STOK-SHANG

4940 Meters | Ladakh | 27 July & 17 Aug ’24

STOK-SHANG

4940 Meters | Ladakh

27 July & 17 Aug 2024

DIFFICULTY

Moderate

DURATION

5 Days

BEST TIME

July – Sept

COST

On Enquiry

Book Your Slot Today!

OVERVIEW

Let us take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Ladakh’s best-kept secret – the Stok Village to Shang Sumdo trek. This isn’t just a trail; it’s an odyssey, revealing a side of Ladakh few have witnessed. Meandering through the lesser-known shepherd’s path, this expedition unfolds over five awe-inspiring days, taking you across the formidable Matho La and Shang La passes, both standing proudly at almost 5000 meters.

What sets this trek apart is the astonishing diversity of landscapes that unfold just a stone’s throw away from the roadhead. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true – keep your senses heightened for a chance encounter with the elusive Snow Leopards, agile Bharals, foxes, and the regal Tibetan Wolves. The adventure doesn’t stop there. We understand that every trekker is unique, and so is their appetite for challenge. That’s why our Stok to Shang Sumdo trek is customizable. If you’re new to the game, the original five-day journey promises a perfect blend of excitement and comfort. But for those hungry for more, we offer the option to add at least two more passes to your itinerary, creating a tailor-made experience. Ladakh’s unexplored beauty is waiting for you; all you need to do is take the first step.

Book your trek now and unlock the mysteries of Ladakh’s untouched wilderness. Your journey to Stok Village to Shang Sumdo is not just a trek; it’s an expedition into the heart of a land that time forgot. Lace up those boots and let the adventure begin.

*Note: Personalized trek options are available for those seeking a more challenging experience.*

ITINERARY

Day 01: Leh- Stok – Chang Ma. O/N in camp. (2-3 hrs walk)

Today we take a short drive (30 mins) to Stok Village and reach the trail head. We get on the trail that goes towards the famous Stok Kangri peak. But today’s halt will be half way at Chang Ma (4000 M). A short walk from the trail head, today’s trek gets you over a small hill and through 2-3 river crossings. The duration may not suggest, but a gain of 500 M compared to Leh, a gradual incline and effort at river crossings will make for an exciting start to the trek.

Day 02: Chang Ma – Mankarmo. O/N in camp. (3 hrs walk)

We leave from Chang Ma campsite after breakfast and head towards Mankarmo (4200 M). Till a few years back this was a bustling campsite visited by scores of climbers enroute the Stok Kangri Peak. Since 2019 when the peak was closed for climbing, the campsite lays quite visited only by local shepherds. Today’s walk will be 2-3 hrs and may consist of river crossings if water levels are higher. The altitude gain today is only 200 M so it’s a relaxed day with ample time for you to take a ton of pictures.

Day 03: Mankarmo – Matho La (4870 M) – Gangpoche

On this trail you will see unusual rock formations that point skywards in orange, purple and green colours. Mankarmo (4250 m) is the summer pasture of Stok villagers and from here you will trek towards the base of the Matho La (4870m) and then you’ll follow a small challenging trail to the top. Travellers are often greeted by the high wild cry of the Snow cock, a giant partridge common in these parts but difficult to see. Spectacular view of Matho Kangri (6010 m) and other peaks are available from the pass. Gangpoche is the summer grazing place for the shepherds from Matho Village, downstream from the Glaciers. Overnight camp here.

Day 04: Gangpoche to Shang Phu via Shang La (4940 M). (6-7Hrs)

After breakfast again trek via Shang La and under the shadows of Matho West – 6010 metres. Close to Leh this peak is better known as Matho Kangri, Matho being the village below it. You will not be climbing this peak but will have view of this. This area is remote and you will rarely find trekkers on this route. If lucky, wolf, fox and blue sheep can be seen in this route. Overnight camp at, Shang Phu.

Day 05: Shang Phu to Shang Sumdo.

3-4 hrs walk today. Shang Sumdo is a tiny village, where you will meet with the trekkers from Markha valley and our Jeep will be waiting for you to welcome and take you back to Leh. Visiting to Hemis monastery and Thiksey on the way back.

INCLUSIONS

Airport transfers (drop & pickup)
All meals Veg & Non Veg (Day1 lunch to Day5 lunch)
Tents, Sleeping Bags & Mattresses
Toilet tents & camp chairs
Ponies to carry central load & guest bags (maximum 10kg per person)
First-aid medical kits
Qualified & experienced Trek Leader, Guide, and Support Staff
Transport from Leh to Road head and return
Camp setup during the trek
Participants will get an exclusive discount on all Fast&Up products.

EXCLUSIONS

Accommodation in Leh
Personal clothing & toiletries
Insurance
Travel till Leh
Tip to Guide/Porter
Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road conditions, and any other circumstances beyond our control
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
Individual tent (available at extra cost)

PREPARATION GUIDE

Have Previous High altitude Trekking/Mountaineering Experience.
Weight train the body. Walk uphill or stairs steps with a weighted backpack.
Strength training for the lower body and core. Do planks, crunches, and cycle.
Doing the Markha Valley trek requires a fit body and a conscious mind. One needs to be exercising regularly for the past couple of months.
Any high-altitude trek requires you to build a good amount of cardiovascular endurance. Jogging is the best exercise to increase your stamina.
You need strong legs to successfully finish a high-altitude trek. Squats are the best way to build leg strength quickly—especially your thighs, glutes, and knees.
For detailed advice and coordination, we’ll have a WhatsApp group