The Ultimate High-Altitude Challenge in Spiti
The Kanamo Peak Trek is located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh at 19,553 ft. The total distance of the trek from Kibber is 22 kilometres. This trek is considered strenuous as the trail ascends rapidly. Prior experience is required to do this trek, as it will help you deal with acute mountain sickness. The area around Kanamo Peak is deserted, and there is little vegetation, with snow on the mountain’s peak. In August, you might see Spiti in its harvest season; in winter, it becomes difficult to walk on a trail through boulders during snow. Being well-prepared and physically fit is crucial to thoroughly enjoying and conquering this challenging trek.A challenging trek awaits those who seek the thrill of reaching high altitudes in the heart of Spiti. Unlike the popular Stok Kangri, the lesser known Kanamo Peak offers a quieter and more pristine trekking experience, away from the commercialization of modernity. However, tackling Kanamo Peak is challenging and requires a high level of physical fitness, as the trek involves a demanding climb over scree and boulders from the base camp to the summit. The ascent to the peak and the subsequent descent back to base camp on the same day cover approximately 10 km of challenging terrain, making it a test of endurance for even the most experienced trekkers. Despite the difficulty, the reward of reaching the summit is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of over 35 other peaks from Ladakh, Spiti, Kullu, and Kinnaur. Standing atop Kanamo Peak feels like being on top of the world, surrounded by towering mountains and in proximity to Shilla Peak, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
This section provides a comprehensive, simple explanation of the Kanamo Peak Trek, including general day-to-day routing, elevation gain, etc. The basic itinerary is designed to give an overview of the trek; all-inclusive itinerary allows for a more in-depth understanding of the various distances between campsites, the nature/type of terrain that trekkers will be traversing, and the locations of the campsite relative to one another.
In addition to the above, the trek map indicates the specific route of the trekking path, village locations, forest locations, and campsite locations within the trek area enabling trekkers to imagine their trek through snow-covered coniferous forests and alpine meadows. The elevation chart clearly indicates the total elevation gained and lost each day of the trek ensuring that trekkers can prepare adequately before arriving at the basecamp, acclimatize safely to altitude, and have a positive experience on their overall trek.
Manali is a renowned hill station in Himachal Pradesh in India. There are many ways to get to Manali, dependent on your location of departure and method of transport.
By air: The nearest airport for Manali is Bhuntar Airport, just 50 kilometers away. Many domestic airlines offer regularly scheduled flights from Bhuntar to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. In the arrivals hall, travelers can take taxis or autos to Manali.
By road: Manali is well-connected by roads to the major cities of North India. You can travel by taxi or bus to Delhi, Chandigarh, or Shimla to get to Manali. The journey to Manali is beautiful and offers stunning panoramic views over the Himalayas.
By train: The closest rail station for Manali is Jogindernagar, just 160 km away. The station needs to have more connectivity. Therefore, it is suggested that you take a train from Chandigarh or Kalka as they are the vital railway stations within the area. Once there, it is possible to get a bus or taxi to get to Manali.
Trekking with us for the Kanamo Peak Trek is entirely safe because we have a team of trek leaders qualified in Wilderness first-aid and complete information about the high-altitude glitches. During the trek, we carry a full first-aid kit that contains all the essential medicines. Before trekking with us, you must ensure that you are medically fit for the trek; for us, your medical fitness is more important than anything else.
Right from our establishment, we at Trekup India have been continuously introducing new safety practices into Indian trekking to ensure the safety of voyagers. Trekup India introduced microspikes and made emergency bottled oxygen mandatory for all treks. Our trek leaders take your daily Pulse oximeter reading. We at Trekup India introduced the radio walkie-talkie as a safety communication device.
We have noticed that most trek-organizing organizations do not follow these systems, but with time, they are following us; several competing companies are adopting these practices and organizing great, safe treks.
We ensure complete technical safety in the mountain. Our company has a vast team of more than 100 guides and trek leaders who serve on Himalayan treks. One of the best things about our team is that all the members are trained professionally by the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering, Indian Mountaineering Foundation Delhi, and Hanifle Center Outdoor Education Mussoorie.
To ensure a perfect Trek, we have introduced some new safety checks to ensure excellent safety for our trekkers.
