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Located in the heart of Ladakh, Stok Kangri is the highest trekking peak in India, with an elevation of 6,153 metres. It offers a challenging and rewarding climb for adventure enthusiasts. The trek to Stok Kangri takes you through rough terrains, icy paths, and steep ascents, making it a top choice for experienced trekkers. In this guide, you will find all the necessary details, including how to reach the trekking peak, where the highest trekking peak is, and the best time to visit the highest trekking peak.
Location
Photo: Adipalande / Wikimedia Commons
Stok Kangri is located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is a part of the Stok Range of the Himalayas and is situated within the Hemis National Park. The base camp for the trek starts from Stok village, which is about 15 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
How To Reach
Photo: Saippuakauppias / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Stok Kangri by road, rail, or air, making it accessible through all three modes of transport.
By Air: The nearest airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh, which is well connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh.
By Bus: Regular bus services are available from Srinagar and Manali to Leh. From Leh, you can take a shared taxi or a private cab to Stok village, which is the starting point of the trek.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, which is about 700 km from Leh. From Jammu, you can either take a flight to Leh or travel by road via Srinagar or Manali.
Places To Visit In And Around Stok Kangri
Explore stunning monasteries, valleys, and trekking spots in and around Stok Kangri.
1. Stok Palace
Photo: beibaoke / Shutterstock
Stok Palace is an old royal house where the Namgyal dynasty lived. It was built in 1820 and still has many things that belonged to the royal family. People visit to see the museum, which has old weapons, jewellery, and clothes worn by Ladakhi kings and queens. The palace has colourful paintings and wooden carvings that show Ladakh’s history. Many visitors take photos of the highest trekking peak from here because the palace sits on a hill.
Location: Stok, Leh, Ladakh 194101
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
2. Hemis Monastery
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Hemis Monastery is an important Buddhist place in Ladakh. It was built in 1672 and is known for its large golden statue of Lord Buddha. Many Buddhist monks study and live here. The monastery has an annual festival in June, where monks wear masks and perform Cham dance, a religious dance that tells old stories. It is also a good place to see how monks meditate. The monastery is a peaceful spot for travellers before they head towards the highest trekking peak in India.
Location: Hemis, 194201
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
3. Shanti Stupa
Photo: Sarabjit Singh / Wikimedia Commons
Shanti Stupa is a white-domed Buddhist monument in Leh. It was built by Japanese monks in 1991 to promote world peace. It has a golden statue of Buddha and colourful paintings that show his life events. People come here to see the sunrise and sunset because the view from the top covers the whole city. The place is also popular among visitors who want to learn about Buddhist chanting and prayers, which happen here daily.
Location: Shanti Stupa Rd, Leh, Jammu and Kashmir 194101
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Magnetic Hill
Photo: AKS.9955 / Wikimedia Commons
Magnetic Hill is a strange place where vehicles seem to roll uphill on their own. Scientists say it is an optical illusion, but many people believe it has magnetic forces pulling cars. It is on the way to Leh and is a famous stop for tourists. People come here to test the phenomenon by turning off their car engines and watching their vehicles move. It is also a good place to take photos and videos for memories because of the clear background. Some visitors ride bicycles downhill to feel the sudden pull, which is an exciting experience.
Location: Leh District
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
5. Pangong Lake
Photo: Siddharth Mallya / Wikimedia Commons
Pangong Lake is a high-altitude lake that stretches between India and China. The water changes colour from blue to green depending on the sunlight. Many travellers visit here before or after trekking to the highest trekking peak in India. The lake freezes in winter, and people walk on the thick ice. In summer, visitors camp near the lake and enjoy a clear view of the stars. You can also see birds like seagulls and bar-headed geese flying over the lake.
Location: Eastern Ladakh to West Tibet
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
Where To Stay
Photo: tianya1223 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation options around Stok Kangri include guesthouses and hotels in Leh. Some popular choices include Hotel Omasila, The Grand Dragon Ladakh, and Ladakh Residency. Trekkers also set up tents at base camps during the climb. Homestays in Stok village offer a more local experience, providing basic amenities and traditional Ladakhi food.
Where To Eat
Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Leh has various cafes and restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Some popular choices include The Tibetan Kitchen, Gesmo Restaurant, and Lamayuru Restaurant. You can try traditional Ladakhi dishes like Thukpa, Skyu, and Butter Tea. During the trek, food options are limited, so trekkers usually carry energy bars, dry fruits, and ready-to-eat meals.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Reflectionsbyprajakta / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the highest trekking peak in India is between June and September. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, and the snow begins to melt, making the trekking conditions favourable. Winter is not recommended as heavy snowfall makes the trail dangerous and inaccessible.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: JESHOOTS.com / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The trip cost to the highest trekking peak in India varies depending on the travel mode, accommodation, and trekking package. On average, a trek to Stok Kangri costs between ₹25,000 – 40,000, including permits, guides, food, and gear rental. Additional costs for flights and accommodation in Leh should also be considered.
Tips For Travellers
- Acclimatise in Leh for at least two days before starting the trek.
- Carry proper trekking gear, including warm clothes, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid altitude sickness.
- Hire a certified guide to ensure safety during the trek.
- Obtain the required permits before starting the trek.
- Avoid trekking in winter due to extreme weather conditions.
- Capture photos at the highest trekking peak in India but do not litter.
Stok Kangri in Ladakh, the highest trekking peak in India is a dream trek for adventure seekers, offering an unmatched experience of high-altitude trekking. Whether you are looking for stunning landscapes or a challenging climb, this peak has it all. Plan your journey, pack your essentials, and get ready for an unforgettable trekking experience. Book your trip now with TripXL and explore Stok Kangri!
Cover Photo: James Edward Ball / Wikimedia Commons
