Kang Yatse 2 Trek

.

Trek Grade

Moderate to Difficult

Highest Altitude

20,570 ft

Base Camp

Leh

Best Time

July, Aug, Sept to mid Oct

Kang Yatse 2 Trek

Kang Yatse 2 Trek is located in Markha Valley, Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. Kang Yatse 2 peak is at an altitude of 20,570 feet, the trek is a little tricky, and prior experience is needed. The total distance to the trek is approx. 80 kilometres. Kang Yatse 2 peak is less known as Stok Kangri, one of the twins. Kang Yatse 2 lies in the Hemis National Park, a wildlife sanctuary. If you are lucky, you could catch sight of argali, mountain deer and snow leopards, etc., which can be found on the trail. The trail will pass through various small villages which follow the Ladakh culture. You can experience their tradition by exploring cultural heritage sites, monasteries and gompas. The natural vistas you would endure are grasslands, waterfalls, rivers, and giant mountains.

Kang Yatse II is a lesser-known but captivating alternative to the famous Stok Kangri peak, offering a unique challenge to adventurers. Both peaks stand at over 6000 meters and present a similar difficulty level. However, Kang Yatse II stands out with its additional 320 feet of height over Stok Kangri and is regarded as the most accessible 6000-meter summit.

 

The 11-day itinerary involves conquering a peak and immersing oneself in the rich Ladakhi culture. Located in the renowned Markha Valley, the trek to Kang Yatse II provides a dual experience of adventure and cultural exploration. Beginning in Leh, trekkers can explore cultural sites such as monasteries and gompas during the initial days of acclimatization. The route passes through small villages, offering insights into the Ladakhi culture and providing accommodations in teahouses and traditional homestays, enhancing the cultural experience. The trek showcases diverse landscapes, from arid terrain to lush grazing fields, meandering streams, and the lively Markha River.

 

The trail leads into Hemis National Park, a wildlife sanctuary where trekkers may encounter various wildlife species. The trek culminates with a challenging yet rewarding summit climb characterized by moraines and loose rocks, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges from the peak.

 

For adventurers seeking a less crowded alternative to Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse II is an ideal choice. However, this trek is physically and mentally demanding, requiring high levels of preparation, physical fitness, and mental stamina. It is best suited for seasoned adventurers who are thoroughly equipped to handle the challenges of high-altitude trekking.

Kang Yatse 2 Trek Videos

Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Trek

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Want To Trek Like Pro?

Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.

Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness

Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.

Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Kang Yatse 2 Trek

Day 1: Coming to Leh

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Lunch and Dinner.
  • Altitude – Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meters)

On the first day of your trip, you will arrive in Leh via road, train or flight. You will take this day to let your body acclimate to the high altitude. The network is available in Leh, and you can walk or learn about the region’s culture and tradition.

Day 2: Rest Day at Leh

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Lunch and Dinner.
  • Altitude – Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meters)

Another day is used for getting your body accustomed to low temperatures and less oxygen at height. Along with the thrill of the trip and the surreal scenery, Leh is well known for its temples, monasteries, and palaces. Let’s Cafes provide a space to hang out and enjoy the luxurious facilities offered by the hotel.

Day 3: Leh to Chilling by Road, Chilling to Skiu by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Distance – Leh to Chilling by Road (65 km), Chilling to Skiu by Trek (9 km)
  • Time Taken – Leh to Chilling by Road (approx. 3 hrs), Chilling to Skiu by Trek (approx. 5 hrs)
  • Altitude – Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meter), Chilling (10,978 ft / 3346 meters), Skiu (11,500 ft / 3500 meters)
  • Altitude difference – Leh to Chiling (522 ft / 154 meters), Chilling to Skiu (522 ft / 154 meters)
  • Trek grade – From Chilling to Skiu (Gradual to Moderate)

On the first day of trekking, enjoy your day with a delicious breakfast at the Leh Hotel. The trip will begin with rugged barren mountains, and you will pass through Spituk Monastery and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. There is also the sight of Magnetic hills, Zanskar and Indus rivers. As you reach Chilling campsite, you will begin your trek ascending through Zingchen Gorge. You will cross two rivers, one at Kaya Do and the river Indus. After crossing, you will reach the first camping site, Skiu.

Day 4: Skiu to Markha by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Trek Distance – 16 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Skiu (11,500 ft / 3500 meter), Markha (12,150 ft / 3703 meters)
  • Altitude gain – 650 ft / 203 meter
  • Trek grade – Gradual to Moderate

The morning will begin with a hot tea and warm breakfast, with a picturesque view at the campsite as you will be around a field of barley with mountains around. Today you will be taking in the scenic of Markha Valley with four other villages. Today will be a long day of trekking as you will be covering a distance of approx. 16 kilometres. You will be trekking through a slowly ascending trail, passing through village after village till you reach Markha Valley, the largest village in the area, as it houses more than 40 houses. Markha Valley is an ancient village with ruins of a fort and monasteries built in the 1800s.

Day 5: Markha to Thochungtse by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite.
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Trek Distance – 10 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 7 hrs
  • Altitude – Markha (12,150 ft / 3703 mtr), Thochungtse (13,000 ft / 3962 mtr)
  • Altitude gain – 850 ft / 259 meter
  • Trek grade – Gradual

Today’s trek will begin with a healthy breakfast in the morning, and the trek will be easy today. You will cross streams of the Markha River several times, which will be refreshing. As the trek progresses, you will first cross through Umlung village. After crossing Umlung village, the peaks of Kang Yatse will come into view; the next village you will pass through is Hankar village, after which lies your camping site with beautiful meadows around. Hankar village is the largest village in the Markha Valley region; you will be reaching the campsite at Thochungtse.

