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Ke Classic
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Holidays

Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley

India
1 reviews
Available Departures: Jul, Aug, Sep

15 days from

US$2,655

without flights
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Mountaineer
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

Looking for your first 6000m peak or perhaps an alternative to Stok Kangri? Set your sights on Kang Yatse 2!

Trip Code: IKY
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_GRADES_LEISURELY_BODY_MOUNTAINEERING

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_GRADES_MODERATE_BODY_MOUNTAINEERING

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_GRADES_CHALLENGING_BODY_MOUNTAINEERING

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_GRADES_TOUGH_BODY_MOUNTAINEERING

View Tough holidays

Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley

Highlights
  • Climb Kang Yatse 2, a 6250m peak and a perfect introduction to Himalayan climbing
  • Prepare for the climb with a superb trek through the remote Lhato Valley
  • Explore the ancient Ladakhi capital Leh, the Indus Valley and its Buddhist monasteries
  • Featuring a carefully planned acclimatisation programme to fit a two week holiday
At a Glance
  • Group Size 4 to 12
  • 9 days trekking & climbing
  • 4 days exploration & sightseeing
  • Max altitude - 6250 metres
  • Join In Delhi
Accommodation & Meals
  • All meals included
  • 7 nights Hotel
  • 7 nights Camping
Overview

Commanding the head of the Markha Valley are the towering twin peaks of Kang Yatse. We will tackle the western summit known as Kang Yatse 2, a perfect introductory 6000m+ peak for those wanting to hone and sharpen their skills, and a perfect alternative to the popular Stok Kangri.

The approach to our base camp is through the, almost unknown, Lhato Valley meaning this is an adventure for those who want to experience the remarkable Ladakhi landscape in perfect solitude. Our carefully planned itinerary allows for ample acclimatisation by exploring the ancient Buddhist monasteries and palaces of the Indus Valley and driving up to the Kardung La (5390m), one of the highest roads in the world, for a sensational panorama of the Karakoram range. The trek through the Lhato Valley allows for further acclimatisation to ensure that we are fit and ready for our summit attempt on our arrival into base camp. The ascent of Kang Yatse 2 is technically straightforward, involving easy-angled scree and snow slopes and is the perfect end to this two-week climbing holiday.

Is this holiday for you?

Our trekking and climbing holiday to Kang Yatse 2 is a physically demanding trip, reaching an altitude of over 6000m. However, this is not a technically demanding climb and crampon experience is preferable but not essential. The approach trek traverses remote valleys that see very few visitors and the trails will not always be well defined and will also require numerous stream and river c …

Our trekking and climbing holiday to Kang Yatse 2 is a physically demanding trip, reaching an altitude of over 6000m. However, this is not a technically demanding climb and crampon experience is preferable but not essential. The approach trek traverses remote valleys that see very few visitors and the trails will not always be well defined and will also require numerous stream and river crossings. It may be necessary to rope up to cross a small glacier before starting the ascent which will mainly be over easy-angled scree and boulder slopes. The final 100 - 200 metres may require the use of crampons on snow slopes up to about 35 degrees and along a short rocky ridge where the guides may use safety ropes depending on the conditions on the day. The ridge is not a knife-edge, but there is a degree of exposure and some scrambling may be required depending on the snow conditions.

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Why KE?

Those looking for a their first 6000m peak in Ladakh but seeking a quieter, more remote experience need look no further. We have created this walking holiday for those seeking an alternative to the rightly popular (but lower!) Stok Kangri. Approached from a tranquil valley, surrounded by tumbling glaciers and towering peaks, the ascent is techically straight-foward. This two-week holiday is the perfect combination for those wanting to hone their mountaineering skills whilst enjoying cultural immersion and true wilderness trekking.

