If you’re dreaming of trekking through the raw beauty of Ladakh, few trails come close to the dramatic allure of the Stok Kangri Trek. Once heralded as the highest trekkable summit in India at 6,153 meters, Stok Kangri has drawn thrill-seekers from around the world. While the summit itself has been closed to climbers since 2020 to help preserve the fragile ecosystem, the trek remains a soul-stirring journey through Ladakh’s alpine grandeur.
This guide walks you through everything you need to plan a perfect Stok Kangri adventure—from itinerary and permits to cultural highlights and travel tips.
The summit may be off-limits, but don’t let that stop you. The trail to Stok Kangri Base Camp is still open and incredibly rewarding. Think rugged ridgelines, glacial streams, and panoramic views that will leave you breathless—literally and figuratively. On clear days, you’ll spot distant giants like K2 and Saser Kangri peeking through the clouds.
Beyond the natural beauty, this trek weaves through a landscape rich in Buddhist spirituality, local folklore, and centuries-old mountain traditions.
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Here’s a well-paced itinerary that balances high-altitude trekking with proper acclimatization. Customizations are possible based on your fitness, interest, and acclimatization needs.
Day 1: Arrive in Leh (3,500 m)
Activities: Rest, hydrate, short walk around Leh Market
Why it matters: Acclimatization starts here. Avoid exertion.
Day 2: Acclimatization Day – Shanti Stupa / Leh Palace Exploration
Short hike to Shanti Stupa or Tsemo Fort
Optional visit to Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery
Day 3: Drive to Stok Village → Trek to Chang Ma (3,980 m)
Drive: 45 mins from Leh to Stok Village
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Terrain: Gradual ascent through riverbeds and green valleys
Overnight: Campsite under the stars
Day 4: Chang Ma to Mankorma (4,300 m)
Trek gets steeper, with views of jagged cliffs and glaciers
Possible sightings: Blue sheep, marmots, Himalayan birds
Day 5: Trek to Base Camp (4,970 m)
A challenging ascent across rocky moraines
Reach the iconic Stok Kangri Base Camp, nestled beneath snow walls
Perfect spot for stargazing, photography, and meditation
Day 6: Acclimatization Day at Base Camp
Hike to nearby ridges for altitude training
Explore glacial landscapes or relax and adapt
Day 7: Descend to Stok Village via Mankorma or Optional Matho Route
A long descent through familiar terrain
For experienced trekkers: consider the Matho-La exit route (requires guide)
Day 8: Return to Leh → Local Exploration / Fly Out
Unwind with Ladakhi cuisine, shopping, or monastery visits
Don’t miss: Butter tea, apricot jam, and local thukpa
Glacial Valleys: Ancient glaciers now shaped into surreal landscapes
Colorful Geology: Layers of reds, purples, and grays
Cultural Touchpoints: Stop by Stok Monastery and Stok Palace, the residence of Ladakh’s former royal family
Wildlife: Spot blue sheep, Himalayan fox, and golden eagles
Night Skies: No light pollution = unreal stargazing
One of the most rewarding aspects of this trek is the quiet spirituality that surrounds you. Visit ancient monasteries, spin prayer wheels, or simply observe the daily rituals of the locals. If your timing aligns, you might even witness a traditional Ladakhi festival.
By Air: Fly into Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport)
By Road: Private cab or shared jeep from Leh to Stok (approx. 15 km)
Pro Tip: Leave early to avoid afternoon weather changes
Clothing: Thermal layers, down jacket, windproof outer shell
Footwear: Sturdy, high-ankle trekking boots
Gear: Trekking poles, headlamp, water purification tablets
Personal: Sunscreen, lip balm, energy bars, reusable water bottle
Documents: Valid ID, permits (as applicable), insurance papers
Summit closed since 2020: Official government regulation to protect the fragile ecosystem
Trekking allowed up to Base Camp
Local Guide Mandatory: For safety and cultural respect
Always check with Ladakh Tourism or local trekking agencies before planning
July to Mid-September
This is when the snow melts, the skies are clearest, and the route is most accessible. Avoid early season snow or post-September cold snaps.
Acclimatize for at least 2-3 days before the trek
Hydrate constantly and avoid alcohol
Travel with a group or certified local guide
Be weather-ready: conditions can flip in minutes
Respect local customs and Leave No Trace
If you have extra days, here are some gems nearby:
Matho Monastery – Known for its mystic oracles
Hemis Monastery – One of Ladakh’s largest and wealthiest gompas
Shey Palace – Former royal residence with a golden Buddha statue
Indus Valley Drive – Offers some of the most photogenic pit stops in Ladakh
The Stok Kangri trail is more than a summit—it’s an immersive journey through high-altitude wilderness, Ladakhi culture, and personal endurance. You’ll leave with tired legs, full memory cards, and a sense of peace only the mountains can offer.
So lace up your boots, take a deep breath, and embrace the altitude—because sometimes, the journey really is the destination.
