Kang Yatse Peak

Kang Yatse is a mountain situated at the head of Markha Valley in the Himalayas, within the Ladakh region, and is part of Hemis National Park. It consists of two peaks: Kang Yatse I, with an elevation of 6,400 meters (21,000 ft), and Kang Yatse II, standing at 6,250 meters (20,500 ft).

Kang Yatse II

It is the shorter of the two sister peaks with Kang Yatse I. Known as one of the highest trekking peaks in Ladakh, Kang Yatse 2 becomes visible on the fifth day of the trip, as you journey through the beautiful Markha Valley. The trek offers breathtaking views of the Markha River and the surrounding landscapes, leading adventurers to the majestic peak, a true spectacle at 6,250 meters. The total expedition spans 10-11 days, including the acclimatization in Leh, and is rated as difficult, making it a rewarding challenge for trekkers.

The trip begins in the high-altitude city of Leh, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Previously, the trek to Kang Yatse started from Chilling or Skiu, but with improved roads, it now begins at the Sara village, where you can be dropped directly by car. Along the way, you’ll witness the striking confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers, each with distinct colors. Entering Hemis National Park, you’ll trek through an incredible wilderness that is home to unique wildlife like blue sheep and, with luck, even the snow leopard. The trail passes through serene Ladakhi villages such as Markha and Hankar, offering a glimpse into local life, culture, and the charm of monasteries, stupas, and fields amidst the arid landscape. While the trek includes long distances over rugged terrain, the summit day is the most challenging, with a steep altitude gain of 1200 meters in one go.

Kang Yatse I

Kang Yatse I, the higher of the two peaks, is throne-shaped and presents a technical climbing challenge. The trek spans 12-13 days, with the best season being June to August.

The trek follows the same route as Kang Yatse II up to the base camp. From there, it continues to Camp 1 and then Camp 2, followed by the summit push and the return to base camp.

The descent for both Kang Yatse I and Kang Yatse II follows the same path. Along the way, trekkers are treated to panoramic views of Kang Yatse I, Kang Yatse II, and Dzo Jongo.

At the summit, fluttering prayer flags and fierce winds create an exhilarating atmosphere. The descent is equally captivating, leading through dramatic gorges, numerous water crossings, and a valley that reveals and conceals itself with every turn. The landscape is a vibrant canvas of colors, with rocks in striking hues, towering geological formations resembling walls, and the constant sound of water carving its way through narrow passageways – all enriched by encounters with unique and fascinating fauna.

Day 1

Arrive in Leh and take in the beautiful mountain views as you freshen up. Spend the day acclimatizing and resting to adapt to the altitude. If you feel up to it, you can explore the Leh market or visit nearby monuments like the Shanti Stupa and the Leh Palace. In the evening, relax with friends back at your hotel or homestay, where dinner will be served. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at the hotel or homestay.

Wander through the vibrant Leh market or discover the nearby Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace.

Day 2

Begin the day with a gear check, obtaining permits, and shopping for essentials. You may also opt for short hikes or visits to the Shey and Thiksey monasteries. Later, return to your hotel or homestay to enjoy a relaxing evening with friends, followed by dinner.

Do not hesitate staying back at your hotel in case you are feeling symptoms of altitude sickness.

End the day with an overnight stay in Leh.

Short visits to the peaceful Shey and Thiksey monasteries.

Day 3

After breakfast, we will drive to Sara in the Markha valley. It’s 3-hour journey where you first meet the Zanskar river that you follow till Chilling where you take a left turn to enter the Markha. From Sara your trek starts through scenic landscapes along the Markha river. Along the way, pass through a few houses, fields and even an old monastery during a trek lasting maximum 2 hours.

End the day with an overnight stay in a homestay at Markha.

On the way to the Sara village now accessible by road.

Day 4

After bidding farewell to your gracious local hosts in Markha, begin your journey to the next stop: Hankar village. The trek, which may take up to six hours, offers breathtaking views and some challenges – be prepared for a thrilling river crossing through the icy waters of the Markha River!