 

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Itinerary

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Your holiday starts at the hotel in Delhi. Transfers from Delhi Airport are provided. Lunch and an afternoon at leisure at the hotel. Your guide will take dinner with you and will provide an informal briefing about the days ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel

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After an early breakfast, we return to the airport (this time to the Domestic Terminal) for the early morning internal flight to Leh. The hour long flight is simply spectacular and provides close-up views of the 7000 metre massifs of Nun and Kun. Arriving at Leh (3524 metres), we drive by jeep to our hotel. The rest of the day is free to either rest in the shade of the hotel courtyard or your room. Later in the afternoon the guide will organise a leisurely walk into Leh’s colourful bazaar to check out the roadside stalls selling Tibetan artefacts. Flying straight into the high altitude of Leh can take your breath away and it is best to concentrate on acclimatising for the first few days.

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A full day’s sightseeing tour. We visit several of the area’s most important monasteries such as Alchi, with the opportunity to meet some of the monks who live here. Some of these monasteries occupy elevated sites and offer remarkable views across the Indus Valley to the Zanskar Ranges, as well as good acclimatisation walking up and down steps!

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Today we will make an acclimatisation walk. During the acclimatisation process, it is important to strike the right balance between working the heart and lungs but not overtaxing and our guide will choose an appropriate route depending on the group and local conditions.

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Hotel

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Time

2 - 3 hrs
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Today, we further our acclimatisation with a jeep drive up to the 5380m Khardung La, one of the world’s highest road passes. This high pass in the mountains to the north of Leh leads into the Nubra Valley, which has until recently been closed to foreign visitors. The 2000m climb to the pass provides panoramic views of the Zanskar Range beyond the Indus Valley, with Stok Kangri standing out prominently as one of the higher peaks in the range. At the pass itself, there are views of the little-known peaks of the Eastern Karakoram. After taking tea at the pass, gasping in the thin atmosphere, we return to our hotel in Leh.

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Hotel

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From Leh, we drive along the Indus Valley for an hour or so to Upshi where we turn away from the valley, heading south on a road which would eventually take us across the Himalaya to Manali. However, we stop off after just half an hour at the tiny hamlet of Lhato (4000m), situated at the foot of the Lhato Valley. The afternoon is free to explore and to continue the process of acclimatisation. Here, we will spend our first night under canvas surrounded by incredible views.

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Camping

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We start our trek today. We follow the stream along the valley floor before the path rises and gradually gains height. After an hour or so, we cross the stream and heard northwards, crossing more streams until we reach the confluence of two majestic valleys. The place is called Rigyul Sumdo and, depending on water availability, makes an ideal location for our campsite for the next two nights.

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Camping

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B L D

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking
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Nomadic shepherds sometimes bring their sheep and goats to this place for the summer grazing and there are some basic drystone enclosures adjacent to our camp. Hiking up above camp towards the remnant snow patches that lie beneath the peaks of Gapo Ri and Dzo Jongo is a great way to aid our acclimatisation.

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Camping

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4 - 5 hrs trekking
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We strike camp and set off again on our trek, leaving the valley that has been our home for the last two nights. The path undulates, gently climbing as we come to the first pass: the Poze La (4953m). Once we have crossed the pass, we drop down on the other side until the path levels off. After a while it starts to rise again, until we reach the Chagtsang La (5200m). From here, we have the most amazing views towards the magnificent peaks of Reponi Mallai Ri, Dzo Jongo and Gapo Ri. After resting at the pass for a while, drinking in the scenery, we descend to our camp at Lhalung, at a beautiful spot at a riverside meadow.

Accommodation

Camping

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B L D

Time

6 -7 hrs trekking
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We set off on foot towards the Lhalung La (5349m), reaching it after about two hours of walking. From the saddle, we will be rewarded with spectacular views towards our objective of Kang Yatse 2. The path descends easily, as we drop down to the relatively flat plain of Nimaling. We cross the valley and start to climb gradually to gain the high and wide open meadows that are perfect for setting up a base camp for Kang Yatse 2 (4860m).

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Camping

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Time

7 hrs trekking
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Today we rest and recuperate, using this opportunity to sort and check through our personal equipment for tomorrow's summit attempt. An early night is encouraged as we will have a super-early start to the following day.