Day 6: Thochungtse to Nimaling by Trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Trek Distance – 14 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 8 hrs
  • Altitude – Thochungtse (13,000 ft / 3962 mtr), Nimaling (15,750 ft / 4800 mtr)
  • Altitude gain – 2750 ft / 838 meter
  • Trek grade – Gradual to Moderate

This morning you will be trekking to a great height with magnificent views upon reaching the top. The trek will be a gradual climb. On the way, you will see Kang Yatse Peak reflecting on the twin Tigu lakes. On the lush grasslands at Nimaling, you will see mountain goats, rabbits, and sheep grazing.

Day 7: Nimaling to Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Trek Distance – 3 km
  • Time Taken – approx. 3 hrs
  • Altitude – Nimaling (15,750 ft / 4800 meters), Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp (16,700 ft / 5090 meters)
  • Altitude gain – 950 ft / 290 meter
  • Trek grade – Gradual to Moderate

On this day, you will have reached very close to Kang Yatse 2, the trek today will be short, but you will be walking through loose rocks. In the second half, you will descend to the base camp. Upon reaching, you will use this day to get your body acclimatized.

Day 8: Rest Day at Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Altitude – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp (16,700 ft / 5090 meters)

Today you need to take ample rest and let your body get accustomed to high altitude. Also, it would help if you prepared yourself by preparing your body and practising the use of the specialized tools which you will be using on the trek. After dinner, you should rest correctly so your body is fully prepared for the next trek.

Day 9: Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp to Summit and Summit to Base Camp trek

  • Stay – overnight stay at the campsite
  • Meal – Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • Trek Distance – 5 km from Base Camp to Summit and then from Summit to Base Camp 5 km.
  • Time Taken – approx. 13 hrs
  • Altitude – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp (16,700 ft / 5090 meters), Kang Yatse 2 Summit (20,570 ft / 6270 meters)
  • Altitude gain – 3870 ft / 1180 meter
  • Trek grade – Difficult

This is the primary day as you will be trekking through a challenging trek to reach Kang Yatse 2 Summit. You will begin the trek from Kang Yatse 2 shoulders; you should be careful as you walk past Moraine and loose scree. You will use snow gear as you walk through the snow. After climbing uphill, you will see the Karakoram peaks and the Zanskar range around Kang Yatse 2. You will also catch the sight of the K2 peak (the second-highest peak in the world); once you reach the top, you will be thrilled at the sight of the peak. After enjoying the way, you need to return the same way as coming to the base camp.

Day 10: Buffer Day

This day is not a compulsion but can be used in uncircumstantial situations, such as bad weather. The cost incursion obtained on this day will be barred by the clients whether it’s staying or meals.

Day 11: Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp to Chokdo trek via Kongmaru La and Chokdo to Leh by Road

  • Stay – No Stay
  • Meal – Lunch
  • Distance – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp to Chokdo trek via Kongmaru La (16 km), Chokdo to Leh by Road (60 km)
  • Time Taken – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp to Chokdo trek via Kongmaru La (approx. 8 hrs), Chokdo to Leh by Road (approx. 2 hrs)
  • Altitude – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp (16,700 ft / 5090 meter), Kongmaru La (17,150 ft / 5227 meter), Chokdo (12,150 ft / 3703 meter), Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meter)
  • Altitude gain – Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp to Kongmaru La (450 ft / 137 meters), Kongmaru La to Chokdo (5000 ft / 1524 meters), Chokdo to Leh (650 ft / 203 meters)
  • Trek grade – Gradual to Moderate

You will be enjoying the view of the snow-covered peaks last time on the trek and crossing through the highest Kongmaru La pass. When you descend the hill, you will see a lot of prayer flags by the locals. You will be experiencing a change of scenic views as you pass through Ladakh and the Indus Valley range. After walking for a long while, you will soon reach the last camping site, and from there, you will be going by road. Once you reach Leh, the Trekup India Team will bid you farewell, and you will be on your own, where you can proceed to go down or explore the nearby area of Leh.

Kang Yatse 2 Trek Route Map

We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Kang Yatse 2 Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Kang Yatse 2 Trek Altitude Chart

The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Kang Yatse 2 Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.

Trek Cost Inclusions

  1. Stay: 9 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on twin sharing.
  2. Meals: Trekup India will provide freshly cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 1 to  tea, coffee on day 10 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian) 
  3. Transport: include from leh to leh.
  4. Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
  5. Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
  6. Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.    
  7. Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
  8. Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee 
  9. Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
  10. Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.

Trek Cost Exclusions

  1. GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
  2. Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
  3. Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point 
  4. Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication. 
  5. Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
  6. Any still / video camera fee 
  7. Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot. 
  8. Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
  9. Any emergency evacuation charges
  10. Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.

What should you pack for the Kang Yatse 2 Trek

Kang Yatse 2 Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.

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Head Gears

When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.

Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!

  1. Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
  2. Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
  3. Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
  4. Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
With these essential items, you can enjoy trekking safely and comfortably, no matter the weather or time of day.

Clothes

When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.

Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather

  1. For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
  2. For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
  3. For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
  4. T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
  5. Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
  6. Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
  7. Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
  8. Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
  9. Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
  10. Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.

Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.

Foot Gears

When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.

  1. Trekking shoes which are waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
  2. Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
  3. Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.