KANG YATSE II
Summit Trek

Yes. At Adventuress in the Wild we work with tour operators who are providing trips for anybody who identifies as a woman. We have found that women are more likely to step out of their comfort zone and try new activities when they are surrounded by other supportive women. All of the tour operators we work with believe that adventure is for every woman no matter your background, ability, body type, or orientation.

Where we endeavor to work with tour operators who provide female guides and ground crew, this isn’t always possible for all trips. Therefore your guides and staff on this particular trip will be male. All staff are highly respectful and have worked with 360 Expeditions for many years.

You should already have experience of tough challenges and be regularly training as part of your normal routine. Expect days of up to 8 hours and longer while carrying a pack up to 8-14kg in weight. Summit night could be easily in excess of 12 hours. Sustained physical effort calls for a state of high conditioning.

This trip may involve harder scrambling or some trekking and climbing with ropes. If snow is encountered then glacier travel with ropes, ice axes and crampons will be necessary. Basic climbing skills are ideal, but these will also be taught (and certainly practiced) during the expedition and pre-summit phase. 

When is the final payment date?

25th May 2025

How much ascent will there be on summit night?

Summit night is a lot. You’ll start between midnight and 1 am and aim to reach the summit in about 8-10 hours.  This is anticipated as being a 16-hour day with 1,200m of altitude gain. 

How high is Kang Yatse 2? I can see it is noted anywhere between 6,195m and 6,350m.

Kang Yatse is split into two peaks with the more technical Kang Yatse at 6,496m involving a difficult knife-edge traverse. We will be climbing the lower peak, Kang Yatse 2 which although not strictly documented is generally noted as being 6250m. 

What is the ratio of leaders to clients?

One leader oversees and runs the expedition. The leader is assisted by 1 local guide for every 8 trekkers and once past base camp there will be a ratio of 1 local guide for every 4 trekkers.

How out of my comfort zone will I be?

As a bare minimum, you will be camping at altitude in cold temperatures. You will probably be cold and there are limited washing and toilet facilities. The altitude may affect your appetite and shortness of breath may increase as difficulty sleeping. Remember that you’re not going through it alone, and your group will probably all be having the same symptoms, physical and mental.

How fit do I need to be for this expedition?

You should be in good physical condition to handle the demands of the trek to Base Camp and then, of course, climbing the peak. You will enjoy much more as well as increasing your chances of reaching the summit if you are prepared. Several excellent training plans can be found online for preparation. Check the thorough advice offered by UpHill Athlete.

Is there always snow on the summit of Kang Yatse 2?

Yes, there is always snow on the north-west face. You will be provided with Camp and Petzl crampons, an ice axe, and a harness for this summit push. Your boots must be sturdy B2 or B3 boots and once we have reached the snow, we will rope up.

How cold/hot can it get?

The temperature can vary from 30C during the day to 0C in the evenings. With windchill on summit day, it may be cooler. In Leh, the temperatures range from 15 – 35C.

Where do I meet my trip leader?

Generally, you will be met at the airport, at the check-in desk. Specifics will be confirmed nearer your departure.

Before booking your flights please first confirm the time of meeting for the transfer.

Where should I book flights to if I’m booking them myself?

You will need to book flights to and from Leh. You will be meeting your guide at the airport for a particular time for transfers, so please confirm this before booking.

What is the accommodation like?

To give you a bit more personal space and more room for your gear you’ll be resting in 3 man tents. 

Will I have my own room/tent? 

Symptoms of altitude sickness often come on in the night so we allocate rooms and tents as soon as we head off on expedition. Room share is organised according to age group where possible and obviously, you’ll be sharing with your friend or partner if you have booked this trip together. If you would like your own room/tent, please let us know. 

How much will it cost to have a single room/tent? 

This can be arranged for £190 single supplement for the hotel nights and £50 for the tent nights. So if you’d like a single supplement for the full expedition, it’ll be £240. 

Will there be a mess tent for dining and relaxing? 

Dining tents are provided for meals and to relax after your day’s walking. 

Will the camp be freshly set up or will I be staying at existing camps at a set site on the way up? What will the lavatorial facilities be? 

All of your camping gear will be brought with you by horse and camp will be pitched near reliable water. A separate toilet and shower tent are provided.

I have seen some companies offer an additional night at high camp – why is this not offered?

There are several reasons for not having a high camp The main reasons for this are: 

• High Camp is colder, windier, and rocky leaving climbers more exhausted for the big summit day.
• There is no water and not enough space for everything.
• The distance from Base Camp to High Camp is only about 1 hour 30 which doesn’t make a big difference. 
• To get all the gear to High Camp would require hiring extra porters as horses cannot go further than Base Camp. This would put the costs up of what would be charged for the trip and we aim to keep it as cost effective for you as possible. 