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Camping

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We leave at 1am for the summit. We start by walking across scree and rocky terrain, our way picked out by our head-torches. Once we meet the snow-line we strap on our crampons and rope up together and set off once more, up the steepening snow and ice slope. We continue in this fashion for another two hours, until we gain the final ridge that leads up to the lofty summit. The ridge line continues for another two or three hours to the summit (6250m). After enjoying the panoramic views, we descend the way we came, dropping back down to where our base camp was located this morning. We continue downwards for a little longer, to arrive at our new camp at Nimaling.

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Camping

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B L D

Time

10 - 12 hrs trekking/climbing
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We will savour our final day of trekking as we climb up to the Kongmaru La (5290m) on a well-marked trail for two hours, switch-backing steeply for the final 250 metres. From the pass, views open up northwards towards the hills of the Eastern Karakoram and China. Behind us, the skyline is dominated by Kang Yatse. We descend into the narrow gorge at Chuskyurmo (4155m), trekking for several hours until we reach the village of Chogdo where we will be met by our vehicles and transferred, tired and happy, to Leh.

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Hotel

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Time

8 hrs trekking
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We have a usually early start and go to the airport to catch our flight to Delhi. Arriving in Delhi, we transfer to our airport-accessible hotel. Depending on the timing of the flight from Leh, it may be possible to include a short sightseeing tour. This will included the Qutab Minar and other Delhi sights which may include Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lutyens Delhi and Raj Ghat. Alternatively, you may choose to take it easy at the hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel

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B L D
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Your holiday ends after breakfast. Transfers to Delhi Airport are provided. To extend your holiday in India, why not pre-book a visit to Dharamsala (home of the Dalai Lama), to the Taj Mahal or a longer excursion taking in the whole of India's classic Golden Triangle. Contact our office for details.

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The Route
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Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional English-speaking trek leader
  • Delhi Airport transfers (on group arrival and departure days only)
  • All land transport involved in the itinerary
  • Internal flights
  • All accommodation as described
  • All meals throughout the trip
  • Full trekking service including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)

  • Travel insurance
  • Delhi Airport transfers (other than on group arrival and departure days)
  • Indian Visa
  • Tips for trek staff
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.

The group will meet at the hotel in Delhi.

Transfers are provided from/to Delhi Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included in the holiday price from lunch on day 1 to breakfast on day 15.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

The food served during the trek is a mixture of local and Western food, mostly purchased locally and cooked for us by highly trained trek cooks. The emphasis is on providing a high-carbohydrate and largely vegetarian diet, which we have found to be easily digestible at high altitude. In Delhi and in Leh, we take our meals in the group hotel or in nearby restaurants. All meals while on trek and while staying in hotels are included in the trip price.

On arrival in Delhi and for one night after the trek, we stay at a hotel close to the airport which provides convenient and comfortable accommodation. Being near the airport makes the whole travel experience more relaxing, whilst still allowing us to include a sightseeing city tour. In Leh, we have 5 nights in a good tourist standard of hotel. Whilst on trek there are 7 nights camping. All accommodation is allocated on a twin sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single hotel rooms and/or single tents are available for a supplementary cost. If you are planning on extending your holiday additional nights at the group hotel are available on request.

The group will be led by professional and qualified tour leader, who is trained in the prevention, recognition and treatment of altitude sickness.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 6000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude on our website which can be viewed via the link below. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies. www.keadventure.com/page/altitude.html

Approximately £150 - £200 (or equivalent in Euros / US dollars etc.) changed into local currency, should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses, including porter and trek crew tips, soft drinks and entry fees to monasteries and tourist sights etc. It is not necessary to purchase local currency (Indian Rupees) before you travel. We recommend taking your personal spending money in cash since you will be changing the majority of this into local currency on the day of arrival. Sterling, US dollars and Euros are readily exchanged in Delhi and Leh. It is also possible to withdraw cash (rupees only) from cash machines in certain banks in Delhi and Leh using credit and debit cards. Credit cards can be used to purchase many goods in Delhi and are particularly useful for more expensive souvenirs.

