Arrival Leh

• Altitude: 3,500 m/ 11,500 ft.
• Check in Hotel.
• Briefing about the trek at 5 pm (mandatory).
• Bring a copy of your ID proof and 2 photographs foreigner, a copy of passport and visa.
• Network is available (only post-paid).
• ATM is available.
• Can purchase or rent trekking equipment from Leh.
• Visit any high altitude place or pass is not advisable.
• Consumption of alcohol and smoking is strictly prohibited.
• Stay in a hotel.

Kang Yatse I Peak Expedition begins from Leh. Arrive in Leh by flight or train. Your stay will be in the hotel after you reach. Leh is already at a height of 21,000 ft, hence you should be acclimatized pretty well. Use this day as an opportunity to rest and get your body acclimatized to the high altitudes.

Good phone connectivity is available in Leh. You can use this day to shop for the forgotten things or rent equipment. Strictly stay away from alcohol and smoking. If you arrive late, you can rest for the day. You can additionally roam around and get adapted to the culture. Leh is quite popular for its cultural treasures, monasteries, palaces, and temples. Try to keep it low and easy on the body.

Acclimatisation at Leh

• Acclimatization and sightseeing in Leh.
• Can visit to monasteries: Shey, Thiksey, Sangam, and Hemis.
• Avoid River Rafting, You can plan it after your trek.
• Visit of any very high altitude place or pass is not advisable.
• Stay in hotel.

Yet another day to get used to the low temperatures or to discover the splendid Leh! Apart from adventures and surreal scenery, Leh is well-known for its monasteries and palaces. Step into the history of Leh through the Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery and Thiksey Gompa. You can find thousands of adventure seekers or tourists in Leh during peak season. Try to interact with everyone to get used to the culture. Leh is famous for its cafes and hanging out places. If you wish you can try them. Again, strictly keep your hands off alcohol and smoking.

Apart from cultural heritage, Leh must be travelled for its passes and lakes like Nubra valley, Pangong lake. We do not allow roaming of trekkers to such places. This is to avoid strain on the body that might hurdle the process of acclimatization. Therefore, try to avoid moving to higher altitudes and stroll to nearby places. Enjoy your wonderful stay in the hotel.

Drive Leh to Skiu then trek to Sara

• Altitude:
• Skiu- 3,400 m/ 11,150 ft.
• Sara- 3600 m/11800 ft.
• Drive Distance: 70 km | 2-3 hrs.
• Trek Distance: 11 km | 5-6 hrs.
• Accomodation: Tent

Today unfolds a new part of your trek, bringing you closer to the essence of your adventure. This long yet captivating day promises an array of great experiences as you trek through skillfully paved roads and landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass military camps adorned with large rocks, adding to the rugged charm of the route.

Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib on one side and Magnet Hill on the other side. You will get to see the Stok range during your journey until you reach Hemis National Park.

Your first highlight of the day is Sangam, where the Indus and Zanskar rivers meet in a mesmerizing confluence. Both rivers, with their distinct bottle-green hues, merge seamlessly in a display of natural elegance. From here you will turn towards Chilling, and the landscapes will change magically, the open terrains beside the road will slowly turn into stunning valleys. The valleys are beautiful with shades of purple, black and gray. Juniper and other trees will border the route as you cross the Zanskar river over green iron bridges and get closer to Skiu.

Skiu is a beautiful village divided into Upper and Lower sections. Lower Skiu features a cluster of few houses, while Upper Skiu is adorned with Mani stones, white stupas, an old monastery, and the ruins of a palace. The serene charm of Skiu is the perfect prelude to your Himalayan adventure.

You will begin trekking from Skiu, as you start, the trail is quite evident and well-paved. You might also spot birds and animals, as Markha valley harbors enormous wildlife. Magpie birds can be spotted easily. As you trek, the Markha river will accompany you and after some time walk you will spot a cafe. You can take a short break here and then again get back on the trails. Along the trek, you will cross the Markha river a few times, passing through winter settlements with Lhatos (religious shrines) and Mani walls (stone walls with prayer inscriptions). You can also witness fields of Barley and wheats and little patches of greenery around the river banks.

Through the trek keep an eye out for blue sheep, deer and mountain goats along the riverbanks. Continue trekking through the rocky terrains to reach Nagding village, As you get closer to the houses, look up to see meditation caves on the valley walls. The banks of the Markha river here are wider and you can take a walk around and feel the Himalayan sand underfoot.

