The Kang Yatse II Summit Trek begins in the verdant valleys of Markha and ascends through alpine meadows and high-altitude passes to the base of the majestic Kang Yatse massif. While Kang Yatse I is more technical, Kang Yatse II offers a trekking peak experience, where no ropes or technical climbing gear are required. With panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges, this summit is both a physical and emotional high point of any Ladakh adventure.
The Kang Yatse peak sits in the shadow of Hemis National Park, a region dotted with centuries-old monasteries and Buddhist trails. Historically, the mountain has been revered by local communities, often considered a guardian of the valley. The route reflects Ladakh’s deep cultural connection to its mountains, with villages like Hankar and Nimaling still practicing age-old farming and herding traditions.
Classic Markha Valley trail through villages like Skiu, Markha, and Hankar
Trekking through lush meadows and high-altitude deserts
Base camp stay at the stunning Nimaling plains
Climbing to Kongmaru La (5,265 m)—a vantage point of immense beauty
Summit climb to Kang Yatse II (6,250 m) with 360° Himalayan views
Homestay stays in traditional Ladakhi homes along the Markha trail
Interaction with villagers and pastoral families tending yaks and dzos
Spiritual moments at trail-side chortens, mani walls, and small gompas
Immersion in local customs, dialects, and Buddhist prayer rituals
Moderate to challenging trek, with a final summit push
Camping in remote alpine meadows and glacier-fed valleys
Early morning snow trek to the summit (requires crampons, no ropes)
Stunning sunrises over the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges
Photography, glacier exploration, and stargazing at high altitude
Altitude Range: ~3,200 m (start) to 6,250 m (summit)
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to early September
Duration: 9–11 days (including summit and acclimatization days)
Stay Options: Homestays till Hankar, camping beyond; base camp before summit
Permits: Hemis National Park entry + climbing permit for Kang Yatse II
Starting Point: Chilling or Skiu (accessed by road from Leh)
Ending Point: Shang Sumdo or return via Kongmaru La
Transport: Shared jeeps or private cabs from Leh
Exit Options: After summit, descend to Shang or Hemis by trek
Day 3–5 – Trek through Markha, Hankar to Nimaling, with acclimatization
Day 6 – Reach Kang Yatse Base Camp
Day 7 – Summit Kang Yatse II early morning, return to base
Day 8–9 – Descend via Kongmaru La, camp or stay near Shang
Day 10 – Return drive to Leh
Acclimatize in Leh for 2–3 days before starting
Train physically—this is a high-altitude summit trek
Bring trekking gear, crampons, and warm layers
Hydrate consistently and recognize AMS symptoms
Summit day starts before dawn—rest and fuel up the day before
Hemis Monastery (spiritual base before the trek)
Markha Valley villages and Techa Gompa
Zanskar valley and future treks to Dzo Jongo or Stok Kangri
Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa (post-trek relaxation)
The Kang Yatse II Summit Trek offers a rare blend—a culturally rich trail that crescendos into a mountaineering milestone. It’s perfect for adventurers looking to graduate from trekking to peak-bagging without diving into technical climbing. With its unmatched views, spiritual atmosphere, and personal accomplishment, this trek promises to leave you elevated—literally and emotionally.
