Stay: Camping (Twin sharing) & Hotel/Guesthouse (Separate male & Female)
Food: Meals while on trek
Location: Ladakh
Distance: 81 Km.
Trail Type: Summit, One way trail | Camping in various locations, starting and ending at the different point.
AirPort: Leh (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee)
Highlights:
Services Leh to Leh | Included Transport
Experience a 1:1 trekker-to-guide ratio on summit day
Who Can Participate
Age Requirement:
Minimum 18 years
Experience of at least two high-altitude trek (4,500m- 5,000m) is required. First-timers are advised to avoid this trek.
Fitness Criteria:
The trekker should have sufficient stamina to cover 6 km of distance by jogging in 30 minutes without stress or 10 km of distance in 60 minutes without stress
If the trekker prefers cycling he/she should be able to cycle 25 km of distance in 65 minutes.
Trekkers must be able to carry a 10-15 kg backpack, as off-load options are not recommended.
If a trekker’s BMI is more or less than the normal range (18-26), please consult our Trek Coordinator before booking.
Itinerary
Day-1: Arrival Leh
Altitude: 3,500 m /11,500 ft.
Note
Kang Yatse I expedition is 13 days and touches an altitude of 21,000ft. If you are looking for an adventure in Leh with less altitude but & exciting challenges you can try the Markha Valley Trek. You can even try our Ladakh Multi Sports Adventure with your friends and family.
Day-2: Acclimatisation at Leh
Acclimatization and sightseeing in Leh.
Can visit to monasteries: Shey, Thiksey, Sangam, and Hemis.
Day-3: Drive Leh to Skiu then trek to Sara
Altitude:
Skiu- 3,400 m/ 11,150 ft.
Sara- 3600 m/11800 ft.
Drive Distance: 75 km | 2-3 hrs.
Trek Distance: 4 – 5 km | 2 hrs.
Day-4: Sara to Markha
Altitude: Markha- 3,700 m/ 12,200 ft.
Trek Distance: 10 km | 5-6 hours
Day-5: Markha to Hankar
Altitude: Hankar 4,100 m/ 13,400 ft.
Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hours.
Day-6: Hankar to Nimaling
Altitude: Nimaling- 4,800 m/ 15,800 ft.
Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hours.
Day-7: Nimaling to Base Camp
Altitude: Base Camp- 5,100 m/ 16,700 ft.
Trek Distance:- 3-4 km | 3-4 hours.
Day-8: Rest and Training day
Don’t exhaust yourself.
Day-9: Trek from Basecamp (KY I) to Camp 1
Altitude (Camp 1): 18,700 ft / 5,700 m
Trek Distance: 3-4 km | 3-4 hrs
Day-10: Trek from Camp 1 to Camp 2
Altitude (Camp 2): 19,300 ft / 5,900 m
Trek Distance: 2-3 km | 3-4 hrs
Day-11: Summit to KY I Peak & Descent to Camp 1
Altitude(KY I Peak): 21000 ft / 6400m.
Trek Distance: 8-9 km | 10-11 hrs.
Day-12: Camp 1 to Base Camp
Altitude(Base Camp): 5,100 m/ 16,700 ft
Trek Distance: 3-4 km | 3-4 hrs.
Day-13: Base Camp to Chokdo via Kongmaru La & drive to Leh
Altitude:
Kongmaru – 5,200 m / 17,300 ft
Chokdo – 3,900 m / 12,900 ft
Trek Distance: 16 km | Duration: 7-8 hours
Drive Distance: 60 km
Note:
Keep 1/2 buffer days in your travel plan.
Buffer day will be used if unable to summit due to of any unforeseen circumstances.
Opting for a buffer day will be a team decision, not an individual.
Buffer day is not included in the cost.
Buffer Day Cost entire group per day (Rs 50,000).
If buffer day is not used in the Expedition then it can be used to explore Leh.
Rafting in Zanskar
Mountain Biking
Motorcycle Tour
Khardung La visit
One-day trip to Pangong Lake
Full day sightseeing
Zipline
Day 1: Arrival in Leh
Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,500 ft
Stay in hotel
Trek briefing in evening
Your Kang Yatse I Peak expedition begins with arrival in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Leh sits at a high altitude and the first day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization.
You can explore the local markets and prepare for the expedition. In the evening, the team gathers for a detailed briefing by the trek leader about the route, safety procedures, and equipment.
Day 2: Acclimatization in Leh
This day is reserved for acclimatization to help your body adjust to the high altitude. Short sightseeing visits to nearby monasteries such as Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis can be done.
Avoid visiting higher passes or engaging in strenuous activities. Relax, hydrate well, and prepare for the journey ahead.
