Journey Overview
Mentok Kangri II (6,250m / 20,505 ft) is one of the most rewarding high-altitude climbing peaks in Ladakh, rising dramatically on the western shore of the legendary Tso Moriri Lake in the remote Changthang (Rupshu) plateau of Eastern Ladakh. For mountaineers looking to step beyond trekking peaks and experience genuine expedition life without extreme technical demands, Mentok Kangri II offers the perfect balance of challenge, culture, and Himalayan grandeur. The Mentok Kangri massif has three summits — Mentok I, II, and III — of which Mentok Kangri II at 6,250m is the most popular climbing objective. The peak sits inside Eastern Ladakh's wildlife reserve, where nomadic Changpa herders graze their Pashmina-wool-producing Changthangi goats across one of the world's highest inhabited plateaus. The climb to the summit of Mentok Kangri II is non-technical. Climbers typically attempt the summit in the early morning when conditions are most stable. The ascent takes 8–9 hours depending on experience and mountain conditions. An expedition here typically takes around 2 weeks, starting with a flight to Leh followed by acclimatization days before driving south over the famous Tanglang La (5,359m) to Korzok village on the banks of Tso Moriri.
Why Mentok Kangri II in 2026?
With Stok Kangri (6,153m) having faced climbing restrictions in recent years, Mentok Kangri II has emerged as the top alternative for climbers seeking a true Ladakhi high-altitude experience. The remote Rupshu plateau, far from tourist crowds, gives this expedition a wilderness character that few Himalayan climbs can match. Key highlights of this expedition: Non-technical summit — ideal for trekkers taking their first mountaineering step Breathtaking views of Tso Moriri, Chamser Kangri, and Lungser Kangri from the summit Drive over Tanglang La (5,359m) — one of the world's highest motorable passes Wildlife encounters: Tibetan wild ass (kiang), snow leopard territory, bar-headed geese Visit Korzok Monastery — one of Ladakh's highest-altitude gompas Cultural immersion with Changpa nomads in the Rupshu plateau
Difficulty Level & Who Should Climb
Difficulty: Moderate — Non-Technical
Suitable for: Climbers with prior high-altitude trekking experience (4,500m+)
Not suitable for: First-time trekkers or those without any acclimatization experience
Physical requirement: Good cardiovascular fitness; ability to walk 6–8 hours with a daypack
Crampons and ice axe are required on summit day. No vertical ice or rock climbing is involved. This makes Mentok Kangri II an excellent pre-7000m conditioning expedition.