About This Tour
Markha Valley Trek Ladakh is one of the most beautiful and adventurous trekking experiences in the Himalayas. It is an 11-day trek to the incredible scenery of Ladakh, which offers spectacular mountains, peaceful valleys, traditional villages, Buddhist monasteries, high-altitude meadows and stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek starts in Leh, where visitors have time to acclimatise to the higher altitude before embarking on the journey. The journey from Leh heads towards Chilling and Skiu, then into the beautiful Markha Valley. The trail goes through remote Ladakhi villages, green fields, traditional houses, monasteries, chortens and colourful prayer flags.
From here, the journey will take you to Markha Village, Hankar and the picturesque meadow known as Nimaling, from where the breathtaking Kang Yatse and the surrounding mountains can be seen. The highlight of the hike is the crossing of Kongmaru La, a high mountain pass with breathtaking views of the rugged Himalayan landscape. The path then leads down towards Shang Sumdo and then back up to Leh. The Markha Valley Trek is a memorable adventure in the Himalayas, as it offers a unique blend of difficulty, beauty, culture and tranquillity.
It is a perfect hike for adventure seekers, nature lovers, photographers and tourists interested in the remote beauty and traditional culture of Ladakh.
Trip Highlights
- Hike through the beautiful Markha Valley of Ladakh.
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery of the Himalayas.
- Visit the villages of Ladakh and experience its culture.
- Enjoy beautiful views of Kang Yatse and surrounding peaks.
- Go to the picturesque Nimaling highlands meadows.
- Cross the famous Kongmaru La mountain pass.
- Enjoy tranquil valleys, streams and rough mountain tracks.
- Visit Buddhist monasteries and traditional Ladakhi villages.
- Have a stunning view of the Trans-Himalayan scenery.
- Leh is a place where you can experience acclimatisation and sightseeing.
- Outdoor adventure in the back of the Himalayas.
- A guided trek with expert local assistance.
Included/Exclude
Included
- Stay in a hotel in Leh as per itinerary.
- Camping for the two days of the trek.
- Tour Breakfast.
- During the trekking and camping part, dinner is prepared.
- Travel schedule: travel as per the itinerary.
- Airport transfers in Leh.
- Round-trip transportation to and from Leh and Chilling.
- Knows the local routes and has extensive experience in this area.
- Trekking support staff.
- Basic camping equipment and Camping Tents.
- Spending the night in a sleeping bag and mattress on the trek.
- Trekking permits and applicable charges in the package.
- Cook and other employees in the kitchen at the camps.
- Driver charges, fuel and parking expenses.
Exclude
- Airfare from and to Leh.
- Tour lunch.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, shopping and tips.
- Unless stated, personal porter or horse/mule charges will apply.
- Treatment costs and evacuation for emergencies.
- Entrance fees to the monuments and to the monastery (unless stated).
- Additional sightseeing which is not part of the itinerary.
- Extra housing and/or transportation due to unexpected events.
- Expenses due to bad weather, roadblocks, landslides or other natural conditions.
- Any other costs that may result from changes in government regulations.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the Inclusion section.
Tour Itinerary
Discover a carefully curated journey that covers the must-see highlights and hidden gems of India. Our itinerary is designed to balance sightseeing with relaxation, giving you an authentic cultural experience while ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel schedule.
From bustling cities to serene landscapes, each day has been thoughtfully planned to provide memorable experiences, local interactions, and seamless travel across destinations.
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Day-1 Leh Arrival - Welcome to Ladakh
Pick-up at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh and greet our representative. You will be transported to your hotel and have time to get used to the high altitude. Day one is reserved for acclimatisation so as to get used to mountain living. Take the whole day off and relax at the hotel and enjoy the fantastic mountain views. If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a short walk around the area in the evening.
Overnight: Leh -
Day-2 Leh Acclimatisation and Local Sightseeing
After breakfast, spend the day getting used to the altitude of Leh. At a leisurely pace, you can visit some of the popular spots of the city. Visit the beautiful Stupa of Shanti, Leh Palace and the local market. The sightseeing journey is a brief introduction to Ladakhi culture, Buddhist worship and the regional architecture. Head back to the hotel and get ready for the next trek of the day.