Day 3: Drive Leh to Skiu – Trek to Sara
Skiu Altitude: 3,400 m / 11,150 ft
Sara Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,800 ft
Drive: 75 km | 2–3 hrs
Trek: 4–5 km | 2 hrs
Drive from Leh to Skiu through spectacular landscapes including the Indus–Zanskar confluence and Hemis National Park. From Skiu the trek begins into the Markha Valley.
Follow the Markha River along scenic trails passing small settlements and fields before reaching Sara village, where you camp for the night.
Day 4: Sara to Markha
Altitude: 3,700 m / 12,200 ft
Trek: 10 km | 5–6 hrs
The trail continues along the Markha Valley through charming villages and scenic river crossings. Mani stones and Buddhist prayer walls line the trail.
By evening you reach Markha village, the largest settlement in the valley. Explore the monastery and ruins nearby before camping for the night.
Day 5: Markha to Hankar
Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,400 ft
Trek: 13 km | 7–8 hrs
Today's trail gradually climbs along the valley with beautiful views of Kang Yatse Peak appearing in the distance. The route passes small villages and monasteries.
Hankar is the last major village of the valley and serves as the campsite for the night.
Day 6: Hankar to Nimaling
Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,800 ft
Trek: 12 km | 7–8 hrs
The trek continues with gradual ascent toward the high-altitude plains of Nimaling. Along the way you will see stunning views of Kang Yatse and the twin Tigu lakes.
Nimaling is a vast grazing meadow surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery and is one of the most scenic campsites of the trek.
Day 7: Nimaling to Base Camp
Altitude: 5,100 m / 16,700 ft
Trek: 3–4 km | 3–4 hrs
A short trek today takes you to the Kang Yatse Base Camp. The trail climbs over loose moraine and rocky terrain with incredible views of the peak ahead.
Spend the rest of the day acclimatizing and preparing for the upcoming climbing stages.
Day 8: Rest and Training Day
This day is dedicated to rest and training at base camp. Guides will conduct technical training sessions including use of crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and rope techniques.
These practice sessions prepare climbers for the challenging summit climb.
Day 9: Base Camp to Camp 1
Altitude: 5,700 m / 18,700 ft
Trek: 3–4 km | 3–4 hrs
The climb begins from base camp across moraine and snow slopes. Sections may require crampons and rope support.
After several hours of steady ascent, you reach Camp 1 where climbers prepare for the higher climb ahead.
Day 10: Camp 1 to Camp 2
Altitude: 5,900 m / 19,300 ft
Trek: 2–3 km | 3–4 hrs
Continue the climb across snow slopes toward Camp 2. The terrain becomes steeper and requires careful footing with crampons.
Camp 2 serves as the final staging point before the summit attempt.
Day 11: Summit Kang Yatse I – Return to Camp 1
Altitude: 6,400 m / 21,000 ft
Trek: 10–11 hrs round trip
The summit push begins around midnight. Climbers ascend steep snow and ice slopes using ropes and mountaineering gear.
At sunrise you reach the summit of Kang Yatse I with breathtaking views of the Ladakh and Karakoram ranges. After celebrating the achievement, descend carefully back to Camp 1.
Day 12: Camp 1 to Base Camp
Trek: 3–4 km | 3–4 hrs
Descend gradually from Camp 1 back to Base Camp through moraine and glacier terrain. This day allows the body to recover after the summit climb.
Day 13: Base Camp to Chokdo via Kongmaru La – Drive to Leh
Kongmaru La: 5,200 m / 17,300 ft
Chokdo: 3,900 m / 12,900 ft
Trek: 16 km | 7–8 hrs
Drive to Leh: 60 km
Cross the high Kongmaru La pass and descend through dramatic landscapes toward Chokdo village in Shang Valley.
From Chokdo, drive back to Leh, marking the end of your Kang Yatse I Peak expedition.
Trek Essentials
Backpack with rain cover
(50 – 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps
Day pack with rain cover
20 – 30 ltr (If off-load opted)
Walking stick
Advisable (At least one)
Water Bottle / Hydration pack
2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask.
Small size tiffin/lunch box
1 Nos
Snacks
Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors
Personal Medical Kit
Consult your doctor
T-Shirt (Synthetic quick dry)
1 Full & 2 Half sleeves
Fleece T-shirt
1 Nos
Fleece jacket
1 Nos
Windproof Jacket
1 Nos
Down feather / Hollow jacket
1 Nos
Thermal inner (Upper and Lower)
1 Pair
Trek Pant (Synthetic quick dry)
2 Nos
Fleece Pant
1 Nos
Waterproof gloves
1 Pair
Fleece / woollen gloves
1 Pair
Poncho / waterproof Jacket and pant
1 Nos
Head torch
1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch)
