Stok Range

Kashmir has several mountain ranges like Pir Panjal, Great Himalaya, Zanskar, Ladakh and the ranges of Karakoram, each with a number of snow peaks. Among these, Ladakh also known as 'Little Tibet' has high and arid landscape with lush irrigated valleys surrounded by beautiful snow capped peaks.

Eventhough, Ladakh has a barren land, one can find many scenic locations and vast meadows adorned with multicolored flowers. Experience of trekking in Ladakh can be memorable and cherished for a lifetime and, Stok Kangri, the highest peak in the Stok range of mountains is the highest trekking peak in India.

The characteristic feature of this beautiful area is magnificent rock formations pointing skyward in orange, purplish and green colors which are formed from strongly furrowed layers of deposits. At the summit one can get the majestic view of the Saser Kangri in the Karakoram Range, Kang Yatse and Nun Kun.

Stands at an altitude of 6,153 m above sea level, it is situated within the well known Hemis National Park.

The Stok Kangri, and the Stok valley serves as the gateway to several high altitude trekking trails in Himalayas. start in earnest. Every year thousands of people come here from all over the world to endeavor this amazing trek to the summit.

It is located 14 km southwest of Leh in Ladakh district.

The best time to visit Stok is between May and September as the top of the peak may be snow-free. The routes remain closed after November due to heavy snowfall. Generally, it's s a 8 to 10 day trek to the summit.

Despite its altitude, Stok Kangri is straightforward climb and is often climbed as an initial foray into high altitude mountaineering. All along the way, one can see beautiful valley, a wide range of scenery from coloured layers of peaks, desert meadows, deep canyons and streamlined water struggling through them. Also can enjoy ancient Buddhist culture

The Stok Kangri base camp beside a stream with colourful, ensemble of tents resembles a battlefield.

Note : There are few mandatory preparations to be made before starting the trek. Acute Mountain Sickness generally happens and acclimatization is essential. Two nights in Leh prior to the trek are a must to help with this process. Take a rest day after every 1000 m and drink at least 6 litres of water every day because, the air at high altitudes contains less oxygen and the body needs to adjust to low oxygen levels. Training for at least 5-6 weeks before the climb is highly recommended and prior high altitude experience is essential for this trek. Hire a certified guide, and it is essential to follow guide and his instructions properly.

Trek Route

Day 1

Arrive at Leh , drive to Shang and rest that day.

Day 2

Cross Zanskar River and trek to Shang Phu - It is a 5 hours walking. Shang Pu is a pleasant spot and the evenings and mornings at Shangphu are magical.
Overnight: Tent

Day 3

Trek to Ganda La Base Camp - It is a 5 hours walking.
Along this way one can enjoy beautiful Ladakh with splashes of green near the streams.
Overnight: Tent

Day 4

Trek to Rumbak- It is a 7 hours walking.
From Ganda La Base Camp to Yurutse From Yurutse to the village of Rumbak.
Overnight: Tent

Day 5
Trek to Khilchay - It is a 5 hours walking.
From Rumbak it is steep climb to the Stok La where one can get views of the Stok Kangri range. Khilchay a short descent from the pass.
Overnight: Tent

Day 6
Head towards the base camp - It is a 5 hours walking. The base camp is a large plateau and during season, about 60 tents from various countries can see. The base is also an attractive valley filled with monasteries and red rocky mountains.
Overnight: Tent

Day 7
Trek to to Advance Base camp and descend to the glacier.
Overnight: Tent

Day 8
Climb Stok Kangri
The summit views are superb in every direction with Leh visible way down in the valley below and the Karakoram mountain range to the north. The path is broad and easy.
Overnight: Tent

Day 9th and 10th is the return journey, back to Leh.