At Trekup India, you will find a team with local knowledge and fluency in English and Hindi. This helps ensure that you have a fantastic trek. Not only this, but we also pay attention to your health and safety because this is something we cannot ignore. All the team leaders involved in trekking have already undergone several professional courses in first aid, portable altitude chamber training, CPR, environmental awareness training, and advanced wilderness emergency medicine.
We also carry a complete first aid medical kit on every trek and trip we organize. Apart from the medical kit, we take a portable altitude chamber (if needed) and medical oxygen for all high-altitude treks. Our company has significant expertise in organizing all sorts of group adventure holidays for family groups, school and college groups, and friend groups. We have many travel options that suit different fitness levels and travelling styles.
Regardless of the group size, we value each and every member of our trekking groups. Our commitment to personal attention ensures that your needs and safety are always our top priority.
Trekup India has been a stalwart in the Adventure Tourism industry for 30 years. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to providing top-notch treks, voyages, trekking programs, and high-altitude expeditions. Our extensive experience is a testament to our commitment to your adventure and safety.
We organize treks in Uttarakhand, Kashmir, Sikkim, and Himachal while being part of the trekking community; we feature more than 75 documented Himalayan treks. In addition to other outdoor activities, our company also organizes trips for schools, colleges, and families.
Therefore, we maintain the quality of services offered to our valuable customers.
| Item | Characteristic Feature | Pro-tip |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof, Ankle-Height Trekking Boots | These are high quality boots with stiff rubber soles that prevent water entry. | Must be fully broken in. Good with a deep aggressive grip to avoid injury in toe or fingers. |
Trekking Poles (Pair) | Provide 2 additional points of contact for stability on snow / ice and reduce impact on knees while descending. | Use them together to distribute the weight of your pack, this can reduce stress on your knees and ankles. |
Waterproof Gloves (2 pair) | Protects against cold injury. Having two pairs that allows warmth while protecting your hands. | Keep the shell of gloves dry for a waterproof layer for handling snow and keep the inner liner for warmth. |
Gaiters (required) | Create a seal between your boots and trousers to prevent snow from entering your boots / sock. | Put your gaiters on as soon as you reach the snowline; avoiding snow wetting your socks / boots minimizes risk for cold injury. |
High-Grade SPF Sunscreen and Lip Balm | Protects against severe sun / wind burn. It is important for exposed skin at high altitude due to reflection from snow. | Reapply sunscreen to face, neck, and ears every 2 hours spent on the snow. |
Sunglasses (Category 4) | Highest level of protection required to protect against temporary blindness (photokeratitis) | Do not remove sunglasses when you are on the snow because snow can reflect 80% of UV light back into your eyes. |
| Category | Item | Specification & Reason |
|---|---|---|
Headwear | Warm Beanie / Balaclava | Must be thick wool or fleece; cover the ears completely. Important in retaining body heat, as a large percentage of body heat is lost from the head. |
Wide-Brim Sun Hat or Buff | Light material (hat) or synthetic tube (buff). Protects face, neck, and scalp from high-altitude UV radiation from the sun. | |
Upper Body | Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts (2) | Choose Synthetic (polyester) or thin Merino wool; short or long sleeve because cotton actively makes you cold and uncomfortable when you sweat. |
Thermal Base Layer (1) | Mid-weight Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve top. Provides immediate insulation; it will lock in body heat as the starting point of your heat-trapping system. | |
Fleece Jacket (1) | Mid-to-heavy weight (200-300 GSM) fleece or softshell jacket full of insulation. This layer provides the best warmth-to-weight ratio It can be worn alone or under your shell. | |
Insulated Puffed Jacket (1) | Down or synthetic insulation; rated for 0∘C and below. Your main source of heat protection for cold night camping, evening, and the summit push when below freezing conditions are anticipated. | |
Waterproof & Windproof Jacket (1) | Shell material (e.g. Gore-Tex equivalent) with taped seams. Your outer barrier (shell layer) keeps the rain, snow and penetrating wind out from the mountains. | |
Lower Body | Quick-Dry Trekking Pants (2) | Synthetic, lightweight, and preferably stretchable or convertible. Durable for comfortable walking, fast drying after getting wet from rain or snow. |
Thermal Base Layer (1) | Mid-weight thermal bottoms (wool or synthetic). Vital layer of insulation under your trekking pants in cold walking conditions at camp. | |
Waterproof Rain Pants (1) | Lightweight, packable shell pants. These will protect your trekking pants and base layers from getting wet when it's snowing or raining heavily. | |
