Kang Yatse II Peak Expedition

• Starts from Leh and follows the scenic Markha Valley route through remote villages and river valleys.
• Passes through Skiu, Markha, Hankar, and the spectacular Nimaling Meadow.
• Features traditional Ladakhi settlements, monasteries, high-altitude grazing grounds, and dramatic desert mountain landscapes.
• Reaches Kang Yatse Base Camp at approximately 16,700 ft (5,100 m) for acclimatization and summit preparation.
• Includes a challenging ascent to the Kang Yatse II Summit at approximately 20,500 ft (6,250 m).
• Offers panoramic views of the Markha Valley, Zanskar Range, Ladakh Range, and Karakoram region.
• Provides a high-altitude summit experience involving steep snow slopes, rocky terrain, and demanding mountain conditions.
• Concludes with a crossing of Kongmaru La Pass and descent toward Chokdo before returning to Leh.
• Considered a difficult high-altitude trekking peak expedition, requiring excellent fitness and previous Himalayan trekking experience.

Kang Yatse II is one of the most popular trekking peaks in Ladakh and is often considered an ideal introduction to Himalayan peak climbing above 6,000 meters. Located in the Markha Valley region, the peak offers a combination of scenic trekking, gradual acclimatization, and a demanding summit ascent without the technical difficulty associated with major mountaineering expeditions.

The journey begins in Leh and follows the famous Markha Valley trail through remote villages, monasteries, river crossings, and alpine meadows before reaching the mountain's base camp. The expedition culminates in a summit attempt that rewards climbers with sweeping views across Ladakh and neighboring mountain ranges.

Day 1 — Arrival in Leh
Arrival in Leh followed by rest, hydration, and initial acclimatization at approximately 11,500 ft.

Day 2 — Acclimatization Day
Monastery visits, local walks, trek briefing, and equipment checks to prepare for the expedition.

Day 3 — Drive to Skiu and Trek to Sara
Scenic drive through Ladakh followed by the first trekking day along river valley trails.

Day 4 — Sara to Markha
Trek through traditional settlements, agricultural areas, and river crossings before reaching Markha for the overnight stay.

Day 5 — Markha to Hankar
Continue with a gradual altitude gain as the landscape becomes increasingly remote, with expanding mountain views.

Day 6 — Hankar to Nimaling
Trek through open alpine meadows and high-altitude scenery with the first close views of Kang Yatse.

Day 7 — Nimaling to Base Camp
Short but important day focused on acclimatization, summit preparation, and rest at the base camp.

Day 8 — Summit Attempt
Early morning summit push through rocky terrain and snow-covered slopes near the summit, offering spectacular panoramic mountain views. This is the most physically demanding day of the expedition.

Day 9 — Return to Nimaling
Recovery day following the summit attempt, with a gradual return towards Nimaling.

Day 10 — Nimaling to Chokdo via Kongmaru La
Cross Kongmaru La Pass through high mountain terrain, dramatic canyon landscapes, and spectacular Himalayan views before descending to Chokdo.

Day 11 — Return to Leh
Drive back to Leh, marking the conclusion of the expedition.

Participants should ideally be able to:

• Trek for 8–10 hours
• Handle steep climbs
• Maintain endurance over multiple days
• Carry a daypack comfortably

Recommended preparation includes:

• Running
• Cycling
• Stair climbing
• Hiking
• Strength training

Previous Himalayan trekking experience is highly beneficial.A

Starting Point

Leh, Ladakh

Nearest Airport

Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh

Most participants fly directly into Leh and begin acclimatization before starting the expedition towards the Markha Valley.

Clothing

• 1 full-sleeve & 2 half-sleeve synthetic quick-dry T-shirts

• 1 fleece T-shirt

• 1 wind stopper / fleece jacket

• 1 windproof jacket

• 1 down feather / hollow jacket

• 1 thermal innerwear set (upper & lower)

• 2 synthetic quick-dry trekking pants

• 1 wind stopper / fleece pant

• 1 pair waterproof gloves

• 1 pair fleece / woollen gloves

• 1 poncho / waterproof jacket and pant

Head Gear

• 1 head torch

• 1 sun cap

• 1 woollen cap

• 1 balaclava

• 1 synthetic & 1 woollen buff / neck gaiter

• Sunglasses with UV protection and side cover

Footwear

• 1 pair water-resistant, high-ankle trekking shoes with good grip

• 1 pair floaters / flip-flops

• 7 pairs cotton socks

• 2 pairs woollen socks

• 1 pair gaiters, if required

• 1 pair micro spikes, if required

Backpack

• 50–60 L backpack with rain cover and comfortable shoulder straps

• 20–30 L daypack with rain cover, if offloading is opted

• Walking stick

• 2 × 1 L water bottles or 1 hydration pack + 1 × 1 L bottle

• At least 1 thermos flask

• 1 small tiffin / lunch box

• Personal medical kit / medicines

Food / Snacks

• Energy bars

• Dry fruits

• ORS / electrolytes

Personal Essentials

• Sunscreen

• Moisturiser

• Chapstick / lip balm

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Toilet paper & wipes

• Soap / hand sanitizer

• Antibacterial powder

• Quick-dry towel

Refund percentages vary depending on cancellation timing:

• Earlier cancellations receive higher refunds/vouchers.
• Emergency situations may qualify for special refund consideration.