Tips are the accepted way of saying ‘thank you’ to your local guides and porters. They do not form part of their wages. KE always pays local crews the best rates of pay, no matter what country they are in and any tips they receive are seen as a personal thank you from group members. For our part, we advise local teams that tips are not a duty or a prerequisite but are a bonus and entirely dependent on the service that was given. It is important to remember tipping is voluntary and should be dependent on good service. For your trek crew we recommend that you give a tip if you feel that their services have met your satisfaction. We recommend that you give tips as a group rather than from individual group members and suggest you decide together on a level of tips that suits everyone. As a rough guide we suggest a contribution of around £50 - £60 (in local currency) per group member to a 'pool' should provide an appropriate level of tips. At the end of a trek many people also like to donate various items of their equipment to the porters and trek staff who work so hard to make the trip a success. Boots, gloves, hats, scarves and even socks (clean of course) are always warmly received by the porters, many of whom are simple farmers earning extra cash by portering for trekking groups. Technical clothing and equipment such as head-torches and trekking poles are highly prized by the local guides and camp crews.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft and sturdy duffel bag and a daypack.  Your bag on trek will be carried by porters or pack animals. The packed weight of your trek bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15kg. Please note that the check-in baggage limit on all internal flights within India is now 15kg with a maximum cabin bagage limit of 7-8kg and you are responsible for any excess baggage fees that the airline may apply.  From time to time cabin baggage (other than laptops, cameras and valuables) is not allowed on the Leh flight for security reasons.  In this event, the limit for check-in baggage may be increased to 20kg at the discretion of the check-in staff. Note that excess baggage charges on domestic flights are minimal (a few hundred rupees per kilo), and we advise that you ready to pay any additional small costs should your baggage be overweight. It is possible to leave travel clothes and any other items not required on trek at the group hotel.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa India

Most nationalities, including travellers from the UK, the USA and many European countries can apply for their Indian Visa online through the E-Visa Application process. You must make your application at least four days prior to departure. Please download the detailed information document for details of how to apply for your visa: Visa India PDF

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk

 

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid.

Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

It makes a lot of sense to spend some time before coming on a climbing holiday getting some additional exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. For this trip you need to be aerobically fit and also comfortable with walking for 7 - 8 hours each day over several days. The best preparation for a trip of this nature is regular hiking in hill or back country, particularly involving sections of steep terrain. If this is not possible because of where you live, we would suggest that you adopt a weekly exercise regime, gradually increasing your working time as you head towards departure. Previous experience of walking in crampons is useful if you have the opportunity although instruction in all necessary techniques for the climb will be given at Base Camp.

During July and August the temperature in Delhi will be hot (35°c or even a few degrees above this). It will also be humid. On the high plateau of Ladakh, the air will be much drier but temperatures in the noon-day sun can still reach the high 20s while trekking in the Indus Valley and around 15°c at Kang Yatse 2 Base Camp. We may encounter night-time temperatures at this camp as low as -10°c. At the time of our last departure of the year, September, temperatures in Delhi will have started to cool while on trek. A typical average daytime temperature will vary from mid to low 20s in the Indus Valley, to around 10°c or even lower up at Base Camp. Despite the lower ambient temperatures, it will still feel warm in the strong sun. Ladakh is not adversely affected by the monsoon and we can usually expect stable weather. However, mountains do generate their own weather systems and some rain or snowfall cannot be ruled out.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Leh and Trekking in Ladakh. Charlie Loram.

  • Trekking in the Indian Himalaya. Weare. (L.Planet).

  • The Trekkers Handbook. Tom Gilchrist.

  • Ladakh, Crossroads of High Asia. Janet Rizvi.

  • Exploring the Hidden Himalaya. Kapadia and Mehta.