After hours of trekking from Nagding village, you’ll arrive at Sara village, marked by a grand entrance adorned with skeletons of wild animals like yaks and sheep. These skulls, seen as symbols of pride by the locals, make for a striking first impression. Sara village is rich in heritage, featuring an ancient monastery, a historic castle, and lush wheat plantations. As the day winds down, relish a warm and hearty meal before retreating to your tents. Don’t miss the opportunity to gaze at the night sky, studded with countless shimmering stars, a perfect way to end the day.

Sara to Markha

• Altitude: Markha- 3,700 m/ 12,200 ft.
• Trek Distance: 10 km | 5-6 hours.
• Accomodation: Tent

Today, start your day with a beautiful morning in the mountains. Have a warm breakfast with a view, then get ready for the trekking day ahead. The trail from the campsite is quite similar to the previous day. After crossing a few small water bodies and trekking through barren land and cold desert, you will arrive at Chalak village. The village comes after crossing a wooden bridge. Here you can see beautiful tea houses, and the village also has houses placed in small hills with stone protection shelters for domestic animals at the base. You can pause here for a short while, engage in conversation with the locals and re-energize yourself. Here in the village you can also see green fields, primarily planted with wheat, surrounded by barren lands and towering mountains. From Chalak, it is a gradual ascent up towards Markha and you will pass by the section of trail marked by Bharal horns.

As you trek towards Markha, at every small distance you can find Mani stones laid around white stupas. These stones are engraved with Buddhist prayers, some of them in Sanskrit language too. Be humble around these historic symbols, also do not touch them as the villagers believe that these stones are protected by some powers, and any harm to them will cause harm to that person. Make sure to take in the ancient ruins that dot the valley, each one echoing with the rich history of the region. These ruins can be identified by flags atop small temples, marking their significance in the landscape.

Here you will have to cross a running stream of Markha river to reach the Markha village. Crossing the river can slightly be tough when the water is thigh-high. It is better to take off your shoes and socks and pull up your pants to cross the river. The cold water will surely bring back your energy and within 20 minutes of more trekking, you will already be able to spot the hamlet of Markha. Markha is the largest village in the entire valley with some beautiful houses scattered around. You can also visit the monastery here and see the ruins of Markha fort. Markha will be the end for today’s trek and we will camp here for the night.

Markha to Hankar

• Altitude: Hankar 4,100 m/ 13,400 ft.
• Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hours.
• Altitude Gain: 400 m/ 1,200 ft.
• Teahouse at Umling village.
• Last village of the valley.
• View of a beautiful monastery.
• Path will intersect the River a number of times.
• After Umlung, you will have a first look of Mt. Kang Yatse(6400m).

Wake up all fresh and be happy as today will be an easy trek. The upcoming trail meets streams and Markha river several times serving as a refreshment. Umlung village is a tiny village, which can be recognised by houses and a monastery on the route.

After Umlung the Kang Yatse peak comes to visibility and keeps calling you! Hankar village will be the next short break point. You can notice the Tacha monastery, skillfully placed on such a height. Hankar is also a camping site and one can have a night stay here.

Trudge along the well-marked trail from Hankar towards a stone bridge. There are many routes coming out, you keep following the same path. In the next 2 hours, the pastures of Thochungtse become visible. There are camping sites and tea houses here. Find yourself comfortable with the beautiful grasslands and rest for the day.

Hankar to Nimaling

• Altitude: Nimaling- 4,800 m/ 15,800 ft.
• Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hours.
• Altitude Gain: 700 m/ 2,400 ft.
• An easy trek.
• Amazing view of Mt. Kang Yatse.
• Amazing view of Tigu lakes (double lakes).

This will be a short day filled with surprises. The sight of Kang Yatse gets closer and bigger. The trail is a gradual ascent of 700 meters comprising of 3-4 hours trek. Mystic Mani stones having prayer inscriptions will be found on the route. Recite the devotional prayers and hope for a wonderful summit. You will be greeted by twin Tigu lakes. Though these lakes are tiny they reflect the magnificent Kang Yatse peak.

The trails enter into a huge plain of Nimling where sheep, mountain goats, sometimes rabbits are found grazing. Nimling is renowned for grazing pasture lands and will also be your camping site. The entire setup is extremely pleasant and gives a contemplating experience.

