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Kang Yatze Expedition

Your Gateway to Himalayan Mountaineering

The Markha Valley offers the perfect acclimatization trek to prepare for a Himalayan summit attempt. Winding through ancient villages, rows of stupas and mani walls inscribed with Buddhist prayers, centuries-old monasteries, crumbling forts, and traditional Ladakhi homesteads, the route is as culturally rich as it is visually stunning.

Towering above the valley is Kang Yatze, a dramatic, cone-shaped peak and the region’s most prominent landmark. The mountain has two majestic summits:

Kang Yatze I (6,400 m) – the main and more technical peak
Kang Yatze II (6,250 m) – slightly lower but more accessible

Our expedition is designed for those aiming to summit both.

On clear days, the views are extraordinary — stretching westward to the Nun Kun and Zanskar ranges, and on the northern horizon, as far as K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum massif.

This journey is an exceptional introduction to Himalayan mountaineering. It’s ideal for experienced trekkers ready for something more challenging than a standard trek, but not yet ready to commit to a fully technical 6,000+ meter peak.

Acclimatization & Cultural Immersion

We begin in New Delhi, continuing by air to Leh in Ladakh. The first four days are dedicated to acclimatization, giving your body time to adjust to the altitude while immersing yourself in the region’s deep cultural heritage. Visits to monasteries such as Hemis and Thiksey, and a warm-up trek from Likir to Yangthang, set the stage for the adventure ahead.

The Trek Through Markha Valley

Our approach to Base Camp follows the iconic Markha Valley trail, a route celebrated for its high mountain passes, sweeping alpine meadows, and ever-changing terrain. As we gain elevation toward the Nimaling Plateau, the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh unfold around us — remote, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Summit Attempts

Kang Yatze II (6,250 m)
Technically straightforward and free from major objective hazards, the climb involves a mix of scree and snow slopes ranging from 35° to 60°, with a short final ridge leading to the summit. A great first 6,000-meter peak.

Kang Yatze I (6,400 m)
A more demanding ascent requiring stamina and basic mountaineering skills. From our high camp at 5,800 meters, we climb over snowfields using crampons, fixed ropes, and a Jumar to gain approximately 400 vertical meters. Slopes reach up to 70°, demanding solid physical and mental resilience.
The summit reveals one of the most unforgettable panoramas in the Himalayas. On a clear day, you can see all the way to K2, nearly 200 kilometers away in the Karakoram.

Challenge Level
At elevations above 6,000 meters, this is a physically demanding expedition, rated moderate to high in difficulty. No prior climbing experience is required, but a solid trekking background and good fitness are essential. Familiarity with crampons is an advantage — and our guides will teach you everything you need to know.

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Highlights

A spectacular introduction to mountaineering in the Himalayas
Summit one or both of the peaks: 6,400 m (Kang Yatze I) and 6,250 m (Kang Yatze II)
Experience the scenic beauty of the Markha Valley
Explore the historic mountain town of Leh
Visit the monasteries of Likir, Hemis, and Thiksey
Enjoy a day hike through traditional villages in the Sham Valley
Trek through parts of Hemis National Park – the realm of the snow leopard
Take in panoramic views of multiple mountain ranges, including the Karakoram and K2 (on clear days)
Ride a rickshaw through the narrow alleys of Old Delhi’s historic spice market

Kang Yatze I & II Expedition

Supplied by:Hi On Life Adventures
In collaboration with:The Search Adventures

Itinerary – Kang Yatze II (6,250 meters – Non-Technical)
Kang Yatze II – Expedition Overview
An inspiring Himalayan trekking adventure culminating in the summit of Kang Yatze II (6,200m). Perfect for strong trekkers looking for their first Himalayan peak.

Itinerary:

Day 1 - 29th of July.
Early morning, we transfer back to Indira Gandhi International Airport domestic terminal for the onward flight across the Himalayas to Leh.

The flight offers remarkable views of the mountain ranges before landing at Leh, situated at approximately 3,500 metres. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and spend the remainder of the day resting and acclimatising. Physical activity should be kept to a minimum during the first hours at altitude.

Day 2 – 30th of July - Leh acclimatisation and monastery visits

A gentle day of sightseeing provides further acclimatisation without strenuous physical effort. Drive through the Indus Valley to visit Thiksey Monastery, dramatically positioned above the valley and known for its impressive architecture, prayer halls and large Maitreya Buddha statue.

Continue to Hemis Monastery, one of Ladakh’s most important monastic centres. There will be time to explore the courtyards, temples and museum before returning to Leh.
The day should be conducted at a relaxed pace, with regular stops for water and rest.

Driving distance: approximately 85–100 kilometres in total
Driving time: approximately 3–4 hours, excluding visits
Overnight: Hotel Spic N Span in Leh
Altitude: 3,500–3,650 metres

Day 3 – 31st of July - Acclimatisation trek

After breakfast, drive west from Leh through the Indus Valley to Likir, known for its historic monastery and traditional Ladakhi surroundings.