  • Ancient Futures. Helena Norberg-Hodge

India - 150K Ladakh and Zanskar Tekking Maps

Editions Olizane publish a useful map at scale: 1:150,000. The central sheet covers the majority of this trip.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. Note that 15kgs is the max weight for hold luggage on the Delhi-Leh flights, although excess baggage charges are minimal at just a few hundred rupees per kg.

The packed weight of your bag whilst trekking, including your sleeping bag, should be no more than 15 kgs. Your mountaineering equipment will be packed into additional, communal kitbags at the start of the trek in Leh and this equipment will not be part of your personal 15 kgs trekking weight limit. If you are bringing your own mountaineering equipment, you must factor this into your overall baggage weight for the Leh flights.

You must bring the following items

  • A photocopy of your travel insurance policy (required by authorities in Leh)

  • Hiking boots 

  • Mountaineering boots (see ‘Mountaineering equipment’ below)

  • Climbing helmet

  • Trainers or sandals for river crossings and camp use

  • Trekking trousers

  • Good quality and fully waterproof (Gore-Tex or similar) mountain jacket with hood

  • Good quality (Gore-Tex or similar) overtrousers

  • Thermal baselayer - leggings

  • Thermal baselayer shirts (at least 1 long sleeve)

  • Shirts or T-shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat with a wide brim (the sun is very strong)

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Thermal gloves

  • Warm and waterproof gloves or mittens

  • Daypack 30 litres, with ice axe loop

  • Headtorch and spare battery

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 litre (x2 or 3) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets

  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Small towel

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -10°C)*

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), altitude (Diamox), painkillers, plasters, blister treatment, Insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

Mountaineering Equipment

  • Insulated and rigid mountaineering boots which can be securely fitted with crampons. (B2 grade minimum). For departures in September, an insulated double boot is required.**

  • Ice axe

  • Crampons

  • Climbing harness

  • Karabiners (1 x screwgate)

The following items are optional:

  • Thermarest or similar camping mattress - a foam mattress is provided

  • Trekking poles (recommended)

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Spare laces

  • Insect repellant

  • Scarf or buff

  • Pee bottle

  • Travel clothes

  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes:

Equipment hire: Items marked * can be hired / rented through KE Adventure Travel. Please make requests at least 6 weeks prior to the trip departure. All hire / rental equipment is issued in Delhi.

**Mountaineering boots: Well-insulated single boots designed for Alpine mountaineering (minimum B2 rating) are suitable for departures prior to September. For departures in September or October the low temperatures encountered combined with high altitude mean that double boots with insulated inners are the best to keep your feet warm. These boots are also designed to take step-in crampons, quickly and efficiently. You must make sure that you are suitably equipped for these low temperatures. We recommend you speak to a mountaineering equipment specialist retailer for further advice.

PHD Gear Advisor

PHD specialise in cold weather equipment, from the world’s lightest right up to the most protective for Everest or the Poles. It’s a large range. So to help you choose what you need to keep you warm, PHD have listed the gear that is appropriate for this expedition.

Needle Sports (specialist mountaineering equipment shop)

Needle Sports is the English Lake District's foremost specialist climbing shop supplying mountaineering, rock, ice, alpine and expedition equipment worldwide. Internationally recognised as among the very best of the UK's top technical climbing gear retailers. They have a good range of equipment appropriate for this trip and offer knowledgeable advice both on their website and in store. View >>http://www.needlesports.com/

Many of the equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive a 12.5% discount with Cotswold Outdoor, Snow+Rock and Runners Need. The discount code can be downloaded from your MyKE account and you can use this code at the checkout, either in store or online.

Extensions

The incomparable Taj Mahal
One day tour of Agra and the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal needs little introduction. Built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. N...

Extension Details

One day tour of Agra and the Taj Mahal

1 Day

The Taj Mahal needs little introduction. Built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. Nearby is the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnificent complex of palaces and ancient forts. Traveling from Delhi on the express train and returning by private vehicle, our one-day extension to Agra is perfect for those with limited time who wish to complete their India experience with exploring one of the most admired and loved buildings on the planet.