Nimaling to Kang Yatse Base Camp

• Altitude: Base Camp- 5,100 m/ 16,700 ft.
• Trek Distance:- 3-4 km | 3-4 hours.
• Altitude Gain:- 300 m/ 1000 ft.
• First half is uphill through loose rocks, rest is gently downhill and across the river.
• Don’t exhaust your body, take rest as much as possible.

This will be the smallest trekking day of the entire trek. Hence, chill and try to make the most of the beauty around you. The first half of the trek has loose rocks but the stunning views of Kang Yatse will ease the pain. The latter half of the trail is a descent. After 2-3 hours you will arrive at your base camp at 5,100 meters.

Make sure to remain out of the tent to get acclimatized. Try to not strain your body and relax at the campsite. This is the best time to study the mountains around you, try to capture as much as you can.

Rest and Training day

• The TTH team will issue you the technical equipment.
• Learn how to use technical equipment.
• Don't exhaust yourself.

This is a thoughtfully added day to help you get acclimatized to the high altitudes. You can consider this as a training day. Our team will be granting training on the usage of technical equipment. You will be taught how to walk in the snow, using crampons, handling ice axes, and other techniques that are a must for the summit attempt.

Try to grasp as much as you can. In doing so try not to exhaust yourself, as next will be the summit day. The delightful Kang Yatse Peak will be staring at you throughout. Additionally, you can also go nearby for a height-gain trek. Make sure you give enough rest to your body for the summit attempt. Pack your backpack for the summit day, keep it light and easy. You will have dinner early to wake up at midnight for the last climb. Hence, try to sleep early to get enough sleep.

Trek from Kang Yatse Basecamp to Camp 1

• Altitude (Camp 1): 18,700 ft / 5,700 m
• Trek Distance: 3-4 km | 3-4 hrs

As dawn breaks over Kang Yatse Basecamp, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The towering peak looms ahead, an awe-inspiring sight against the azure sky. After a hearty breakfast, the team gathers for a briefing to discuss the route, weather conditions, and essential safety measures for the climb to Camp 1.

You begin your trek with the sun casting a golden glow over the rugged landscape. The trail starts with a steady ascent, crossing loose scree and patches of snow. Each step feels purposeful, as the terrain shifts to reveal the raw, untamed beauty of the mountains. The silence is profound, broken only by the crunch of boots against the frozen ground and the occasional whistle of the wind.

Key Sections of the Trek

1. Moraine and Snow Sections: The trail initially takes you through rocky moraine and snow patches, where careful foot placement is essential. The terrain is uneven, and progress is slower due to the high altitude. Your guide will lead the way, ensuring you navigate safely through these sections.


2. Crampon Point (Approx. 1 Hour of Climbing): About an hour into the climb, you reach the crampon point. This section requires you to put on your crampons, as the slope steepens and the terrain becomes icier. The climb here is approximately an hour of steady, technical ascent, requiring focus and precision as you move upward on snow and ice.
   At this point, your guide will provide assistance with using the crampons properly to ensure safe footing on the icy surfaces. This part of the trek is not only physically demanding but also requires a good understanding of balance and movement on snow.


3. Fixed Rope Sections: As the climb continues, you reach areas where the terrain becomes steeper. Here, your guide will fix ropes along the route to aid in your ascent. These fixed ropes provide support on more exposed sections where the angle of the slope increases, helping climbers maintain their grip and stability. You’ll rely on the rope for extra security, and your guide will assist in guiding you through these sections. This part of the trek is crucial, as it prepares you for the more technical aspects of the climb ahead.


4. Arrival at Camp 1: After 3-4 hours of trekking, Camp 1 comes into view, nestled on a relatively flat section of the ridge. This campsite provides a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding peaks, with Kang Yatse’s summit appearing tantalizingly close. Reaching Camp 1 is a moment of triumph, but it also marks the transition to the more demanding part of the expedition. This high-altitude campsite is a staging area for the summit push, offering a chance to acclimatize further.
   The rest of the day is spent preparing for camp 2. The guide will likely lead a briefing session to outline the route, safety protocols, and climbing techniques. Gear checks are carried out meticulously. Harnesses, crampons, ice axes, and headlamps are all double-checked to ensure they’re in perfect condition.
   You’ll enjoy a hearty meal for dinner. The night at Camp 1 is crisp and cold, with the stars shining brighter than ever in the thin mountain air, providing a glimpse of the celestial beauty that defines the Himalayas.

