Stok Kangri Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate - Difficult
TREK DURATION
9 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
20180 ft
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
40 km
BASECAMP
Ladakh
BEST TIME
July to Sptember
PICKUP POINT
Ladakh
Stok Kangri Trek Overview
Stok Kangri Trek is a popular and the most challenging trek in India. This is a dream trek of every seasoned trekker. The trek is located in the Ladakh region and has an altitude of 6153 m. Trekking to Stok Kangi Peak is not easy. It can really test your physical endurance. The trek starts from the Stok village. You will pass through barren landscapes and steep ridges. This trek offers the best views of Ladakh. You will witness the best views of Zanskar and Karakoram ranges.
Ladakh is known for offering some of the most different Himalayan treks. But the difficulty level of Stok Kangi is different. This trek demands extremely good physical and mental strength. It is a very challenging trek and has some very difficult sections. The technical challenges of Stok Kangi Trek are similar to any summit. The zeal of trekking to Stok Kangri Peak is different. This trek is surely a lifetime experience.
History Of Stok Kangri Trek
The Stok Kangri Trek has a deep connection with the heritage and culture of Ladakh. The peak of Stok Kangri is at 6153 m. Many Ladakhi communities live in the Stok valley and the nearby regions. Centuries back, these communities relied on animal rearing, agriculture and trade. This has been attracting trekking from the late 20th century.
The Stok Palace located near the base of the trek was used to be home of the Ladakh royals. This shows the cultural heritage of the nearby locations. You can see small-big monasteries on the trail. The beauty of the trail attracts the trekkers that lead to over-tourism. In order to recover, the local authorities have temporarily banned trekking to Stok Kangri from 2020. Many trekkers are waiting to summit the Stok Kangi Trek and experience the culture and thrill.
Highlights Of Stok Kangri Trek
- One of the highest trekking peaks: The Stok Kangri Peak is one of the highest trekking peaks of India. It stands 6153 m where you can trek without advanced mountaineering skills. The height allures every seasoned trekker in our country. The Stok Kangri Trek has become the dream trek.
- Landscapes: The trail of Stok Kangi Trek takes you to some of the best visuals of Ladakh region. There are colorful rocky ridges and alpine meadows. The higher regions have big snowfields and glaciers. Everywhere you see in the trek looks beautiful.
- Trek Difficulty: The Stok Kangri is one of the most challenging treks of the Indian Himalayas. The altitude is very high and the chances of getting AMS are very high. The oxygen level starts decreasing very fast after 5000 m. There are many technical sections that require good trekking experience.
- Breathtaking views from the peak: The views from the summit point are different. You can see some of the biggest peaks in just front of you. The Zanskar and Karakoram Range stand clearly in front of you. These views are truly magical.
- Cultural Experience: You should spend 1-2 days in Leh town. It will help in acclimatization and exploring the Ladakhi culture. The locals are very kind-hearted and peace-loving. It is a good place for cultural exploration.
Difficulty Level Of Stok Kangri Trek
- High-Altitude: The altitude is the most challenging part of the Stok Kangri Trek. The peak stands at 6153 m. Reaching at this much altitude is not easy. The oxygen level starts dropping rapidly after 5000 m. Trekkers face difficulty in breathing and can get AMS.
- Steep Ascent: The ascent near the peak is very difficult. On summit day, trekkers start ascents around midnight. It may take around 8-12 hours. Some ascents are very steep and challenging. The trekkers have to walk on snow-covered ridges that need good stamina.
- Technical Sections: The Stok Kangri Peak is a not-technical kind of peak where you don’t need advanced mountaineering experience. But there are some sections where you have to use crampons, ice axes, and ropes. Trekkers should have basic mountaineer skills to cross these sections without much difficulty.
- Physical and Mental Endurance: Trekkers should have extremely good physical strength. The Stok Kangi trek needs good cardiovascular endurance. You should have strong legs for walking uphill for hours. The trek also requires excellent mental strength. You need determination to ascend when your body is saying otherwise.
Best Time To Visit The Stok Kangri Trek
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Stok Kangri Trek From June To Early-July
This is the early season for Stok Kangri Trek. The route remains covered with heavy snow near the summit ridge. It increases the difficulty level of the trek. The trek feels more adventurous and challenging. The early season is only suitable for mountaineers.
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Stok Kangri Trek From July To Mid-September
This is the best time to plan your Stok Kangri Trek. The weather becomes stable and the sky remains clear. The snow starts melting in the lower regions. The daytime feels warm and better. Trekking in this season is much safer.
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Stok Kangri Trek From Mid-September To October
The temperature starts dropping after mid-September. The weather became unpredictable and challenging. You can get sunfall anytime. The trails become very challenging and the temperature can drop below -10℃. This season is only for the seasoned climbers.
How To Reach The Stok Kangri Trek?
Your trek to Stok Kangri starts from Stok village. This is a small village near Leh city.
- Delhi to Leh: The easiest way to reach Leh is to fly to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. This is the Leh airport and has direct flights from Delhi and many other cities.
