Kang Yatse II Expedition - 6250m
Kang Yatse II, the Western Summit of Kang Yatse, presents an exhilarating opportunity for mountaineers seeking to progress from trekking peaks to semi-technical mountaineering. Located in Ladakh's Markha Valley, this peak offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of iconic mountains such as K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum Massif to the north, and Nun Kun and the Zanskar peaks to the west.
With an Alpine PD rating and an elevation just above 20,000 feet, Kang Yatse II poses a challenging yet achievable climb for experienced mountaineers and trekkers. The journey to KY2 traverses picturesque pastures of Thactungtse and Nimling, adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Along the way, you'll encounter mystical Mani stones and pristine Tigu lakes, adding to the allure of the trek.
Summit Day presents its own set of challenges, with moraines, loose rocks, and snow-covered crevasses requiring roping up for safety. Despite the obstacles, the climb offers a rewarding blend of pleasure and challenge. The expedition to Kang Yatse II is an ideal opportunity for mountaineers to test their skills on a semi-technical peak while being rewarded with awe-inspiring mountain vistas and the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh's landscape. Join TrekNomads and embark on an unforgettable adventure to Kang Yatse II!
LADAKH is home to numerous natural wonders, but the most precious gift bestowed upon this magical land is the Chadar Trek. The trek is all about persistence & survival – learning to survive in the harsh terrains at sub-zero temperatures, interacting with the locals & understanding their way of living, especially in one of the most inhabitable regions in the world, while you trek across a dramatic gorge with frozen waterfalls on the frozen trail of Zanskar spanned out like a “Chadar” it acts as a mirror for the sky!
LEH is located in the northernmost parts of the country. It is traveller friendly, enchanting and a hassle-free fun town lapped in the snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas. You can explore the bustling Local bazaar, and enjoy some delicious food ranging from the local cuisine, Mughlai, Tibetan, and Chinese to Italian. Narrow footpaths, sturdy walls, and a view of snow-covered mountains make you fall in love with the place instantly. There are a number of interesting places and monasteries to visit in and around Leh, such as – Shanti Stupa, The Leh Palace, the monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thiksey and Lamayuru, the Armed Forces Hall of Fame and much more!
Location
Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Leh & transfer to hotel. Evening walk around the market.
- Day 2: After breakfast, we go for an acclimatization hike to Shanti stupa and a nearby Leh mountain (3,500m)
- Day 3: Drive from Leh to Skiu (3,400m). Trek ahead to Sara (3,600m).
- Day 4: Trek from Sara to Markha (3,750m).
- Day 5: Trek from Markha to Thochungtsey (4,300m)
- Day 6: Trek from Thochungtsey to Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp (5,100m)
- Day 7: Rest & Training Day at the Base Camp. Today, we will check all our equipment and practice with our gear.
- Day 8: Ascend to summit Kang Yatse 2 (6,250m) and descend back to base camp.
- Day 9: Trek from Base Camp to Chokdo (3,900m) via Kongmaru La (5,200m) & drive to Leh.
- Day 10: Departure after breakfast. Fly back to your home city.
- Day 11: Buffer day
Detailed Itinerary of Kang Yatse II Expedition:
DAY 1: Arrival in Leh & Hotel Transfer
Arrive in the captivating capital of Ladakh, Leh. Our team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Take this day to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Enjoy an evening walk around the local market, embracing the unique culture and vibrant ambience.
Day 2: Acclimatization Hike to Shanti Stupa and Leh Mountain (3,500m)
After a nourishing breakfast, embark on an acclimatization hike to Shanti Stupa, a serene Buddhist monument offering panoramic views of Leh. We will also hike to a nearby Leh mountain, further acclimatizing amidst breathtaking scenery.
Day 3: Drive to Skiu (3,400m) and Trek to Sara (3,600m)
After breakfast, you will begin a picturesque drive to Skiu, a charming village along the Markha River. Begin the trek to Sara, passing through charming hamlets and verdant landscapes. Set up camp at Sara and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the mountains.
Day 4: Trek to Markha (3,750m)
Trek to Markha, where picturesque valleys and a quaint village await. Immerse yourself in local culture and unwind amidst the stunning surroundings. Overnight stay in tents at Markha.
