Stok Kangri Summit Trek 01 Aug 2013 18 days This outstanding trek to the summit of India's magnificent mountain, Stok Kangri, (6,114m/20,130ft) is the perfect challenge for trekkers who want to summit an Indian Himalayan Peak. Activity: Trekking Place: Ladakh, India Organiser: Charity Challenge Date: 1 August 2013 Duration/distance: 18 days Teams: Beginners: Under 18's: Women-only: Difficulty: Payment options: Minimum sponsorship option: £575 registration fee + min sponsorship Self funder option: £575 registration fee + tour cost (no min sponsorship)

Challenge details

Stok Kangri, (6,114m/20,130ft) is one of the main peaks of the Zansker range, situated in the fascinating region of Ladakh. This high and arid landscape has captured the imagination of travellers since it first opened to visitors in 1974. The expedition travels through remote valleys, scattered high villages and past hilltop monasteries to the base of the mountain.

Your trekking adventure begins at Leh where you will have plenty of time to acclimatise to the high altitude. This stark region of high passes and wild mountains is softened by the immense charm of the Ladakhi villages and their inhabitants. You will spend several days acclimatising by visiting the colourful monasteries at Shey, Thikse and Hemis and visiting the world highest motorable road at Khardungla before setting off on the memorable trek to Stok Kangri.

Your route leads through the village of Stok, where you will visit the Stok Palace the current home of an Indian Prince, Prince St Namgyal the Ladakhi prince and great grandson of King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal. This approach to the mountain allows you to gain altitude steadily and acclimatise to the conditions before reaching Stok Kangri.

You will trek for between 10-15kms per day and although the route is very safe and technically straightforward (involving low-angle scree and easy snow slopes), the climb up Stok Kangri is both challenging and interesting. The climb affords stunning views extending across Ladakh to the Karakorams, the Himalayas and into Tibet.

Despite the climb being non-technical, you will be shown how to use crampons and an ice axe, and occasionally conditions will demand the use of rope as well.

On completion of your challenge you will head to Agra for a final celebratory meal and to spend your final day exploring the Taj Mahal – one of the greatest monuments to love ever built.