trip
NEW Trip – Ladakh Mountain Biking AdventureView Trip Details

21 Days$2799USD

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 16 day trek & climb
Accommodation
  • 5 nights hotel
  • 15 nights camping
Meals
  • 19 Dinners
  • 19 Lunches
  • 20 Breakfasts
8
Entry level Mountaineering or Exploratory Treks
Technical Grading: Basic
 
 

Trip highlights


  • A stunning trek in Ladakh combining climbs on the western summit of Kangyaze (6300m) and Dzo Jongo (6250m)
  • Savour unrivalled views of the Karakoram
  • Visit remote villages and monasteries perched on sugarloaf mountains
  • Explore ancient monasteries and forts in the upper Indus Valley
  • This trip is an ideal introduction to Himalayan climbing or a perfect follow on after ascending a trekking peak in Nepal
  • Visits to Alchi Monastery and the Khardung La, the world's highest road

Why Book With Us

  • Led by experienced mountaineering guides trained in wilderness first aid with group medical kit.
  • Fully supported camping expedition with three hearty meals freshly prepared each day.
  • Complimentary use of trek pack including quality down jacket, sleeping bag and insulated mat. Receive a souvenir kitbag.
  • 5 star accommodation in Delhi

An updated itinerary that is ideally suited to fit trekkers keen to develop their mountaineering CV. We have added extra time in and around Leh, including visits to Alchi Monastery and the Khardung La, the world's highest road, as well as additional time at Kangyaze to acclimatise and prepare for the climb. This trip is an ideal introduction to Himalayan climbing or a perfect follow on after ascending a trekking peak in Nepal. Under the expert guidance of our local climbing leader we combine ascents on the well known non-technical western summit (6300m) of Kangyaze and Dzo Jongo (6250m) that looms above the head of the Markha Valley. We cross high passes and follow trails linking tiny whitewashed settlements and exquisite Buddhist monasteries set beneath the awesome backdrop of the Trans Himalaya. This new itinerary maintains the best of the mountains, while incorporating more of the culture and history that makes this part of the Himalaya so special.

Trip Code: TPL

On arrival in Delhi you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore Delhi and sightseeing tours can be arranged. Due to the differing times of arrival of group members and the early morning departure to Leh the following morning the initial briefing will be on ‘a need to know basis’ such as what to pack, ordering a packed breakfast, what time for departure from the hotel, arrangements for leaving gear in Delhi etc. Your World Expeditions kit bag will also be distributed after the briefing. Note: The main briefing will be on arrival in Leh and sleeping bags, liners, insulated mattress and down jackets will be distributed. Note: As an alternative to arriving in Delhi on a late night flight, you may wish to consider arriving the day before the trip commences. Please talk to your World Expeditions reservations consultant or your travel agent for pre-tour accommodation options.

Meals:  Nil

We board an early morning flight from Delhi to Leh (3505m) where you will be rewarded with spectacular views across the Great Himalaya and Zanskar ranges. On arrival in Leh it is essential to rest and start the all-important process of acclimatization (and also catch up with some sleep after the very early morning start). Our schedule today will be flexible and depend on how everyone is adjusting to the altitude. In the afternoon we will have the opportunity to climb to the Victory Fort (above the Palace) built in the 15th century to commemorate Ladakh’s independence from the invading armies from Baltistan and Kashmir. From the Palace we can also appreciate the alleyways that comprise the old town of Leh, located to the east of the main bazaar and appreciate the wonderful panoramic view back over the Indus Valley to the south. You’re sure to fall in love with Ladakh from this great vantage point!

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we have a full day sightseeing some of the outlying forts and monasteries in the Indus Valley. We include a visit to Shey Palace – the capital of upper Ladakh - until the Royal family moved to Leh in the 17th century. We also visit the nearby Tikse Monastery perched on the summit of a sugarloaf mountain overlooking the Indus Valley. Tikse was founded in the 14th century after the Dalai Lama sent monks to Ladakh and the outlying regions of West Tibet. The monastery is situated in a commanding position in the Indus Valley with the monk’s chambers spreading down the hillside below the main Assembly Hall. Note the presence here of the new multi - denominational chapel that was completed a decade ago. It was built with the assistance of tourist funds and is proof of the continuing vitality of Buddhism in Ladakh. In the evening we can either wander up to Shanti Stupa for a magnificent sunset or relax around our hotel in the comfortable grounds.

Meals:  B,L,D

We drive to Stok village (3500m) directly south of Leh and undertake walks in the gorges above the village.The jagged rocks of Stok gorge provides a perfect introduction to the incredible landscapes to be encountered on trek in the coming days.

Meals:  B,L,D

From Leh we drive to Zinchen (3380m), a small settlement to the south of the Indus Valley. After our packhorses are loaded we head up a spectacular gorge to our campsite (3850m) below the village of Rumbak.

Meals:  B,L,D

An opportunity to acclimatise! We undertake day walks to Rumbak village and up a side valley leading to the base of the Stok La that affords spectacular views of the Trans Himalaya.

Meals:  B,L,D

A short day following a trail that winds up past the solitary house at Yurutse to our camp (4350m) at the base of the approach to the Ganda La. From camp there are impressive views of Stok Kangri. That afternoon we undertake a more challenging walk that heads way above the scree slopes to a magnificent viewpoint affording views back down to the Indus Valley and across to the high peaks that form the Stok Kangri range.

