High
10 days
6,153 meters (20,187 feet)
16+
The Stok Kangri trek is one of the most iconic and challenging treks in the Indian Himalayas. Standing tall at 6,153 meters (20,187 feet), Stok Kangri offers an exhilarating climbing experience that attracts trekkers and mountaineers from around the globe. On a clear day, the summit provides breathtaking views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including the legendary K2, along with other towering peaks of the Karakoram range.
While the Stok Kangri trek does not involve technical climbing, it is not for the faint-hearted. The trek requires excellent physical fitness and acclimatization to cope with the high-altitude conditions. The trek to the summit is a test of endurance and determination, but the reward is an unforgettable adventure with panoramic views that stretch across the vast Himalayan landscape.
Stok Kangri is the highest peak in the Stok Range of the Ladakh region. The trek is a favorite among seasoned trekkers due to its challenging terrain and the opportunity to climb a 6,000+ meter peak without requiring extensive technical skills. The journey begins in the vibrant town of Leh, known for its rich culture and history, before venturing into the rugged, barren landscapes of Ladakh. The trek passes through remote villages, steep ridges, and glacial terrains, culminating in a thrilling summit attempt that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. At an altitude of over 11,000 feet, it's essential to spend the day acclimatizing to avoid altitude sickness. After settling into your accommodation, the group will have a briefing session to discuss the trek ahead. Spend the rest of the day hydrating, resting, and exploring Leh’s markets at a leisurely pace.
Today is dedicated to further acclimatization and trek preparation. In the morning, explore the local markets and get any last-minute supplies. In the afternoon, the group will gather for a detailed briefing on the trek itinerary, gear, and safety protocols. A demonstration on how to pack and what to carry will also be conducted.
The trek officially begins with a short drive from Leh to Stok Village, the starting point of the trek. From here, the trail leads you on a gentle ascent through the picturesque landscape. After a few hours of trekking, you’ll reach the first campsite at Changma. The day involves acclimatizing to the altitude while enjoying the serene surroundings.
Today’s trek is relatively short but involves some steep ascents, particularly as you climb to the ridge overlooking Mankarmo. The trail passes through a rugged landscape dotted with sharp-edged mountains, eventually leading to the Mankarmo campsite. The day’s journey takes around four hours, giving you plenty of time to rest and acclimatize at the new altitude.
From Mankarmo, the trail continues to ascend towards the Stok Kangri Base Camp. After an hour of trekking, you’ll enter a valley that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. As you approach the base camp, keep an eye out for Himalayan Marmots and Blue Sheep. The base camp, located at 16,350 feet, serves as your home for the next couple of days as you prepare for the summit attempt.
This day is crucial for acclimatization before the summit push. After breakfast, the group will take a short acclimatization walk to a ridge on the right side of the camp. This ridge offers panoramic views of Stok Kangri and the surrounding mountains. After returning to base camp, the afternoon is spent preparing for the summit attempt, including a briefing on the gear and safety measures.
The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins around midnight. After a light meal, the group sets out under the stars for the summit push. The initial part of the trek involves crossing a glacier, followed by a steep ascent over rocky terrain. The final stretch to the summit is a narrow, windy ridge that tests your endurance. Upon reaching the summit by early morning, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree view that includes K2, the Karakoram range, and the vast expanse of Ladakh. After taking in the views and capturing some memories, the group begins the long descent back to base camp.
After a day of rest and celebration at base camp, the descent to Changma begins. As you lose altitude, you’ll feel your energy levels rise with the increase in oxygen. The day’s trek is relatively easy, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the landscape at a relaxed pace.
The final day of trekking takes you from Changma back to Stok Village. The trek is a gentle descent, providing a pleasant end to your adventure. Upon reaching Stok Village, a short drive takes you back to Leh, where you can enjoy a celebratory dinner and reflect on the journey.
After an unforgettable adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to Ladakh. Depending on your travel plans, you’ll either head to the airport or continue exploring the region.
There are no reviews yet.
Be the first to review “Stok Kangri Trek”