Stok Kangri Trek Overview
Stok Kangri is one of the top expedition treks in Leh or Ladakh. Surrounded by towering peaks and deserted landscapes, this trek has gained popularity over the past few years. Located near Leh, it rises to an altitude of 6,153 meters (20,153 feet) above sea level. Every year, trekkers from around the world choose this challenging route for a true high-altitude experience.
Explore the Himalayas in Stok Kangri Trek
Leh is the starting point of the Stok Kangri Trek as well as the Chadar Trek. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Zanskar and Indus Valleys. This is not a simple trek but a true expedition that offers dramatic ridges, changing landscapes, and a sense of adventure throughout the journey.
The trail passes through Stok Village, known for its cultural importance and royal heritage. The summit rewards trekkers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Karakoram Range, Zanskar, and surrounding peaks.
About the Stok Kangri Trek
Proper acclimatization in Leh is essential before starting the trek. On Day 1, trekkers arrive in Leh, meet the trek team, and explore Leh Market. Good physical fitness is mandatory as the final summit push is extremely demanding due to thin air and high altitude.
The trek usually takes 8 days and is best attempted during July and August, when snow has mostly melted and trail conditions are clearer.
Why Choose Stok Kangri Trek?
Stok Kangri is a high-altitude mountain trek reaching 6,153 meters. The trail begins moderately but becomes very challenging, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers.
- Total Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days (Leh to Leh)
- Trek Distance: 33 km on foot, 30 km by taxi
- Trek Level: Difficult (Not for beginners)
Important Guidelines
- Proper gear and clothing required for sub-zero temperatures
- Backpack weight should not exceed 10–12 kg
- Alcohol and smoking are not allowed during the trek
- High altitude requires proper acclimatization at Leh
- Carry good photography gear with extra batteries
Altitude Details
- Leh: 3,500 meters
- Chang Ma: 12,959 feet
- Man Korma Camp: 14,271 feet
- Base Camp: 16,076 feet
- Stok Kangri Summit: 20,153 feet (6,153 meters)
ATM & Mobile Connectivity
ATM: Available only in Leh. Withdraw cash before starting the trek.
Mobile Network: Only postpaid connections work in Leh; connectivity is limited during the trek.
Key Trek Information
- Base Camp: Leh
- Temperature: Day 5°C to 10°C | Night 2°C to -3°C
- Best Time: July – August
- Group Size: Minimum 5, Maximum 12 trekkers
Stok Kangri Trek Complete Guide
Our mission has always been to ensure that no trekker steps into the Himalayas without the right perspective. A trek is not just a checklist of summits; it is a serious commitment to the outdoors. Having the right information is what separates a reckless climb from a soulful journey.
This section serves as your definitive manual for the Stok Kangri Trek. We have distilled years of mountain experience and real-time feedback into this guide to give you a clear, honest picture of the trail.
We provide this depth of information because we want you to be more than just a visitor—we want you to be a prepared, responsible trekker who respects the mountains as much as we do
Day 1 – Reach Leh by Air. Today is your reporting day at our hotel. Leh is located at an altitude of 3,500 meters. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2 – Rest Day for acclimatization. Explore nearby attractions such as Shey Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Hall of Fame, and Leh Market. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 3 – Drive from Leh to Stok Village (15 km). Same day trek to Chang Ma (5 km), taking approximately 4–5 hours. Altitude 12,959 feet. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 4 – Trek from Chang Ma Camp to Mankorma Camp (4 km), around 3–4 hours. Altitude 14,271 feet. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 5 – Trek from Mankorma Camp to Base Camp of Stok Kangri (4 km), approximately 3–4 hours. Altitude 16,076 feet. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 6 – Rest day at Base Camp for proper acclimatization.
Day 7 – Trek from Base Camp to Stok Kangri Summit at an altitude of 20,153 feet (6,153 meters) and return to Base Camp. Trek distance 7 km, taking around 11–12 hours. Overnight stay at camp.
Day 8 – Trek from Base Camp to Stok Village (13 km), taking approximately 8–9 hours. Same day drive back to Leh.
Day 1 : Reach Leh by Air today is your Reporting day in our hotel (3500 Meter) – night stay hotel
Activity: Arrive in Leh by air, the fastest way to reach the region.
