Trip info
-
Min 1 Max 12
-
Grade: Moderate
-
Season: June - Sept
-
Max. 5,200m/17,060ft
-
Duration: 12 Days
-
Private A/C Vehicle
-
Hotels & Fully Camping
-
All meals are included
<strong>Who we are</strong> Our website address is: <a href="http://www.alpinetrav.com" target="_new" rel="noopener">http://www.alpinetrav.com</a>. <hr /> <strong>What personal data we collect and why we collect it</strong> <h3>Plugin Data Collection and Compliance</h3> This website uses plugins that may store personal information. These plugins comply with GDPR regulations and are designed to manage and protect your data securely. Below are details on what data may be collected and why: <ol> <li><strong>Contact Forms</strong> <ul> <li>When you use contact forms, the plugin may collect your name, email, and other necessary details to provide responses to your inquiries.</li> <li>This data is stored to enable us to respond to your messages effectively and is retained only as long as necessary for communication.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Comments and Spam Detection</strong> <ul> <li>Comments on the site collect data shown in the form, as well as the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to assist in spam detection.</li> <li>This data may also be shared with an automated spam detection service.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Cookies and Data Storage</strong> <ul> <li>Some plugins may set cookies to improve user experience, such as storing login information or remembering preferences. These cookies comply with GDPR standards and expire after a set period or upon logging out.</li> <li>Cookies specifically used by these plugins do not collect personal data unless explicitly mentioned.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Embedded Content</strong> <ul> <li>Embedded content from third-party websites may behave as if the visitor has visited those external websites. These third-party sites might collect data and track your interaction as per their policies.</li> </ul> </li> <li><strong>Analytics</strong> <ul> <li>Some plugins may collect anonymous analytics to improve site performance. However, no personal information is stored unless explicitly noted, and all data complies with GDPR standards.</li> </ul> </li> </ol> <h3>How Long We Retain Your Data</h3> The collected data is stored only as long as necessary for the intended purposes, such as for communication or to improve the site experience. This may vary based on the plugin and specific regulatory requirements. <h3>What Rights You Have Over Your Data</h3> Under GDPR, you have the right to: <ul> <li>Access: Request a copy of the personal data we hold.</li> <li>Rectification: Correct any data we hold about you that is incorrect.</li> <li>Erasure: Request the deletion of your data, provided it is no longer necessary for regulatory or operational purposes.</li> </ul> For requests, please contact us using the information in our Contact section below. <hr /> <strong>Where We Send Your Data</strong> Visitor comments may be checked through an automated spam detection service. Some plugins may also send anonymized data to third parties as part of analytics or performance monitoring. <strong>How We Protect Your Data</strong> All data managed by this website and its plugins is stored securely. We ensure our plugins meet industry standards for encryption and data protection. We also regularly update our website to prevent unauthorized access.
Markha Valley Trek Highlights
- Ganda La and Kongmaru La passes offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys
- Explore villages like Skiu, Markha, Hankar and experienc Ladakhi life
- Camping on a vast, high-altitude meadow where shepherds graze their yaks, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- wildlife such as Blue Sheep (Bharal) and looking for the elusive Snow Leopard within the Hemis National Park.
- Trails alongside the Markha River, navigating deep gorges, and crossing swaying, local bridges.
- Views of the Zanskar Range and the massive 6,400m peak, Kang Yatse
- Visit secluded, historic monasteries, including the Hemis Monastery and smaller, rustic shrines found along the trail.
After the spectacular flight over the Himalaya to Leh you’ll spend days for essential acclimatization with sightseeing at Buddhist monasteries. The trek starts at the village of Spituk and after crossing the Ganda La you’ll descend into the Markha Valley. you continue to the beautiful Nimaling plains dominated by the impressive Kang Yatze peak. From here you will cross the Kongmaru La with superb views south to Zanskar and north to the Karakoram range. You descend from the pass through a steep canyon with wonderful coloured rock and then you will drive back to Leh.
Ladakh, also known as little Tibet, is one of the most remarkable regions of India. Although politically part of India, Ladakh is geographically and culturally an extension of western Tibet. Ladakh is a high and arid landscape with lush irrigated valleys surrounded by snow capped peaks. Leh the capital of Ladakh has long been a remote and fascinating outpost and important cross-roads for pilgrims and traders in the upper Indus Valley.