Begin an acclimatisation trek through the dry, sculpted landscape of western Ladakh. The route crosses small passes and open valleys before reaching Yangthang, a traditional village surrounded by barley fields and mountain slopes. This walk introduces the group to Ladakh’s terrain and provides valuable time on foot at moderate altitude before entering the Markha Valley. After completing the trek, meet the vehicles and return to Leh.

Drive: Leh–Likir, approximately 55 kilometres
Trekking distance: approximately 9–12 kilometres
Walking time: approximately 4–5 hours
Maximum altitude: approximately 3,750–3,900 metres
Overnight: Hotel Spic N Span in Leh

Day 4 – 01 August - Leh to Sara

Leave Leh after breakfast and drive towards the entrance of the Markha Valley. The journey follows the Indus and Zanskar river systems before reaching the roadhead around Chilling and Skiu.
Depending on current road access, continue by vehicle as far as possible and walk the final section to Sara, a small settlement and campsite beside the Markha River. This is the beginning of the expedition’s main approach. The walking is generally straightforward, following the valley through a dramatic landscape of barren cliffs, green fields and willow groves.

Driving distance: approximately 70–75 kilometres
Trekking distance: approximately 4–6 kilometres
Walking time: approximately 2–3 hours
Sara altitude: approximately 3,550–3,600 metres
Overnight: Camp at Sara

The commonly used approach involves a drive of roughly 75 kilometres from Leh to Skiu, followed by a short trek to Sara.

Day 5 – 02 August -Sara to Markha

Follow the Markha River deeper into the valley. The trail passes traditional houses, cultivated fields, mani walls and small settlements that appear unexpectedly within the otherwise arid landscape.

Several river or stream crossings may be required, depending on the season and water levels. As the valley opens, the route continues towards Markha village, one of the largest settlements in the valley. There may be time to visit the small monastery or explore the village before settling into camp.

Trekking distance: approximately 10 kilometres
Walking time: approximately 5–7 hours
Altitude gain: approximately 150–300 metres
Markha altitude: approximately 3,700–3,850 metres
Overnight: Camp near Markha

Published itineraries generally estimate the Sara–Markha section at about 10 kilometres, although walking times vary according to river conditions and group pace.

Day 6 – 03rd August - Markha to Thochungtse

Continue upstream through the upper Markha Valley. The route passes the settlement of Umlung and continues towards Hankar, where old fortifications and ruined structures stand above the valley.

For the first time, the Kang Yatze massif becomes a dominant feature ahead. Beyond Hankar, the terrain becomes increasingly open and alpine as the group approaches Thochungtse, also written Tachungtse or Thachungtse. This is a significant acclimatisation day, with a steady increase in altitude.

Trekking distance: approximately 13–15 kilometres
Walking time: approximately 6–8 hours
Altitude gain: approximately 400–550 metres
Thochungtse altitude: approximately 4,200–4,300 metres
Overnight: Camp at Thochungtse

The Markha-to-Hankar section is commonly measured at about 11–13 kilometres, with Thochungtse situated farther up the valley.

Day 7 – 04th of August - Thochungtse to Kang Yatze Base Camp

Leave the Markha Valley floor and climb steadily towards the high-altitude grazing country beneath Kang Yatze. The route passes increasingly sparse vegetation before entering a landscape of moraine, rock and glacial streams. Depending on the chosen route and exact position of Base Camp, the group may pass near the Nimaling Plateau before turning towards the mountain.

Arrive at Kang Yatze Base Camp, establish camp and spend the afternoon resting. From here, the scale of the mountain and the upper climbing route become much clearer.

Trekking distance: approximately 8–12 kilometres
Walking time: approximately 5–7 hours
Altitude gain: approximately 700–900 metres
Base Camp altitude: approximately 5,000–5,100 metres
Overnight: Base Camp

Standard Markha Valley programmes place Nimaling at approximately 4,700–4,840 metres, with the Kang Yatze Base Camp normally located higher, around 5,000–5,100 metres.

Day 8 – 05th of August - Rest, acclimatisation and technical training
A full day at Base Camp allows the body to adjust before moving higher.

The expedition guides will conduct a technical training session covering the equipment and techniques required on Kang Yatze I. Training may include:

Use of crampons and ice axe
Moving while roped together
Ascending and descending fixed ropes
Use of jumar and descender
Glacier travel and crevasse awareness
Self-arrest techniques
Expedition communication and emergency procedures

Equipment will be checked and adjusted. The guides will also assess weather, snow conditions and the condition of the upper route.

Optional acclimatisation walk: 2–3 hours
Overnight: Base Camp
Altitude: approximately 5,000–5,100 metres

Day 9 – 06th of August - Summit Day – Kang Yatze II, approximately 6,250 metres

Starting altitude: approximately 5,050 m
Summit altitude: approximately 6,250 m
Altitude gain: approximately 1,200 m
Estimated distance: approximately 10–14 km return
Estimated duration: approximately 10–14 hours

We wake late in the evening or shortly after midnight and prepare for the summit attempt.
After a light meal and final equipment check, we leave Base Camp in darkness. The first section crosses loose moraine and rocky ground before reaching the snow and glacier.