- Delhi to Manali: Manali has good road connectivity. You can find direct buses for Manali. Take an overnight bus and reach Manali by the morning.
- Manali to Leh: You can take Manali-Leh Highway. The distance is 473 km and takes around 2 days. You will cross some passes like Rohtang, Tanglang La, etc.
- Leh to Stok Village: The Stok village is just 15 from Leh city. You can easily hire a taxi and reach Stok village in 30 minutes.
Day 1: Arrival at Leh,
Day 2: Acclimatization and Exploration of Leh
Day 3: Drive to Stok Village and Trek to Chang Ma
- Drive Distance – 14 km
- Drive Duration – 30 to 35 minutes
- Trek Distance – 5 to 6 km
- Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
- Altitude – 11,500 ft to 11,800 ft
Day 4: Chang Ma to Mankorma
- Trek Distance – 4 km
- Trek Duration – 3 to 4 km
- Altitude – 13000 ft to 14100 ft
Day 5: Mankorma to Stok Kangri Base camp
- Trek Distance – 4 km
- Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
- Altitude – 16,300 ft
Day 6: Acclimatization + training day
Day 7: Stok Kangri Base camp to Stok Kangri summit back to base camp
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 12 to 13 hours
- Altitude – 20,180 ft
Day 8: Stok Kangri Base camp to Stok Village and drive to Leh
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Day 9: Departure From Leh
- Drive Distance – 14 km
- Drive Duration – 30 to 35 minutes
Plan your ultimate Himalayan adventure trek with us. We are a team of experts and have curated the best Stok Kangri Trek itinerary for you. Our company ensures the safety on this beautiful and challenging trek. We can make your journey safe and unforgettable. Our trek guides are certified and have good experience in high-altitude trekking.
Himalaya Shelter (HS) provides customized trekking services. We can plan the itinerary according to you. You decide the dates and we can plan the whole trek for you. Our company provides good quality accommodations and freshly cooked meals. We can adjust the group size and even the pace for you. Our certified professionals will take care of you in every step. We offer end-to-end assistance including permit to trek logistics. Himalaya Shelter believes in Leave No Trace Principle and plans the trek responsibly.
Explore Leh Town
Spare some time to explore the Leh town. This town is very beautiful and rich in culture. You can visit monasteries and experience the Ladakhi lifestyle. Some famous places are Shanti Stupa, Thiksey Monastery, etc.
Visit Stok Palace
The Stok Palace is situated near the starting point of Stok Kangri Trek. This beautiful palace was built in the 19th century. You can visit the palace and see the royal artifacts and Buddhist art. The palace is very peaceful and gives a spiritual experience.
Photography
Lakadh has always been a favorite location for photographers. It has some of the most beautiful landscapes of our county. The barren brown mountains and white snowfields look beautiful. The clear blue skies add magic to every frame.
Stargazing
Stargazing at Ladakh is a very unique experience. You can enjoy stargaze from many Himalayan regions. But Ladakh is different. The higher altitude campsites like Mankoma offer the best views of the Milky Way. Stargazing in Ladakh is definitely an unforgettable moment.
Clothing and Backpack
You need a good backpack (60L) with a rain cover for the trek. Your backpack should provide you with good back support. Pack a small daypack (20L) for the summit day. Now start packing with your base layer. Pack 2 pairs of thermals (upper and bottom). Pack 4 quick-dry t-shirt and 3 trekking pants. Pack a fleece jacket and a down jacket. Pack a woolen cap and balaclava to protect the head and face from cold winds. You should also pack a rain jacket for sudden weather change.
Footwear
You should get a good pair of trekking shoes. If you are buying a new pair then wear it for at least 20 days before starting the trek. Your shoes must be comfortable and familiar to your feet. High-ankle shoes are better for trekking. Now pack 4 pairs of trekking socks and 2 pairs of woolen socks. You can also pack camp shoes or sandals.
Personal Care
Start packing all your toiletries in a small zipper back. Now pack sunglasses to prevent snow blindness. Get a sun cap for daytime. Pack 2 water bottle or hydration pack. Pack a sunscreen (SPF50+) to protect your skin from sun burn. You should also pack moisturiser and cold cream. Make a small first-aid kit with few basic medicines.
Proper acclimatization
You must spend 1-2 days in Leh to acclimatize yourself. The Stok Kagri Trek is located in a very high-altitude region. Your body should be acclimatized to prevent AMS.
Good Trekking experience
You should only plan the Stok Kangri Trek when you are good at high-altitude trekking. You should do some 5000 m treks before trekking to Stok Kangri Trek. Learn the basic mountaineering skills like how to use an ice axe, rope, etc.
Keep yourself hydrated
Dehydration is very common in high-altitude treks. You must drink 3-4 liters of water daily on the trek. Do not drink alcohol and smoke on the trek. You should carry some medicines like Diamox that can help with acclimatization. If you are getting any AMS symptoms then talk to your trek leader immediately.
Safety During Trek
The trek is long but you must walk at a steady pace. Use trekking poles for good balance on the trek. You must listen to your guide while walking on glaciers and summit ridge. The Stok Kangri is a challenging trek and you should only attempt it with a group.
