A classic trek and stunning climb to 6000 metres (20000 feet) in Ladakh - Buddhist monasteries of the Indus Valley - Breathtaking vistas across to the peaks of the Karakoram.
 
Flying in to the Ladakhi capital of Leh, the shapely peak of Stok Kangri (6120m/20075ft.) is prominent on the southern skyline. During several days set aside for acclimatisation, we visit the monasteries at Shey, Thikse and Hemis before setting off on a delightful trek through the Markha Valley. Our route leads by way of several remote and picturesque villages to the high Nimaling Plain below the imposing peak of Kang Yatze. Crossing the Kongmaru La, we then take a little-used high-level route to Stok Kangri Basecamp: a 3-day approach to the mountain that includes superbly located campsites and far-reaching views towards Tibet and the eastern Karakoram. Although objectively very safe and technically straightforward (involving easy-angled scree and snow slopes), the climb on Stok Kangri is both challenging and interesting. This is a wonderfully varied trip, perfectly suited to someone seeking their first Himalayan summit 
  

Day 1. Arrive Delhi late evening. Transfer to hotel.

Day 2. Early morning return to airport for the flight to Leh (3500m). Rest of the day at leisure. Hotel. 

Day 3. Sightseeing tour, Shey, Thikse and Hemis monasteries. Return to Leh. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 4. Free day in Leh. Optional rafting on the Indus River. Overnight at Hotel. 

Day 5. Drive up to the Khardung La (5300m) as an acclimatisation exercise. Return to Leh. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 6. Drive to the village of Chilling on the west bank of the Zanskar River (3100m). 

Day 7. Cross the river on a pulley bridge and trek to Skiu in the Markha Valley. 

Day 8. A long day of trekking beside the Markha River to Markha Village (3800m).

Day 9. Still following the river, trek to the highest village in the valley, at Hangkar (4100m). 

Day 10. Trek up onto the Nimaling Plain, to a camp (4600m) beneath the peak of Kang Yatze.

Day 11. Spare or contingency day. Explore towards Kang Yatze. 

Day 12. Trek up to the Kongmaru La (5100m) and descend through a rocky gorge to Chogdo (4000m). 

Day 13. Heading west through uncharted territory and crossing several passes, trek to Shang Po (4350m). 

Day 14. More rugged terrain and superb treking, en route to Gangpoche. (4320m). 

Day 15. Approaching Stok Kangri, descend into the Stok Valley and trek up to the basecamp at 4900 metres. 

Day 16. A rest and acclimatisation day. Time to sort out equipment for the climb.

Day 17. Climb Stok Kangri (6120m). Or, possibly move to a high camp (5300m).

Day 18. Spare day for climbing Stok Kangri. Return to basecamp. 

Day 19. An easy morning’s descent to Stok Village and then drive to Leh. Afternoon free. Hotel. 

Day 20. Fly to Delhi, transfer to group hotel.

Day 21. Free day in Delhi. Optional half-day sightseeing tour. Evening group transfer to the airport.