For Feets | Create a seal between your boots and trousers to prevent snow from entering your boots / sock. | Put your gaiters on as soon as you reach the snowline; avoiding snow wetting your socks / boots minimizes risk for cold injury. |
Trekking Socks (4-5 pairs) | Wool or some kind of synthetic blend (not cotton). 1-2 pairs should be extraordinarily thick for nights. These will manage moisture in your foot to reduce blisters and provide warmth at night sleeping in a bag or in boots! | |
Camp Shoes | Lightweight sneakers, sandals, or slippers. You'll want these to dry out your trekking boots and let your feet rest when at the campsite. |
| Category | Item | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
Backpacks | Main Rucksack (50-60 L) | For Porter. Good frame of posture and hip belt required. |
Daypack (20-30 L) | Daily carry. Must have water, layers, snacks, camera, and gloves in your daily essentials. | |
Sleeping bag & liner | Sleeping Bag (Rated to −10∘C / 14∘F) | Confirm if Trekup India provides a sleeping bag; if you're renting your bag, make sure it is a reputable outfit. |
Sleeping Bag Liner | A liner adds additional warmth and keeps your bag clean. | |
Hydration | Insulated Water Bottles (2x 1L) | CRUCIAL: No hydration bladders (the tube will freeze). Insulated bottles will keep your water from freezing. |
Hydration Tablets/ORS | Make sure you have enough hydration tablets and/or Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) which are important for replacing electrolytes lost at high altitude. | |
Safety & Navigation | Headlamp with extra batteries | Essential for crossing the pass started early in the morning. |
Basic First-aid kit | With plasters (Compeed!), Band-Aids, antiseptic, pain medication, and then any of your personal medications you might need. | |
Personal | Personal toiletries | Toothbrush, tooth paste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper (pack out!), and hand sanitizer. |
Quick Dry Towel | Material should be water absorbent with light in weight and small in size. | |
Power bank | There will be no place to charge devices on the trek. |
The concept of pricing is the key part of your trekking journey. It defines the value and experience you receive for the price you pay for your trek. For a structured high altitude trek, like Kanamo Peak Trek operated by Trekup India provides transparency with the cost & amenities provided to our trekker. Inclusions provide clarity in respect to operator's responsibility; essentially every necessary service, logistical support, group equipment, and permit to have a safe and fully supported trek from start to finish while exclusions provide clarity in respect to individual's responsibility, for all expenses related to personal choice (like a porter), necessary contingency items (like insurance), or mandated fees examined outside the package price (like GST).
Total Trek Cost: ₹ 20,800 / person + 5% GST (Mandatory)
A structured 8–12 week training plan designed to build stamina, strength, and endurance for a safe and successful trek.
Exercises focused on improving stamina, heart health, and endurance to prepare your body for long trekking days.
Exercises aimed at building leg, core, and upper-body strength to handle steep climbs, descents, and carrying a backpack during the trek.
Techniques to improve lung capacity, oxygen intake, and breath control for better performance at high altitudes.
Practices to enhance mental focus, calmness, and resilience, helping you stay relaxed and positive throughout the trek.
A structured, week-by-week workout routine designed to gradually improve fitness, strength, and endurance in preparation for the trek.
| Day | Workout Focus | Week 1 Target | Week 2 Target | Week 3 Target | Week 4 Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Endurance | Sustained hiking or walking with a good grip of boots. | 90 minutes | 100 minutes | 110 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Moderate Cardio | Walking, light jogging and cycling by maintaining steady pace where walking is possible | 30 minutes | 35 minutes | 40 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Intensity | Stairs, treadmill on incline or hill repeat | 20 minutes | 25 minutes | 30 minutes | 35 minutes |
| Day | Workout Focus | Week 5 Target | Week 6 Target | Week 7 Target | Week 8 Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Endurance | Start carrying ¼ target pack weight | 2.5 hours | 3 hours | 3.5 hours | 4 hours |
| Moderate Cardio | Performing exercise at higher speed than before | 50 minutes | 55 minutes | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Intensity | Increase the intensity of your repeats or steepness of incline | 40 minutes | 45 minutes | 50 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Day | Workout Focus | Week 9 Target | Week 10 Target | Week 11 Target | Week 12 Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Endurance | Carry ½ target pack weight. Target daily trek duration | 4.5 hours | 5 hours | 6 hours | 5 hours |
| Long Endurance | Back to back sessions. This session is done on day 2 of fatigue. | 3 hours | 3.5 hours | 4 hours | 5 hours |
| Intensity | Maintain intensity but reduce volume slightly to allow recovery | 45 minutes | 45 minutes | 40 minutes | Rest or 20 minutes light walk |
Planning and organizing all essential gear in advance to ensure comfort, safety, and readiness throughout the trek.
