Min. Group Size

02 to 12 people, per group
Trekking Grade

Moderate Trekking
Best Season

May to September (good weather for trekking)
Max. Altitude

5,200m to 5,275m/ 17,060 to 17,300ft
Destination

Sumdo - Hemis, Ladakh
Trip Duration

10 days- Markha Valley Trek
Trip Start Point

Leh to Spitok - Zinchen
Transportation

Private Car/Van/Mini Bus
Accommodation

Hotel in Leh & Fully tented camping
Meal

Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner (tea, coffee)
Trip Activity

Trekking and Hiking in India

CROSS TWO HIGH PASSES WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF THE KARAKORAM AND ZANSKAR HIMALAYAN RANGES ON THE MARKHA VALLEY TREK

The Markha Valley Trek is no doubt quest amid the barren beauty. With steep and craggy cliffs, deep gorges and pinpricks of dust all throughout the trail, the journey takes a beetling shape at a certain elevation when it embarks upon to cross some high altitude mountain passes and deadly moraines. Gandala at 4,800 meters and Kongmaru La at 5,150 meters offers a panoramic view of the beautiful Markha valley, which is one of the major attractions on the trek.

Further, the Markha Valley trek cuts across several remote Ladakhi villages where you can dig into the vivid culture of the Indo – Tibetans. The trek also passes through the Hemis National Park, which is a home to several endangered animals and you may often encounter species like the Baharal, marmot or wolf here. If you are lucky enough then a snow leopard and ibex might just appear in front of you out of nowhere.

The Markha Valley trek starts from Leh at 3,500 meters, which is a few hours of drive from Leh. Thereafter an easy trek of 4 – 5 hours leads to Yurutse at 4,160 meters. The trek from to Yurutse mostly stretches over a phantasmagoric landscape and cuts across the Kandala. A steep descent from Gandala turns you to pass through the beautiful barley and mustard fields where the journey leads to Skiu. The trek from Yurutse to Skiu is approximately 8 – 9 hours and hence one needs to be prepared for the long day hardships. Following the barren landscape and a few remote villages the trail from Skiu heads to the picturesque Markha village and later leads to Thochuntse at 4,150 meters. From Thochuntse the trail slowly follows a gradual climb to Nimaling at 4,750 meters and later dips down to conclude at Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 01 : Arrival in Leh and Acclimatization.
Day 02 : In Leh: sightseeing and trek preparation
Day 03 : Leh – Zinchen (drive) – Trek to Yurutse via Rumbak
Day 04 : Trek from Yurutse to Skiu via Ganda La
Day 05 : Trek from Skiu to Markha
Day 06 : Trek from Markha to Hankar
Day 07 : Trek from Thochuntse to Nimaling
Day 08 : Trek from Nimaling to Chokdo via Kongmaru La
Day 09 : Drive from Chokdo to Hemis Monastery to Leh
Day 10 : Departure your destination

Join with us on Markha Valley Trek

Customize Your Tour: This is a general itinerary, which can always individually be “tailormade”. The tour package can be redesigned or redeveloped as per your taste, For more information please e-mail us at info@alpinetrav.com

Day 01 :

Arrival in Leh and Acclimatization

Arrive in Leh and check in to the hotel. You are advised to take complete rest throughout the day to acclimatize yourself to the new environment at an altitude of 11,135 feet. In the evening make hike to Shanti Stupa (World Peace Pagoda). This hike not only offers beautiful views of the Stok Kangri range and the Indus Valley, but it also helps your body adjust to the altitude. Overnight at Leh.

Max Elevation: 3,500m/11,482ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)

Day 02 :

In Leh: sightseeing and trek preparation

Your second day in Ladakh will be spent in Leh, where you will continue your acclimatization. However, on this day, you enjoy a tour of the beautiful city and its surroundings. Where, you will Leh Durbar which was built in the 17th century. Leh Durbar was the residence of the royal family, which is now converted into a museum, here you can get information about the Ladakhi royal history. The palace sits atop a hill and offers a spectacular bird’s eye view of the city. Moreover; you will visit to the Shankar Gompa (Monastery), and experience the local way of life at Leh market. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Leh while taking in the spiritual essence of this mesmerizing place. If you have any doubts, check your equipment.

Max Elevation: 3,500m/11,482ft
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 03 :

Leh - Zinchen (drive) - Trek to Yurutse via Rumbak

Depart Leh in the morning and drive to the junction of Spituk and Zinchen. From Zinchen (3402m), take a gradually ascending dusty road to Rumbak. From here, you can see magnificent views of the snow-capped Stok Mountains. And, you will head towards Yurutse via the Rumbak Nala. In Yurutse village (4148m), you will see barley and potato fields. Spend the night in a tent.

