Kang Yatse 1 (6400m) is a perfect next step for trekkers aiming to enter technical mountaineering. With steep inclines, glaciated terrain, and rope work involved, it offers a true alpine experience. Ideal for those with prior high-altitude trekking or basic climbing experience, this peak prepares you for more demanding Himalayan climbs. Set in Ladakh’s stunning Markha Valley, it combines endurance, technical skills, and breathtaking landscapes in one powerful expedition.
ITINERARY PLAN
Day 1 – Arrival in Leh.
Altitude: 3,500m / 11,500 ft
Activity: Rest & acclimatization
Notes: Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity.
Stay: Hotel in Leh
Day 2 – Acclimatization Day – Visit to Shanti Stupa & Leh Palace.
Altitude Gain: Minimal (Leh local exploration)
Activity: Short hikes to Shanti Stupa (3,600m) & Leh Palace
Evening: Expedition briefing and equipment packing
Stay: Hotel in Leh
Day 3 – Drive to Skiu and Trek to Hankar.
Drive: Leh to Skiu – 60 km | ⏱️ 2.5–3 hours
Trek: Skiu (3,400m) to Hankar (3,900m)
Trek Distance: ~12 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Gain: +500m
Stay: Campsite at Hankar village
Day 4 – Hankar to Kang Yatse Basecamp.
Altitude: 5,000m / 16,400 ft
Trek Distance: ~9 km
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours
Altitude Gain: +1,100m
Terrain: Gradual ascent through pastures & moraines
Stay: Base Camp (Campsite)
Day 5 – Acclimatization Day & Training.
Altitude: 5,000m
Activity: Acclimatization walk to 5,300m & return
Training: Use of crampons, ice axe, fixed rope systems
Stay: Base Camp
Day 6 – Trek from Base Camp to Camp 1.
Altitude: 5,450m
Trek Distance: ~3 km
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours
Terrain: Steep moraine & scree sections
Stay: Camp 1 (Alpine-style campsite)
Day 7 – Trek to Camp 2 & Night Summit Push.
Camp 2 Altitude: 5,900m
Summit Altitude: 6,400m / 21,000 ft
Trek Distance (Camp 1 to Camp 2): ~2.5 km | 2–3 hours
Summit Distance (Round Trip): ~4–5 km | 8–10 hours
Gradient: Two steep walls of ~70° and 85°
Activity: Reach Camp 2, rest, and begin summit push at night (typically around 1–2 AM)
Stay: Return to Camp 2 or Base Camp post-summit
Day 8 – Descend to Basecamp.
Altitude Drop: 6,400m → 5,000m
Trek Duration: 3–4 hours (depending on prior descent)
Stay: Base Camp
Notes: Team debrief and recovery
Day 9 – Trek from Basecamp to Chogdo via Kongmarula Pass & Drive to Leh.
Trek Distance: ~16 km
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours
Drive: Chogdo to Leh – 75 km | ⏱️ 3–4 hours
Stay: Hotel in Leh
Highlights: Stunning views of the Zanskar Range from Kongmaru La Pass
Day 10 – Collect Certificates & Departure.
Activity: Morning gathering for summit certificates, farewells
Transport: Airport drop (on request)
Day 10 – Buffer Day.
Purpose: Reserved for bad weather or rest day at Base Camp
Note: This day helps improve summit success rates and ensures safety.
INCLUSIONS
- Accommodations in Leh on double sharing basis.
- All meals throughout the expedition.
- Technical Equipments.
- First Aid Kit & Oxygen Cylinder.
- Certified Expedition leader & Sherpa.
- Support team, Basecamp manager & Kitchen Staff.
- Porters or Mules for Centralized load.
- WFR Team with Medical Kit & Oxygen Cylinder.
- All necessary permits.
- Transportation from Leh to roadhead & back.
EXCLUSIONS
- Mandatory Insurance.
- Any personal expense.
- Buffer day on additional cost of ₹ 4500 INR.
- Food during the transit.
- Mules or porters to carry personal load.
- Emergency evacuation or hospitalization charges.
- Any expense due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Mandatory Tips to Guide, Kitchen Team & Porters.
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions.
