Markha Valley Trek: A Himalayan Escape Through Ladakh
Leh- Ladakh-
Type Trekking
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Group Size 40 Peoples
Overview
The Markha Valley Trek is one of the most iconic trekking routes in Ladakh, offering a gateway into the magical kingdom often referred to as “Little Tibet.” Organized by Backpackclan, this remarkable journey takes trekkers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Indian Himalayas.
Traversing the picturesque Markha Valley and following the course of the Markha River, the trek passes through ancient monasteries, traditional Ladakhi villages, and the verdant meadows of Nimaling—all set against the dramatic backdrop of Kang Yatse peak. The region showcases a captivating contrast of arid mountains, vibrant green grazing fields, and remote rural settlements.
While the valley remains snow-covered during the winter months, summer transforms it into a breathtaking panorama of mustard fields, pristine streams, and charming hamlets such as Stok, Matho, and Zanskar. These seasonal changes attract trekkers from around the globe, drawn by the beauty and serenity of the landscape.
Wildlife enthusiasts may be lucky enough to spot Blue Sheep and the elusive Ibex on the rugged slopes. The trek also offers spectacular views of some of the region’s highest peaks, including Karakoram, Saser Kangri (7,670m), Stok Kangri (6,150m), Kang Yatse (6,400m), and Nun Kun (7,135m).
As the trail ascends, trekkers are greeted with awe-inspiring views of high-altitude villages nestled amidst terraced fields of barley, wheat, and mustard. A highlight of the journey is the passage through Hemis National Park, a biodiversity hotspot and a vital part of the Markha Valley trekking experience.
With Backpackclan, this trek is not just an adventure—it’s an immersive exploration of Ladakh’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and spiritual heritage.
Inclusion/Exclusion
Arrival in Leh
Arrive in Leh by morning flight and transfer to the guesthouse. Spend the day at leisure to acclimatize to the high altitude. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Sightseeing – Shey, Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries
Today, explore some of the most significant and ancient monasteries around Leh. Begin with a visit to Shey Palace (15 km from Leh), the former summer residence of Ladakhi kings, featuring numerous stupas and gompas. The highlight is the impressive 12-meter statue of Shakyamuni Buddha at Dresthang Gompa, built in the early 17th century by King Deldan Namgyal.
Next, visit Thiksey Monastery (17 km from Leh), renowned for its stunning architecture and belonging to the Gelukpa order. Conclude the day with a drive to Hemis Monastery (45 km south of Leh), the largest and one of the most revered monasteries in Ladakh. Founded in the early 17th century, Hemis belongs to the Drukpa lineage and is beautifully set in a tranquil valley surrounded by streams and Mani walls.
Return to Leh for an overnight stay at the guesthouse.
Leh – Spituk – Zinchen (Trek Begins)
Depart from Leh early morning by jeep and drive to Spituk (approx. 1 hour). Visit the historic Spituk Monastery, built around 500 years ago. Begin the trek from Spituk by crossing a bridge and following the trail southwest along the Indus River. The route passes through a scenic gorge, eventually leading to the confluence of the Indus and Zinchen rivers. Set up camp near the village of Zinchen.
Overnight stay in tents.
Zinchen – Rumbak – Yurutse
Begin a gradual ascent from Zinchen to Rumbak, where spectacular views of the snow-capped Stok Mountains await. Continue trekking along the Rumbak Nala toward Yurutse village, known for its lush fields of barley and potatoes.
Overnight stay in tents.
Yurutse – Ganda La Pass – Shingo – Skiu
Trek involves a gradual ascent followed by a steep climb to Ganda La Pass (4,900 m), offering panoramic views of the Zanskar Range and distant Himalayan peaks. Descend steadily to Shingo village, then continue through a narrow gorge towards Skiu, located at the confluence of the rivers from Markha Valley and Shingo.
Overnight stay in tents.
Skiu – Markha Village
Enjoy a pleasant hike along the scenic Markha Valley, crossing several streams along the way. Arrive at the charming village of Markha, known for its historic deserted fort and quaint rural setting.
Overnight stay in tents.
Markha – Hankar
Leaving Markha, the landscape transitions from the warm, wooded lower valley to a more rugged terrain. The trail requires multiple river crossings, as there are no bridges along this stretch. En route, visit Hankar, the highest village in the Markha Valley.
Overnight stay in tents
Hankar – Nimaling
The trek begins on a well-defined path featuring gentle inclines and rolling grassy ridges. Along the way, you’ll pass numerous mani walls carved with Buddhist prayers and ancient chortens. This stretch leads through one of Ladakh’s most stunning high valleys, framed by the majestic Kangyaze Peak.
Overnight stay in tents.
Nimaling – Kongmaru La Pass – Sumdo
Today’s trek takes you north of the Markha Valley, ascending to Kongmaru La Pass (5,306 m), the highest of the three passes on this route. From the summit, enjoy spectacular panoramic views of surrounding snow-capped peaks, including the Karakoram range and, on clear days, even K2 on the northwestern horizon. Descend through the Martselang Valley, following the Martselang stream down to the village of Sumdo.
Overnight stay in tents.
Sumdo – Martselang – Leh
Begin with an easy descent along the Martselang River to the village of Martselang, where the valley opens up into the Indus River basin. From here, board jeeps and visit the renowned Hemis Monastery. Continue the drive back to Leh, stopping at the Shey and Thiksey Monasteries en route.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Leh
Departure
Transfer to the airport for your scenic flight back to Delhi, flying over the majestic Himalayan mountain range.
Tour Duration
- 10N/11D
Medicine, cash, toiletries, trekking shoes, water bottle, ID card, power bank, torch, blanket, warm clothes, moisturizers.
Cancellations received less than 45 days prior to departure will be subject to the following forfeit | Before 45 days: 25% of tour cost | 45 - 30 days: 50 % of tour cost | 30 - 20 days: 75% of tour cost | Within 20 days: 100% of tour cost | No exception to this policy can be made for any reason.
46 Days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost. | 31 - 45 Days before date of departure: 50% of total cost. | 30 days before date of departure: 100% of total cost.
Any increase in cost because of change in the itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (force majeure) like landslides, riots, traffic jams etc. | Any dispute is subject to Delhi jurisdiction only.
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