Overnight: Leh -
Day-3 Leh - Chilling - Skiu
Post breakfast, head off from Leh towards Chilling, which is the starting point for the trek. Soak up the beauty of Ladakh while driving through the scenic landscapes. On reaching Chilling, begin your trek towards Skiu. The hike goes through stunning mountain areas, rocky valleys and streams. As you enter deeper into the Markha Valley, the environment grows calmer. Arrive at Reach Ski and check in at a campsite or accommodation. Take it easy, take pleasure in the beautiful Himalayan surroundings.
Overnight: Skiu -
Day-4 Skiu - Markha Village
Breakfast is served, followed by a walk to the Markha Village. The trail passes through lovely valleys, through small villages, through the fields and the traditional Ladakhi landscapes along the Markha River. Along the way, you will come across streams, bridges, mani walls and traditional chortens. Take in the quiet ambience and breathtaking views of the mountains on your way to Markha Village. On arrival, visit the village and enjoy the traditional life of the villagers.
Overnight: Markha Village
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Day-5 Markha Village - Hankar
Upon getting up for breakfast, head on towards Hankar. The hike continues through the Markha Valley to reach deeper into the valley, through traditional villages, green fields and rugged mountain terrain. Ride to higher levels and enjoy the scenic views of surrounding mountains and the impressive Kang Yatse range. The upper part of the valley has gentler rolling terrain. Arrive at Hankar and check in to your hotel. Enjoy the quiet evening and the nature of the mountains.
Overnight: Hankar -
Day-6 Hankar - Thachungtse - Nimaling
On the morning following breakfast, start your hike towards Nimaling. This path slowly winds through stunning highland scenery and open moorland. After going through Thachungtse, head towards the amazing Nimaling meadows. Surrounded by high mountains, Nimaling is one of the most beautiful sections of the Markha Valley Trek. Experience breathtaking views of Kang Yatse and the other peaks of the Himalayas. Take a restful night at the campsite, and get ready for the next day's high elevation hike.
Overnight: Nimaling -
Day-7 Nimaling Acclimatisation and Exploration
Today is kept for acclimatisation at Nimaling before the challenging Kongmaru La Pass crossing. Following breakfast, either take a stroll around the local area or take it easy at the campsite. The meadows are at a high elevation and have great views of the mountains, and it's a quiet place to sleep. Take advantage of this day to get ready for tomorrow's journey. Keep hydrated, get a good night's sleep and take in the stunning landscape of Nimaling.
Overnight: Nimaling
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Day-8 Nimaling - Kongmaru La - Shang Sumdo
Get up early after breakfast and set off on one of the most awesome days on the trek. Begin the challenging climb towards Kongmaru La Pass. The trail gradually becomes steeper as you make your way through the rugged high-altitude terrain. At the summit of Kongmaru La, take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Spend some time at the pass before beginning the descent towards Shang Gorge. The trail then follows through impressive rocky terrain and goes to Shang Sumdo. After completing this challenging trekking day, relax at the campsite and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight: Shang Sumdo
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Day-9 Shang Sumdo - Hemis - Leh
After breakfast, start on the last leg of the walk to the roadhead. From here, take your car and then head towards Leh. Depending on time and weather conditions, one can visit the famous Hemis Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist monasteries of Ladakh. Continue your drive towards Leh and check into your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the end of the main trekking portion.
Overnight: Leh
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Day-10 Leh - Leisure and Local Exploration
Following breakfast, take a casual day in Leh. This day is intended for rest after a few days of trekking and to explore the city at your own pace. Local markets, handicraft shops, cafes and nearby attractions are available for visiting. A lot of traditional Ladakhi souvenirs can also be bought and the local environment can be enjoyed. Spend the evening at leisure and tomorrow get ready to leave.
Overnight: Leh -
Day-11 Leh Departure
Get breakfast and depart the hotel at the correct time for your flight. You will be transferred to Leh Airport for your onward journey. Enjoy wonderful memories of the Markha Valley, high mountain passes, traditional villages, Buddhist culture and the amazing views of the Himalayas. Your unforgettable Markha Valley trek, the Ladakh 11 Days, ends with your departure from Leh.