Do I need special insurance for this expedition?

Individual travel insurance is compulsory on this expedition, and you will not be permitted on the trip without proof of insurance. We will request full details 8 weeks before your departure. 

Any tips on how I can maximise my chances of success?

The training programs that will be provided have been devised to be expedition-specific. Feel free to contact us on how you can incorporate the most suitable fitness program with your lifestyle. Increase the intensity of the exercise you are doing in the 4-6 months before you leave for the expedition. Cardiovascular workouts are recommended at the beginning of your program in the form of short runs. You should also aim to spend at least 2 weekends a month going on long-duration walks (longer than 6 hrs) carrying a rucksack of around 10 kg. As you get stronger increase this rate of exercise and the duration by walking every weekend and running 5km every second day.

A focused regime will not only prepare your body for carrying minor loads but will harden your body against the big days on the mountain itself. Additionally, the weekend walks will help break in your boots and get you used to your equipment. All of these aspects combined will pay dividends when you reach Kang Yatse II. Although you can’t train for altitude, you will be prepared for tough days and familiar with using your equipment.

Several excellent training plans can also be found online to prepare you for this ascent. Check the thorough advice offered by UpHill Athlete.

What is your cancellation policy? What is your refund policy?

Please read the Booking Terms carefully before you book. The operator highly recommends trip cancellation insurance for all expeditions. Due to the nature and heavy costs of government and operator permits, they must adhere to a stringent refund policy.

Money: what currency should I take?

Indian Rupees cannot be bought or sold outside of India so we recommend bringing British pounds or American dollars and then changing them when you arrive in the country. These are both easily converted to Rupees and there will always be a Bureau de Change at the airport. Leh has ATMs that work off a better exchange rate than you will get at the hotel.

Check with your bank what the cash withdrawal charges in India are.

What additional spending money will we need?

The amount of money needed depends on you and how many souvenirs or gifts you plan on buying or how much you want to eat and drink. $300 should be more than enough for any spending as India is relatively cheap. If you give the local custom of haggling a try you can often get very good value for money. The only cash you’ll need on the mountain is for local crew tips before leaving which are presented to them usually on the final evening at the last camp before you sign out from the national park.

How much do we tip our local crew?

Although tipping the local crew is not compulsory, it is customary and they work hard to make your trip run smoothly. We suggest around $80-100 per person to be shared amongst the local crew as a guideline. Tipping the Group Leader is up to you and your group but is always a nice gesture and much appreciated.

Am I likely to suffer from altitude sickness on this expedition?

There are different types of altitude sickness. Although our acclimatisation regime ensures that everybody enjoys the best possible chance of getting high on the mountain, altitude-related problems can happen. The most common of these is high altitude sickness – AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). Symptoms can include headaches, nausea and vomiting.

Generally, this is just the process of adjustment to altitudes and reduced partial pressure of the atmosphere. The acclimatisation process can take longer for some than others. Our guides assess each client carefully as well as considering the effects that dehydration brought on by excessive vomiting and loss of appetite may bring.

What can I do to help prevent AMS?

AMS can be avoided if you drink plenty of water, walk slowly, stay warm, and eat well. You should also listen to and talk with your guides. Get familiar with the effects of altitude. We will also describe altitude sickness to you in detail at the briefing so you can learn to recognise it.

The most important thing is not to fear it, but to respect it and to know how to deal with it and more importantly tell your guides how you feel. The guides have seen every condition that the mountain produces, and they will always know how to deal with problems.

Is there a risk of getting HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) and HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) on the mountain?

HACE and HAPE rarely occur on this trek and your guides are fully trained to recognise and deal with these conditions.

Should I bring Diamox on the expedition with me?

Although we recommend you bring Diamox or other high-altitude drugs on this expedition, we do not recommend taking it during the trek or climb. We view Diamox as a treatment drug rather than a preventative medicine but we know this may be confusing as many GPs (who aren’t necessarily mountaineers) do suggest taking it.

The itinerary is designed with acclimatisation in mind, to allow your body to adjust gradually, safely, and comfortably.

Should I take Diamox?

It is far preferable to take Diamox if and when needed during the expedition. If you are already taking it and then start having altitude-related problems this can mean descending to a more comfortable altitude which may make the summit unattainable.

Diamox is a diuretic, meaning you will have to drink a lot of fluid to prevent dehydration and you’ll have to pee more which means you’ll probably be having to get up more in the night and take cover behind rocks during the day. Your extremities may start to “buzz and tingle” including your fingers, toes, and lips which can feel quite unsettling. Dizziness and lightheadedness with loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also reported side effects. Although these are all manageable side effects, we think it is counter-intuitive to take them unless necessary.

Please note that this is just a recommendation and we’re not doctors.