Purpose: Reporting day – check in at the hotel and meet the trek team.
Altitude: Leh is located at 3,500 meters, so it is important to rest and avoid exertion to prevent altitude sickness.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at the hotel to rest and adjust to the high altitude.
Day 2 : Rest Day for Acclimatization explore some time Shey Monastery and Thiksey monastery and hall of fame Leh market night stay hotel
Activity: Rest day for acclimatization, allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude.
Sightseeing: Explore nearby attractions:
- Shey Monastery: Historic monastery with panoramic views.
- Thiksey Monastery: Iconic monastery resembling Tibet’s Potala Palace.
- Hall of Fame: Museum dedicated to the Indian Army and Ladakhi history.
- Leh Market: Local market for souvenirs and handicrafts.
Purpose: Light sightseeing combined with rest ensures proper acclimatization and reduces the risk of acute mountain sickness.
Accommodation: Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3 : Drive from Leh to Stok Village (15 km) same day trek to Chang Ma (05 km) (4/5 Hours) (12,959 feet)
Trek Distance – 20 km – 4/5 Hours journey
Mode of Journey – By taxi – 15 km – On foot – 05 km
Altitude – Chang Ma – 12,959 feet
Night Stay – Our Camp – on twin/three share basis
After breakfast today and in further days of the trek, you are going to witness some pictorial places of Leh which are no less than heaven. Enjoy the drive towards Stok village through beautiful green trees and exotic scenic beauty.
Stok village is famous because the recent king of Ladakh lives here. Start the trek to Chang Ma, the climb is strenuous. The campsites are a wide open land, set up your tents and retire for the night.
Day 4 : Trek from Chang Ma Camp to Mankorma Camp
Trek Distance – 04 km – 3/4 Hours journey
Mode of Journey – On foot
Altitude – Mankorma Camp – 14,271 feet
Night Stay – Camp – on twin share basis
On this trek you pass through the barren landscapes of Ladakh. Start the trek from Chang Ma, walk along the river and pass through cold deserted area by crossing small clear streams. Setup your camps at Mankorma and retire for the night.
Day 5 : Trek from Mankorma Camp to Base Camp of Stok Kangri
Trek Distance – 04 km – 3/4 Hours journey
Mode of Journey – On foot
Altitude – Base Camp – 16,076 feet
Night Stay – Camp – on twin share basis
Base camp is a grassy field with many streams and small lakes. The views are clear from the upper side of the campsite. Go there and relish the views of Parcha Kangri and Gulab Kangri along with many other rising peaks.
The temperature lowers here and you will have enough time to acclimatize. Set up your camps and retire for the night.
Day 6 : Rest Day for Proper Acclimatization
Today is reserved for rest and proper acclimatization. You can explore nearby areas and prepare yourself physically and mentally for the difficult summit trek ahead.
Use this day to understand the weather conditions, practice walking with trekking gear, and regain energy. The guides will brief you about the trail conditions, safety measures, and the use of technical equipment required for the summit day.
Day 7 : Trek from Base Camp to Stok Kangri Summit (20,153 feet / 6,153 Meter) and back to camp
Trek Distance – 07 km – 11/12 Hours journey
Mode of Journey – On foot
Altitude – Stok Kangri Summit – 20,183 feet
Night Stay – Camp – on twin share basis
Wake up early to start the climb. Today is the most important and challenging day of the trek. Be ready by 4:30 am to witness the sunrise from the Stok Kangri Summit. Watching the rising sun from the summit is a breathtaking experience, and the panoramic views are truly mesmerizing.
A light breakfast will be served at 4:30 am, after which the trek will begin. It is important to use headlamps as trekking in the dark requires proper guidance and caution. With professional guides leading the way, the experience becomes both safe and exciting. Soon, you will reach just below the Stok Kangri Summit.
Prepare your gear and begin the final ascent. The climb is long and strenuous, passing through glaciers, steep slopes, and narrow high ridges. This section demands physical endurance and mental strength.
To reach the summit, climb a high ridge and cross this challenging section. From the top, witness stunning views of the Karakoram Range, Zanskar, and Saser Kangri. After spending some memorable moments at the summit, descend carefully back to the base camp and retire for the night.
