Article Published On - 08-01-2025
At 5950 meters in Ladakh, Golep Kangri Peak offers an exquisite alternative to Stok Kangri. Boasting breathtaking 360-degree views from its peak and an exciting ascent suited only for experienced trekkers seeking a challenge, Golep Kangri offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramas that await intrepid explorers who dare take it on. As an ideal first step to conquering mountains over 7000 meters, this trek provides adventure enthusiasts with a great start in Ladakhi villages, showcasing its dramatic terrain. Golep Kangri trekkers must be in peak physical and mental condition to successfully traverse its 10-hour summit push, though many consider Golep Kangri easier than Stok Kangri due to a more gradual ascent with steep sections requiring technical skill, making Golep Kangri an unforgettable challenge. Trekkers on the Golep Kangri Trek can enjoy stunning vistas of Zanskar and Karakoram ranges, Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse peaks, Mt Nun and K2, and clear day views are also evident from its summit. The optimal timeframe for the Golep Kangri Trek is June to September.
Day 1: Arrive in Leh
Traveling by air is the quickest and most efficient method, yet it’s important to allow at least two days for acclimatization before engaging in activities like trekking to Stok Kangri. Road travel will also bring you into Leh; however, this journey takes 2-3 hours longer, and accommodation details will be sent via email upon your arrival in Leh. Once there, check into a Guest House or Hotel of your choice, relax, adjust to the altitude (11,500 feet above sea level), take some rest time, then explore the local markets of Leh.
Day 2: Acclimatization in Leh
Discover Leh’s cultural and natural attractions to help orient yourself to its town and weather, and help adjust to climate. As Ladakh’s capital city, Leh serves as an essential starting point for expeditions; with numerous monasteries and temples spread out across its landscape and delectable local cuisine providing delicious experiences for visitors.
Day 3: Leh (11500 ft.) to Chang Ma (13087 ft.) via Stok Village (11800 ft.)
Today is set to be an unforgettable journey of scenic driving and thrilling trekking through Ladakh’s breathtaking treks, and for those unfamiliar with its terrain, the breathtaking vistas may come as quite a shock! The region’s magnificent landscapes evoke an otherworldly experience, with towering mountain peaks appearing almost surreal, as though designed by an incredible artist. While your first trek may prove challenging, your body will adapt over time, making subsequent walks even more pleasurable. Travel from Leh to Stok Village can be an incredible journey, winding its way through breathtaking landscapes and lush forests. Summer temperatures typically provide ideal trekking conditions. Stok village is home to a historic royal palace that houses an exquisite museum with culturally significant artifacts. Once at Chang Ma, we will set up camp and begin an easy acclimatization walk so we can fully immerse ourselves in our surroundings.
Day 4: Chang Ma (13087 ft.) to Mankorma (14200 ft.)
Today’s journey will involve an easy trek by a riverbank, with multiple water streams passing under our path as we trek. Today will reveal Ladakh’s true splendour; Mankarmo offers an expansive Parachute Cafe. Once we have had time to acclimate, we will set up tents and camp. Spending the night camping out here promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Day 5: Mankorma (14200 ft.) to Base camp (16300 ft.)
After several hours of hiking from Mankorma, we reach the base camp. Here we find an expansive grassy expanse punctuated by lakes and streams – perfect for exploring. Use today to trek to higher ground for breathtaking views of Golep Kangri, Stok Kangri, and Parcha Kangri, plus many others in the distance! It is important to allow yourself time to acclimate, as further days will bring an increase in altitude gain as well as decreased oxygen levels; dress warmly since temperatures in this area may drop considerably.
Day 6: Acclimatization & Practice Day
This day serves as preparation for Summit Day, offering insight into potential opportunities and obstacles that lie ahead. You will also receive guidance on technical gear such as an Ice Axe, Crampons, and Rope; basic training on using such items; essential techniques like ascending/descending snow surfaces with an Ice Axe will also be taught during training sessions; it is strongly advised that an early bedtime is observed as summit climbing will begin in the middle of the night.
Day 7: Base camp (16300 ft.) to Golep Kangri (19521 ft.), back to base camp.
At 12:30 AM, preparations will commence for a summit attempt, and equipment will be distributed before taking off at 2:00 AM. Journey to Summit Ridge traverses glaciers and ascends steep slopes for 9 to 10 hours of strenuous climbing, followed by brief technical sections near its summit; climbers will then enjoy stunning 360-degree vistas from there. Panoramas from Saser Kangri provide stunning vistas, encompassing both the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges to the north, and Saser Kangri dominating to the south, creating an amazing spectacle as seen from above! After reaching the summit, a gradual descent will commence back down towards base camp for overnight accommodation at the camps.
Day 8: Base camp to Leh
Early in the morning, we will depart Leh for Stok Village on a return journey that may present its own set of challenges, particularly on any downhill stretches. After spending time in Stok Village, we will make our journey back along the road towards Leh. Recalling fond memories from our expedition along this stretch, this drive may bring back fond memories. Eventually, by evening, we arrive back in Leh and check into either a Guest House or a Hotel.
Day 9: Departure From Leh
Start/Finish Point: Stok Village, approximately 15 km away from Leh, Ladakh
By Air: For travel by plane, Kushok Bakula-Rimpochee Airport (Leh IXL) is the nearest facility. Regular flights between Delhi, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.
By Road: Manali and Srinagar can be reached via road between June and September.
From mid-June until early September is an amazing period: Sunny daytime weather, easy treks, and secure glacier conditions – what more could one ask for? Dry and stable weather are essential conditions for summiting at high altitudes.
Operations Manager
Nanda Rawat holds a Master’s degree in Tourism & Hospitality and brings over 16 years of experience in adventure and leisure travel. He has led multiple Himalayan expeditions, contributed to ATOAI, and is trained in first aid by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. A strong supporter of sustainable and ethical tourism, he plays a key role at Trekup India. Write to him at: nanda@trekupindia.com