The body’s gradual adaptation to altitude, terrain, and physical exertion to maintain health and performance during the trek.
Trekup India has the expertise and flexibility to tailor your adventure based trekking experience. Whether you are with your friends, family, colleague or being a solo we will provide you customised trekking experience according to your style and fitness level. Trekup India has completed 30 years above with the Adventure Tourism Industry for its commitments and trust. We have been delivering outstanding treks, expeditions, and outdoor programs in the Himalayas since day one. We operate in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Kashmir, Ladakh, West Bengal, Sikkim, Nepal, Bhutan and South Africa with over 75 documented treks in the higher altitude of Himalayas. We are known for our professionalism, safety, and endless passion for the mountains. Below we have mentioned why to choose us, so have a look and be our next trekker for high altitude treks.
1. Unmatched safety and medical preparedness
2. Deep local knowledge and experience longevity
3. Superior trek quality and trekker comfort
4. Commitments to responsible tourism
When you choose Trekup India, you select a company which provides safety endorsement through its experienced staff who deliver high-quality trekking services in accordance with their mountain expertise. The entire trek experience at Trekup India begins with our dedication to delivering high-quality services which maintain your safety throughout the entire trekking.
Selecting a reputable company is one of the most important steps to ensure a successful, enjoyable, and safe trekking experience. To build your total trust in us, we have developed a comprehensive understanding of the four fundamental components of trust in the trekking industry that is: legally accountable, operationally excellent, satisfied customers and financially ethical. Our registered and recognized standing, our proven history of successful treks, and our excellent ratings are all factors of trust you can depend on so that you may enjoy your trek with complete peace of mind, while we take care of your safety and satisfaction every step of the way.
1. Registered and Recognized: A registration and recognition serve to show that we are a stable and trustworthy organisation and we operate under the legal guidelines and safety standards of our respective domains. In addition, you will have legal safeguards against unlicensed or unsafe tour operators.
2. Successful Treks: You can be confident we are competent operators with a proven track record of success. We have been operating since 1993, and our extensive experience has resulted in becoming one of the world's leading logistical, risk management and emergency response specialists in extreme mountain environments.
3. Good Ratings: The organization uses external assessments together with superior client evaluations to measure its performance because these two assessment methods function as its performance measurement system. The documented materials confirm our guides' professional proficiency together with our ability to deliver exceptional trekking services throughout different periods.
4. Transparent Pricing: Our cost breakdown system enables us to provide complete pricing information which prevents any possibility of hidden charges while we establish financial responsibility for our expenditures. All administrative shortcuts have been eliminated from your trek experience because we use your funds to implement essential safety measures and deliver our top-tier services.
Operations Manager
How We Created This Guide?
1. Medical Safety Protocols: We worked with high-altitude medicine specialists to create a comprehensive system of medical safety protocols, including emergency response plans and acclimatization schedules for our high-altitude treks.
2. Testing Logistics & Gear: The success of a high-altitude trek is dependent on the quality of gear used. When we created this planning guide, we included only tested, reliable gear, such as weather resistant tents and calorie-rich nutrition meals.
3. Environmental Responsibility & Planning: The trail uses strict Leave No Trace environmental policies and waste management practices. The environmental impact assessment which we conduct before our trek will help us protect the untouched natural landscape for upcoming trekkers.
4. Transparent Costing: Our transparent costing works as a complete solution which demonstrates our commitment to transparent cost information because it shows all of our expenses in detailed form. We include all expenses which consist of permits and insurance costs and fair wages for our local employees.
