The KangYatse I trek is a high-altitude expedition in Ladakh’s remote Markha Valley,combining classic Himalayan trekking with a semi-technical summit climb. Thejourney begins with a gradual ascent through Matho and Shang valley, crossingdramatic landscapes and reaching the vast alpine plateau of Nimaling. Fromhere, the route climbs to Base Camp and then higher alpine camps, leading tothe 6,400-meter summit of Kang Yatse I. The final ascent involves snow slopes,glacier travel, and the use of mountaineering gear such as crampons and ropes.With breathtaking views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges from the summit,the trek is ideal for experienced trekkers with good fitness and basicmountaineering skills. Cultural encounters, dramatic high passes, and thethrill of climbing one of Ladakh’s highest peaks make this a trulyunforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Day 1: Leh – Drive to Stok (3,497 m), trek to Mankarmo (3,550m)
Trekking time: 5 hours
The drive from Leh to Stok takes approximately40 minutes. From there, the route beginsin a wide riverbed lined with trees, bushes, and blooming wild roses. Above~4,000 m, the tree line ends and open grasslands with scattered rose bushesdominate. The trail climbs to Changma Pass. Along the way, several abandonedshepherd huts offer insight into past life. The campsite sits directly by theriver, with views of snow-capped peaks of Stok Kangri Range and the rivervalley.
Day 2: Mankarmo – over Matho La to Ganpoche
Trekking time: 5 hours
The trail runs through a widevalley, crossing a river at the start. Wild rhubarb, stinging nettles, colorfulwildflowers, and even edelweiss grow along the way. It reaches Matho La (~4.950 m),adorned with prayer flags, offering views of rugged, snow-covered peaks and agreen valley below. We pitch our tent not far from a large, traditionalshepherd’s house, surrounded by sheep and goats – a lively contrast to thesilence of the pass.
Day 3: Ganpoche – Shang La – Shang Pu
Trekking time: 6 hours
In the wide, green valley belowMatho La lies a large traditional shepherd’s house with sheep, goats, cows, anddonkeys, where yogurt and butter are made traditionally. The campsite is on alush meadow with stunning views of snowy mountains and the valley—a peaceful,spacious place to relax.
Day 4: Shang Pu – Gyuncho La – Chuskurmo
Trekking time: 5 hours
The trail winds over narrow paths, shifting from barren terrain to fertilemeadows with yak herds. Above ~4,000 m, the tree line begins, and willow woodis used locally for interior elements and beams. The endpoint is a settledvillage with a campsite, marking the end of the Markha Valley trek.
Day 5: Chuskurmo – Kongmaru La Pass – Nimaling
Trekking time: 7 hours
We have a tough day today. The trailwinds through a stunning landscape of abandoned terraced fields and a narrowgorge. Along the way, blue sheep can often be spotted, and argalis are known to roam near the Kongmaru La Pass (5.250m).The route offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. The journey crossesKongmaru La Pass, a high and scenic point that must be traversed beforedescending to Nimaling.
Day 6: Nimaling (4,800m) to Base Camp (5,100 m)
Trekking time: 3 hours
Ashorter yet steeper trek takes you from Nimaling to the base of Kang Yatse I. TheBase Camp is set in a wide glacial basin, surrounded by snow-capped peaks andridgelines. After setting up camp, the afternoon is spent resting, hydrating,and organizing climbing gear.
Day7: Rest and Acclimatization Day at Base Camp (5,100 m)
Today is dedicated toacclimatization. You can take short acclimatization hikes above camp, explorethe surrounding moraine fields. This rest day significantly increases yourchances of a successful summit.
Day8: Base Camp to Camp I (5,700 m)
The trail becomes more technical asyou move onto snow and ice fields. The route to Camp I involves steep inclines,loose scree, and possible glacier crossings, depending on conditions. As youclimb higher, the terrain becomes more alpine, with sweeping views of Nimalingand the surrounding ranges. Camp I is located on a glacial shelf, providingstunning sunset views but also very cold and exposed conditions.
Day9: Camp I to Camp II (5,900 m)
Though this is a shorter day, it’sphysically taxing due to the high altitude and steep gradient. The climbincludes technical snow sections and roped segments, depending on theconditions. The objective is to reach Camp II early and rest before the summitpush.
Day10: Camp II – Summit Kang Yatse I (6,400 m) – Return to Camp I
An early morning alpine start beginsthe most important day of the expedition. As dawn breaks, you’ll likely benearing the summit ridge. From the top of Kang Yatse I, the views areawe-inspiring: to the north lie the Karakoram peaks, while to the south stretchthe endless ridges of Zanskar and Changtang Range. After spending a short timeat the summit, you descend back to Camp I.
Day 11: Camp I to Base Camp (5,100 m)
Trekking time: 2-3 hours
This is a relatively easy descentcompared to the previous days. Retracing your steps over the glacier andmoraine, you return to Base Camp.
Day12: Base Camp – Nimaling - cross Kongmaru La (5,250 m) – Descend to Chokdo(4,150 m) – Drive to Leh
Trekkingtime: 6–7 hours, drive: 2 hours
On the final day, we leave the base camp and retrace our steps past Nimaling,which we had passed on our way up to Kang Yatse I. From there, we begin thetough but beautiful ascent to Kongmaru La, a high mountain pass offeringmagnificent panoramic views. From the top, the trail descends steeply into acolorful canyon carved by glacial rivers, winding through a dramatic gorgesystem before reaching the village of Chokdo. Here, we’ll be picked up byvehicle and driven back to Leh, marking the end of an unforgettable expedition.