 

Extension Code: IAT1

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick up at the hotel. You will then depart from Delhi on the early morning express train to Agra. Upon arrival, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. You can visit the ornate cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal; resting place of his beloved wife. Afterwards, you will visit the ethereally sublime Taj Mahal, an experience that will stay with you forever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After this incredible tour you will then be transferred by a private vehicle back to Delhi, to either your hotel or directly to the airport where services end. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

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Whats Included
  • Professional local guide at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
  • Monument entrance fees to Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
  • Express train from Delhi to Agra
  • Private vehicle transport in Agra
  • Private vehicle transfer from Agra to Delhi
  • Transfers from Delhi hotel to railway station
What's Not Included
  • Indian visa if joining from another country
  • Any additional transfers
  • Tips for your guides and drivers
  • Accommodation in Delhi
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.
Early morning light
Agra & the Taj Mahal two day tour

Our two-day extension is for those who wish to explore  Agra and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace. We start by exploring the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnifi...

Extension Details

Agra & the Taj Mahal two day tour

2 Days

Our two-day extension is for those who wish to explore  Agra and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace. We start by exploring the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnificent complex of palaces and ancient forts, before waking before the next day to see the sunrise break over the Taj Mahal. Needing little introduction, the Taj Mahal was built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz. It is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. This tour also gives us an opportunity to explore the fascinating abandoned ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri.

Extension Code: IAT2

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick up at the hotel. We then depart from Delhi on the early morning express train to Agra. Upon arrival you will have an opportunity to check in to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. See the cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal; resting place of his beloved wife.

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You will be taken, before the break of dawn, to the Taj Mahal. Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit the ethereally sublime Taj Mahal is an experience that will stay with you forever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After our guided tour, we carry on explore the abandoned ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, before driving back to Delhi to either your hotel or directly to the airport where services end. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

Meals

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Whats Included
  • Professional local guide in Agra
  • Monument entrance fees
  • 1 night at Agra hotel on bed and breakfast basis
  • Express train from Delhi to Agra
  • Private vehicle transfer from Agra to Delhi
  • Transfers from Delhi hotel to railway station
  • Transfers once at the Taj Mahal and Agra.
What's Not Included
  • Indian visa if joining from another country
  • Any additional transfers
  • Tips for your guides and drivers
  • Accommodation in Delhi
  • Meals other than breakfast
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc
  • NOTE: THE TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS
Dharamsala
Dharamsala and the Dalai Lama

Dharamsala is a former British Raj hill-station in the Dhaula Dhar mountain range and currently home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. On this four day extension, you will be able...

Extension Details

Dharamsala and the Dalai Lama

4 Days
Dharamsala is a former British Raj hill-station in the Dhaula Dhar mountain range and currently home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. On this four day extension, you will be able to sample a flavour of life in Tibet and enjoy visits to the Dalai Lama’s temple complex; the Norbulingka Institute; the Tibetan children’s village and visit a local Gaddi Tribal village to experience the life of the people who traditionally inhabit the lower reaches of the Dhaula Dhar.
Extension Code: IDS4

Extension Itinerary

Fly to Dharamsala Airport and transfer (14 kms - 20 minutes) to Dharamsala, an early nineteenth century British Raj hill station, now famous for being the home of the Tibetan Government in exile and home to the Dalai Lama. We check in at our hotel in upper Dharamsala, the village known as McLeodganj which exhibits a strong Tibetan influence with monasteries, Tibetan restaurants and shops. Free time.

Meals

L D
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Today we visit the Dalai Lama's temple to see some of the Tibetan monks performing a puja. After lunch we will visit the nearby Tibetan Children's Village which houses orphans and ensures they are provided with an education, clothes, food and healthcare. Later we will visit the Norbulingka Institute, a registered trust chaired by the Dalai Lama dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan culture.