Why This Content Exists?
1. To Mitigate Risks and Provide Safety: Trekking is a physically risky event, and this guide is meant to assure you that your safety is not left up to chance. By providing details of our on-the-ground research and medical protocols, we can demonstrate that all routes have been stress-tested.
2. To Create Total Financial Transparency: Many times within the trekking industry there are extreme cases of sticker shock from things like hidden permits, equipment charges, or unanticipated tipping. This guide creates price integrity.
3. Verified by Global Trekker’s: This content was created to demonstrate we have external validation of our performance and move the discussion from we say that we are good to our clients and our independent trekkers say we are good, making an important differentiation for those selecting a trekking partner.
4. Ethical and Environmental Concern: Today’s voices of modern trekkers are being heard more loudly than ever and they are aware of their footprint. By outlining our Leave No Trace principles and our partnership with local communities, we provide a moral compass for the trekker, ensuring your trek contributes to the conservation of wilderness instead of its degradation.
Expert Advice: Arrive promptly by 4:00 PM to ensure you have ample time for the important safety briefing and gear check before enjoying your evening in Old Manali.
Reporting Time: By 4:00 PM
Stay: Hotel in Manali (Dinner included)
It’s time to start your Kanamo Peak trek, which begins today as you reach Manali. Everyone is expected to arrive by 4:00 pm at designated hotel in Manali, where you will meet the Trekup India team and fellow trek participants.
After check in, our Trek Leader will lead a short briefing session which will include:
Route and itinerary details for the trek
Safety Procedures & Check ups by trek leaders and Awareness of AMS
Checking the gear and assistance with renting (if necessary)
Introduction to the trek’s leaders and staff.
This is also a great moment to connect with your trekking friends over a cup of refreshments and tea. The crisp mountain air, the distant snow capped Himalayan mountains, and the anticipation of a forth coming adventure all set the mood for the trek ahead.
The evening is a good time to walk around Old Manali and Mall Road.
We’ll end the day by having the pleasure of a rich meal at the hotel, and a relaxing night sleep will follow. Tomorrow, the real adventure starts as we move deeper into the Himalayas, towards Kaza, the base of Kanamo Peak.
Expert Advice: The drive through Batal involves rough, bumpy roads; embrace the adventure as it leads you into the pure, unspoiled scenery of Spiti.
Drive travel distance: 183 km
Time taken: 6 to 8 hours
Altitude Gain: 2,000 meters / 6,000 feet
In the morning, after breakfast, we begin the beautiful journey from Manali towards Kibber, the entrance into the Kanamo Peak trek. Our journey will take us via the Atal Tunnel into the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lahaul Spiti area.
The route is a journey through the Chenab River, with ever-changing landscapes ranging from lush valleys to the barren desert of Spiti. The route will pass isolated hamlets, barley and pea fields that are green gold shades, and stunning mountains that appear to have been created by the process of time.
The journey takes us through Batal, a rough stretch with bumpy roads that add to the adventure. From there, the true Spiti scenery unfolds pure, unspoiled, and straight from an old postcard. At the end of the evening, we will be at Kibber – One of the most beautiful and popular villages.
Your accommodation will be provided in a local homestay with a warm welcome and a true Spitian adventure. This day also marks the beginning of acclimatization, which is crucial for the high altitudes we will face on the Kanamo Peak trek.
Transport cost: Rs 2,000 (one-way) from Manali to Kibber, for both ways 4,000.
Expert Advice: Maximize your acclimatization by taking a brief, short day hike to the Chicham Bridge, remembering to keep yourself well-hydrated and avoid overexertion.
This day is devoted entirely to getting acclimatized, an essential stage for your body to get used to the conditions that are high in altitude, before we take off for higher campsites. Kibber, one of the most populated villages, provides the best setting to take a break from the journey.
In the morning, we’ll have the time to take a brief, short day hike through the village. There are small lanes dotted with traditional brick houses made of mud. You can also visit the well-known Chicham Bridge , the tallest suspension bridge in Asia, and enjoy breathtaking views of Spiti Valley. On the way, there is a chance to spot Himalayan blue sheep, or an elusive red fox further away.
