Stok Kangri Trek

Stok Kangri Trek

Towering at an impressive 6153 m, Stok Kangri is a serious challenge. Although at such an impressive height, it is not a technical climb and in season requires no advanced mountaineering equipment. We work our way up to base camp over a number of days to maximise acclimatisation and improve chances of a successful summit attempt. The view from the top is one of the best in the Himalaya offering great views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges including K2 (8611 m), the second highest peak in the world.

This is one of the most popular trekking peaks in the Indian Himalayas and it's proximity to Leh makes it very accessible. Recommend for those wish to climb a non-technical 6000 m peak.

Day 01 : Delhi - Leh (3500 m): 1 hr flight

Take the short flight to Leh, the capital of Ladakh. This is an incredible flight over the greater Himalayas with spectacular views of K2 among others, to one of the world's highest airports. We spend the day in Leh to acclimatise. Take the time to explore the monasteries and markets, or just relax at the hotel. Overnight hotel.

Day 02 : Leh

We spend the day in Leh for further acclimatisation. We go on a short day hike to practice exercising at this elevation. Marvel at Stok Kangri which is perched on the other side of the valley and begin to measure the size of the challenge ahead. Overnight hotel.

Day 03 : Leh - Zingchan (3900 m): 5/6hrs

We take a one hour drive to Spitok, the closest road access to Stok Kangri. We then start our trek with an easy introductory walk of four hours until we reach Zingchan. Overnight camp.

Day 04 : Zingchan - Stok La (4400 m): 6/7 hrs.

Trek Zingchan to the base of Stok La, a pass below the mountain. Throughout the trip, we are trekking through the barren lunar landscape of Ladakh. The weather is hot during the day and cold at night. Reach Stok La and have a well earned hot meal and good nights sleep.

Day 05 : Stok La - Mankorma (4900 m): 5/6 hrs

Trek over the Stok La Pass and camp at Mankorma. The pass offers great views of Stok Kangri and the route to the summit from the base camp.

Day 06 : Mankorma - Base Camp (5000 m): 4/5 hrs

We make an early start and reach base camp with still most of the day to rest. We have lunch and then take a short climb from base camp to better acclimatise. We climb a further 100 m and then come back down again to get an early night in preparation for tomorrow's summit attempt.

Day 07 : Base Camp - Stok Kangri (6150 m) - Base Camp (5000 m): 10 hrs

We start climbing in the early hours of the morning to avail of the best weather conditions and a possible sunrise at the summit. First we climb onto a ridge which leads to a large glacier. After crossing the glacier we ascend steeply to the summit. This last leg is the most difficult and takes a lot of physical and mental strength. The panoramic view from the summit is second to none. To the north-west the Karakoram Range, including K2 (8611 m), seems endless. One can also see the Zanskar Range and view Tibet in the distance, an outstanding vista of snow-capped peaks.

Day 08 :

Spare Summit Day

Day 09 : Base Camp - Stok village - Leh (3500 m): 8 hrs

From base camp we descend all the way to Stok village. This is a great walk passing by numerous ruins of old forts and castles. It takes about six hours to reach Stok village where we are met by waiting vehicles. We then drive two hours back to Leh enjoy a meal and some well earned drinks at the hotel.

Day 10 : Leh – Khardung La – Leh (40 kms/2 hrs)

In the morning drive for the Khardung – La Pass. This is the ultimate challenge of the trip. It is the highest motorable road in the world taking you to a dizzy 5,600m! The view from the top is spectacular, stretching from the Indus valley in the South over the endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range to the giants of the Sesser Massif in the North. You can feel proud of a true achievement as you finish the trip with your final satisfying descent. Evening back to Leh for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 11 : Leh - Delhi

Take the flight from Leh to Delhi and catch your last view of Stok Kangri through the cabin window.

Trip & Services Ends Here.


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