KANG YATSE I

6400 Meters | Ladakh | 04 Aug, 16 Aug & 6 Sept ’25

KANG YATSE I

6400 Meters | Ladakh

4 Aug ‘25 | 16 Aug ’25 | 6 Sept ’25

DIFFICULTY

Moderate

DURATION

14 Days

BEST TIME

July – Sept

COST

₹ 95,000

Book Your Slot Today!

OVERVIEW

The Kang Yatse I Expedition is one of the most strenuous and rewarding climbs in the Himalayan region. KYI is a throne-shaped peak located at the head of the Markha Valley in Ladakh, India. The peak stands at a towering height of 6400 meters and offers breathtaking views of the Stok Kangri, Dzo Jongo, and Karakoram range of peaks.

The journey to the summit of Kang Yatse I is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a high level of mountaineering skills, technical knowledge, and extreme fitness and endurance. The peak has steep summit climbs, moraines, crevasses, and technical boulder sections that demand exceptional mountaineering skills.

The ascent to the summit of Kang Yatse I takes climbers through a challenging terrain filled with moraines and loose rocks. The crevasses are often covered with snow, making roping up a necessity for safety. However, the summit of Kang Yatse I offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including the K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum Massif to the North and the Nun Kun and the Zanskar peaks to the West.

The Kang Yatse I Expedition is not recommended for novice trekkers. It features a well-balanced fusion of breathtaking landscapes and challenges that offers climbers an opportunity to explore their mountaineering skills. It is a true test of physical and mental endurance and is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Leh, Gear Check & Evening Walk
Upon your arrival in Leh, you will be met outside the airport and escorted to your hotel. Once settled, you’ll undergo a comprehensive gear check conducted by the team leader to ensure that all equipment is in order. The evening will be dedicated to an acclimatization walk through the local market. This is an excellent opportunity to shop or rent any items that may be missing or inadequate, as identified during the gear check.

Day 2: Acclimatization and Expedition Briefing
Begin your day with an early morning walk to Shanti Stupa, where you will enjoy panoramic views and help your body adjust to the altitude. After returning, the team leader will provide a detailed expedition briefing, covering essential information about the climb, safety protocols, and daily expectations. Post-lunch, you will visit the historic Leh Palace, followed by a final visit to the market for any last-minute shopping or rentals, ensuring you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.

Day 3: Drive from Leh to Skiu (3550m) and Trek to Sara (3600m)
The drive from Leh to Skiu unveils the striking terrain of Ladakh, characterized by barren mountains and the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers. Upon reaching Skiu, you’ll begin your trek to Sara. This trek will take you through beautiful yet rugged landscapes, setting up camp for the night in Sara amidst greenery surrounded by dry landscapes.

Day 4: Trek from Sara to Markha (3750m)
Today’s trek from Sara to Markha is long and sun-drenched, with no respite from the harsh Ladakhi sun. The landscape is a blend of rocky peaks and mud, offering a unique beauty. You’ll cross streams and witness the serene Markha Valley before setting up camp for the night.

Day 5: Trek from Markha to Thochungtsey (4300m)
Your journey continues through the stunning landscapes of Ladakh. The trek will be challenging yet rewarding as you ascend higher into the mountains, making your way to Thochungtsey where you’ll set up camp for the night.

Day 6: Trek from Thochungtsey to Base Camp (5100m)
The trek to the base camp is shorter compared to previous days, offering stunning views of Kang Yatse. It’s a day to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings as you set up camp at 5100 meters.

Day 7: Rest & Training Day at Base Camp
After breakfast, we set out on a 2-3 hour hike with all our gear for a comprehensive training session. The first half hour of the hike is steep and involves loose moraine. The trail leads us to the crampon point, where we will spend some time practicing essential skills in preparation for tomorrow’s climb. From there, you will get a closer view of Kang Yatse and the route we will follow. After completing our training, we will return to base camp for lunch.

Day 8: Established Camp 1 (5440m) / load ferry and return to Base camp
After breakfast, we’ll pack our gear and embark on a trek to establish Camp 1 at 5440 meters. We’ll carry our personal climbing equipment and supplies to higher camp & leave theme there. The first part of the trek will be steep with loose moraine, making it a challenging yet essential part of our preparation. Upon reaching Camp 1 and depositing our gear, we’ll return to Base Camp for lunch and rest, allowing our bodies to recover and adjust to the altitude

Day 9: Move to Camp 1
Pack up your belongings and start trekking to Camp 1, situated at a higher elevation. The trek will take you through scenic yet challenging terrain. Upon arrival, set up camp and rest for the day, preparing for the next leg of your journey. Overnight camping.

