Mt. Nun (7135m)

Your expedition begins in Leh, the high-altitude capital of Ladakh and the gateway to many of the region’s great Himalayan peaks. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and rest. Since most climbers arrive from near sea level, the body needs time to begin adapting to the thinner air. Hydration and light movement are encouraged, but the focus remains on recovery and gradual acclimatization.

Today is dedicated to acclimatization. A short walk through Leh’s markets or to nearby viewpoints helps stimulate adaptation while avoiding overexertion. This is also the time for a full equipment check and any last-minute purchases.

In the evening, the expedition team gathers for a detailed briefing covering the climb plan, acclimatization strategy, safety protocols, environmental guidelines, and overall expectations for the coming weeks.

• Distance: 217 km
• Drive Time: 7-8 hours

After breakfast, begin the drive toward Kargil. This scenic journey across Ladakh’s stark terrain officially marks the start of the expedition phase. You will meet the high-altitude support team and review logistics for the approach. The dramatic landscapes of Ladakh accompany you throughout the drive.

• Distance: 65 km
• Drive Time: 2 hours

Drive into the Suru Valley toward Tangol, the last motorable village before the approach to Mount Nun. The valley gradually transitions from green agricultural settlements to more rugged terrain dominated by glacier-fed rivers and towering peaks.

In the evening, undertake a short acclimatization walk around Tangol to help the body adjust to the altitude gain.

A full acclimatization day at Tangol. The team conducts basic technical refreshers including knot practice, fixed rope techniques, and equipment familiarization. Overnight stay in camps.

• Distance: 7–8 km
• Trek Duration: 6–7 hours

The trekking phase begins today. After crossing the river, the trail winds through the last inhabited settlements before entering remote mountain terrain. The route transitions from green valley floors to rocky moraine and glacial landscapes.

The final stretch involves negotiating loose scree and glacier-fed streams before reaching Base Camp at approximately 4,600m, which will serve as your home for the coming days.

The day begins with a traditional mountain blessing ceremony seeking safe passage and success on the climb. The remainder of the day is spent resting, organizing loads, distributing technical gear, and conducting training sessions on nearby snow and ice slopes.

This acclimatization day is critical before moving higher on the mountain.

High-altitude mountaineering demands flexibility. Weather, snow conditions, and team health dictate daily movement. During this phase, climbers establish higher camps through systematic load carries and acclimatization rotations.

Mount Nun typically involves three high camps above Base Camp:

• Camp 1 (5,500m)

The climb to Camp 1 involves steep rocky sections followed by glacier travel. A significant fixed rope section on steep ice is negotiated before reaching a vast snowfield where Camp 1 is established. The ascent from Base Camp usually takes 5–6 hours.

• Camp 2 (6,100m)

The route from Camp 1 to Camp 2 becomes steeper and more sustained, often requiring prolonged front-point crampon technique on 60–70° sections. This is one of the more physically demanding stretches of the climb.

Camp 2 sits dramatically along a narrow ridge, offering expansive views across the surrounding snowfields and peaks.

• Camp 3 (6,400m) – Summit Camp

A shorter but high-altitude push leads to Camp 3. The terrain consists primarily of snow slopes and rolling glacial undulations. This camp serves as the launch point for the summit attempt.

• Summit Push (7,135m)

The summit attempt begins around midnight to take advantage of firm snow conditions. The route typically accesses the west ridge, involving sustained 40–60° snow and ice climbing.

The final section requires careful movement over mixed terrain before the summit plateau is reached. The round trip from Camp 3 can take 14–16 hours depending on conditions.

After summiting, climbers descend back to Camp 3 and, conditions permitting, continue downward toward lower camps.

• Descent to Base Camp

The descent from high camps to Base Camp is long and demanding. Although downhill, steep gradients and fatigue require careful movement. Expect 8–10 hours depending on camp position and snow conditions.

After packing Base Camp, descend to Tangol (approx. 4 hours) and drive back to Kargil for a well deserved rest!

Distance: 217 km
Drive Time: 6–7 hours

Drive back to Leh. The evening is reserved for rest and celebration following the culmination of the expedition.