Trekking Essentials
Clothing
- 2–3 Quick-dry T-shirts
- 1 Full-sleeve T-shirt (for sun protection)
- 2 Pairs of trekking pants
- 1 Fleece or woolen sweater
- 1 Down/insulated jacket (for cold evenings)
- 1 Waterproof windcheater or poncho
- Thermal innerwear (top & bottom)
- 3–4 Pairs of socks (1 woolen)
- Warm cap + Sun cap
- Gloves (1 fleece/wool, 1 waterproof)
- Extra underwear
Footwear
- Sturdy trekking shoes (well broken-in)
- Lightweight floaters/sandals (for campsite use)
- Gaiters (optional, helpful in snow)
Backpack & Rain Protection
- 40–50L Backpack with rain cover
- Daypack (optional, for short walks or summit day)
- Waterproof backpack cover or dry sacks
Personal Essentials
- Reusable water bottles (2 x 1L) or hydration bladder
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen (SPF 40+) & lip balm (SPF)
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer)
- Quick-dry towel
- Personal medication (with basic first aid)
Accessories
- Torch/headlamp with extra batteries
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Power bank
- Notebook + pen (optional, for journaling)
- Trail snacks (dry fruits, energy bars, ORS)
Documents
- Government-issued ID (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
- Medical certificate
- Adventure Insurance
Rules & Regulations
- Fitness & Health – Climbers must be physically fit and free from serious medical conditions.
- Permit & ID – Carry valid ID Proof.
- Eco Friendly Climbing – No littering, no plastic waste, follow leave no trace principles.
- Alcohol & Smoking – Strictly prohibited during the trek for safety reasons.
- Follow leader’s instructions – Adhere to designated trails and safety reasons.
- Respect Nature & wildlife – Avoid disturbing flora & fauna, no loud music.
- Emergency protocols – Inform the team of any health issues and follow evacuation procedures if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kang Yatse 1 located?
Kang Yatse 1 (6,400m) is a semi-technical peak located at the end of the Markha Valley in Ladakh, India. It is part of the Kang Yatse massif, which includes the popular trekking peak Kang Yatse 2.
How difficult is the Kang Yatse 1 expedition?
Kang Yatse 1 is classified as semi-technical. Climbers must negotiate steep snow/ice slopes (up to 85°), use fixed ropes, crampons, ice axe, and follow roped-up techniques. Prior high-altitude trekking and basic mountaineering knowledge are highly recommended.
What is the minimum fitness level or experience required?
Participants should have:
Previous use of mountaineering equipment (preferred but not mandatory if technical training is included)
Completed at least one high-altitude trek above 4,000m
Be able to walk 10–12 km with a 6–8 kg backpack
Have good cardiovascular endurance
Do I need mountaineering certification to attempt this peak?
No official certification is needed, but prior experience with ice axe, crampons, and fixed rope systems is important. A training session is included at Base Camp before the summit push.
What’s the best time to attempt Kang Yatse 1?
The climbing season is:
June to early September – Best weather window with manageable snow conditions.
Post-monsoon (late Sept) climbs are not recommended due to unpredictable snowfall and rapidly changing conditions.
What kind of gear is required for the climb?
Essential personal gear includes:
Sunglasses (Category 4), headlamp, thermos, etc.
We provide a full equipment checklist upon registration.
Insulated down jacket & pants
Mountaineering boots (B2 or B3 recommended)
Crampons, gaiters, harness, helmet, ice axe
Base layers, windproof shell, balaclava, gloves
Is the expedition supported with porters and kitchen staff?
Yes. The expedition includes:
Climbing Sherpas above Base Camp
High-altitude support staff
Mules/porters for gear
Cook and kitchen team up to Base Camp
How is the accommodation arranged?
Leh: Hotel (double/triple sharing)
On trek: Alpine tents (double sharing), sleeping bags provided
Dining Tent, Toilet Tent, and Common Shelter included on trek days
Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Kang Yatse 1 goes above 6,000m. We include:
Evacuation support if needed
Participants must report any AMS symptoms early.
Rest/acclimatization days
Daily health checks
Oxygen cylinders, oximeters, and first aid
Is there network connectivity on the route?
Leh: Full 4G mobile coverage
On trek: No signal beyond Chilling
We carry satellite communication for emergencies
What’s included in the expedition fee?
Typically includes:
Certified expedition leader and Sherpa team
(For a detailed cost inclusion/exclusion list, refer to the itinerary or contact Sherpa Escapes.)
Airport pickup/drop from Leh
All permits, camping & climbing gear
Transportation from Leh to trek start & return
Meals (from Day 1 dinner to Day 9 breakfast)
Is there a refund if the summit is not achieved?
No refund is provided if the summit is not achieved due to weather, health issues, or safety concerns. Your safety is our top priority.
🧭 Ready to Join the Kang Yatse 1 Expedition?
Here’s how you can book your slot:
📌 Step 1: Reach out to us for any queries or to check available dates.
📌 Step 2: Confirm your participation by filling out the registration form.
📌 Step 3: Make the advance payment to secure your spot.
📌 Step 4: Receive a confirmation mail along with a detailed gear list and preparation guide.