Day 8 : Trek from Base Camp to Stok Village (13 km) (8/9 Hours) same day drive to Leh
Trek Distance – 28 km – 8/9 Hours journey
Mode of Journey – By taxi – 15 km – On foot – 13 km
Night Stay – Our campsite – on twin share basis
I hope all trekkers coming with good experiences and memories leave the base camp and today is the end day of this trek. Look at the beautiful snow clad mountains and high towering peaks then start your trek from base camp to Stok village.
Descent with care and reach the village, it is the end point of this trek. From here the drive is back to Leh.
Necessary Items for trekkers
Mandatory Documents
Original and photocopy of government photo identity card- (Aadhar Card, Driving License, Voters ID, etc,)
Passport and Visa important to foreigners
Medical Certificate (First part should be filled by the Doctor and Second part by the Trekker)
Declaration Certificates
Note: – Many trekkers commit the same mistake of carrying unnecessary items on a trek which only makes the backpack heavy. It is important to know the right items to carry. It differs from season to season if you are trekking in summers then carry less layers of warm clothing and if you are trekking in winters carry enough layers to protect yourself against chilly cold.
Basic Trekking Gears
The Clothes You Should Bring On Satopanth Expedition
Head Gears
Foot Gears
Personal Care Essentials
Carry a Personal Medical Kit
Are you Looking for Trekking Equipment on Rent?
If any trekker requires trekking equipment on rent, Himalayan Hikers offers the best-quality gear available for rental. Many individuals are in need of such equipment, and renting provides a cost-effective solution, allowing them to access high-quality gear at an affordable price without the need for a significant investment for short-term use.
Trek Equipment You can book directly on first day at the Base Camp.
Note:-
Please take all medicines only when prescribed by the doctor. In case you face any problem during your trek,
discuss and take advice from the Professional guide.
The Trek is one of the most popular treks in Uttarakhand, Himachal,Kashmir,Laddakh,Sikkim,Nepal, requiring both physical preparation and mental readiness. Although it is categorized as a moderate trek, reaches an elevation of over 12,720 feet and traverses remote Himalayan terrain, which can be physically and mentally challenging. Here's how you can prepare yourself for a safe and successful accomplishment of the Trek:
Physical Fitness
Building a good fitness base is essential for every trekker. The Trek itinerary involves 5 to 6 hours of walking every day. Though the trails are well-marked, they are often bumpy and include steep uphill sections, which may affect your stamina. You can overcome your physical limitation with a 6-week training program that you can begin about 2 months before your Trek. Your 6-week fitness routine should include
Pro Tip: If you have time, you can skip the Sunday training and go for a long-distance walk or mini day-hike (7–10 km) with a loaded backpack to simulate real trekking conditions. A short 1-day hike around your city/town can help a lot.
Mental Preparation
Physical strength is only half the journey, the other half is mental resilience. The trail takes you through remote clearings, steep climbs, cold starry nights, and no mobile connectivity. Be prepared to:
(I) - Detach from the digital world.
(II) - Embrace basic mountain living (camping, toilet tents, limited electricity).
(III) - Push through moments of fatigue, weather discomfort, or altitude effects.
A positive mindset, patience, and the ability to adapt will carry you farther than muscle ever could.Himalayan Hikers is a reputable trekking company that places a high priority on safety. Here are some of the safety measures they take to ensure the safety of their clients during the Trek:
Experienced Guides: Himalayan Hikers hires experienced and certified guides who are well-versed in the terrain, weather conditions, and local culture. These guides have first-hand knowledge of the routes and are equipped to handle any emergency situations that may arise.
Proper Gear: The company provides all the necessary gear and equipment to their clients to ensure comfort and safety during the trek.
Hygiene and Sanitation: Himalayan Hikers places great emphasis on hygiene and sanitation during the Trek. They provide clean drinking water, hand sanitizers, and toilet tents to ensure that their clients are healthy and comfortable.
Emergency Services: The company has a well-defined protocol for handling emergency situations. They have a team of trained medical professionals who are available 24/7 and can be quickly mobilized in case of an emergency.
Acclimatization: Himalayan Hikers follows a gradual acclimatization process during treks to ensure that their clients adjust to the high altitude gradually. They also monitor the health of their clients regularly and provide necessary medical attention if required.
Overall, Himalayan Hikers places a great emphasis on safety and takes all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients during treks.
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