Markha Valley

5 nigts - 6 days

It is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh. This trek begins from Hemis National Park, there is always an opportunity of spotting rare species of wild animals.
 

Day 1. Zinchen - Yurutse (3900m) Via Rumbak (4/5 Hrs)

It's a gradual climb from Zinchen to Rumbak. From here one gets fabulous views of the snow capped Stok Mountains. And we move along the Rumbak Nala towards Yurutse. At Yurutse village you will find fields of barley and potatoes. Overnight in Tents.
 

Day2. Yurutse to Skiu (3100m) Via Ganda La (7/8Hrs)

A gradual ascent followed by a steep climb gets one to the Ganda la (4900 M). Here you get the view of Zanskar range and summits of the Himalayan range. This is followed by a long descent to Shingo village. And then the trail heads into a narrow gorge leading towards Skiu village. You will know that your todays destination has come when you can witness a confluence of the rivers coming from Markha valley and Shingo. Overnight in Tents.
 

Day3. Sku to Markha 3800m (7/8Hrs)

It's a very pleasant hike, up the Markha valley today with the trail crossing numerous streams. On the way leading to Markha you come across Sara village here you can have your lunch and continue towards your destination. Markha is a quaint village with a deserted fort. A small but the most beautiful village. Overnight in Tents.
 

Day4. Markha to Thachungtse (5/6Hrs)

Today from Markha the beauty changes and the warm, relatively heavy wooded sections of the lower Markha is left behind. One will be required to cross the river where there are no bridges at times. Then your journey takes you to Hankar which is the highest village in the Markha valley. Head towards Thachungtse campsite. Overnight in Tents.
 

Day5. Thachungtse to Nimaling 4700M (5/6Hrs)

Trek starts on a good path with several small inclines and a series of grassy ridges. There are a series of mani walls carved with Buddhist prayers and chortens along the way. The way is a little stiff but you will find a perfect break spot which would surely amaze you with its natural beauty. This is one of the most beautiful high valleys in Ladakh and is dominated by the Kangyaze peak which is at 6400m high. Overnight in Tents.
 

Day6. Nimaling to Shang Sumdo Via Kongmaru La 5150m (6/7Hrs)

Today one will cross to the north of the Markha valley, climbing the highest pass in the entire region Kongmaru La (5200m). You will be at peace with its wonderful views from the top. There are snow peaks in every direction and on a clear day the giant range 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 Sumdo. The trek ends here with beautiful memories of amazing landscapes, wildlife and lifestyle of the remote villages. Your Taxi will take you back to the Hotel in leh town. Overnight in Hotel.
 

Notes:

- The wild lifes of Markha Valley are Snow leopard, lynx, Ladakhi Urial (a type of goat), Arghali (great Tibetan sheep), Blue sheep, Red fox, tibetan wolf, Dhole (wild dog), Marmot and Mountain hare.

- "LA" = Pass

- "Chorten" means the buddhist stupa usually small and white in colour

- "Rumbak" is the village famous for snow leopard

- "K2" is the second highest peak in the world.