Here we attach crampons and rope together as instructed by the climbing guides. The ascent continues gradually across the glacier towards the broad north-western shoulder of Kang Yatze II.
The final slopes are physically demanding and may reach approximately 35–45 degrees. Progress is slow, controlled and dependent on weather, snow conditions and the condition of every team member.
From the summit, weather permitting, there are extensive views across the Zanskar Range, the Karakoram and the mountains surrounding the Markha Valley.

After a brief summit stop, we begin the long descent to Base Camp. Concentration remains essential throughout the descent, particularly on the snow slopes and glacier.
Reaching the summit is never guaranteed. The expedition leader and local climbing guides may turn an individual or the entire group around because of weather, snow conditions, timing, altitude symptoms or safety concerns.

Accommodation: Expedition camp at Base Camp

Day 10 –07TH of August - Contingency and Recovery Day

Sleeping altitude: approximately 5,000–5,100 m

This day provides essential flexibility within the expedition.
Should poor weather or unsafe mountain conditions prevent the summit attempt on 6 August, this day may be used for a second attempt.
When the summit attempt has been completed as planned, the day becomes a recovery day at Base Camp. We rest, rehydrate, eat and allow our bodies to recover from the long climb.

The final decision regarding the use of the contingency day rests with the expedition leader and local climbing team.

Accommodation: Expedition camp at Base Camp

Day 11 –08TH of August - Contingency and Recovery Day

Sleeping altitude: approximately 5,000–5,100 m

This day provides essential flexibility within the expedition.

Should poor weather or unsafe mountain conditions prevent the summit attempt on 6 August, this day may be used for a second attempt.
When the summit attempt has been completed as planned, the day becomes a recovery day at Base Camp. We rest, rehydrate, eat and allow our bodies to recover from the long climb.

The final decision regarding the use of the contingency day rests with the expedition leader and local climbing team.

Accommodation: Expedition camp at Base Camp

Day 12 – 09th of August - Base Camp to Chokdo via Kongmaru La

Starting altitude: approximately 5,050 m
Kongmaru La: approximately 5,236–5,260 m
Chokdo altitude: approximately 3,650–3,700 m
Trekking distance: approximately 16–20 km
Walking time: approximately 7–9 hours
Total descent: approximately 1,500 m

We leave Base Camp and begin the climb towards Kongmaru La, the final high pass of the expedition.

The ascent is steady and sometimes steep. From the prayer-flag-covered pass, we look back towards Kang Yatze I, Kang Yatze II and the high plateau of Nimaling.
We then begin a long and steep descent into a narrow gorge characterised by dramatic rock formations and changing colours.
The trail follows the canyon towards Chokdo. Although much of the day is downhill, the distance, rough terrain and accumulated fatigue make this a demanding final trekking stage.
We spend the night in or near Chokdo.

Accommodation: Camp or local guesthouse in Chokdo

Day 13 –10th of August - Drive from Chokdo to Leh

Chokdo altitude: approximately 3,700 m
Leh altitude: approximately 3,500 m
Driving distance: approximately 50–60 km
Driving time: approximately 2–3 hours

After breakfast, we meet our vehicles and drive back towards Leh.
The road follows the mountain valleys towards the Indus River before returning us to the relative comfort of our hotel.
The afternoon is free for rest, showers, laundry and exploring Leh. In the evening, we gather for a celebratory expedition dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Spic N Span in Leh

Day 14 –11th of August

The afternoon is free for rest, showers, laundry and exploring Leh
Overnight at Spic N Span Hotel. Celebration dinner in the evening.

Day 15 –12th of August - Flight from Leh to New Delhi and Old Delhi Tour

Flying time: approximately 1 hour 20 minutes

After breakfast, we transfer to Leh Airport for the flight to New Delhi.
On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Later, we join a guided tour of Old Delhi, an intense and fascinating district of markets, historic buildings, religious sites and narrow streets.

Subject to flight times and local conditions, the tour may include areas around Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk and the Red Fort.

After the tour, we return to the hotel for our final evening in India.

Accommodation: Hotel in New Delhi

Day 16 – 13th of August - International Departure
After breakfast, the programme concludes with transfers to Indira Gandhi International Airport according to the participants’ individual flight schedules.

International flights depart for home after an unforgettable journey through Ladakh and an attempt to reach the 6,250-metre summit of Kang Yatze II.

Expedition Overview

Programme dates: 29 July–13 August 2026
Highest point: Kang Yatze II, approximately 6,250 m
Highest sleeping altitude: approximately 5,100 m
Highest trekking pass: Kongmaru La, approximately 5,236–5,260 m
Estimated trekking and climbing distance: approximately 75–90 km
Summit day: 6 August 2026
Contingency day: 7 August 2026

Kang Yatze I – Advanced Summit Itinerary

For experienced high-altitude trekkers, this route includes technical alpine camps and a more demanding ascent of Kang Yatze I (6,400m).