Mount Dzo Jongo Expedition

Time: Morning arrival, full day rest Altitude: 3,500 m After landing at Leh airport, transfer to hotel. The first day is dedicated entirely to acclimatization as Leh lies at high altitude. Rest until evening, followed by a leisurely walk to Leh Market to stretch legs and get a feel of Ladakhi culture. Overnight stay in Leh.

Time: Morning sightseeing | Afternoon hike (1–2 hrs) Altitude: Shanti Stupa – 3,600 m Explore important monasteries like Shey Palace, Thiksey, and Hemis Monastery in the morning. In the late afternoon, hike up to Shanti Stupa, a short but effective acclimatization walk. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of Leh town and surrounding peaks.

Drive Time: 3 hrs | Trek Time: 3 hrs Altitude Gain: Sku – 3,400 m → Markha – 3,700 m After breakfast, drive through scenic roads to Sku Village. Begin the trek along the Markha River valley with gradual ascents. Trekking through willow and poplar trees, reach the picturesque village of Markha. Overnight in tents.

Trek Time: 5–6 hrs Altitude Gain: 3,700 m → 4,070 m Continue along the valley, crossing wooden bridges and small settlements. Spot mani walls, chortens, and prayer stones that highlight Buddhist influence. Gradual climb leads to Upper Hankar, one of the highest settlements in the valley. Overnight in tents.

Trek Time: 2–3 hrs Altitude Gain: 4,070 m → 4,150 m A shorter trekking day with a gradual ascent. Walk past meadows and yak pastures with views of Kang Yatse (6,400 m) dominating the horizon. Reach Thachungtse campsite by early afternoon, giving ample time for acclimatization and rest.

Trek Time: 3–4 hrs Altitude Gain: 4,150 m → 4,720 m A steady climb to the high-altitude pasture land of Nimaling, the summer grazing ground for local nomads. Wide open valley with stunning views of Kang Yatse massif and Dzo Jongo peaks. Overnight in tents at Nimaling.

Trek Time: 3–4 hrs Altitude Gain: 4,720 m → 4,980 m Leave Nimaling and trek towards Base Camp I of Mount Dzo Jongo. The path gradually climbs through moraine and rocky terrain. Overnight stay at base camp with acclimatization walks around the camp.

Trek Time: 3–4 hrs Altitude Gain: 4,980 m → 5,500 m Trek over steeper moraines and scree slopes to establish Advance Base Camp at 5,500 m. This will be the launching point for the summit attempt. Rest and prepare climbing gear for the ascent.

Activity Time: Half day training Altitude: 5,500 m A day dedicated to practicing technical skills: use of crampons, ice axe, and ascenders on snow slopes. This preparation ensures safety and builds confidence for the summit push. Overnight at camp.

Climbing Time: 8–10 hrs (Summit 5–6 hrs; Descent 3–4 hrs) Altitude Gain: 5,500 m → 6,240 m (summit) → 5,500 m (return) Early morning (around 1–2 am) alpine start. The ascent involves steep scree slopes, snow ridges, and icy patches before the summit. From the summit (6,240 m), enjoy breathtaking views of Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse, and Zanskar ranges. Descend safely back to Base Camp II for overnight stay.

Trek Time: 4–5 hrs | Drive Time: 2 hrs Altitude Loss: 5,500 m → 3,800 m → 3,500 m Final descent from Base Camp to Chogdo village, walking through gorges and rocky trails. Vehicles will be waiting to drive you back to Leh. Evening free for relaxation or celebration dinner. Overnight in Leh.