Duration: 4-5 hrs/ Distance: 8.2 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 04 :

Trek from Yurutse to Skiu via Ganda La

A gradual ascent followed by a steep climb gets one to the Ganda la (4961m). From here views extend south to the Zanskar range and distant summits of the Himalayan range. This is followed by a long descent to Shingo village (4138m). From Shingo the trail heads into a narrow gorge leading towards Skiu (3366m). At Skiu there is a confluence of the rivers coming from Markha valley and Shingo. Overnight in Tents.

Duration: 7-8 hrs/ Distance: 17.8 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 05 :

Trek from Skiu to Markha

It's a pleasant walk through small villages while following the river to reach Markha (3760m), Markha has around 20 families and it is the largest village in the valley take your time visiting the gompa and the ruins of an ancient fort above the village to enjoy village life, you can stay in tented camp or homestay.

Duration: 7- 8 hrs/ Distance: 21.2 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 06 :

Trek from Markha to Hankar

From Markha the area changes and the warm, relatively heavily wooded sections of the lower Markha is left behind. One will be required to cross the river several times as there are no bridges here. Hankar (4030m), en route, is the highest village in the Markha valley. Overnight in Tents.

Duration: 4-5 hrs/ Distance: 11.2 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 07 :

Trek from Hankar to Nimaling

Trek starts on a good path with several small inclines and a series of grassy ridges. follow the trail that leads you to the plateau of Nimaling, where people bring their animals for grazing from June to September. There are a series of mani walls (walls carved with Buddhist prayers) and chortens en route. This is one of the most beautiful high valleys in Ladakh and is dominated by the Kangyaze peak. Overnight in Tents

Duration: 5-6 hrs/ Distance: 10.7 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 08 :

Trek from Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La

Today one will cross to the north of the Markha, climbing to the top of the highest of the three passes, the (5,260m Kongmaru La), with its wonderful views from the top. There are snow peaks in every direction and on a clear day the giants of Karakoram, including K2, can be seen on the north-western horizon. The trail descends to the Martselang valley, following the Martselang stream to the village of Shang Sumdo (3680m). Overnight in tents.

Duration: 6-8 hrs/ Distance: 17.0 km
Accommodation: Fully tented camping
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner

Day 09 :

Drive from Chokdo to Hemis Monastery to Leh

Today make an easy descent along the Martselang to where it broadens into the valley of the Indus at Martselang village. Board the awaiting jeeps. Visit Hemis monastery and after that drive to Leh via Shey and Thiksey monastery. Upon reaching Leh, check in to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved hot shower. Overnight in Leh.

Distance: 40 km
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Omasila)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 :

Departure your destination

Thank you for joining us on this 10-day Markha Valley Trek. Your adventures end's today! An AlpineTrav Treks 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 10-day Markha Valley Trek has enriched your adventures with pleasant memories. Stay tuned. Have a safe and enjoyable journey home.

Meals: Breakfast

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

For your information, international flights and India’s “entry visa fee” are not included. Rooms are usually shared by two people unless you request a private room. So if you want to upgrade to better hotels in the cities, please contact us for your customized services.

MEALS

AlpineTrav Treks will provide, Breakfast (only) will be available in Leh whereas all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be available during the trek. You can enjoy freshly-cooked, hygienic and nutritious meals on full-board basis prepared by our trained and experienced cook during the trek. Authentic Nepalese, Tibetan dishes as well as the more common international cuisine (Tibetan, Continental, Italian, Indian, etc.) will be available.

ACCOMMODATION

AlpineTrav Treks will provide Hotel Omasila in Leh and other nights in a comfortable high qulity 2 men tent. Sleeping bags and foam mattresses will be provided for sleeping in the tent. We maintain standard comfort in everything based on applicable conditions such as weather conditions. All hotel and camping accommodation will be on a twin sharing basis, and if there is a different gender we will provide you with a single supplement tent at no extra charge.

TEAM COMPOSITION

For the Markha Valley Trek, there will be one guide, assistant guide (4 trekkers: 1 assistant guide) and mules for luggage carrying. This arrangement ensures that even if someone in the group gets sick or is unable to carry on, the trip can still go ahead as planned for the rest of the group. We can run the trek for groups of any size, but usually a maximum of twelve people is ideal as we’ve found this to be the optimum size for a successful trip for camping trekking.

