North India

LADAKH

Phukthal Gompa
33.2682° N, 77.1798° E
[ OVERVIEW ]

The magic of the four key climbing regions in Jammu and Kashmir is truly unparalleled. Nowhere else offers such a compelling blend of stark, dramatic beauty, rich flora and fauna, and formidable climbing challenges—drawing mountaineers from around the world to this extraordinary landscape.

[ HIGHLIGHTS ]

Mountaineering in Ladakh, Zanskar and Kashmir

The regions of Kashmir, Zanskar, Ladakh, and Kishtwar offer exceptional terrain for extended, month-long expeditions, each with its own distinct character and challenges.

Kishtwar is known for its technical climbs despite relatively moderate altitudes, with peaks such as Sickle Moon, Brammah I, and Arjuna attracting experienced mountaineers. In Zanskar, the towering Nun and Kun dominate the skyline, approached via scenic trekking routes from Leh through remote valleys and high passes.

Nearby, the Shafat and Durung Drung glacier regions offer further challenges, while in Ladakh, peaks like Stok Kangri, Parcha Kangri, and Kang Yatse provide a mix of accessible and demanding climbs.

  • For Stok Kangri, you follow the very popular Markha valley trail till you begin your ascent. Leh – Lamayuru – Wanla – Hinju – Lanak – Chilling – Skiu – Markha– Thachunngtse – Nimaling – Chogdo – Shang – Shang Phu – Shang la –Yarlas – Stok Kangri glacier.

    For climbing in the Eastern Karakoram area for which one needs to drive over the Khardungla Pass, getting close to the vicinity of the Siachen glacier, certain peaks are allowed on a joint Indo-Foreign expedition basis with a maximum of 7 members from each side. Peaks like Apsaras II (7200m), Chong Kumdan II (7004m), Siakangri II (7093m), Saltoro Kangri II (7005m), are some of the virgin peaks.

    Climbing expeditions from overseas are obliged to pay a peak royalty depending on the height of the mountain.

[ Highlights ]

The Frozen River Chadar trek

A walk along the frozen Zanskar River—known locally as the Chadar, or “white sheet”—is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This ancient winter route leads into a land cut off from the outside world for much of the year, where the frozen river becomes the only passage, echoing the last vestiges of the historic Silk Route to Leh.

In the depths of winter, as the river turns to ice, it serves as a lifeline for the Zanskari people travelling between remote valleys and Ladakh. Accompanied by experienced guides and local porters, each day involves long, challenging marches across ever-changing ice and snow.

Nights are spent in caves and traditional Zanskari villages along the way, making this not just a trek, but a rare journey into a timeless and resilient way of life.

  • The experience of walking on the frozen Zanskar is unique. Deep in the desolate region of Zanskar, the icy gorge, the changing hues, the towering peaks, present an awe inspiring sight, tinged with just the right dose of adventure due to the freezing temperatures and conditions underfoot

    This two-week tour from Delhi to Delhi, requires people to be fit, with a fair degree of experience in the outdoors. Apply to us with your outdoor details as well.

    Ibex has assisted the maximum number of journeys through this gorge and were also awarded the `Discovery Award’ by PATA for bringing this as a tourism product to the world.

[ HIGHLIGHTS ]

Rafting down the River Zanskar

During the summer months of July and August, the mighty Zanskar River—often called the “Grand Canyon of India”—transforms into a thrilling course of Grade IV and V rapids, offering an exhilarating rafting experience.

The journey begins with a spectacular jeep safari from Leh to Padum, the rafting put-in point, and concludes at Nimu near Leh, where the Zanskar meets the Indus River. As you navigate deep gorges and dramatic landscapes, the river offers everything from short, high-adrenaline runs to extended expeditions that can be combined with trekking.

Ibex Expeditions ensures a seamless experience, providing international-standard rafts, expert river guides, and all essential equipment, along with well-organised logistics, meals, and camp support throughout the journey.

For serious mountain bikers, the ultimate ride in India unfolds along the legendary Manali–Leh Highway — a two-week expedition across some of the world’s highest motorable passes. The route weaves through remote Himalayan villages, dramatic high-altitude deserts, and ancient monasteries, delivering both intense challenge and unforgettable reward.

Ibex Expeditions provides well-equipped mountain bikes for the journey, though experienced riders are welcome to bring their own. A dedicated support vehicle travels alongside the group, carrying staff, camping equipment, safety gear, and repair tools to ensure a safe and seamless experience throughout the expedition.

Evenings are spent in comfortable camps set amidst breathtaking landscapes, complemented by select hotel stays that offer the perfect balance of adventure, recovery, and comfort.

Mountain Biking

[ HIGHLIGHTS ]

Home Stays and Snow Leopards

The elusive snow leopard—an endangered big cat of Central and South Asia—finds one of its finest refuges in the high mountains of Ladakh. During the winter months, Ibex Expeditions offers a rare opportunity to track this magnificent predator in its natural habitat, guided by expert naturalists.

Expeditions take place within Hemis National Park, a vast wilderness named after the historic Hemis Monastery. Encompassing the valleys of Markha, Sumdah, and Rumbak, and parts of the Zanskar Range, the park is one of the most important strongholds for snow leopard conservation.

Ibex works closely with local communities, promoting grassroots conservation initiatives that encourage stewardship of the snow leopard, its prey, and its fragile habitat. Guests stay in traditional, charming homestays, directly supporting local livelihoods and fostering a deeper connection to the region.

The journey can also include a unique experience in the high-altitude desert of Nubra Valley, where camel safaris on rare double-humped Bactrian camels offer yet another perspective on this extraordinary landscape.