Meals

B L D
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Transfer to the Gaddi village of Naddi (1900m) offering views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. Visit a local house and walk to the Buddhist stupa and Tibetan monks meditation huts. Take lunch on low Tibetan tables with sensational mountain views. Short walk to Bagsu Nag village for chai in a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.

Meals

B L D
Hide Details

After breakfast, you will be taken back to Dharamsala Airport to catch your return flight to Delhi. Services end on arrival in Delhi.

Meals

B
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Whats Included
  • Transfer to Delhi Airport on Day 1
  • Internal flights Delhi to Dharamsala return
  • Dharamsala Airport transfers
  • 3 nights accommodation in Dharamsala
  • Guided sightseeing on Days 2 and 3
  • Entrance fees at temples etc
  • All meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4
What's Not Included
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses such as souvenirs and soft drinks
  • Tips for local staff
  • FAMILY / GROUP PRICES: Please contact KE for prices
Early morning light on the Taj Mahal
Agra and Jaipur four day extension

The Golden Triangle needs little introduction and is rightly considered a classic trip in its own right. Easily accessible from Delhi, this excursion takes in the wonders of the magestic Agra Fort,...

Extension Details

Agra and Jaipur four day extension

4 Days

The Golden Triangle needs little introduction and is rightly considered a classic trip in its own right. Easily accessible from Delhi, this excursion takes in the wonders of the magestic Agra Fort, the incomparable Taj Mahal, the abandoned ghost-city of Fatehpur Sikri and the architectural jewels of Jaipur and Amber. This four day trip ensures you get the most out of these stunning attractions at a relaxed and unhurried pace.

Extension Code: IAJ4

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick-up at the hotel at 0930 hrs. Your private vehicle will transfer you to Agra. Upon arrival you will have an opportunity to check in to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. See the cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal, resting place of his beloved wife. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

Meals

B
Hide Details

You will be taken before the break of dawn to the Taj Mahal. Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit the ethereally sublimeTaj Mahal is an experierence that will stay with you for ever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After our guided tour we carry on explore the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, former seat of the Mughal Empire, before continuing to Jaipur, the capital of Rajisthan.

Meals

B
Hide Details

Today you will have a full day of sight-seeing. You will visit the Hawa Mahal, otherwise known as the Palace of the Wind and the City Palace, full of incredible artifacts. Later you will drive out of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort, perched high in the hills. The palace here is full of stunning rooms, including the Hall of Mirrors. After taking in the incredible views across the hills, you return to Jaipur.

Meals

B
Hide Details

After breakfast you will be set off in your private vehicle to Delhi, and delivered to either your hotel or the airport for your departure.

Meals

B
Hide Details
Whats Included
  • Hotels in Agra and Jaipur
  • Breakfast on each day
  • Monument entrance fees
  • English speaking guide at each monument
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
  • All taxes
What's Not Included
  • Lunches
  • dinners and drinks
  • Tips for your guide and driver

Reviews

5 out of 5 from 1 review

Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley

By Luke from London | 06 August 2023

A splendid expedition ★★★★★

It's amazing what can be done in just two weeks. Acclimatisation is absolutely key to a trip like this and four nights in the fantastic Omasila hotel in Leh (3500 m, views of Stok Kangri from one's bed) is a great way to kick things off. Plus the side trips to Alchi (my third visit) and the Kardung La. And of course, writing postcards in the Yama Café (turn left out of hotel, 50 yards on the right) - double espresso and apricot cake recommended. Thence five days' trekking to base camp - a lot of interesting rock/mountain scenery, and always excellent camping spots. And always excellent food. The actual ascent of Kang Yatse II splits neatly into three sections: (1) base camp to apex of the obvious rock triangle (easy ground, head torches) - 5 hours; 591 metres of ascent; (2) crampon up and a big rising left-to right traverse across the lower snow field to a rocky outcrop - 2 hours 28 minutes (perhaps faster in better snow conditions), 237 metres of ascent; (3) rising zig-zags up the upper snow field to the rocky summit - 2 hours, 259 metres of ascent. In total, about nine and a half hours from base camp to summit, and 1087 metres of ascent. And back at base camp, a big bowl of chips :-) A special thank you to our exceptional guide, Pekma Bhote: the weather was not ideal the day before our summit attempt (rain/snow!)...but he was still keen enough to go up the mountain. There's a short piece about Kang Yatse II (aka Kang Yissay II) in the Himalayan Journal (Vol. 45 1987-88); the mountain was first climbed by a Seigo Inaba (Japan), as recently as 1981. The height (6100 m) referred to is probably too low; my altimeter indicated 6265 metres. Top tips: there are quite a few stream/river crossings during the trek - I bought a cheap (£2) pair of what became known as 'water sandals' in Leh. I also took a small Thermos - it's nice to have a post river crossing coffee (and Twix - also buyable Leh)! And perhaps take a book to read...there's a quite a lot of tent time...
By Peter from Stevenage | 15 July 2023

