Trek Overview
Located in the Ladakh region of northwest India, Stok Kangri is a picturesque peak of the northern Himalayas. The journey to Stok Kangri begins at Leh which is the capital of Ladakh and is situated at a height of about 3500-3800 meters above sea level. The trek involves drastic changes in the scenery as one passes through the ridges in this trail. As the summit of the highest mountain of the Stok Range of the Himalayas, the Stok Kangri Peak stands at an imposing height of 6,000 meters. The apex of this peak remains snow-covered all through the year while other parts of the Stok Kangri thaws during late July and August. The trek to its peak is an exciting journey through a treacherous yet thrilling trail which will push you to your limit. Leh is base to several exciting trekking trails and Stok Kangri trek is considered to be the most adventurous place for trekking lovers in India.
Whole trek of Stok Kangri is one such trail which has been attracting numerous tourists and trekkers since the past few years. As you arrive in Leh, the first thing you notice is the exquisitely contrasting landscape of this region. But as you march forth, you would be able to get a better taste of the rich culture of Leh. Further ahead is the path to Stok Village which is a pleasant walk amongst green trees and pristine nature. Just ahead of Stok Village is Changa Ma. From Changa Ma you trek to the base camp which is a grassy area suitable to set up several tents. The base camp itself is an adorable exotic area with a backdrop of humongous mountains and surrounded by several water bodies. The journey continues after a complete day of rest at the base camp which is often considered to be a once in a lifetime experience by many travelers.
Scenic Beauty
The peak provides panoramic views of the entire Zanskar and Indus Valley which are bound to mesmerize you. As you head up towards your destination, the Stok Kangri Peak, nature would shower its bounties in the most beautiful terms possible. Reaching the summit ideally requires 9-10 hours of climbing and once you reach the top you will be able to see some majestically mind-blowing views of the Karakoram Range to your north and the Zanskar Range to your south.
Difficulty Level
Stok Kangri Trek is no doubt a rigorous one and requires a considerable degree of acclimatization. It involves a complete day of rest to let you have some knowledge about the topography of this area, challenges involved in the trek, and precautionary measures to be taken to avoid any danger. Probably it's because of the lack of oxygen here (which is obvious at a height of 20,800 feet above sea level) but often trekkers have reported the views from the summit to be breathtaking. One must be physically fit enough to endure the sheer challenges that this trek regularly brings up in the form of terrain uncertainty, extreme and chameleon weather and harsh blizzards. At the same time, this trek is surely not recommended for those who have not undertaken a high altitude trek before.
Itinerary
What's Included
Inclusions
Exclusions
Health and Safety
- For any Himalayan Trek, Ideal BMI for a trekker should be 18.5 to 24.9
- To keep a check of this please calculate BMI here
- Below given Safety checks should be done to get prepared for any Himalayan Trek.
- Balance : As well said a balanced mind and body gives out best in every condition and that too works in Himalayan treks as well.
- Legs Strength : Body and Legs Strength is required to carry body weight as well as the backpack while trekking in uneven multi terrains. Generally, a good strength on legs works out good in any Trek. One can gain legs strength by doing simple Squats.
- Muscle Flexibility : While trekking in Trans Himalayan region with a flexible body one can easily achieve full range of movement and this can be really helpful for trekkers as well as trek leads. A good flexible will be an advantage while walking on trails, climbing and river crossing etc. Flexibility can be achieved by simple stretching, yoga etc.
- Cardiovascular Endurance : Cardiovascular endurance is defined as the ability of lungs and heart to transmit oxygen to the body muscles. All Himalayan treks are basically ascending descending the slopes and for this trekkers should be having a good cardiovascular endurance. Anyone planning for a Himalayan trek can attain this capacity by doing any cardio exercise like running, swimming, cycling etc.