About halfway to Hankar, you’ll come upon the awe-inspiring Tacha Gompa, a monastery that seems to emerge naturally from the rugged cliffside it is perched on. Take a moment to marvel at its striking architecture and surroundings before continuing your ascent.

The final three hours of the trek lead you to Hankar via the small village of Umlung, where you’ll spend the night with a welcoming Ladakhi family. At an altitude of over 4,000 meters, you’ll gain deeper insight into the resilient lifestyle of these mountain dwellers, who have thrived in this harsh yet stunning environment for generations.

The adventure through the heart of nature starts today.

Day 5

Our journey begins as we leav the village of Hankar. Here, the majestic Kang Yatse peaks come into view, their imposing silhouettes guiding us onward. The trail takes us along the river, navigating rocks and boulders as the water carves its way through the rugged landscape.

After following the river for about an hour, we leave the riverbank and climb up a muddy hillside. The landscape seems to be out of this world. The rock formations seems to defy gravity, ready to collapse at the slightest provocation. Meanwhile, the vegetation becomes rare and the wildflowers add vibrant color to the scenery.

After the ascent, we descend briefly to a small bridge, crossing the river to reach the other side. Our destination for the day is a secluded campsite at an altitude of 4260 meters – a peaceful resting point nestled amidst the stark beauty of the mountains.

Savor the awe-inspiring panorama of the majestic Kang Yatse Peaks.

Day 6

The trek leads you through expansive grazing grounds, framed by stunning peaks that create a truly amazing backdrop. As you progress, the majestic views of Kang Yatse II become increasingly prominent, offering a rewarding visual treat. Along the way, there’s ample opportunity to pause, rest, and familiarize yourself with any technical equipment you may need. This 4 hours journey culminates at the base camp, where you’ll settle in for an overnight stay in tents, surrounded by the serene beauty of the high-altitude wilderness.

The tranquil allure of untouched high-altitude landscapes.

Day 7

Today is a well-deserved rest day, allowing you to acclimatize to the altitude above 5,000 meters. We’ll make the most of this pause to prepare for the ascent to the summit of Kang Yatse II.

Your guide will introduce you to the climbing equipment, providing essential safety instructions and techniques to ensure a secure and successful climb. You’ll also have the opportunity to practice using the gear and explore the area around base camp, which not only helps with acclimatization but also builds your confidence for the journey ahead.

As you rest, take time to soak in the tranquil beauty of the base camp. The area is home to a rich variety of birdlife, offering a delightful opportunity for birdwatching against the backdrop of the towering peaks.

A lots of birds around tha base camp, but also some mammal companions.

Day 8

The summit push begins in the early midnight hours, between 12 and 2am, under a starlit sky, demanding focus, teamwork, and determination as climbers navigate snow-covered slopes with crampons and ropes. This exhilarating ascent, lasting 6 hours, rewards you with breathtaking views and a profound sense of accomplishment at the summit while the sun rises over the Himalayas. The descent, equally challenging, requires careful navigation of icy terrain, steady footing, and the same essential tools. Spanning another 3 to 4 hours, it combines effort and joy, surrounded by stunning alpine vistas, completing this unforgettable adventure.

Providing a profound sense of achievement and awe-inspiring summit vistas.

Day 9

The day is reserved as a contingency to accommodate unforeseen delays caused by bad weather or other unexpected circumstances. By allocating this buffer, we ensure that schedules remain flexible, minimizing disruptions and maintaining overall efficiency despite potential challenges.

Day 10

The trek continues with a descent from base camp to Nimaling (4850 m), followed by an onward journey to Chogdo. This route offers a captivating mix of stunning landscapes, with Nimaling’s open meadows giving way to the rugged beauty of the Kongmaru La (5286 m). The trek typically takes 6 hours, still providing time to enjoy the serene surroundings and the crisp mountain air. At the end of the day, rest and recovery await with an overnight stay in tents or a cozy homestay in Chogdo, offering a chance to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure.

