Mt. Nun Peak (Max Altitude 7135 m)
The Roof of Ladakh – A highly technical expedition meant for experienced climbers only.
Mt. Nun Peak
Grade 8If you’re ready to move beyond trekking peaks and step into the world of serious mountaineering, Mt. Nun is the ideal progression. Towering at 7,135 meters, this giant of the Zanskar range in Ladakh commands attention from the very first glance. Every part of its presence—its massive structure, intimidating slopes, sudden snowstorms, and unpredictable temperament—speaks of raw power. Mt. Nun forms the famous Nun–Kun massif, rising alongside its slightly smaller sibling, Mt. Kun (7,077 m), separated by a 4 km snow plateau. This legendary pair sits in the Suru Valley of Kargil district, around 250 km from Srinagar.
The Himalayas have always been a playground for mountaineers seeking formidable challenges, and among its many peaks—discovered and still hidden—Mt. Nun stands out as a magnet for climbers worldwide. For some, it is a gateway to bigger expeditions; for others, it is a lifelong dream. First climbed in 1953, Mt. Nun is a demanding mountain that tests you with brutal cold, shifting routes, and relentless winds that never quite let you rest.
Its crevasse-filled glaciers, constantly changing terrain, steep ice walls, sharp ridgelines, unstable weather, and high altitude make Mt. Nun more challenging than many other 7,000-meter peaks. It is a mountain that accepts only those with unwavering determination and the spirit of teamwork.
Because of its technical nature, this expedition is strictly for trained and experienced climbers. You must have mountaineering skills, know how to handle technical equipment, and have prior high-altitude experience—ideally with at least one summit above 6,500 meters or a recognized mountaineering certification.
Stay on this page to explore everything you need to know about the Mt. Nun Expedition — itinerary, routes, FAQs, and eligibility requirements.
Day 6: Tangol (3,700M) to Base Camp (4,600M).
Day 23: Depart from Leh
Day 1: Arrive in Leh (3,500 M)
The journey begins in Leh, the gateway to Ladakh and a major hub for high-altitude expeditions. Participants arrive in Leh and settle into their accommodation. Since Leh is at high altitude, the day is kept easy to allow the body to begin adjusting to the thinner air after coming from sea level.
Day 2: Rest and Acclimatization in Leh (3,500M)
This day is reserved for acclimatization and rest. You may explore the local markets, nearby monasteries, and experience Ladakh’s unique culture. Light walking is encouraged to help with acclimatization. This is also a good time to check your gear and buy any missing trekking essentials from Leh’s well-stocked markets.
In the evening, the group meets for a briefing session where the expedition plan, safety guidelines, environmental ethics, and mountain practices are discussed.
Day 3: Leh (3,500M) to Kargil (2,676M)
Distance: 217 km | Time: 6–7 hours
After breakfast, we begin our drive towards Mount Nun. The scenic journey passes through Ladakh’s stark landscapes and smooth mountain roads. Along the way, you meet the Sherpas and support team who will accompany you throughout the expedition.
Day 4: Kargil (2,676M) to Tangol (3,700M)
Distance: 65 km | Time: 2 hours
We drive to Tangol, a small village along the Suru River and the starting point of the trek. As we leave Kargil, mobile networks disappear and nature takes over. The drive offers views of green villages, terraced farms, apricot orchards, and dramatic mountains.
As altitude increases, the landscape changes from lush greenery to rocky terrain. In the evening, we go for a short acclimatization walk before settling into camp.
Day 5: Rest day at Tangol (3,700M).
This is a rest and acclimatization day. Basic mountaineering skills, equipment usage, and knot-tying techniques are practiced. Overnight stay in camps.
Day 6: Tangol (3,700M) to Base Camp (4,600M).
Distance: 7–8 km | Time: 7 hours trek
The actual trek begins today. After crossing the river via a bridge, we pass through the last inhabited village. The trail gradually ascends through green fields, shepherd paths, rocky terrain, and moraines.
After reaching a mountain pass, the route descends into a colder valley. The final stretch is steep and challenging, with loose rocks and water crossings near waterfalls. The Base Camp is located above the waterfall and will be home for the next few days.
