Ladakh, straddling India’s northernmost cradle, is a land of dramatic landscapes and peaceful monasteries, also possessing some of the country’s highest Himalayan peaks. Much of their summits lie in the mighty Ladakh mountain range, especially the Karakoram Range, making this domain a paradise for mountaineers, trekkers, and geography buffs. Whether planning for a next big expedition, chasing a high-altitude trek like the Chadar, or simply exploring elevations and ranges, your guide has everything one needs.
Curated by the Dream Land Tour and Trek of Ladakh, the list presents 10 top peaks of Ladakh soaring above 6,000 metres, bringing out the untamed beauty and geographical significance of this enchanting region.
Top 10 Highest Mountain Peaks of Ladakh
1. Saltoro Kangri (7,742 m)
Highest Peak in Ladakh
Situated in the Saltoro Range of the Karakoram, Saltoro Kangri is the undisputed highest peak in Ladakh. It towers above the Siachen Glacier and commands immense strategic importance because of its location. Being largely restricted from civilians, its sheer prominence and size make for one hell of a natural spectacle.
2. Saser Kangri I (7,672 m)
Dominant Peak of Nubra Valley
Positioned in the eastern Karakoram, Saser Kangri I is the tallest peak of the Saser group. It dominates the skyline of Nubra Valley and is a major glaciated peak. Though seldomly ascended, it captures the interest of serious mountaineers.
3. Mamostong Kangri (7,516 m)
One of the Least Explored Peaks
Hidden in the Rimo Muztagh subrange, Mamostong Kangri is widely considered one of the most remote and unattempted high-altitude climbs in the world. Its huge glaciers and rugged terrains show the harsh landscape of the mountains of Ladakh.
4. Skyang Kangri (7,545 m)
The “Snow Claw” Peak
Governing the landscape from its lofty heights bordering the Baltoro Glacier, this imposing summit rests astride the India-Pakistan border. Also called the “Snow Claw,” Skyang Kangri with its needle-like ridges and deep crevasses stands proud in the alpine vista of Ladakh.
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5. Rimo I (7,385 m)
A very remote Rimo Massif located in the Eastern Karakoram, this peak lies in a very glaciated area and is rarely visited by climbers. Its surroundings feed the Shyok River, which is a very important river for Ladakh.
6. Saser Kangri II (7,518 m)
The Lesser Twin of Saser Kangri I
Being a little smaller than its taller kin, Saser Kangri II is placed second in height within the Saser group. It shares the glaciated features similar to its elder brother and stands unexplored owing to ill weather conditions and harsh terrain.
7. Plateau Peak (7,287 m)
Rarely Mentioned but Highly Ranked
Although it is not very famed like some, Plateau Peak is standing in the ranks of high peak elevations in Ladakh. Being remote and isolated, this peak embodies the wild spirit of the Ladakh mountains.
8. Apsarasas II (7,200 m)
Remote and Rugged Terrain
Belonging to the Apsarasas Group in eastern Siachen, Apsarasas II is seldom attempted. Its remoteness adds to its aura, standing as a silent sentinel over some of the roughest terrains in the Karakoram.
9. Padmanabh Peak (7,030 m)
Eastern Ladakh’s Hidden Giant
Padmanabh is a little-known high peak lying on the eastern expanse of Ladakh. Its snowy ridges paint a serene picture against the stark landscape of Ladakh, even though it remains off most trekking maps.
10. Stok Kangri (6,153 m)
Most Popular Trekking Peak (Now Closed)
Not the highest but certainly the most climbed, Stok Kangri was once considered all amateur trekkers’ easy summit, very close to Leh, until it was banned to save the fragile environment. The name remains synonymous with the trekkers’ ambition, and for that, it is often wrongly considered to be the highest peak of Ladakh.
Highest Peaks in Ladakh by Range
Karakoram Range
Karakoram dominates Ladakh geography, crowned by Saltoro Kangri, Rimo I, Mamostong Kangri, Saser Kangri I and II, and Plateau Peak. It gives rise to Ladakh’s cold desert climate and hosts major glaciers, including the Siachen.
Zanskar Range
Closer to Leh, the Zanskar Range has Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse. More accessible and hence famous among trekkers, Kang Yatse is often a part of treks like the Markha Valley Trek that offers marvelous views of Kang Yatse II as well.
Ladakh Range (Optional)
These peaks are comparatively lower in elevation and provide excellent routes for beginner treks. They offer more flavor to the topography of the region and form a part of the easier trails.
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Which is the Highest Peak in Ladakh?
Saltoro Kangri, at 7,742 metres, is the highest point in the entire Ladakh region. It lies in the Saltoro subrange of the Karakoram and enjoys strategic military importance..
Common Confusions:
- Stok Kangri is the most trekked but not the highest.
- Nun Peak is taller than Stok Kangri but lies in Kargil, not central Ladakh.
Best Peaks for Trekkers in Ladakh
Stok Kangri (Currently Closed)
Once Ladakh’s most accessible summit, it offered a thrilling introduction to high-altitude climbing.
Kang Yatse II
Part of the Markha Valley Trek, Kang Yatse II is a dream for fit beginners and intermediate climbers. It offers panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges.
Mentok Kangri
Rising above Tsomoriri Lake, Mentok Kangri is ideal for trekkers looking to challenge their limits. It’s often included in the Rumtse to Tsomoriri trek, which passes through dramatic high-altitude terrain.
How These Peaks Shape Ladakh’s Terrain
The Ladakh mountain range, dominated by the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges, plays a critical role in shaping the region’s geography. These peaks influence climate, river systems, and glacial flow, creating the unique cold desert ecosystem Ladakh is known for. The Chadar trek, for instance, traverses frozen rivers carved by these towering ranges.
Why Choose Dream Land Tour and Trek
At Dream Land Tour and Trek, we consider it a privilege to present to you the journey or to let the guest experience some part of Ladakh. Carrying years of experience in the rugged Ladakh mountains, we offer tailor-made expeditions, from gentle cultural tours to challenging-high altitude treks that include Markha Valley Trek, Chadar trek, and the very famous Rumtse to Tsomoriri trek. Being the home-based team operating out of Leh, we promise safety, authenticity, and hassle-free logistics. Snow crossing, peak scaling- whatever you are doing, we intend to make your Ladakh venture a memory to cherish forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the highest peak in Ladakh?
A: Saltoro Kangri (7,742 m) in the Karakoram Range.
Q2: Can tourists visit the highest mountains in Ladakh?
A: Some like Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse are accessible, while others like Saltoro Kangri lie in restricted zones.
Q3: Which range has the most high peaks in Ladakh?
A: The Karakoram Range contains the majority of Ladakh’s tallest mountains.
Q4: Is Stok Kangri the highest peak in Ladakh?
A: No, Stok Kangri is the most popular trekking summit. Saltoro Kangri is the highest.
Q5: What is the elevation of Rimo I and Saser Kangri I?
A: Rimo I is 7,385 metres; Saser Kangri I stands at 7,672 metres.
Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or an adventurer-in-the-making, the Ladakh mountains offer a landscape unlike any other. Let Dream Land be your trusted partner in this land of giants.
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