Let us take you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Ladakh’s best-kept secret – the Stok Village to Shang Sumdo trek. This isn’t just a trail; it’s an odyssey, revealing a side of Ladakh few have witnessed. Meandering through the lesser-known shepherd’s path, this expedition unfolds over five awe-inspiring days, taking you across the formidable Matho La and Shang La passes, both standing proudly at almost 5000 meters.
What sets this trek apart is the astonishing diversity of landscapes that unfold just a stone’s throw away from the roadhead. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true – keep your senses heightened for a chance encounter with the elusive Snow Leopards, agile Bharals, foxes, and the regal Tibetan Wolves. The adventure doesn’t stop there. We understand that every trekker is unique, and so is their appetite for challenge. That’s why our Stok to Shang Sumdo trek is customizable. If you’re new to the game, the original five-day journey promises a perfect blend of excitement and comfort. But for those hungry for more, we offer the option to add at least two more passes to your itinerary, creating a tailor-made experience. Ladakh’s unexplored beauty is waiting for you; all you need to do is take the first step.
Book your trek now and unlock the mysteries of Ladakh’s untouched wilderness. Your journey to Stok Village to Shang Sumdo is not just a trek; it’s an expedition into the heart of a land that time forgot. Lace up those boots and let the adventure begin.
*Note: Personalized trek options are available for those seeking a more challenging experience.*
Day 01: Leh- Stok – Chang Ma. O/N in camp. (2-3 hrs walk)
Today we take a short drive (30 mins) to Stok Village and reach the trail head. We get on the trail that goes towards the famous Stok Kangri peak. But today’s halt will be half way at Chang Ma (4000 M). A short walk from the trail head, today’s trek gets you over a small hill and through 2-3 river crossings. The duration may not suggest, but a gain of 500 M compared to Leh, a gradual incline and effort at river crossings will make for an exciting start to the trek.
Day 02: Chang Ma – Mankarmo. O/N in camp. (3 hrs walk)
We leave from Chang Ma campsite after breakfast and head towards Mankarmo (4200 M). Till a few years back this was a bustling campsite visited by scores of climbers enroute the Stok Kangri Peak. Since 2019 when the peak was closed for climbing, the campsite lays quite visited only by local shepherds. Today’s walk will be 2-3 hrs and may consist of river crossings if water levels are higher. The altitude gain today is only 200 M so it’s a relaxed day with ample time for you to take a ton of pictures.
Day 03: Mankarmo – Matho La (4870 M) – Gangpoche
On this trail you will see unusual rock formations that point skywards in orange, purple and green colours. Mankarmo (4250 m) is the summer pasture of Stok villagers and from here you will trek towards the base of the Matho La (4870m) and then you’ll follow a small challenging trail to the top. Travellers are often greeted by the high wild cry of the Snow cock, a giant partridge common in these parts but difficult to see. Spectacular view of Matho Kangri (6010 m) and other peaks are available from the pass. Gangpoche is the summer grazing place for the shepherds from Matho Village, downstream from the Glaciers. Overnight camp here.
Day 04: Gangpoche to Shang Phu via Shang La (4940 M). (6-7Hrs)
After breakfast again trek via Shang La and under the shadows of Matho West – 6010 metres. Close to Leh this peak is better known as Matho Kangri, Matho being the village below it. You will not be climbing this peak but will have view of this. This area is remote and you will rarely find trekkers on this route. If lucky, wolf, fox and blue sheep can be seen in this route. Overnight camp at, Shang Phu.
Day 05: Shang Phu to Shang Sumdo.
3-4 hrs walk today. Shang Sumdo is a tiny village, where you will meet with the trekkers from Markha valley and our Jeep will be waiting for you to welcome and take you back to Leh. Visiting to Hemis monastery and Thiksey on the way back.
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