Day 7: Rest and Acclimatization at Base Camp (4,600M)
The day begins with a traditional puja ceremony seeking blessings for a safe and successful climb. The rest of the day is dedicated to acclimatization, gear distribution, and technical training on nearby snow and ice slopes.
Day 8 – Day 18: Expedition
Due to unpredictable high-altitude conditions, the exact daily schedule may vary. This phase includes acclimatization rotations between higher camps.
Camp 1 (5,500 m)
A steep ascent involving rocky terrain, boulders, and a challenging ice wall with fixed ropes. After crossing crevasse-prone snowfields, Camp 1 is reached in about 5–6 hours.
Camp 2 (6,100 m)
This is a continuous steep climb with slopes of 60–70 degrees, requiring front-pointing on crampons. The camp sits on a narrow ridge with dramatic views and requires roped movement even within camp.
Camp 3 – Summit Camp (6,400 m)
A comparatively gentler climb over snow dunes and moderate slopes. Camp 3 lies in a wide snowfield and serves as the launching point for the summit attempt.
Summit Push – Mt. Nun (7,135 m)
The summit climb begins between 11 PM and midnight. The route follows the west ridge, involving steep ice sections and a difficult boulder zone near the top. After crossing the final rocks, a short ascent leads to the summit. The round trip from Camp 3 takes approximately 14–16 hours.
Descent to Base Camp
The descent is long and demanding, involving steep slopes and careful movement. Expect 8–10 hours to reach Base Camp.
Day 19 : Base Camp (4,600M) to Tangol (3,700M)& drive to leh (2,676M).
After packing up Base Camp, we trek down to Tangol in about 4 hours. From there, we drive back to Kargil.
Day 20 : Reserve Day
Day 21 : Reserve Day
Day 22 : Kargil (2,676M) to Leh (3,500M)
Distance: 217 km | Time: 6–7 hours
We return to Leh by evening. This day is marked by celebration and reflection on the successful expedition.
What's Included
- Camping during the trek & expedition
- Hotel Stay in Leh & Kargil on Twin Sharing Basis
- Trek/Expedition Meals
- Breakfast and Dinner during Hotel/Guest House Stays
- Expedition Permit Fee (Upto the amount charged for Indian nationals)
- First aid medical kits and oxygen cylinder
- Qualified & experienced Expedition Leader, Sherpas and Support staff
- Transport from Leh to Road head and return
- Technical Equipment – Ropes, Helmet, Ice Axe, Crampons, Mountaineering Boots, Jumar, Descender, Harness
What's Not Included
- Meals during road journeys
- Any kind of personal expenses
- Mules or porter to carry personal luggage
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
- Any extra flight booking amount should be paid on actuals by the participant (over the amount mentioned in the Inclusions section)
- Expedition Permit Fee of USD 300 per Foreign National
- Mandatory Outdoor Insurance ( Sum Insured USD 15K)
Frequently Asked Questions
Mt. Nun (7,135 m) is located in the Suru Valley, in the Kargil district of Ladakh. It is part of the famous Nun–Kun massif, approximately 250 km from Srinagar.
Mt. Nun is classified as a highly technical and extremely challenging 7,000-meter peak. It involves navigating crevasse zones, steep ice walls, knife-edge ridges, unstable weather, and highly demanding altitude. Prior mountaineering experience is essential.
No. Mt. Nun is not for beginners. It is strictly recommended for climbers who have:
Prior experience above 6,000–6,500 m
Technical climbing skills
Familiarity with rope systems, crampons, and ice axes
Strong physical and mental endurance
A mountaineering certification is an added advantage.
The best climbing seasons are:
Pre-monsoon: June to early July
Post-monsoon: Late August to September
These windows offer more stable weather and manageable snow conditions.
The expedition typically lasts 18 to 22 days, depending on weather, acclimatization, and team pace.
Most expeditions follow this approach:
Leh → Kargil → Shafat/Tangol → Base Camp → ABC → Camp 1 → Camp 2 → Summit Camp → Summit. for more Kailasa Treks