Day 5: Trek to Thochungtsey (4,300m)
Today's trek leads to Thochungtsey, a pristine camping site surrounded by lush meadows and breathtaking vistas. As we ascend to higher altitudes, the landscapes transform, revealing the rugged beauty of the region.
Day 6: Trek to Kang Yastse II Base Camp (5,100m)
Prepare for an exhilarating day as we trek to the Base Camp of Kang Yatse 2, situated at an impressive elevation of 5,100 meters. Arrive at the Base Camp, and savour the sense of adventure.
Day 7: Rest & Training Day at the Base Camp
Today is dedicated to rest and training. Our experienced guides will provide training on using mountaineering gear and techniques, boosting our confidence for the ascent.
Day 8: Summit Kang Yatse 2 (6,250m) and Descend to Base Camp
The pinnacle of our expedition awaits as we summit Kang Yatse 2, standing at an awe-inspiring altitude of 6,250 meters. The climb is challenging, but the stunning views from the top are unparalleled.
Day 9: Trek to Chokdo (3,900m) via Kongmaru La (5,200m) & Drive to Leh
Descending further, trek to Chokdo, crossing Kongmaru La at 5,200 meters. Enjoy breathtaking vistas as we make our way back to Leh for a well-deserved rest.
Day 10: Departure - Fly Back
Bid farewell to Ladakh with cherished memories and a sense of accomplishment. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Day 11: Buffer Day
A contingency day for any unforeseen circumstances, providing flexibility for a smooth and safe trekking experience.
Risk and Liability
We will endeavour to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstance and natural disasters such as landslide, road blockage, flood, snowing, cancellation of flight and delay, any types of sickness including altitude sickness.
Fitness Criteria
This trek requires a good level of fitness.
To register for this expedition you are required to complete a 5K run in under 35 minutes. Once you do register, please share the run details with our Trek Captain.
If you're not already following a fitness regime, you would need to follow the regime that will be shared with you. The training routine is spread over four months and you would be expected to work out at least 4 times a week. The regime is designed to help you climb smarter even in higher altitudes. The regime consists of a good combination of exercises that works on all parts of your body including - Upper Body, Core, Endurance, Lower Body, Shoulder strength and along with streamlining your breathing pattern. When followed religiously, you can rest assured that you will be ready for the trek. Not only does this regime help you with the trek, but it will also help you inculcate a sense of fitness in your day-to-day life.
Do’s and Don’ts:
- We believe in leaving the mountains in a better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
- Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colours and heavy apparel as much as possible.
- A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
- Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
- If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
- Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
- Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers
- If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately
- Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek
- To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek
Inclusions
- For Accommodation Hotel/Guest House/Homestay as per availability in Leh on sharing with Break-fast (Day 1,2 and 10)
- All meals on the trek (Starting Lunch on Day 3 to Dinner on Day 9)
- Transport from Leh to Road head and return
- Camp setup during the trek
- Trek equipment: Sleeping bags, Foam Mattresses, Utensils, Ropes
- Tents: Trekkers tent (twin/triple sharing), Kitchen & Dining tent, Toilet tent
- 1 Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader
- Local Guide (Number of guides depending on the group size)
- 1 High Altitude chef & support staff
- Porters for carrying common equipment (like rations/tents/utensils/groceries)
- Basic First Aid Kit with a portable oxygen cylinder
- The facility of keeping extra luggage at Leh when leaving for the trek
- All government, local taxes and service charges
- TrekNomads Fee, Trek Captain support and expertise
- 15% discount coupon on Gokyo Trek Apparel and Gear
- ~15% discount on Fast&Up products
- 15% discount on BMore products
- Personalised Hoodie and Cap
- TrekNomads goodies
Exclusions
- The cost to reach Leh and back
- Single room occupancy at Leh
- Individual Tent & Porter (available at extra cost)
- Buffer day (if used, ₹3000 extra will be charged)
- Personal accident and travel insurance
- Medical, Emergency Rescue and Evacuation cost
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc
- Local sightseeing and monastery entrance fee, camera fee, etc
- Transportation is not on a disposal basis. It is strictly as per the program, any extra running will be charged extra.
- Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
- All personal and medical expenses, emergency expenses like extra day stay or vehicle charges due to delays, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/cancellations, any accidents / medical evacuations, riots/strikes & etc.
Treknical Details
Other Details:
- Trek Gradient: Difficult
- Trek Distance: 70+ Km
- Assembling Point: Leh
- Trek Duration: 40+ hours
- Average Temperature: 25 to 5 degrees (during the day) and -5 to -25 degrees (during the night)
- Season: Early July - Early September
- Nearest Airport: : Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport)
- Nearest ATM: Leh Airport and Market
Trek Gradient
Difficult
FAQ's
FAQs for Kang Yatse II Expedition - TrekNomads
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the Kang Yatse II trek with TrekNomads. Learn about mobile network availability, toilet facilities, food options, and charges for a seamless adventure in Ladakh.
Who is suitable for this expedition?
A) Prior mountaineering experience is essential to climb Kang Yatse II. Climbers must have summited a 5000-meter peak, preferably a 6000-meter peak.
How challenging is this expedition?
A) Kang Yatse II is a semi-technical moderate-level Himalayan expedition that requires good physical fitness, stamina, and endurance. Trekking for 5-6 hours per day, or even more during the summit push, is demanding.
Is this expedition suitable for beginners?
A) No, this expedition is not suitable for beginners. Previous mountaineering or high-altitude trekking experience above 5000m is required.
What are the best months to visit Kang Yatse II?
A) The best months to climb Kang Yatse II are July-September when the weather is favorable and snow conditions are good.
How is this different from a regular trek?
A) Most days of the expedition will feel like a regular trek, except during the summit push when proper mountaineering gear is required, and the climbing starts in the middle of the night.
What should I pack for this expedition?
A) You will need to pack basic clothing and accessories used on previous treks. Mountain gear required after the summit camp, such as Ice-axe, Snow boots, Crampons, Harness, etc., will be provided by us.
What type of accommodation will be provided during the trek?
A) You will stay in a hotel for 2 days before the climb and 1 day at the end of the journey. On other days, you will stay in tents and camps on a Twin-sharing basis.
What will the temperatures be like during the trek?
A) Mornings will be normal, but temperatures drop during the nights.
Will there be snow?
A) Yes, you will encounter snow from Crampon Point onwards.
Who will lead the trek?
A) There is a team of Professional guides, helpers & coordinators. Additionally, someone from TrekNomads' internal staff will also lead the trek.
What gear will we use? Is it easy to use for the first time?
A) You will not require typical mountaineering gear till the base camp. However, from the summit camp, you will need gear such as snow boots, crampons, ice-axe, harnesses, ropes, helmets, etc. You will receive adequate training, and supervision will be available during the climb.
Will I have to carry my bags the whole time?
A) Baggage will be sent on Mules till the final camp, so you won't have to carry your bags during the trek.
What is the success ratio for the summit attempt?
A) The success ratio for the summit attempt is 60-70%.
What fitness level is required?
A) You should be ideally fit, without any physical injury, illness, or overweight issues. You should be able to walk for 6-8 hours easily.
How can I prepare for this expedition?
A) Start preparing at least 1.5-2 months prior to the kick-off date. Include exercises such as jogging/running for 5 km in 30-35 mins, climbing 30-40 steps in one stretch for 3 sets, 10 x 3 push-ups, 15 x 2 sets of lunges and squats, and planks in your fitness regime.
Is transportation included? Where will you pick us up and drop us off?
A) Transportation from LEH airport to the trek starting point and back will be provided by us.
Is a mobile network available during the trek?
A) While trekking, your mobile network will be unavailable for approximately 7 days, except for a short period of time at the top of the summit where you may get network coverage.
What are the toilet facilities during the trek?
A) Toilet tents will be arranged at all the campsites for your convenience.
What kind of food is available during the trek?
A) Throughout the journey, a variety of highly nutritious vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options will be provided.
Are there any additional charges for other things?
A) TrekNomads does not have any hidden costs. Everything required and mentioned in the brochure, from your arrival in Leh to bidding you farewell, will be provided without any additional charges.
Type of Trek
Expeditions