PREREQUISITES

No prior hiking experience is required to participate in the Markha Valley Trek, but hikers should be moderately fit, adapted to high-altitude conditions for walking. Likewise, those with good physical fitness, stamina, and mental flexibility can easily complete the trek without prior hiking experience.

FAQs

It is always great and appreciated to know a little more about the Markha Valley Trek. And these FAQs will answer your most important questions and provide tips to plan your trek with confidence.

HAVE A BIG GROUP? WE’RE HERE TO ASSIST! CONTACT US TO DISCUSS AVAILABILITY AND GROUP PRICING OPTIONS:

FREQUETLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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1. What is the best time to trek to Ladakh Markha Valley?

The best time to trek to the Marka Valley is from mid-June to September. Until September, the days are dry and warm with bright overhead sun, enough to cause dehydration, however, evenings and nights can be really cold, amidst the desert landscape of this valley. The hills are bare with little or no vegetation, and only in the valley below are trees and fields scattered along the entire route. Camping can get really cold due to the high altitude.

2. How difficult is the Ladakh Markha Valley Trek?

The Marka Valley trek is considered challenging due to the long days and the maximum elevation of the Kongmaru pass of 5260 meters. But the trail is relatively easier following good paths. Average daily walking hours on this trek is 6 to 7 hours due to long days. So basic knowledge of adventure is essential in this trek. No previous trekking experience is required, but you should be fit and comfortable carrying your day pack and walking for 6 to 7 hours every day, although anyone with a good level of stamina and determination can do this trek.

3. Do I need a permit to trek in Ladakh Markha Valley?

Yes, it is required. 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.

4. Do I need travel insurance for Markha Valley trek?

It’s mandatory and highly recommended to get travel insurance before embarking on any adventurous trips. We advise all our clients to get travel insurance that covers up emergency helicopter evacuation that may be needed in case of the occurrence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) or any other reasons in high altitudes where there are no other means of transportation available. It is advisable to review carefully the insurance and its coverages before making the final decision. More information: Travel Insurance

5. Who are my guides in Ladakh Markha Valley Trek?

Rest assured that you will be in good hands with our experienced trek guides, who have multiple years of experience in Ladakh. All of our guides, known as our dedicated Guides, are locals with a deep understanding of the mountain, its people, culture, health, hygiene, and most importantly, your safety. They are fluent in English and will be able to communicate effectively with you throughout the trek. Our guides are passionate about their work and will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

6. What is the experience of the trekking guides/staff?

The guides have many years of guiding experience in Nepal, Ladakh, Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim trekking. Most have been exploring the Himalayas for years. Our guides are also trained in first aid and know how to handle any situation. All our guides speak fluent English and are happy to share their in-depth knowledge of Sikkim culture, geography, flora, festivals, lifestyle with you. It is enough to take visitors to special places or special cultures, so we provide guides who can engage people in what they are experiencing, explain it well and entertain them. They are well-versed in how to make the journey comfortable and safe while appreciating the beauty of the Himalayas.

7. Is my trip departure guaranteed?

Absolutely yes! Under normal circumstances, our booked trips are guaranteed to run. We are a tailor-made company. If you are in a last-minute stress, remember to find us to sort out your trip decisions. Please feel free to book your stress-free holidays with us. Unless there is a situation which is out of control such as a political riot, natural disaster, pandemic, epidemic or weather catastrophes, our trips are 100% guaranteed to run.

8. What if I cancel the trip, do I get my refund?

AlpineTrav Treks offers a lifetime deposit policy which allows you the flexibility to transfer your deposit to anyone or any other trip. If you wish to cancel your booked trips, certain cancelation charges apply. Please visit our booking terms and conditions for detailed information.

9. What kind of gears are needed to trek to Markha Valley?

In Ladakh Markha Valley Trek. You will stay tent camp. However; since you will be trekking in remote areas, you should be prepared with the right clothes. Please see our detailed clothing packing lists for the Ladakh Markha Valley Trek. Here, equipment packing list

10. How much does Markha Valley Trek Cost?

Generally, the price of the trek, the price difference offered by different operators depends on many factors such as the services provided, number of days, different routes, accommodation, and many more. There are many operators who offer cheap prices but their price tags alone do not entice. Many times, trekkers face problems in arranging their treks with cheap operators because of their untrained and inexperienced leaders and crew members, low quality equipment and very poor accommodation food and transportation arrangements.