Mount Kiagar Ri
Mount Kiagar Ri (around 6100 m) is a stunning non-technical peak rising above the high-altitude lakes and wide open plateaus of Changthang in eastern Ladakh. This expedition combines a classic Leh acclimatisation phase with a short but demanding summit push, making it ideal for strong trekkers looking to step into 6000 m climbing in a relatively straightforward setting.
The journey starts in Leh, then drives towards the remote lake region near Kiagar Tso and Tso Moriri, where the road-head doubles as base camp. From camp, a sustained ascent on scree and rocky slopes leads to a panoramic summit with sweeping views of Kiagar Tso, Tso Moriri, Mentok range, Chamser–Lungser Kangri and other Trans-Himalayan giants. The short overall duration, cold conditions and rapid height gain demand good fitness, prior high-altitude experience and disciplined acclimatisation, but reward you with a serious Himalayan objective in a compact timeframe.
Trip Itinerary
Arrive in Leh and transfer to your hotel. The first day is strictly reserved for acclimatization to the high altitude. Spend the day with light exploration around the local market area. Remember to hydrate well and get plenty of rest to adjust to the altitude.
Continue acclimatizing with short and easy walks around Leh. Optional sightseeing includes visiting Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and nearby monasteries. If the team feels comfortable, a short acclimatization hike is possible. The day concludes with a final equipment check and expedition briefing.
On a scenic 4-hour drive following the Indus River through dramatic rock formations. Reach the remote village of Sumdo, surrounded by vast high-altitude landscapes. Overnight accommodation will be in camps or guesthouses. An evening acclimatization walk is recommended.
Drive deeper into the mountains for about 1.5 hours to reach Kyagar Kangri Base Camp at 4,900 meters. Set up camp and take an orientation walk around the base camp for altitude adjustment. Rest and prepare for the upcoming technical training.
Participate in hands-on technical training at base camp that includes the use of crampons and ice axe, rope techniques, glacier travel and safety, and self-arrest practice. After training, have an early dinner and rest well for the summit push.
Start early around midnight to 1-2 AM for the summit push. Gradually ascend over snow slopes and glacier terrain to reach the summit of Kyagar Kangri at 6,120 meters, offering breathtaking 360° Himalayan views. Descend safely back to base camp and celebrate the successful summit.
Pack up and depart from base camp for the drive back to Leh. Enjoy a relaxing drive, followed by a hot shower, rest, and a celebratory dinner in town.
After breakfast, transfer to Leh Airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of a successful 6000m Himalayan summit adventure.
Climb Inclusions
- Airport–hotel–airport transfers in Leh as per itinerary.
- Transport Leh–Kiagar Ri base area–Leh in shared vehicle.
- Hotel/guest house accommodation in Leh on twin/triple sharing with breakfast (as per itinerary).
- Camping during the expedition on twin sharing (tents, sleeping mattress, dining tent, toilet tent).
- All meals from leaving Leh for base camp until return (simple, nutritious vegetarian/egg-based meals).
- Qualified expedition leader, local mountain guide and support staff (cook, helpers, porters/ponies) as required.
- Group climbing and safety equipment: ropes, anchors, technical hardware as needed.
- First aid kit and basic high-altitude emergency support.
- Necessary expedition permits and environmental / wildlife fees as applicable.
Climb Exclusions
- Flights or travel to and from Leh from your home location.
- Personal climbing gear (boots, crampons if needed, harness, helmet, down jacket, gloves, headlamp, etc.).
- Lunch and dinner in Leh, and any extra hotel nights beyond the itinerary.
- Portage for personal luggage beyond the standard group load allowance.
- Personal travel insurance, evacuation, medical or rescue expenses.
- Entry fees, tips, beverages, bottled water and any expenses of a personal nature.
- Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances like bad weather, roadblocks or natural events.