Sun Cap
1 Nos
Woolen cap
1 Nos.
Balaclava
1 Nos.
Buff / Neck-gaiters
1 Synthetic & 1 Woollen
Sunglasses
UV with dark side cover, People who wear spectacles – (A)- Use contact lenses | (B)- Photo chromatic glasses
Trekking shoes
1 Pair (Water-resistant, high ankle, good grip)
Floaters / flip-flops
1 Pair
Cotton socks
6 pairs
Woollen socks
1 pairs
Gaiters
1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Micro spikes
1 Pair (NK provides when required)
Sunscreen
1 Nos
Moisturiser
1 Nos
Chap-stick / Lip balm
1 Nos
Toothbrush and toothpaste
1 Nos
Toilet paper & Wipes
1 Nos
Soap / hand sanitizers
1 Nos
Antibacterial powder
1 Nos
Quick dry towel
1 Nos
FAQs
Kang Yatse I is a challenging and technical trekking peak located in the Markha Valley region of Ladakh, India. Standing at an altitude of about 6,400 meters, it offers a thrilling mountaineering experience with stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
The best time to do the Kang Yatse I Trek is from late July to September. During this period, the weather in Ladakh is relatively stable, skies are clear, and snow conditions are manageable for the summit climb.
The Kang Yatse I Trek is considered a challenging and technical expedition. It involves glacier travel, steep slopes, and sections requiring mountaineering equipment such as crampons, ropes, and ice axes.
Yes, prior mountaineering or high-altitude trekking experience is highly recommended. The summit climb involves technical sections including glacier crossings and steep snow slopes.
The summit climb is technically demanding and includes rocky terrain, glacier sections, and steep slopes. Climbers must use equipment like crampons, ice axes, and fixed ropes.
The climb usually begins before sunrise to ensure safer weather conditions. Although challenging, reaching the summit offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape.
The Kang Yatse I Trek usually takes about 13 days, including acclimatization days, technical training, and the summit attempt through the beautiful Markha Valley.
This trek requires excellent physical fitness. Trekkers should be comfortable walking 6–8 hours daily on steep terrain. Training should include cardio exercises, strength training, and practice hikes.
Essential gear includes:
Crampons and ice axes
Climbing harness and ropes
Waterproof jacket and thermal layers
Trekking boots and gloves
Sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures
Headlamp, trekking poles, sunglasses, and sunscreen
The trek begins in Leh, Ladakh. Trekkers usually fly to Leh from major cities such as Delhi or Mumbai. From Leh, a drive takes you to the trek starting point, typically Skiu village in Markha Valley.
The summit of Kang Yatse I stands at approximately 6,400 meters (20,997 ft).
Temperatures vary depending on altitude. In lower valleys daytime temperatures may range from 5°C to 15°C, while higher camps and summit regions can drop to -10°C or lower.
Weather in the Himalayas can change quickly, so proper layering and waterproof clothing are essential.
Accommodation includes camping in tents at designated campsites along the trekking route. In lower villages, trekkers may stay in guesthouses or homestays.
Yes, altitude sickness can occur due to the extreme elevation. Proper acclimatization days are included in the itinerary to reduce this risk. Trekkers should stay hydrated and follow the trek leader’s guidance.
Yes, trekking with a professional guide and support team is strongly recommended due to the technical terrain and remote location. Guides provide safety support and navigation throughout the expedition.
Safety measures include experienced trek leaders, technical gear inspections, acclimatization days, and continuous monitoring of trekkers for altitude sickness. Fixed ropes are used in steep sections for added safety.
Trekkers are provided nutritious meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Meals are designed to provide sufficient energy for high-altitude trekking.
Solo trekking is not recommended due to the technical nature of the expedition. Joining a guided expedition ensures safety and logistical support.
The primary goal of the trek is a safe and memorable experience. If weather or health conditions prevent a summit attempt, trekkers still enjoy an incredible journey through the scenic Markha Valley.
Preparation should include regular cardio training, strength workouts, and practice treks with a backpack. Familiarity with mountaineering equipment and gradual altitude exposure will also help in successful completion of the expedition.
Payment & Cancellation Policy:
When you have firmly decided to undertake the Tour with New Knight Adventure, you will need to book the trip with us. We must allocate enough time to prepare, obtain necessary documents and permits, and book hotels and Transport for the trip. 25% advance during the time of booking for confirmation 50% Amount one month prior of arrival in India 25% Amount to be one week prior of arrival in India
Cancellation Policy:
• If the cancellation is made 30 days before the tour starts, 25% of the full payment will be deducted and 75% will be refunded. • If the cancellation is made 20 days before the tour start, 35% of the full payment will be deducted and 65% will be refunded • If the cancellation is made 10 days before the tour start, 80% will be deducted and 20% will be refunded. • No refund is made if the trip is cancelled after the departure for Expedition. • No refund is made during the running tour. • The cost of travel permit or any other documentation charges will not be refundable
Note:New Knight Adventure do all the ground operations in advance (As soon as we received the confirmation request from the guest). We pay advance payment to all our vendors to ensure all the services that we promise with the guest.
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