Markha Valley Trek – The Hidden Gem of Ladakh
6 Nights / 7 Days
Markha Valley Trek – The Hidden Gem of Ladakh
The Markha Valley trek is a cultural immersion. Explore remote villages, witness the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and visit ancient monasteries perched precariously on cliffsides. Experience genuine Ladakhi hospitality with homestays, a unique highlight that allows you to connect with local families and their timeless way of life. Starting near Leh, the Markha Valley Trek follows trails along the Markha River, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse ranges. As you walk through colorful landscapes, you will witness unique wildlife, fluttering prayer flags, and traditional Ladakhi villages that still preserve their centuries-old lifestyle. Nights are spent camping under dazzling starry skies, offering a true Himalayan wilderness experience. This moderate-to-challenging trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking to test their limits while being surrounded by unparalleled scenery. From the snow-capped peaks of Stok Kangri to the striking red rock canyons, every step is a photo opportunity.
The trek usually takes 7–9 days and is graded as moderate to challenging, with altitudes reaching up to 5,200 meters at Kongmaru La Pass. The breathtaking views from this pass, overlooking the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges, are a highlight of the journey. This moderate-to-challenging trek is ideal for adventure seekers looking to test their limits while being surrounded by unparalleled scenery. From the snow-capped peaks of Stok Kangri to the striking red rock canyons, every step is a photo opportunity.
If you are seeking a Himalayan trek that combines rugged adventure with rich cultural encounters, the Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh is the perfect choice. Join us for this once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Ladakh’s mountains. Our expert guides, seamless logistics, and commitment to safety ensure you have an unforgettable and secure trekking experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Tour Itinerary
Day 01 Leh to Zingchen to Rumbak 4-5 hours
After having breakfast drive to Zingchen and walk towards Rumbak through a straight forward road. Leaving Zingchen village, you enter Hemis national park – habitat of Snow leopard and mountain ungulates etc. Walk through a narrow trail and valley widens as you arrive Rumbak village. Rumbak offers you an opportunity to stay in a village house with the family – a trend began in recent years under home stay system being promoted and supported govt. NGOs and travel agencies. You get to try different local food during your home stay experience. Camp at Rumbak.
Day 02 Rumbak to Base Gandala Pass (4500 m)
After breakfast start trek to Ganda La Base Camp follow the path along the mountains, and then cross a small valley to a zig zag steep path,it’s a area for spotting wildlife and high altitude birds.. Camp at Gandala Base Camp.
Day 03 Gandala Base to Skyu (3500 m) via Gandala Pass (4380 m)
Trek across Ganda La pass (4380m)and after about two hours of descending walk you get to the beautiful valley of Markha. A few hundred meters further is the Kaya village, where you stay in a family house. Gandala Pass, via Shingo and enter the Markha Valley. Enjoy spectacular view of Zangskar Rage from the Pass. Camp at Skyu.
Day 04- Skyu to Markha 7-8 hours
From Skyu, follow a good path on the right bank of Markha where one can find great vegetation. Then cross the right bank of river then the barren plain and arrive at Chaluk. Thereafter, walk along the left bank of river and after another crossing climb towards Markha village. Towards the end of the village there are good camp site near the river. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 05- Markha to Thachungtse 5-6 hours
Right after breakfast you start trekking in the morning to reach Tchatchutse via Hankar village. Overnight in tents.
Day 06- Thachungtse to Nimaling 4-5 hours
After breakfast start trekking to reach Nimaling. Nimaling (4900 M) has a sweeping pasture where thousands of sheep, goats and yaks graze during the summer months. Rising to the south is 6400 M high Kang Yatse (Nimaling Peak), a lovely mountain, but not an easy one to climb. Overnight in tents.
Day 07- Nimaling to Shang Sumdo to Leh 6-7 Trek-6 Hrs Drive
After breakfast start trekking to reach Kongmaru La (5100 M). The trek to Kongmaru la passes through narrow gorges. From the top of the pass, you can have a view of Ladakh ranges and the sight of villages to the north of Indus valley is excellent. Cross the pass and proceed to Shang. Arrive Shang and pickup by car and drive back to Leh.
- Destination Leh - Zingchen - Rumbak - Ganda La Pass /Base Camp - Skyu - Markha - Thachungtse - Nimaling - Shang Sumdo
- Duration 6 Nights / 7 Days
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What´s Included
- All transportation by Xylo or Scorpio.
- Two men tent, Kitchen and dinning tents.
- Kitchen tent with kitchen equipments and Toilet Tent.
- Stool, Table and mattresses
- Food veg and non-veg.
- Cook, Helper and guide.
- Horses for Luggages.
- Monument entrances, wild life fees and camping charges.
- Goods and Services Tax
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Not Included
- Any flight tickets.
- No accommodation in Leh is included in Trekking Packages.
- Sleeping Bags, trekking shoes and clothing
- Any Kind of Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “Prices Included”.
- Tips, Insurance, Laundry, Phone Calls .
- Any Kind of Drinks (Alcoholic, Mineral, Aerated).
- Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond control.
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Terms & Condition
- Participants must be physically and mentally fit for the trek .
- Any pre-existing medical condition must be declared at the time of booking .
- Use of alcohol, drugs, or misconduct during the trek is strictly prohibited.
- We recommend carrying your own travel and medical insurance.
- The company is not liable for failure to perform its obligations if that failure results from an event beyond its reasonable control (e.g., war, earthquake, flood, epidemic/pandemic, government advisory) .
- The company’s liability is strictly limited. It shall not be liable for any loss, damage, injury, illness, death, or expense incurred during the trip .
- Help us keep the Himalayas clean. Respect local communities, wildlife, and fellow trekkers.
- Clients must acknowledge that trekking and mountaineering in the Himalayas involve inherent risks, including but not limited to altitude sickness, accidents in remote areas, weather extremes, and terrain hazards. By booking, clients accept these risks.