If your Dr advises taking Diamox let us or your leader know so that they are fully informed. We suggest taking the drug for a couple of days in the weeks building up to travel so you can experience and thus identify the symptoms.

What happens if there is a problem on the mountain?

If there’s a serious injury or sickness the Leader carries a satellite phone and can get a helicopter from the Indian Air Force to airlift a casualty to Leh. This is the developing world though and things take longer to put into motion. Remember you’ll need insurance to cover the expenses if this does happen.

What if I get sick and I am unable to complete the climb?

If you are unable to complete the climb for medical reasons, then you will be taken to the nearest roadhead, usually Skiu (be aware that this can take a few days to reach), and driven back to Leh. Helicopter evacuation can be arranged in the most urgent of scenarios. This cost will be covered by yourself / thereafter your insurance company.

Please do note that it is rare that people get any altitude sickness after being in the mountains for so long and crossing the other passes, but there is an evacuation plan in place as mentioned.

Do I need to take malaria drugs? Do I need to have a yellow fever certificate?

There is no malaria or yellow fever in Ladakh, and you don’t need a yellow fever certificate unless you are traveling from an area where yellow fever is present.

What vaccinations do I need?

Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio are recommended and some consider rabies important. Our advice is to consult your doctor or nearest travel clinic for the most up-to-date information.

You advocate taking a small first aid kit, what should it have in it?

We advocate a little bit of self-help on the trek. If you have a blister developing for example then please stop, take off your boot, and treat it before it becomes a problem.

We would recommend your first aid kit contain:

Diamox, or another high-altitude drug, enough for the duration of expedition; a basic blister kit, plasters, antiseptic, sun protection, your medication (your luggage might not get to camp before you and so you may not be able to take your medicine according to the regime you are used to), basic pain relief (paracetamol /aspirin/ibuprofen,) a personal course of antibiotics if prone to illness – two different types are preferable, as back up, anti-diarrhea tablets if you do have a more sensitive stomach etc. 

Foot powder in your socks every morning is great for preventing blisters. Generally, the best approach to take when packing your first aid kit is to include such basic medications as if you would on a family or personal holiday.

Having said that, your Expedition Leader and/or a member of the local crew does carry a very comprehensive first aid kit which contains a wide range of supplies, and they are fully trained to use whatever is needed for any emergency that may arise.

What will we be eating?

Food served on this trek is vegetarian and consists of a wide variety of Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes.

Breakfast:  Chapati, bread,  jam, cheese, butter, cornflakes, omelet, porridge, pancake, tea, coffee

Lunch: bread, cheese, jam, fruit, spring rolls, chocolate, boiled potato and egg.

Dinner: Tibetan, Indian, and continental dishes.

If you have food allergies, let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to cater for these.

Where does the drinking water come from?

Drinking water comes from a stream or spring near the campsite. As it’s mostly rain runoff or snow melt it’s reasonably pure already, but we will boil or treat it anyway.

How often is fresh water available to top up during the day?

There are streams and springs for you to fill up from, so bring purification tablets or a water filter (the latter are noticeably heavier and bulkier than the former). Generally, you will fill your bottles up in the morning before setting off.

Will my valuables be safe?

While your Leaders do everything they can to provide adequate safety for the group and security for your possessions, the general rule is that if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. This includes jewellery, necklaces, rings, and even watches. Your passport and money should be kept on you at all times. As with travel in any foreign country, you need to look after yourself and your possessions, and this is no different.

Will I need a visa?

You do need a visa to visit India and can apply for this from up to 30 days before your date of departure.

Please get in touch if you are of Pakistani heritage as this can mean a barrier for visa application.

Will I be able to charge my camera/phone battery on the trek?

Opportunities to charge your batteries will be limited. A solar battery charger is the best option if possible. Another trick is keeping your spare batteries warm by keeping them near your body. We use PowerTraveller for our power packs and solar charges and would highly recommend them!

Is there mobile phone reception on the trek?

The phone signal is very patchy, which is why the team uses satellite phones and 2-way radios. There will be 4/5G signal in some places in Leh and Delhi and hotels usually offer free/cheap wifi packages in certain areas.

BAGS & PACKS

What are the temperatures like on the mountain?

The weather is generally bright and clear during the day, and temperatures tend to be 25-30℃. Nights can be chillier, especially at altitude. Expect around 5℃. Regardless of the weather lower down, the summit night will be cold, and temperatures often drop to -10℃. A good layering system will stand you in good stead. Check out the kit list, and let us know if you have any questions.

What are the temperatures like back in Leh?

These can be anywhere between 15℃-35℃ so shorts and t-shirts should be fine, but you might like to have trousers for cooler evenings.

What clothing should I wear on the mountain?

If you don’t own much equipment then we advocate borrowing gear from friends, buying second-hand (not shoes) or hiring from Outdoorhire.co.uk as the cost of buying everything can be prohibitive.