The adventure weaves through stunning, picture-perfect landscapes.

Day 11

After a short hike to Sumdo followed by a 2-hour drive to Leh, the journey transitions from rugged trails to the comforts of civilization. Upon arrival, take time to relax and celebrate the successful completion of your expedition, cherishing the memories of the challenges conquered and the breathtaking landscapes experienced.

The day concludes with an overnight stay in Leh, offering a well-deserved rest and an opportunity to bask in the accomplishment of your adventure.

Honor your journey’s success, embracing the memories of challenges conquered.

Day 1 to Day 6

For the itinerary from day 1 to day 6, please refer to the itinerary of the Kang Yatse II, as it is exactly the same.

Day 7

Today is a pivotal day as we gear up for the challenging ascent of Kang Yatse I. Having crossed the 5,000-meter mark, rest becomes essential for your body to acclimatize to the high altitude.

While you take this much-needed break, it’s equally important to familiarize yourself with the climbing equipment. Under the guidance of your expert team, you’ll learn crucial safety protocols and techniques that will be vital during the ascent.

Meanwhile, part of the team will carry equipment to Camp 1 in preparation for tomorrow’s climb. Accompanying them is highly recommended, as this short excursion will aid in your acclimatization and prepare you for the higher altitudes you’ll face in the coming days.

Enjoy a peaceful night at base camp, with the majestic Kang Yatse drawing closer as you ready yourself for the adventure ahead.

Day 8

This marks the final approach to Kang Yatse before the terrain becomes more demanding. We set out from base camp in the morning, retracing the yesterday’s trail. The journey begins with a crossing of the glacial stream fed by Kang Yatse’s main glacier, followed by a steady ascent along the rocky moraine.

Camp 1 is situated atop the moraine, just beneath the imposing steep slopes that will lead us to Camp 2 and, ultimately, the summit. The surroundings grow more dramatic as the peak looms closer, heightening the sense of adventure.

Take this opportunity to mentally prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. The anticipation builds as we edge closer to our ultimate goal – the summit of Kang Yatse!

Day 9

Today’s ascent takes us steeply up the main North-East ridge of Kang Yatse. The challenging terrain demands the use of ropes and crampons, making this stage both physically and technically demanding. Conditions on the ridge vary by season: early in the year, the route is primarily covered with snow and ice, while later in the season, it transitions to a mix of rock and exposed sections.

Camp 2 is a compact and minimalistic site, offering just enough space to pitch tents. With no kitchen tent available, we’ll rely on ready-to-eat meals that simply need warming. Make the most of this evening to rest and recover – go to bed early, as we’ll be starting our summit push before dawn tomorrow!

Day 10

Our summit attempt begins in the stillness of the night, around 1 or 2 a.m. The climb to Kang Yatse I’s summit at 6,400 meters is a challenging and technical endeavor, demanding advanced mountaineering skills and the use of specialized gear. For six grueling hours, we ascend icy ridges and steep snow slopes, pushing our limits with every step.

Reaching the summit as the first light of dawn illuminates the surrounding peaks is an unparalleled reward. The breathtaking panoramic views and the sheer sense of accomplishment make the effort worthwhile.

After celebrating at the top, we begin our descent back to Camp 1. Here, we’ll take a well-earned rest, allowing our bodies to recover from the day’s demanding journey.

Day 11

After the strenuous efforts of the summit attempt, today we take it easy with a descent back to the comfort of base camp. The trail feels gentler as we descend, giving our tired legs a chance to recover.

At base camp, you can enjoy the refreshing environment and relish freshly prepared meals from our kitchen – always a welcome treat after days of high-altitude adventure.

Use this time to relax and recharge, as tomorrow’s journey will be longer and hence more demanding.

Remembering the magic of Kang Yatse peak !

Day 12 and 13

Please refer to the two last days of the itinerary of the Kang Yatse II as they are exactly the same.

Best time to go on Kang Yatse Expedition