Zanskar Kanishka Expeditions is a J&K Tourism Department registered and ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators Association) certified mountaineering company based in Leh, Ladakh. With over a decade of field experience in the Himalayan region, our team of local expert guides and certified mountain leaders has successfully led hundreds of climbers to the summits of Ladakh's most iconic peaks.
From the accessible yet breathtaking Stok Kangri (6,153m) — one of India's highest trekking peaks — to the technically demanding Kang Yatse II (6,400m) and the spectacular Mentok Kangri (6,270m) above Tso Moriri, we design every expedition to balance adventure, safety, and deep cultural immersion.
"Our guides have grown up in these mountains. We don't just lead climbs — we bring you home to the Himalayas."
Select the summit that matches your experience level and ambition. All expeditions include acclimatization days, certified guides, quality camping gear, and full logistics support.
Stok Kangri is the most popular non-technical high-altitude summit in Ladakh and one of the highest accessible trekking peaks in India. The ascent traverses barren moonscapes, Buddhist monastery trails, and a dramatic high-altitude glacier, culminating in panoramic views of K2 and the entire Zanskar Range from the summit at 6,153 metres.
Kang Yatse I (6,200m) is the lower but more approachable of the two Kang Yatse summits, often combined with the famous Markha Valley trek. This expedition takes you through remote Buddhist villages, alpine meadows at Nimaling, and a non-technical summit push offering spectacular views of the Markha Valley and the Greater Himalayan Range.
At 6,400 metres, Kang Yatse II is the technical counterpart and the higher of the two peaks. The summit push involves glacier travel, fixed ropes, crampons, and ice axe work, making it ideal for climbers with prior high-altitude experience. The summit offers one of the finest panoramas in all of Ladakh — a 360° view of the Zanskar and Himalayan ranges.
Mentok Kangri (6,270m) towers over the sacred Tso Moriri lake, making this one of Ladakh's most visually stunning expeditions. Located in the Rupshu plateau near the Tibetan border, this seldom-climbed peak rewards adventurers with vast open landscapes, abundant wildlife including Tibetan wolves and kiang, and a deeply spiritual summit experience above one of India's highest lakes.
UT Kangri (6,030m) is an ideal first 6,000-metre summit for aspiring high-altitude climbers. The approach passes through scenic valleys and high-altitude pastures, offering excellent acclimatization before the summit push. With a moderate technical grade and outstanding views of the wider Ladakh massif, UT Kangri is the perfect introduction to Himalayan mountaineering.
Every itinerary is crafted with carefully placed acclimatization days to maximise your summit success rate and safety.
Arrive in Leh and complete your first day at rest — acclimatisation is non-negotiable at this altitude. In the afternoon, drive to Zingchen village (3,900m), passing the Spituk Monastery (Perthup Gompa) perched dramatically above the Indus River. A gentle walk around the village helps your body begin adjusting to the thin Himalayan air. Overnight camp at Zingchen.
Trek begins across Ladakh's iconic barren lunar landscapes — vast, sun-bleached plateaus that earned this region the name "Land of High Passes." The trail steadily climbs, offering the first dramatic views of glaciated peaks ahead. Temperatures drop sharply after sunset; a hearty hot dinner and an early night prepare you for the days ahead.
A moderate day's trek through grey mountain ridges and snow-dusted passes rewards you with your first clear sighting of Stok Kangri's summit pyramid. Mankarmo meadow serves as a natural amphitheatre for the peak. The landscape becomes increasingly dramatic and remote — a reminder that you are deep in the Himalayan wilderness.
Establish base camp at 5,000m and use the remaining afternoon for a critical acclimatisation climb (+100m). Your guide will brief you on summit day gear: crampons, ice axe, high-altitude clothing, and headlamp. Prepare your pack, eat a nutritious meal, and rest as early as possible — summit day starts at midnight.
Depart camp at midnight under a star-filled Himalayan sky. The ascent follows a glacier ridge to the base of the summit pyramid, then a steep 45–55° snow slope to the top — the most demanding section requiring mental and physical reserves. At the summit (6,153m / 20,185 ft), on a clear day, your panoramic reward includes K2, the Zanskar Range, Karakoram peaks, and the Indus Valley far below. Descend carefully to base camp.
A scheduled buffer day for inclement weather, incomplete acclimatisation, or second summit attempts. Rest, recover, and celebrate at camp. If conditions permit an earlier descent, this day may also be used to explore local trails.
Descend through Stok village, passing the ruins of the ancient Stok Palace and fort. Vehicles await to drive you back to Leh. Celebrate your summit with a well-deserved meal at a riverside restaurant. The evening is free for shopping, reflection, or celebrating with fellow summiteers.
Transfer to Leh Airport for your onward flight to Delhi or other destinations. We recommend booking afternoon flights to allow for relaxed morning rest. Your summit certificate and expedition photographs will be prepared for you before departure.
Full transparency on every package — no hidden costs.
We are not a booking platform — we are local Ladakhi mountaineers who live and breathe these peaks.
Our guides are native Ladakhis with unmatched local knowledge of micro-weather patterns, terrain, and culture.
All lead guides hold certifications in mountain rescue, wilderness first aid, and high-altitude mountaineering.
We carry emergency oxygen, pulse oximeters, and satellite communication on every expedition, with clear abort protocols.
Our methodical acclimatisation schedules and small group sizes deliver industry-leading summit success rates.
Our dedicated high-altitude cooks prepare fresh, nutritious meals — even on glacier campsites — consistently praised by clients.
No hidden fees. Every cost is itemised upfront, and we accommodate group sizes from solo climbers to corporate teams.
Real reviews from real summiteers — verified on TripAdvisor and Google.
The organisation was fantastic. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and resolved every challenge that came up on the mountain. The food quality and variety was well above expectations. I would highly recommend this company to anyone considering a Ladakh expedition.
We did extensive research before choosing Zanskar Kanishka and they exceeded every expectation. Our guide Chozang handled changing conditions with outstanding skill and care. Even the summit snacks were a surprise treat. A truly memorable summit experience.
In June 2024 we went on a 16-day trip to Zanskar, Nubra Valley and Dah Hanu. Everything was absolutely seamless. Our guide and driver were excellent, and owner Lobsang met us several times and responded to emails within hours. We sincerely recommend this company.
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