The remainder of the time is free to take in the culture of the area , Chat with the locals, sip a cup of the butter tea, or take a break and observe the constantly changing play of light across the mountain ranges. It’s just as essential to take a break as the trek itself, allowing your body to adapt and helping you avoid altitude related problems.
The Trek Leader’s Tips: Keep yourself well-hydrated, eat light, nutritious meals, and stay away from overexertion. Even on rest days, moving slowly and inhaling fresh mountain air can aid in the process of acclimatization.
At night, we meet for an evening trek briefing, where the trek leaders & guide discuss the trek plans, conduct gear inspections, and provide safety instructions, as well as perform health check ups. Get up early because the next day we will venture deeper into the Spiti wilds.
Water Source: Carry at least 2 litres from Kibber; you will have the option to refill at an alpine lake about 1 hour before reaching Base Camp.
Trek Distance: 5.5 km
Time Taken: 6 to 7 hours
Altitude Gain: plus 2,350 feet / 720 meters
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (steep initial ascent, then level and gradual climb)
Water Source: Carry at least 2 litres from Kibber, with the option to refill at a nearby lake, 1 hour before reaching Base Camp.
We depart from Kibber early in the morning and set out toward Kanamo Base Camp. A steep ascent greets the trail during the first 3 to 4 hours, traversing the rocky slopes, open meadows, and desert terrain at high altitude that is unique to Spiti.
After leaving the village, we pass through beautiful fields of peas. During harvest time, you might be able to get freshly harvested peas directly from the pod from friendly locals. As we ascend the landscape gets more stark but also more striking.
In the middle of the day, ascent slows down to the incline of a short, easy trek and allows you to breathe and enjoy the panoramic views of the nearby Himalayan ranges. The tranquil section does not last very long, since the final section is a gradual ascent which brings you close to Kanamo Base Camp.
As we trek, we pass through two alpine lakes. One of them serves as an essential source of water for Kaza village, providing the village with its drinking water. A little over an hour before Base Camp, you can refill your water bottles here.
The final two hours offer a stunning view and the slopes are covered by miniscule Brahma Kamal and vibrant wildflowers. There are also rocky areas that conceal deep secrets, including marine and plant fossils. Your trek guide will help you discover and identify these fascinating artifacts from the time that the region was under the Tethys Sea.
By the end of the afternoon, we arrive at Kanamo Base Camp, an imposing and rugged location surrounded by a soaring ridge. At this point, the massive silhouette of Kanamo seems a bit close, but the summit holds secrets for the massive push ahead.
The evening is spent relaxing in a hydrating and relaxing environment, as well as mentally prepping to make the summit challenge over the next few days. The cold here is more pronounced, so make sure you have warm clothes in your bag.
Expert Advice: Utilize the "climb high, sleep low" method during your short hike today, and pay close attention during the technical skills session to ensure a safe summit push.
Today is among the most crucial days of your trek and it is the day of complete acclimatisation and preparation at Kanamo Base Camp. With the top of Kanamo Peak soaring above 19,000 feet, the next day’s climb will require physical endurance and concentration. This rest day was designed so that your body has the best opportunity to adapt and recuperate before the major climb.
After a hot breakfast, the day is going to be relaxed but with a purpose. We’ll take the opportunity to take a short hike to an elevation that is slightly higher within the camp area to “climb high, sleep low,” which is a tried and tested method for better adaptation to altitude. This gives you a chance to take in the bleak and beautiful surroundings, as well as stunning perspectives from the Trans-Himalayan ranges.
In the afternoon, the Technical Team will hold a meeting to brief the summit participants and a skill session which will include:
The route to the summit and anticipated difficulties
The use of technical equipment when needed (ropes, gaiters, microspikes)
Safety protocols and signals for communication
Health check ups
Pacing, hydration, and strategies for nutrition on the day of the summit
The remainder of the day is left to recuperation, hydration or mental preparation. At this high altitude, your body has to work harder, even when you’re not working. So avoid overphysical exertion. Drink plenty of hot or cold fluids frequently.
As the night draws closer and evening sets in, you will sense the anticipation increase as the cold winds intensify and the stars appear in the thousands as well as the silhouette of Kanamo sits quietly in the night sky in anticipation of. After having an early meal, it’s time to get back to your tents for sleep.