Trek from Camp 1 to Camp 2

• Altitude (Camp 2): 19,300 ft / 5,900 m
• Trek Distance: 2-3 km | 3-4 hrs

After breakfast at Camp 1, the team gathers for a briefing on the route to Camp 2. This leg of the trek serves as the final phase before the summit attempt. The climb from Camp 1 to Camp 2 requires careful pacing due to the increasing altitude and snowy terrain.

The trail begins with a gradual ascent, winding through snow-covered slopes with occasional sections of loose scree. The path becomes steeper as you approach Camp 2, requiring careful navigation. Crampons are essential for stability, and trekking poles provide much-needed support on the icy surface.

The ascent is slow and steady, with multiple short breaks to catch your breath and hydrate. The team works together, ensuring everyone maintains a safe pace and stays motivated. As you gain elevation, the views of Kang Yatse and its neighboring peaks become more stunning, offering a sense of awe and anticipation.

Arrival at Camp 2

After reaching Camp 2, you can finally take a well-deserved rest. The effort of the climb fades as you settle into the serene environment, surrounded by the towering peaks and a breathtakingly still expanse of snow. Here, the team gathers to share a hearty, warm meal, comforting in the cold, high-altitude setting.

The trek to the summit begins in the night with determination. The quiet hours before departure are for rest and focus, the final calm before the exhilarating climb to the top.

Summit to KY I Peak & Descent to Camp 1

• Altitude(KY I Peak): 21000 ft / 6400m.
• Trek Distance: 8-9 km | 10-11 hrs.

The summit push begins around 10 pm previous night, under a canopy of stars and with a biting chill in the air. The team moves in a line, led by the guide, with everyone roped together for safety. The first section of the climb is a steep ascent through snow and ice, requiring the use of crampons and ice axes.

As you approach the final stretch below the summit, the terrain gets a steep and challenging rocky patch. This section requires technical precision and careful footing, where ropes will be fixed to assist climbers in navigating the exposed and rugged surface. The fixed ropes provide much-needed support, ensuring stability as you ascend this demanding segment. Each step feels like a triumph as you inch closer to the summit, with the majestic peaks around you serving as both a challenge and an inspiration.

As dawn breaks, the summit of Kang Yatse 1 comes into view. The final steps to the top are both exhilarating and exhausting, but the sight awaiting you is worth every ounce of effort. The summit shows the beautiful snow-covered Himalayas, with the early morning around 6 am to 7 am sunlight painting the peaks in hues of gold and pink.

This moment is one of triumph and reflection. You take time to soak in the views, capture photographs, and celebrate the success of reaching the top. The summit is not just a physical achievement but a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and resilience.

After the summit push and the beautiful views from the top, the descent begins early in the morning. The journey down is just as demanding as the climb up, requiring careful footing and focus. From the summit, you make your way through the steep snow slopes, using fixed ropes to navigate the more technical sections safely.

The initial descent is a steady trek back to Camp 2, where you take a short break to hydrate, rest, and regroup. The energy at this point is lighter, with a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration from the successful summit attempt.

From Camp 2, the descent continues towards Camp 1. This stretch involves navigating snow and rocky patches, which demand attention, especially on the steep and icy sections. Your guide ensures a steady pace, keeping the group together and assisting wherever needed.

This day marks the culmination of the adventure, filled with memories of the summit, the camaraderie of the team, and the challenges conquered along the way. At camp 1, you can finally relax and celebrate the incredible journey that brought you to the heights of Kang Yatse I.

Camp 1 to Base Camp

• Altitude(Base Camp): 5,100 m/ 16,700 ft
• Trek Distance: 3-4 km | 3-4 hrs.

Day 12 is all about descending from Camp 1 to Base Camp, giving your body much-needed time to recover and reflect on the incredible achievement of conquering Kang Yatse I.

You will wake up to a Himalayan morning, the tiredness of the summit climb now replaced with a deep accomplishment. After a hearty breakfast and some warm tea, the team begins packing up Camp 1. Double-check your gear to ensure nothing is left behind, and prepare for the descent.

The trail back to Base Camp is a gradual downhill path that winds through rocky moraines and glacier-fed streams. While descending, you’ll get a chance to revisit some of the landscapes you passed earlier. Be cautious as the terrain can be tricky in parts, with loose rocks and melting snow patches depending on the season.

As you approach Basecamp Kang Yatse 1, the landscape transitions back to familiar moraine trails. The sense of achievement begins to settle in as you reach the campsite, greeted by a warm meal and the comforts of Basecamp.

