Ladakh Trekking Adventure - Markha Valley Expedition
Challenge yourself with Ladakh's famous Markha Valley trek! 9 days of high-altitude trekking through remote villages, crossing passes over 5,000m, and camping under star-filled skies.
Overview
For those who want to experience Ladakh on foot, the Markha Valley trek is the perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking. This moderate-to-challenging trek takes you through landscapes that no road can reach.
Trek through the Hemis National Park, cross the challenging Kongmaru La (5,200m), stay in remote villages where life has remained unchanged for centuries, and spot wildlife including the elusive snow leopard's prey - blue sheep.
This expedition combines trekking with cultural immersion. Nights are spent in homestays with local families or in our comfortable camping setups. Return to Leh for well-deserved rest and complete your adventure with a visit to Pangong Lake.
Features
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Leh - Pre-Trek Preparation
Welcome to your trekking adventure! Arrival and transfer to hotel. Meet your trekking guide and crew. Gear check and briefing. Acclimatization begins. Light evening walk. Early dinner and rest.
Leh Acclimatization - Essential Day
Critical acclimatization day. Short hike to Shanti Stupa (1 hour). Rest. Afternoon trek to Tsemo viewpoint. Total 4-5 hours of gradual altitude gain. Fitness assessment. Final gear adjustments.
Leh to Chilling - Trek Start Point
Drive to Chilling (3 hours) - starting point of Markha Valley trek. Brief rest and lunch. Begin trek to Skiu (6 km, 3-4 hours). Cross the Zanskar River on a unique rope bridge. First camp in the wilderness.
Skiu to Markha - Valley Trek
Trek through the beautiful Markha Valley (22 km, 7-8 hours). Pass through villages, cross streams, walk alongside barley fields. The landscape is stunning. Camp at Markha village with homestay dinner option.
Markha to Hankar - Deeper Into Wilderness
Trek from Markha to Hankar (12 km, 5-6 hours). Pass by ancient ruins and Techa village. The valley narrows dramatically. Stunning views of Kang Yatse peak (6,400m). Camp at Hankar, the last village before the pass.
Hankar to Nimaling - High Camp
Trek to Nimaling plateau (15 km, 6-7 hours). Ascend steadily to 4,700m - highest camp. The plateau is home to Changpa nomads and their yaks. Spectacular 360 degree views. Cold but magical night.
Kongmaru La Crossing - Summit Day
The big day! Early start to cross Kongmaru La (5,200m) - highest point of the trek. Views of Karakoram ranges. Steep descent to Shang Sumdo (20 km, 8-9 hours total). Celebration at reaching vehicle point. Drive to Leh.
Rest Day in Leh - Recovery
Well-deserved rest after the intense trek. Sleep in! Late breakfast. Optional massage for tired muscles. Afternoon visit to Leh Market for souvenirs. Trek completion certificate ceremony. Farewell dinner with crew.
Departure - Trekker Accomplished
Breakfast and departure. You have conquered Kongmaru La! Take home your certificate and incredible memories of the Markha Valley trek.
✓ Inclusions
- •8 nights (trekking camps + homestays + hotel)
- •All meals during trek
- •Experienced trek leader
- •Trekking permits
- •Camping equipment
- •Pack horses
- •First aid kit
- •Pangong visit post-trek
- •All taxes
✗ Exclusions
- •Airfare
- •Personal trekking gear
- •Travel/trek insurance (mandatory)
- •Tips
- •Personal expenses
- •Sleeping bag rental
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Markha Valley Trek difficulty level?▼
Moderate to challenging. Daily treks of 5-8 hours, altitudes up to 5,200m (Kongmaru La), basic camping conditions. Prior trekking experience and good fitness required.
What about altitude sickness during the trek?▼
We spend 2 days acclimatizing in Leh before the trek. The route is designed for gradual altitude gain. Our guides are trained to recognize AMS symptoms.
What is included in the trek support?▼
Guide, cook, helper, pack mules for luggage, all camping equipment (tents, sleeping bags), all meals during trek, and backup support.
Do I need to carry my own gear?▼
Just a daypack with water, snacks, camera, and personal items. All camping gear and main luggage go on mules. Weight limit: 15 kg per person.
What is the best season for this trek?▼
Mid-June to mid-October. July-August can have river crossings. September offers clearer skies but colder nights. Avoid monsoon peaks.
Can beginners attempt this trek?▼
Not recommended for complete beginners. You should have experience with multi-day treks at altitude and be comfortable with 6-8 hours of daily hiking.
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Customer Reviews
All Reviews (10)
This was my third Ladakh trip but first to Tso Moriri. Why did I wait so long? It's even better than Pangong!
Honeymoon trip that exceeded all expectations! The lakeside camp at Pangong was so romantic - we even saw shooting stars at night. The planning was perfect and we didn't have to worry about anything. Thank you for making our first trip as a couple so special.
Photography heaven from start to finish! The changing landscapes kept my camera busy throughout. Must-do road trip.
Spotted blue sheep and marmots! The wildlife in this region is amazing. Trek plus safari rolled into one.
The most Instagram-worthy destination in India! Every frame looks like a painting. Cannot recommend this package enough.
We even got to see a snow leopard from a distance! The wildlife experience at Tso Moriri was unexpected bonus.
From landscapes to portraits of locals - got incredible variety. The hidden spots known only to the guide were gems!
Best trip of 2025! The 3 Idiots point at Pangong was obviously a must-visit but honestly every single spot on this itinerary was Instagram-worthy. The monasteries were so peaceful. Already planning to come back for Tso Moriri next year.
Good experience overall. Riding gear quality was decent. Roads were challenging but manageable for intermediate riders.
Left my comfort zone and conquered Khardung La! The supportive all-women environment made it possible. Life achievement unlocked!