Kang Yatse II

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By Peter from Stevenage | 15 July 2023

Kang Yatse 2 Summit and Basecamp

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By Suzuyo from Porthcawl | 10 July 2023
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Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 4 review
Leave a Review
Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley

By Luke from London | 06 August 2023
A splendid expedition
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
It's amazing what can be done in just two weeks. Acclimatisation is absolutely key to a trip like this and four nights in the fantastic Omasila hotel in Leh (3500 m, views of Stok Kangri from one's bed) is a great way to kick things off. Plus the side trips to Alchi (my third visit) and the Kardung La. And of course, writing postcards in the Yama Café (turn left out of hotel, 50 yards on the right) - double espresso and apricot cake recommended. Thence five days' trekking to base camp - a lot of interesting rock/mountain scenery, and always excellent camping spots. And always excellent food. The actual ascent of Kang Yatse II splits neatly into three sections: (1) base camp to apex of the obvious rock triangle (easy ground, head torches) - 5 hours; 591 metres of ascent; (2) crampon up and a big rising left-to right traverse across the lower snow field to a rocky outcrop - 2 hours 28 minutes (perhaps faster in better snow conditions), 237 metres of ascent; (3) rising zig-zags up the upper snow field to the rocky summit - 2 hours, 259 metres of ascent. In total, about nine and a half hours from base camp to summit, and 1087 metres of ascent. And back at base camp, a big bowl of chips :-) A special thank you to our exceptional guide, Pekma Bhote: the weather was not ideal the day before our summit attempt (rain/snow!)...but he was still keen enough to go up the mountain. There's a short piece about Kang Yatse II (aka Kang Yissay II) in the Himalayan Journal (Vol. 45 1987-88); the mountain was first climbed by a Seigo Inaba (Japan), as recently as 1981. The height (6100 m) referred to is probably too low; my altimeter indicated 6265 metres. Top tips: there are quite a few stream/river crossings during the trek - I bought a cheap (£2) pair of what became known as 'water sandals' in Leh. I also took a small Thermos - it's nice to have a post river crossing coffee (and Twix - also buyable Leh)! And perhaps take a book to read...there's a quite a lot of tent time...
By Peter from Stevenage | 15 July 2023
Kang Yatse II

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By Peter from Stevenage | 15 July 2023
Kang Yatse 2 Summit and Basecamp

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By Suzuyo from Porthcawl | 10 July 2023
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DATES & PRICES

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More Information

  • Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IKY /02/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 13 Jul and ends on Sun 27 Jul
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$490 - Includes all group hotel nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$120
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IKY /03/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 27 Jul and ends on Sun 10 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$490 - Includes all group hotel nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$120
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IKY /04/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 10 Aug and ends on Sun 24 Aug
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$490 - Includes all group hotel nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$120
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Kang Yatse 2 and the Lhato Valley
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IKY /05/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 24 Aug and ends on Sun 7 Sep
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$490 - Includes all group hotel nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$120
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary starting at the hotel in Delhi. Transfers are provided from/to Delhi Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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