It’s time to go for the summit. The climb will start at night and will take only 3-4 hour to climb Kanamo Peak.
Note: Layer up before sleeping & take 2-3 litres of water for the summit.
Expert Advice: Success on the relentless 80° scree slopes depends entirely on your pacing, steady breathing, and keeping your core warm; start slowly and keep your energy in reserve.
Distance: 11 km (round trek)
Duration: 10 -14 hours (2:00 AM start)
Altitude: Kanamo Peak Summit – 19,500 ft
Difficulty: Challenging (Extreme scree slope section)
Water: Carry 2 – 3 liters (no sources of water en route)
It’s the biggest day that begins in darkness. It’s 2 a.m., the first light of the day is a step out into the crisp, icy cold, with headlamps piercing the silence of the Spiti night. Our first objective is to make it to the first mountain shoulder that the mountain has before dawn, and the world is awakened in a dazzling array of pink, orange, and gold, showing off distant Himalayan mountains under a changing sky.
From here, the trail is pushed toward an the second shoulder and the temperature drops dramatically. The winds here are cold and constant – an appropriate balaclava and layering are crucial to protect your body from the cold.
The last section is the tough ascent, the relentless 4 hour ascent over steep scree slopes which can be tilted upwards at 80°. Every step could be accompanied by a half-step back, requiring a steady physical vigilance and mental concentration
The terrain finally is flattened into a peak ridge , and in just a few seconds you are on top of Kanamo Peak – 5,975 meters or 19,600 feet. The reward is amazing and breathtaking – the 360-degree panorama that spans the Himalayas that spans: Parang La Pass leading into Ladakh Pin Parvati Pass as it descends to the Kullu Valley. Kullu Valley The towering regions in Kinnaur, Lahaul, and Spiti The glistening glacier’s massive ice is hidden in the shadow of the summit Shila Peak , the twin of Kanamo, is constantly snow-clad, despite being at the same altitude You’ll be able to see Kanamo has surprisingly little snow at its summit, an unusual characteristic of this mountain despite its altitude. After taking in the view while taking photos and enjoying a delicious snack, we start the 2.5 to 3 hour trek towards Kanamo Base Camp. Ascending the scree is more efficient, but it is a matter of careful step-by-step footwork so as not to slip. After returning to Base Camp, we rest in our tents, drink water, and tell the tales of the day that will be with you for the rest of your lives.
Pro Tip for the day: Summit success at this altitude is dependent on your pacing as well as steady breathing in addition to keeping the core of your body warm. Start slowly, keep your energy in reserve and let the Himalayan mountains inspire you.
Expert Advice: Enjoy the 3-hour downhill trek to Kibber, but ensure you buffer one extra day in your travel plans from Manali to account for any unpredictable mountain road delays.
Trek Distance: 5.5 km
Trek Time: 2 to 3 hours
Altitude Loss: 4,815 m / 15,850 ft to 4,115 m / 13,500 ft
Drive Distance: 183 km
Drive Time: 6 to 7 hours
Expected Drop off Time: 7:00 PM at Beas Bridge, Manali
The todays small trek starts early this morning as we say goodbye to Kanamo Base Camp and descend to Kibber. 5.5 kilometers trek is mostly downhill and will take about 3 hours to retrace the picturesque route that we followed during our ascent. When you have the pounding of the summit to your back, make sure to really take in the stunning landscape, including the landscape of rolling meadows as well as the deserted Spitian slopes and fields of emerald green peas that surround Kibber.
At midday, we arrive in Kibber , where our vehicles are waiting. From there, we begin on the return journey to Manali returning to the stunning route across the Lahaul-Spiti valley and through the Atal Tunnel. The drive is approximately 7 hours and allows taking in the incredible views of mountains with high valleys, glacial streams and rocky valleys.
When we arrive in Manali After arriving in Manali, we’ll go towards our Trekup India partner hotel. Here, you can:
Return any rental equipment
Take items from the Cloakroom
Refresh yourself before you embark on your next journey
At night, we’ll meet you off at Beas Bridge, Manali , which marks the official conclusion of the Kanamo Peak expedition. It’s where the team members exchange final hugs, pictures, and make promises to be together at the next Himalayan trail.
Note: Buffer one extra day in your travel plans to allow for delays caused by road or weather conditions in the mountains.