Day 1: Arrival at Leh,
The journey of your trek to Stok Kangri begins with your arrival in Leh
Take rest and get acclimatized
- Altitude – 3500 meters
Day 2: Acclimatization and Exploration of Leh
Take a gentle walk around Leh town.
Head to the Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist stupa situated on a hilltop overlooking Leh.
Visit Leh Palace, an architectural marvel with stunning views of the city and the Indus Valley It’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of Ladakh.
Day 3: Drive to Stok Village and Trek to Chang Ma
Depart from Leh towards Stok Village. Enjoy the scenic drive, passing through picturesque landscapes, with the Indus River flowing alongside the road.
Once in Stok Village, Begin your trek from Stok Village towards Chang Ma. The trail initially leads through a narrow gorge before opening up to a wider valley.
Reach Chang Ma, your campsite for the night.
- Drive Distance – 14 km
- Drive Duration – 30 to 35 minutes
- Trek Distance – 5 to 6 km
- Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
- Altitude – 11,500 ft to 11,800 ft
Day 4: Chang Ma to Mankorma
Begin your trek from Chang Ma toward Mankorma
following the trail as it ascends through a rocky terrain.
The trail will take you through high-altitude terrain with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Reach Mankorma, your campsite for the night.
- Trek Distance – 4 km
- Trek Duration – 3 to 4 km
- Altitude – 13000 ft to 14100 ft
Day 5: Mankorma to Stok Kangri Base camp
Begin your trek from Mankorma towards the Stok Kangri Base Camp.
The trail will lead you through rocky terrain, winding its way upward. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Reach the Stok Kangri Base Camp, your home for the next few days. Take some time to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Spend the evening acclimatizing and getting used to the altitude. Take short walks around the base camp to help your body adjust.
- Trek Distance – 4 km
- Trek Duration – 4 to 5 hours
- Altitude – 16,300 ft
Day 6: Acclimatization + training day
Embark on a short acclimatization walk around the base camp.
Attend a safety briefing conducted by your trekking guide.
Receive training on basic mountaineering techniques. This may include instruction on how to use crampons, rope techniques, ice axe usage, and self-arrest techniques.
Get a good night’s rest to prepare for the early start the next day.
Day 7: Stok Kangri Base camp to Stok Kangri summit back to base camp
your summit attempt on Stok Kangri. It’s a long and demanding day,
Start your day well before dawn, usually around midnight to 2 AM, to allow ample time for the ascent and descent.
Begin the trek towards the summit of Stok Kangri. The initial part may be steep and challenging, and the air will be thin. Take slow, steady steps.
As you approach the summit, you may be fortunate enough to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayan peaks.
After the summit of Stok Kangri. Enjoy the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Arrive back at the base camp. Take off your equipment, and take rest</p>
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 12 to 13 hours
- Altitude – 20,180 ft
Day 8: Stok Kangri Base camp to Stok Village and drive to Leh
Begin your descent from the base camp towards Stok Village.
Take your time and carefully navigate the rocky terrain.
Arrive back in Stok Village,and stay overnight there
- Trek Distance – 14 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
Day 9: Departure From Leh
start your day and drive back to Leh. Take in the scenic views along the way.
- Drive Distance – 14 km
- Drive Duration – 30 to 35 minutes
Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.
Inclusions
- Transportation – Transport support from Leh,
- Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals. (INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek).
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek. - Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
- Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
- Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
- Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
- Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
- Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.
Exclusion
- Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
- Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC. - Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
- Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kg for an additional cost of INR 500 per bag per day.
- Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
- Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
- Anything apart from inclusions
- Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya.
Hemis Mon astery: Hemis Monastery, situated near Hemis National Park, is one of India’s most renowned Buddhist monasteries. It’s famous for the annual Hemis Festival, a five-day celebration honoring Padmasambhava. Getting to this monastery is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking scenery and thrilling pathways along Pangong. Shanti Stupa: Perched on a Chanspa hilltop, the white Shanti Stupa features a large Buddha sculpture. Part of the Peace Pagoda Mission, it’s renowned as one of the world’s top Buddhist sites. Inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama, it exudes serenity and a sacred atmosphere. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib: This revered place is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Legend has it that a demon threw a rock at the Guru while he was meditating, and the boulder with imprints of his body parts is enshrined here. Thiksey Monastery: Perched on a hill, this beautiful monastery belongs to the Gelug sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Dating back to the 1400s, it houses small temples, Buddhist relics, and nunneries. It’s not just a place of worship but also a spiritual haven for over 500 meditating monks. Local Markets: Leh’s local markets are a treasure trove of souvenirs. Visit the Tibetan Market in the Main Bazaar to shop for spices, handicrafts, snacks, and more. Khardungla Pass: For a scenic mountainous escape to Nubra and Shyok Valleys, journey along the 47.2 km Khardungla Pass, perched at an elevation of 17,852 feet. Marvel at panoramic views of the Himalayas and the Karakoram Range.
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