Guides usually start off wearing lightweight trekking trousers and T-shirts. Trousers are useful as a deterrent to insects, and stinging plants as well as providing sun protection. The temperature is usually warm so you can wear shorts if you’d prefer. Apply sun protection frequently, or use a once-a-day product like P20 if remembering regular application is not a strong point. You’ll need sunglasses and a hat for the majority of the trek.

Mountain weather conditions will dictate what you wear. When you leave the camp in the morning then wear your fleece if it’s cold and then as things warm up take advantage of the zipper system opening and closing zips until you find your preferred temperature. If you get too warm then take a layer off. Over the top of your clothing, you will wear a climbing harness and be attached to a rope for some of the day.

Waterproofs will be needed in an easy-to-reach place. Kang Yatse II is a big mountain that creates its weather system and it is not unusual to get caught in an afternoon rainstorm low down on the trek. Waterproofs should be Gore Tex material or similar.

What is the best type of footwear to use?

Whilst high-altitude mountaineering boots are generally essential for climbing 6,000m peaks, Kang Yatse II at the end of summer can sometimes be the exception to this rule! That being said, conditions vary greatly depending on that season’s weather and you will need to be prepared for the worst of the conditions. You will need sturdy B2 or B3 boots for the summit bid, big enough to wear 2 thick pairs of socks.

You will need 4-season waterproof boots for the Base Camp approach, or approach shoes. Decent ankle support and your boots are well worn in are key. Crampons aren’t always required on Kang Yatse 2, and also depends on the snow conditions on the mountain. They will be provided in-country if you don’t bring your own.

A range of suitable boots are on the market and further advice as to which brand names are available can be found online or at your local gear store. 

What will happen to my mountain hardware during the climb?

Porters will carry your mountain hardware to the camp. This includes ice axes and crampons.

What do our guides wear on summit day?

Typically the guides wear 2 sets of base layers (long johns), a thick fleece layer (top and bottom), a down jacket and waterproofs on the legs. As the wind picks up near the summit ridge our guides will put on their windproof layer to ward off the wind chill. Thin fleece working gloves with a thicker set of ski gloves or mittens are worn.

Thermal beanie hats or a thick balaclava and the hood of their down jackets are worn as head protection. One pair of thin socks and one pair of thick socks are worn on the feet. 

Waterproofs can be invaluable in protecting against wind chill.

Are down jackets necessary?

You’ll be grateful for your down jacket on summit day. Your guides wear them every evening from the high camp up as nothing can beat the efficiency of a good down jacket, especially when paired with a waterproof.

How warm does my sleeping bag need to be?

Your sleeping bag should be rated within the -10C comfort zone as frosty nights are not unusual and this will help ensure you sleep well. Your sleeping bag should be in the comfort zone rating rather than the extreme zone rating.

Your guides take sleeping bags rated to well below -10C to ensure that they are warm at night. 3 season sleeping bags can be enhanced by using an inner silk liner (or similar), and also by covering your down jacket over you. You will want to be as comfortable and warm as possible to make sure you get decent sleep and are ready for the hard work ahead. 

Sleeping bags work by your own body heating the down inside the bag. Once the bag is warm, the feather down retains the heat, ensuring that you sleep at body temperature. Wearing as little as possible, for example, a set of thermals, is ideal. By wearing multiple layers of clothing your clothing will trap this heat and your bag will not function properly.

Do I need a helmet?

Helmets aren’t mandatory for Kang Yatse, on the steeper sections of the summit you are roped up to limit the risk of slipping. However, if you would like to bring a helmet as added protection then you are welcome to do so! 

How much should my pack weigh during the trek?

A daypack must be worn at all times. The contents are mandatory and include a fleece, a full set (top and bottom) of waterproofs, sufficient water for the day, snacks, personal medication, and a head torch.

Your rucksack should weigh no more than 3 – 4 kilos (plus water) and a rucksack of around 30 – 40L capacity will be plenty. Your day pack must have an adjustable waist belt to transfer the weight to your hips and to your legs (strongest muscles) to carry the burden. A compartment for a platypus/Camelbak or water bladder is useful.

Your main luggage will be carried by horse. This bag should weigh between 10kg -15kg, with 15kg the absolute maximum.

Can I leave my city wear at the hotel whilst we’re on the mountain?

Personal items and extra clothing that don’t need to go up the mountain can be left in Leh. They are looked after by the team or left in a lock-up at the hotel.

Is it possible to rent equipment before I go?

You can rent equipment from www.outdoorhire.co.uk. We recommend using your own equipment when it comes to footwear. Your boots should be well worn in, by your own feet. If you do need crampons or ice axes, etc, these will be provided in situ, at no additional cost.

This booking will be subject to The Operators Booking Conditions, and Adventuress in the Wild Booking Conditions.