Meals:  B,L,D

Above our camp we gain views of the snow-capped Stok Range. After gradually ascending a series of switchbacks we make the final gradual ascent to the Ganda La (4950m). From the pass there are views south across the endless folds of the Zanskar Range and the snow capped summits of the main Himalaya Range before completing the gradual descent to the village of Shingo (4150m).

Meals:  B,L,D

From Shingo the trail heads east slowly ascending the Markha Valley. An early start is recommended, as this can be a comparatively warm stage. En route we pass the grassy campsite at Narding as well as a few small settlements before completing the stage to Markha (3770m), the largest village in the valley.

Meals:  B,L,D

The trail gradually ascends the Markha Valley passing a few small settlements en route to Markha (3770m) the largest village in the valley. That afternoon we visit the derelict fort above the village and the gompa that has recently been renovated by funds from trekkers and Hemis monastery.

Meals:  B,L,D

There is an early morning river crossing of the Markha River to reach the small settlement of Umlung. Just beyond Umlung we gain our first views of the summit of Kangyaze before reaching Hanker (3980m), the highest village in the Markha Valley. It’s a further ascent to a grassy campsite at Thochuntse.

Meals:  B,L,D

From camp we ascend to the high plains of Nimaling where villages from Hanker graze their yaks during the summer months. Before reaching the main campsite area we ascend a series of grassy ridges that bring us our camp (approx 5200m) beneath the impressive flanks of Kangyaze.

Meals:  B,L,D

We will embark on a steep climb to high camp. Although the distance is short, the altitude can make the hike quite strenuous. We include an extra day is kept at high camp to ensure we are well prepared for the climb.

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we climb to the western summit of Kangyaze. The route to the true summit (6400m) is highly technical and demanding, therefore we attempt the more commonly climbed western summit around 6300m. The final push will be physically and mentally challenging. But once on the summit, the awe-inspiring scenery is just reward. From here we can view beyond the Zanskar range while to the north are the unmistakable peaks of the Karakoram.

Meals:  B,L,D

Dzo Jongo peak is the lesser known but just as spectacular peak adjacent to Kangyaze. We trek along the ridge and set up camp at the base of Dzo Jongo and marvel at the spectacular surrounding views.

Meals:  B,L,D

A day to rest and prepare for the climb of Dzo Jongo, which will commence in the early hours of tomorrow morning.

Meals:  B,L,D

There will be an early start as we slowly ascend the steep route to the summit of Dzo Jongo (6250m). The push will again be mentally and physically tough but the views looking back towards Kangyaze and peaks of the Karakorum will be astounding and worth every single step.

Meals:  B,L,D

With two 6000m summits under our belt we descend to the open gazing meadows at Nimaling and prepare for one last pass crossing.

Meals:  B,L,D

From camp we head direct to the Kongmaru La (5150m) to gain our final views of Kangyaze while to the north we gain a birds eye view of the Indus Valley some 1500 metres below. The descent from the pass is steep in sections before entering a narrow gorge for several km. The valley widens and the trail leading on down to the settlement of Chogdo and further on to Shang Sumdo (3690m) and our final campsite.

Meals:  B,L,D

We trek to Shang monastery before driving to Leh. En route should have to visit the famous Hemis monastery on our drive back to Leh. On return the afternoon is free to stroll through the markets and pick up some souvenirs before you return home.

Meals:  B,L,D

An early morning back over the main Himalayan range to Delhi, where the trip concludes upon arrival at the airport. **We recommend booking your international flights the next day (in the afternoon) in case of any weather delays getting out of Leh. Please contact us for accommodation options in Delhi, or other arrangements as desired.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 20 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 19 dinners
  • World Expeditions mountaineering leader
  • Group emergency medical kit
  • Good quality accommodation in Delhi & Leh (including all meals while in Leh)
  • 80l World Expeditions kit bag
  • Trek pack for use during the trip including kit bag, sleeping bag, down jacket and insulated sleeping mat
  • All internal transport by train or private bus, jeep, car
  • Full service trek including 3 hearty meals each day
  • Pack horses to carry all personal and group equipment
  • 25kg allowance during trek
  • Sightseeing as specified in the itinerary

  • International flights
  • Flights Delhi/Leh/Delhi
  • Lunch & dinner in Delhi
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc
  • Airport departure taxes
  • Tips
  • Visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Technical climbing equipment including ice axe, harness and crampons
  • Airport transfer on final day

Departure dates


Notes

NB:
Flights Delhi/Leh/Delhi not included

Dates don't fit?
Create a Private Trip

If you have your own group, talk to us about turning this itinerary into your own private adventure.

Priceper person from

$2799USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Gear Hire: Ice AxeUSD$60
  • Gear Hire: CramponsUSD$60
  • Gear Hire: HarnessUSD$50
  • Tent Only Single SupplementUSD$210
  • Single SupplementUSD$520
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Twin Peaks of Ladakh trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


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Enhancing your journey with authentic experiences, genuine cultural exchange and real exploration are the focal points on all of our adventures. In 2019, we were crowned by our peers as the best in adventure travel at The Travel Awards in Sydney.

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Our vision is to leave the world a better place by following our sustainable active outdoor travel charter. All our adventures are 100% carbon offset and our Regenerative 2030 Project aims to integrate ‘regenerative’ projects into every one of our global operations by 2030.

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 When you book one of our adventures, you will receive quality services at the best prices with plenty of inclusions. There are no hidden costs, single travellers don’t pay more and you’ll enjoy many ‘extra touches’ that ensure your holiday is excellent value for money.

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Expédition au Ladakh, été 2023

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