Customize Your Markha Valley Trek:
- This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The Markha Valley trek package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please contact us.
12-Days Markha Valley Trek Itinerary
Arrive in Leh and check into the hotel. It is best to rest and stay hydrated for the rest of the day to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You will be given complete rest throughout the day to acclimatize yourself to the new environment at an altitude of 11,135 feet. In the evening, trek to Shanti Stupa (Vishwa Shanti Stupa). This trek offers beautiful views of the Stok Kangri mountain range and the Indus Valley, it also helps your body adjust to the altitude. Spend the night in Leh.
Accommodation: Hotel Omasila
Leh is the ancient capital of Ladakh and has many hilltop forts and palaces to visit including the Royal Palace which overlooks the town. The town is situated on the old Silk Route and still has a trading tradition- it is well worth wandering around the colourful bazaar. Overnight at Leh.
Accommodation: Hotel Omasila
Meals: Breakfast
In the morning, you will visit the Leh Durbar, the residence of the royal family built in the 17th century. The Durbar is located on a hilltop and offers a spectacular bird's eye view of the city. Apart from this; you will also visit the Shankar Gompa (Monastery). Experience the local lifestyle at the Leh Bazaar. Enjoy the serene atmosphere of Leh while taking in the spiritual essence of this enchanting place. If you have any doubts, check your equipment and spend the night in Leh.
Accommodation: Hotel Omasila
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, you drive to Jingchen and start trek. On leaving Jingchen you The route follows the Yurutse Nala upstream in an increasingly narrow valley- look out for the blue sheep high above on the steep sides of the valley. Before entering Rumbak the valley widens and the snow-topped Stok mountains come into sight. The trail continues upstream, crosses the bridge and then takes the right fork to Yurutse.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
Today after breakfast, you will leaving Yurutse the trail passes a beautiful purple band of rock and continues to Ganda la base camp where you take the path west towards the Ganda la. Once at the pass there is a great view of Stok Kangri and the Zanskar range to the west, and from there descend to Shingo.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
Today you pass through a spectacular gorge with beautifully coloured and eroded rocks following the Shingri Nala river to Skiu- above Skiu is an attractive gompa and the remains of a royal residence. overnight tent camp.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
The trail passes through Chalak and Sara village and on approaching Markha you get the first glimpses of Kang Yatse (6,400m). Even though it is also a small village, Markha has its personal historical Monastery where you will exlpore. Spend the night at Markha in a tent camp.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
The route goes up the main valley on the right bank, passes the monastery of Humlung and continues to Hankar. The valley narrows and the trail crosses to the left bank to reach the pastures of Tchatchutse.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
After breakfast, today you will trail passes a small lake and then across pastures to Nimaling which is one of the most beautiful high valleys in Ladakh with grassy plains surrounded by high peaks and passes. To the south the view is dominated by Kang Yatze and to the north the Kong Maru La- the high pass we must cross in order to return back to Leh.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
Today is a long day as the trail climbs to the Kong Maru La- at the top of the pass there are colourful prayer flags framing the 360-degree Himalayan panorama. To the north we look out towards Tibet, the Eastern Karakorams and China and to the south lies Kang Yatze whilst in the west there are the dry mountains of Zanskar. The descent from the pass is fairly steep but soon eases before entering a narrow gorge with colourful rock formations. We descend into the Indus Valley and to the village of Shang.
Accommodation: Fully Camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner
After breakfast, you walk along the riverbed on the left bank passing a series of chortens and follow a gently rising trail through rugged scenery to Hemis. After visiting Hemis monastery you will drive back to Leh.
Accommodation: Hotel Omasila
Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Thank you for joining us on this 12-day Markha Valley Trek. Your adventures end's today! An our representative will drop you off at the airport before your scheduled flight. On your way home, you will have plenty of time to plan your next trip to Ladakh. We hope this 12-day Markha Valley Trek has enriched your adventures with pleasant memories. Bon voyage for a safe and pleasant trip home. Safe Journey!! We hope to see you again.