Day 10: Move to Camp 2 (5750m)
Ascend further to Camp 2, which serves as a staging point for the summit push. This part of the trek will take you higher into the mountains, offering stunning views and testing your acclimatization. Set up camp and prepare for the next day’s climb. Overnight camping.

Day 11: Summit Kang Yatse 1 and Return to Camp 1 or Base Camp
Start early in the morning for the summit attempt of Kang Yatse 1. Follow the established route, navigate any technical sections, and make your way to the summit. Enjoy the magnificent views from the top before descending back to either Camp 1 or Base Camp, depending on the group’s preference and conditions. Overnight camping.

Day 12: Trek from Base Camp to Chokdo (3900m) via Kongmaru La (5200m) & Drive to Leh
After leaving base camp, you’ll climb to Kongmaru La pass, adorned with prayer flags, offering stunning views. After a brief halt at the pass, you will descend to Chokdo, navigating steep terrain before driving back to Leh.

Day 13: Buffer Day
Similar to the previous buffer day, this day provides flexibility in the schedule and allows for adjustments as per the expedition’s requirements. Overnight camping.

Day 14: Fly Out
On the final day, you will have breakfast, check out from your accommodation in Leh and depart for your onward journey, carrying memories of an incredible adventure.

INCLUSIONS

Accommodation in Leh on sharing basis.
All meals throughout the trek.
Technical equipment: Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots & Harness set.
First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder.
Qualified & experienced trek Leader, Guide, and Support staff.
Transport from Leh to Road head and return.
Camping during the trek including tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mat.
Exclusive discount on all Fast&Up products.
All fees & Permits required for the expedition

EXCLUSIONS

Mules or porter to carry personal luggage till Base Camp (available at Rs 4500)
Single occupancy room or Individual tent (available at extra cost).
Meals during road journeys.
Personal clothing.
Insurance.
Costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, landslides.
Anything not specifically mentioned under inclusions.
If buffer day i sused, Rs 3000 extra will be charged
Tips to ground staff (Guides & Porters)

THINGS TO PACK

For Your Head:

A woolen warm cap & balaclava offer warmth and protection against the cold Everest winds, while a bandana serves multiple purposes, from a sweatband to a dust mask. A traditional hat or cap provides additional sun protection during the brighter hours of the day.

Footsteps of an Explorer:

Your feet are your foundation. Six pairs of socks—three lightweight for mobility, three heavyweight woolen for warmth—ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable.

Ankle-high, heavy sole trekking boots are indispensable, crafted for the rugged terrain. Do carry a pair of regular sneakers as a backup, along with sandals specifically for river crossing and allowing your feet to rest and breathe in the evenings.

Hands That Conquer:

Protect and preserve your hands with two pairs of warm liner gloves and a pair of waterproof gloves. This combination keeps your hands warm, dry, and ready to grip your next challenge.

Clothing: The Armor of the Adventurer

Begin with a thermal innerwear set of polyester/merino material, your first defense against the cold.

Add lightweight, quick-dry trekking pants for your daily marches, with Gore-Tex windproof trousers and jacket as shields against the biting winds and sudden downpours.

A waterproof jacket (hard shell) or poncho is your emergency layer, ready at a moment’s notice. Rotate through 3-4 full-sleeve T-shirts, the backbone of your layering system.

A Fleece (250-300 gsm, full polyester) could serve as your comfort layer, offering warmth without weight, topped with a down jacket (comfort rating of Minus 20 C) for the cold.

Navigational and Survival Gear:

A 20-litre backpack is essential for keeping items like your water bottle, snacks, and perhaps a fleece within easy reach, while a 60-70 litre rucksack serves to carry your main luggage, transported by mules or porters.

Trekking poles become extensions of your will, aiding your ascent and descent.

A Water bottle and a thermos flask, essential to keep you hydrated on your trek.

Personal Care Compact:

A personal hygiene kit and medicine kit are your wellness companions, holding everything from toothbrush and paste to sanitizers and personal medications.

50+ SPF Sunscreen against the harsh sun rays. Towels, tissues, and wipes to keep you clean and dry. Lip Balm, especially Vaseline, is recommended to protect against the chapping and dryness caused by the cold, dry winds.

Illumination and Vision:

A headlight, backed by extra batteries, pierces the darkness, guiding your steps under starlit skies or pre-dawn treks.

Polarized, Category 4 sunglasses with 100% UV protection and wrap-around design are most recommended for with a backup pair, protect against the glare of the sun, reflected by snow and ice.

Others:

Keep your devices charged and ready with a power bank. Embrace moments of joy and peace with a camera, music player, books, and cards, lightening your spirit as you lighten your load.