Trek difficulty
Easy - Moderate
Trek duration
9 day Days
Trek altitude
6090 m
Group size
6-12
Trek distance
5 km
Basecamp
Ladakh
Best Time
June to September
Pickup Point
Ladakh
Perched in the isolated wilderness of Ladakh’s Changthang Plateau, Yalung nong is a 6090 meters peak offering an expedition without technical climbing. The trek is a harmonious blend of adventure, solitude, and awe-inspiring mountain backdrops with sweeping alpine valleys, high-altitude lakes, nomadic settlements, and jagged Himalayan landscapes.
The journey starts from Leh where trekkers are allowed to acclimatize before exploring the lesser known regions of Rupshu and Changthang. Participants get to cross high mountain passes, encounter cattle in the grazing ground, and learn traditional Changpa culture. En route, road showcases the stark beauty of Ladakh's cold desert, where vast horizons embrace snow-veiled peaks under blue skies.
The ascend of Yalung nong is the main highlight of the entire journey as summit rewards with panoramic views of neighboring Himalayan ranges, the wide Changthang Plateau, and untouched wilderness stretching far towards Tso Moriri. The peak is non-technical but undertaking it gives a fulfilling satisfaction.
Trekkers who are looking for their first expedition and the thrill of standing atop a pristine remote Himalayan summit, Yalung nong should be in your bucket list.
Key Highlights Yalung nong
6000+ non-technical summit expedition
Isolated landscapes of Changthang and Rupshu
Learn authentic Changpa nomadic culture
Traverse high-altitude passes above 5,000 meters
Expedition style camping amidst wilderness
Jaw-dropping views of the Tso Moriri region and nearby Himalayan peaks
Experience one of Ladakh's less commercialized trekking and climbing routes
Day 1: Rumtse to Kyamar (4383 mtrs ) 6 hrs
Day 2: Kyamar to Tisaling [ 4850 mtrs ] via kyamer la 5180 mtrs 7 hrs
Day 3: TISALING TO PANGUNAGU [TSOKAR] 4651 mtrs VIA Shibuk la 5230 m 7 hrs
Day 4: Pangunangu to Nuruchan 4650 mtr 5:30 hrs
Day 5: Trek Nuruchan to Rachungkaru 4850 via Horlamkongka La 4930 6.5 hrs
Day 6: Rachungkaru to Gyama 4895 mtr via Kyamurila 5330mtr ( 5 hrs)
Day 7: Gyama to Basecamp 5470 mtr 3.5 hrs
Day 8: Basecamp to Summit Yalung nong 6090 mtr to Gyama 4895 mtr. 6 hrs
Day 9: Gyama to Tsomoriri 4550 mtr via Yalungnagula 5400 mts, 5 hrs
Yalung Nong is a peak located in the remote region of Changthang, Ladakh. This trekking route requires special permits for participants who seek trekking and mountaineering activities.
Inner Line Permit (ILP): for Indian Nationals to enter protected areas around Tso Moriri and Changthang.
Protected Area Permit (PAP): for foreign nationals which can be obtained through authorized trekking operator.
Both the permit processing is managed by the trekking operators to comfort participants and allowing them to focus on journey. Participants are required to carry the permits throughout the journey, especially, when it is checked at the designated checkpoints along the route. Also, carry your valid Government authorized valid identification along with hard and soft copies.
Keep your proofs in printed copies as network connectivity is limited in many parts of the region.
During The Expedition Exclusion
Yalung Nong is located at the high-altitude near Tso Moriri area of Changthang region of Ladakh. The peak rises above wide alpine plateaus, shepherd settlements, and remote landscapes in the Himalayas.
The summit rises at the height of around 6,090 metres (19,980 ft) above sea level.
Not technical, but high-altitude altitude makes it physically challenging. It is considered a non-technical trek.
It is considered moderate to demanding trek due to altitude above 6000 meters where the terrain is semi-technical requiring good fitness and proper acclimatization.
Not mandatory but prior high-altitude trekking experience will be an add-on advantage and trekkers will find the expedition more comfortable. Trekkers are recommended to at least have experience in trekking 4000 meter peaks.
The trekking window to Yalung nong opens between June-September. In this period of time, the weather is pleasant, clear, and the routes are accessible.
Generally, most of the trek itineraries complete their Yalung nong expedition in 7 to 10 days, including, acclimatization, summit push, and buffer day if required.
Any trek that crosses above 5000 meters comes under AMS risk zone. Since Yalung nong is situated at approximately 6090 meters, significant risk in altitude related issues is common. With proper acclimatization and hydration the risk can be eliminated.
Trekkers are shifted to guesthouse as they arrive in Leh, and stay in comfortable sharing based tents throughput the trekking and expedition phase.
Mobile connectivity is either patchy or zero. Most of the trekking sections have very little coverage or no network. The treks are meant to keep you away from the digital world and let unwind.
Season and altitude plays vital role in the temperature. Mountain regions have sudden shifts in temperature, in day time it is between 5°C to 18°C, and in night it drops to -10°C to 5°C. Summit mornings are colder due to chilly winds.
The Changthang region faunas are; marmots, Himalayan foxes, Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass), blue sheep, and various high-altitude birds.
The trek that passes through protected Ladakh region need permits. These permits are usually managed by the trek operators.
Yalung Nong Trek Itinerary (6,090m): Complete Day-Wise Guide to Ladakh's Hidden Summit
Yalung nong offers remoteness and sense of expedition achievement without demanding much from you physically. Trekkers experience sweeping high-altitude plateaus, Changpa culture of nomadic people, and an opportunity to stand at the height of 6,000-meter summit. The trails are less crowded in comparison to the other treks in the same region.
Fit beginners with a strong commitment to training and acclimatization can attempt the trek, but they should be prepared for long days at high altitude and challenging conditions.
Participants should walk 1 hour daily, do easy to moderate hikes while carrying a backpack. During the expedition, trekkers must be able to walk to 6 hours daily comfortably by managing on steep ascents. Hydration helps stamina in low-oxygen environments.
Yalung Nong is an excellent package of 6,000-metre non-technical summit with vast horizon and other stunning Changthang landscapes and Himalayan peaks. Trekkers get to encounter rich Ladakhi nomadic culture.
Testimonials
We're always ready for adventure
Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.
We embrace low-noise trekking
We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.
We protect the environment
We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.
We are self-sufficient
We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.
We support each other
Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.
We are fit and prepared
We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.