Meals: Breakfast
Markha Valley Trek 12-Days Cost Details
Cost Includes
- All private ground transportation including airport transfers
- All camping logistical arrangements for your comfort, where kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs, and more for your comfort
- Twin Sharing 3-Star Category Accommodation at Hotel in Leh Basis
- Twin Share Accommodation at Guest House in Hundar with full board
- All required permits for the trek with Inner Line Permits (ILP)
- Twin sharing tent for accommodation during the trekking
- Freshly prepared meals (B, L, D) with boiled water, tea, coffee etc.
- Experienced local trek guide with 1:5 assistant guide to client ratio
- Full support camping crew with number of mules to carry load
- Comprehensive first aid kit with high altitude medicine
- Staffs salary, food, equipment, insurance, included on-trip cost
- Official expense, all local and government tax and VAT.
Cost Excludes
- Flight tickets and India entry visa fee
- Lunch & Dinner at Leh During Stay
- Entrance fees while tours
- Personal expenses. Additional expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as other events beyond control.
- Drinks except tea and coffee. (Bar Bill, laundry and telephone calls.)
- Travel Insurance: Liability of insurance against any kind of medical expenses etc.)
- Personal trekking equipment
- Emergency rescue evacuation if needed
- Tips for treks guide, cook and staff (it is appreciated)
12-Days Cost Details
- The trip cost always depends on group size, hotel accommodation category and client’s desire budget
- The included itinerary is a guideline and standard pattern which AlpineTrav you. This trip itinerary can be modified according to your time and requirements
- The itinerary shall be changed after an understanding between both AlpineTrav and the client. Additional activities could be either added or reduced as per client’s request before the trip confirmation
- Price shall be adjusted in our mutual understanding, if the client intends to add some services we shall charge him/ her for those additional services and if he/she intends to lessen some services, we shall wave the charges accordingly
- The Markha Valley Trek itinerary has been published in 3-star hotels and tented camping services for better understanding of the customers.
Please contact us on WhatsApp: +9779860751012 for any information about in your selected package.
Useful Info
Please take care to note: Every effort will be made to keep to the above itinerary; however, since this adventure entails traveling in remote mountainous regions, we cannot guarantee that we will not deviate from it. Weather, the health condition of a group member, unexpected natural disasters, etc., can all contribute to changes in the itinerary. The trek guide will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if required.
Accommodation at Markha Valley Trek
During the trek: Comfortable stays in citie and on the trail Your comfort is our priority, whether it’s in a busy city or in the quiet hills: In Leh: You will stay in 3-star hotel, that offer comfort and amenities. Room Arrangement: are on a twin-sharing basis, which Hotel Omasila in Leh with breakfast.
Your accommodation during the trek will be fully tent camping. A tent with foam mattress will be provided for every 2 travelers. There will also be a kitchen tent, dining tent, toilet tent, table, chairs. We will have mules to load all this equipment.
Meals in Markha Valley during the Trek
All meals are included throughout the trek. We will provide three meals a day during the trek. Our kitchen team will serve freshly prepared meals during the trek. We consider hearty and delicious food to be a key ingredient for the overall success of our trek.
Since this is a full camping trek, meals are prepared by the trekking cook and usually include warm, nutritious options such as soup, rice, pasta and vegetable curries. Finally, there will be also farewell dinner in Leh.
When is the best time to trek Markha Valley?
The best time to trek is from June to mid-October and from July to August to mid-September, when the summer weather offers clear trekking, accessible high passes like Kongmaru La at an altitude of 5,200 meters, and comfortable trekking temperatures. Similarly; September is ideal for less crowds, while early autumn allows for pleasant trekking before the heavy snowfall of October. Overall, (July – September). Clear views, easy river crossings and an ideal time for greenery Similarly, in June and late September/October: Less crowded away from Hallah, although June can still snow on the passes and October can be very cold.
Prerequisite for Markha Valley Trek
No previous experience for Markha Valley trekking is required but you should be moderately fit and must enjoy walking and adaptable to high altitude conditions. Having a previous experience is definitely beneficial but it is not a must to participate for this trip. All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. We advise you to prepare yourself for the trip by doing regular exercises, going on hiking, running or gym. The fitter you are, the more enjoyable you will find the experience of Markha Valley trekking. All our trip itinerary has been devised keeping every aspect in mind and allows ample time for acclimatization.
