If you’re dreaming of standing on top of a Himalayan summit, you’ve probably heard of Stok Kangri, Kang Yatse, and maybe even Dzo Jongo East. I’ve been lucky to explore all three—and trust me, they’re all beautiful, challenging, and unforgettable in their own way.
But if you’re wondering which peak is right for you, I’m here to help. In this post, I’ll compare Dzo Jongo East, Stok Kangri, and Kang Yatse 2 based on my personal experience. I’ll keep it simple and honest—just like I’d share it with a friend over coffee.
First, Where Are These Peaks?
All three peaks are located in Ladakh, a cold desert region in northern India. The landscape here is magical—wide valleys, snow-capped mountains, and ancient monasteries.
- Stok Kangri (6,153 m) is near Leh and part of the Stok Range.
- Kang Yatse 2 (6,250 m) lies at the end of the Markha Valley trek.
- Dzo Jongo East (6,189 m) is also in the Markha Valley, not far from Kang Yatse, but it’s less known.
1. Which One Is Easier?
Let me be clear—none of these peaks are easy. You’re climbing above 6,000 meters, where the air is thin, and every step takes effort.
That said, here’s how I’d rank them from easiest to hardest (based on technical difficulty and terrain):
- Dzo Jongo East – Easiest of the three. It’s a non-technical climb. That means no ropes or glacier crossings. You just need good fitness and proper acclimatization.
- Stok Kangri – Slightly more technical than Dzo Jongo. The final stretch usually involves glacier crossing and steep climbs. It’s also more crowded, which can slow you down.
- Kang Yatse 2 – The most challenging. The summit push is steeper, and weather can change quickly. There’s a snow patch near the top that can feel tricky if you’re not confident on snow.
If it’s your first 6000er and you want something doable, I’d say start with Dzo Jongo.
2. What About Crowds and Popularity?
- Stok Kangri was once India’s most climbed 6000er. That made it very crowded, especially in July and August. (Note: it has been closed for trekking since 2020, so check for updates before planning.)
- Kang Yatse 2 is now the new favorite. You’ll see more trekkers here, especially in peak season.
- Dzo Jongo East is still a hidden gem. I saw fewer people on this trail, and summit day felt peaceful. If you love solitude, this is your peak.
3. Scenery and Experience
All three treks are in Ladakh, so you get the stunning high-altitude desert vibe. But there are small differences:
- Stok Kangri trek feels rugged and raw. Not many villages or greenery—just wide open spaces.
- Kang Yatse trek takes you through the full Markha Valley, with rivers, pastures, and friendly locals. I loved the cultural experience on this one.
- Dzo Jongo trek also passes through Markha Valley, but detours near Nimaling. It’s a more peaceful version of the Kang Yatse route.
If you want both scenic beauty and fewer crowds, Dzo Jongo wins for me.
4. Fitness and Acclimatization
For all three, you need:
- Good physical fitness
- At least 2–3 days in Leh before the trek
- A slow and steady pace while trekking
I trained by walking, climbing stairs, and doing light strength exercises for a month before each climb. Trust me, it makes a big difference.
So, Which Peak Should You Choose?
Here’s my honest suggestion based on who you are:
| You Are… | Best Peak |
| A first-timer to 6000m, love quiet trails | Dzo Jongo East |
| An experienced trekker, okay with some crowd | Kang Yatse 2 |
| Adventurous and looking for a challenge (once reopened) | Stok Kangri |
Final Words
Whichever peak you choose, the journey will be unforgettable. For me, standing on each summit was not just about the view, but the entire experience—training for it, pushing through tough moments, and reaching the top with a smile (and sometimes, happy tears).
If I had to pick one to revisit? Dzo Jongo East—for its quiet charm and underrated beauty.
So, lace up your boots, start training, and pick your peak. The Himalayas are waiting.
