final to join Fountain Ledges on the Atlantic side, which will take you to the top (via one rock pitch).
Warning signs on this route:
On the Contour Path
At the staples and chains
Near top of Platteklip
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