India
India Travel Information →
FAQs About Markha Valley Trek
The Markha Valley Trek depends on the reputation and services offered by the company you book your holiday with. But, the service we offer Cost USD 1,800 per person. It is a standard cost is all-including. The cost may differ if you choose to amend the itinerary and services. If you have a larger group, then we can provide group discounts. If you wish to upgrade the facilities and add more support etc on the Markha trek, then we can tailor your trip accordingly by getting a touch of luxury where possible.
The best time to trek is from June to mid-October and from July to August to mid-September, when the summer weather offers clear trekking, accessible high passes like Kongmaru La at an altitude of 5,200 meters, and comfortable trekking temperatures. Similarly; September is ideal for less crowds, while early autumn allows for pleasant trekking before the heavy snowfall of October.
The average duration of the Markha Valley Trek is about 5 to 10 days. The trek range is distributed among the trekkers who can spend several days for trekking, and for those who don’t have enough time to spend. Our itinerary consists of 12 days Markha Valley Trek which is ideal for trekking with proper acclimatization measure, which including acclimatization days in Leh. The core trekking portion generally lasts 7-8 days, connecting the Markha Valley trekking to the Shang Sumdo – Hemis Monastery.
Yes, you need permits: due to its proximity to the China/Pakistan border, a permit known as an Inner-Line Permit (ILP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required to enter every part of Ladakh. This permit can be obtained in Leh. Which should be booked through a local company in Leh.
Yes, Markha Valley Trekking offers many great side trips to enhance your experience, mainly focusing on exploring high-altitude lakes, views, and ancient monasteries. Key options include a trek to the base of Kang Yatse Peak, exploring the Nimaling Plains, and visiting Hemis Monastery.
To reach the Markha Valley trek from Leh, take a private taxi to Chilling. The nearest starting point of the trekking route is Leh, where the Markha River joins the Zanskar River on a short route and another popular starting point, which is used when starting the trek via the Ganda La pass. For the longer route, you can go to Jingchen. Hiring a taxi is the best option, although public buses run only occasionally, or you can get shared rides at the trailhead.
To be a responsible trekker, minimize your environmental impact by carrying out all trash, using reusable water bottles, and respecting local customs and traditions. Support local businesses by staying in homestay and hiring local guides and staffs. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing their habitat.
Especially in the Hemis National Park area which is part of the trekking to the Markha Valley trekking offers sightings of unique high-altitude wildlife, including Blue Sheep (Bharal), Himalayan Marmots, and pikas. Where you may also encounter Himalayan Ibex, Tibetan wolves, and potentially the elusive Snow Leopard. Moreover, birdwatchers can spot Lammergeiers, Himalayan Griffons, Golden Eagles, and Chukars in the rocky terrain.
In terms of difficulty, the Nubra Shyok Valley trek is a bit more difficult than the Markha Valley trek, mainly due to the high altitude passes, longer distance and duration, terrain, etc. While the Markha Valley is still tough, and requires a good level of physical fitness and prior preparation as it involves climbing the Kongmaru La which has an elevation of 5,260m/17,250ft, but it is still not as difficult as the Nubra Shyok Valley trek.
Packing wisely is crucial to make your trek in Markha Valley trek in Ladakh a success. We generally advise trekkers to pack light and not to miss out on essential equipment for every situation. Therefore, we have listed below for Markha Valley trek:
For Body:
- Trekking long-sleeve top
- Waterproof pants and jackets
- Rapid-dry cotton pants and a Wool top
- Some undergarments
- Fleece pullovers and rain-proof hoodies
For Head and Face:
- Knit hat, wide-brimmed hat, and shawl
- Battery-powered headlight with spares
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for protection from harmful UV rays
- Wipes for body and face
For Hands and footwear:
- Flexible grip gloves
- Pair of thermal gloves
- Supportive, lightweight outdoor boots
- Several pairs of thick knitted socks
Toiletries:
- Medium bath towel
- Dental brush and paste
Other Essential gear and things
- Whether you are employing a porter or not, you may choose to use a daypack or a backpack
- Reusable bottle
- Water purification
- Sleeping bag
- Some Nepalese currency
- Watch and cell phone
- First aid kit and camera
- Passport photocopies and additional passport-size images
Nepal
