Kang Yatze I & II

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 – July 29:
Arrival in New Delhi. Transfer to the domestic terminal and take a scenic flight to Leh (3,500m), nestled in the high mountains of Ladakh.
Day 2 – July 30:
Leh acclimatization day. Explore the ancient monasteries of Hemis and Thiksey. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 – July 31:
Drive to the village of Likir and begin your first acclimatization trek to Yangthang. Gentle introduction to Ladakhi landscapes.
Day 4 – August 1:
Transfer from Leh to the village of Sara – the gateway to the Markha Valley.
Day 5 – August 2:
Trek from Sara to Markha village through picturesque valleys and river crossings.
Day 6 – August 3:
Continue trekking from Markha to Thochungtse, gradually gaining altitude.
Day 7 – August 4:
Trek to Kang Yatze Base Camp (5,100m). The mountain now looms large on the horizon.
Day 8 – August 5:
Rest and technical training day at Base Camp. Prepare physically and mentally for the summit push.
Day 9 – August 6:
Summit Day. Early morning climb of Kang Yatze II. Enjoy breathtaking Himalayan panoramas before returning to Base Camp.
Day 10 – August 7:
Contingency day in case of poor weather or altitude-related delays.
Day 11 – August 8:
Descend to Chokdo via the dramatic Kongmaru La pass (5,260m).
Day 12 – August 9:
Drive back to Leh. Time to celebrate!
Day 13 – August 10:
Extra day in Leh to relax or explore more of this ancient Silk Road town.
Day 14 – August 11:
Another optional day in Leh for shopping, rest, or cultural discovery.
Day 15 – August 12:
Fly to New Delhi. Guided sightseeing tour of Old Delhi and hotel check-in.
Day 16 – August 13:
Departure day. Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.

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).

Itinerary

Day 1 – July 29:
Arrival in New Delhi. Connect to Leh via domestic flight. Welcome to the Himalayas.
Day 2 – July 30:
Acclimatization in Leh with cultural visits to Hemis and Thiksey monasteries.
Day 3 – July 31:
Drive to Likir and trek to Yangthang for gentle altitude gain.
Day 4 – August 1:
Drive to Sara, the start point of the trekking route into the Markha Valley.
Day 5 – August 2:
Trek to the charming village of Markha along the river.
Day 6 – August 3:
Trek deeper into the valley, arriving in Thochungtse.
Day 7 – August 4:
Arrive at Kang Yatze Base Camp (5,100m), your home for the coming days.
Day 8 – August 5:
Rest, acclimatization, and skills training at Base Camp.
Day 9 – August 6:
Trek to Camp I at 5,400 meters. Your alpine experience begins.
Day 10 – August 7:
Trek to Camp II at 5,800 meters. Prepare for summit day.
Day 11 – August 8:
Summit Day. Climb Kang Yatze I and return to Base Camp. A demanding but unforgettable day.
Day 12 – August 9:
Contingency day in case of bad weather.
Day 13 – August 10:
Trek out via Kongmaru La pass and down to Chokdo.
Day 14 – August 11:
Drive back to Leh for rest and celebration.
Day 15 – August 12:
Flight to New Delhi. Explore Old Delhi’s rich history with a local guide.
Day 16 – August 13:
International departures from New Delhi.

Price: USD 2,775 + international flights to/from Delhi

Cost Includes

• Domestic flights: Delhi–Leh–Delhi

• 5 nights in Leh with full board (Spic and Span Hotel or similar standard)

• All guided sightseeing in and around Leh in a private minibus, including entrance fees

• English-speaking expedition leader

• Climbing Sherpas

• Expedition cook and kitchen staff

• Pack animals for equipment transport

• 10-day fully equipped camping trek

• North Face VE 25 tents (shared, 2 persons per tent)

• Foam sleeping mats and Exped down mattresses

• Dining tent with tables and chairs

• Toilet and shower tents

• Full kitchen setup

• All meals during the trek

• Boiled and purified water provided four times daily

• Use of down jacket, down sleeping bag, fleece liner, and duffel bag

• All climbing equipment (except mountaineering boots and crampons)

• All permits (national park, climbing, conservation fees, etc.) and applicable taxes

• 1 night in Delhi (Pride Plaza or similar)

Cost Excludes

• Single room in hotels unless the single supplement has been paid

• Personal tent during the trek unless the single supplement has been paid

• Visa for India

• Personal travel insurance

• Mineral water, beer, soft drinks, and additional coffee/tea outside of meals

• Mandatory tips for guides and porters – recommended amount: USD 275 per participant