Enjoy a warm dinner under a starlit sky, reflecting on the incredible journey that began days ago in the Markha Valley. As you drift off to sleep, the sound of the gentle winds will remind you of the resilience and determination it took to conquer Kang Yatse I.

Rest and Acclimatization day at Kang Yatse Base camp

• The TTH team will issue you the technical equipment
• Learn how to use technical equipment
• Don't exhaust yourself
• Briefing and planning for the summit
• Push for the Summit at 11 pm (Timings may change)

Today will be a rest day to help you get acclimatized and gather up energy for the next summit. This will also be another training day and our team will be giving training on the usage of technical equipment. You will be taught about using crampons, handling ice axes and other techniques that are a must for the summit attempt.

You will also practice using the technical equipment for the summit trek.

Try to grasp as much as you can. In doing so try not to exhaust yourself, as next will be the summit day. The delightful Kang Yatse Peak will be staring at you throughout. Additionally, you can also go nearby for a height-gain trek. Make sure you give enough rest to your body for the summit attempt. Pack your backpack for the summit day, keep it light and easy. You will have dinner early to wake up at midnight for the last climb. Hence, try to sleep early to get enough sleep.

Our team usually pushes for the summit at midnight, so we can reach the summit by early morning and enjoy a spectacular sunrise.

Base Camp to Kang Yatse II summit & back to Base Camp

• Altitude: 6,250 m / 20,500 ft
• Trek Distance: 6 km (Both ways) | Duration: 11-12 hours
• Reach the Summit by 6 am
• Reach Base Camp by 11 am
• Packed breakfast and hot lunch at the campsite
• Carry enough hot water

Today, the most exciting day has arrived! We will start at midnight for the summit and push to be at the top around 6 am for a glistering sunrise. Carry a packed lunch, refreshments, and enough water for the strenuous climb.

Today you will be rising from 5100 meters to straightaway 6200 meters. Therefore, being mentally strong is the key. The route to the summit is through the famous Kang Yatse shoulder. The trail starts with loose moraine and scree. Loose rocks make it difficult to secure the foot on the trail. Use a trekking pole for assistance. The route upwards has crevasses which are covered with snow most of the time. Based on the level of snowfall you will have to rope up for safety. Be careful and watch every step. The route goes to the north face through the northwest ridge towards a rocky outcropping.

After a steep climb to the top, you will find 360-degree views of the Zanskar range, Karakoram peaks, and mountains surrounding Kang Yatse. You might also notice the K2 peak (the second highest peak in the world). You may also spot the distant Tibet mountains. The views are flawlessly satisfactory and will bring back all the energy to climb down.

The entire summit path is 5 km each way. When you retrace your steps, be cautious on the moraines and scree . Make sure you return from the top by 1 pm to avoid further issues due to weather. Come back to the base camp to rest after the exhausting summit attempt.

Base Camp to Chokdo via Kongmaru La & drive to Leh

• Altitude:
  • Kongmaru - 5,200 m / 17,300 ft
  • Chokdo - 3,900 m / 12,900 ft
• Trek Distance: 16 km | Duration: 7-8 hours
• Drive Distance: 60 km
• Descent to Chokdo (Shang Valley) from Kongmaru La is a little long
• The highest altitude pass crossing on the trek makes it a difficult day
• It will take 3-4 hours to hike to Kongmaru La Pass
• Amazing view of Indus Valley and Ladakh Range
• Steep descent and rocky terrain
• Drive to Leh (60 km)
• Stay in Hotel

With satisfaction and happiness begin to return home. This day is like a bonus to enjoy the fulfilling mountains again. The terrain goes through the highest Kongmaru La pass. After a strenuous climb of 2 hours to Kongmaru La pass, you will be pleasantly welcomed by the Karakoram range and the excellent array of peaks. Hold your breath for the mind-blowing sight of the huge K2 Mountain, the second highest peak in the world. There are prayer flags moving along the wind. To your surprise, there is a good network connection from the past.

A further trek of 5-6 hours will bring you to Chokdo. The route has a steep descent and rocky terrain. It will present the amazing side of the cold dessert as you trudge through Indus and Ladhak valley.

Today you will have mixed feelings, sadness because the trek ends today and satisfaction of completing the trek. The trail changes drastically through the scenery of Indus valley and Ladakh range. This is the last stop of the entire trek, that also has many homestays. Look back and try to fill the salient features of the Ladakh in your eyes that you have just experienced while remembering the Kang Yatse II trek. Your pick up vehicle will take you all the way down to Leh.