Markha Valley Trek
Expedition Overview
The definitive high-altitude journey across Ladakh and Hemis National Park, Markha Valley combines the dramatic trans-Himalayan geology of Zanskar with lush green oasis villages, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and high pastoral plateaus. Crossing two formidable passes — Ganda La (4,900m) and Kongmaru La (5,030m) — the route unfolds breathtaking views of the Karakoram range (including K2 on clear horizons), glaciated Kang Yatse peak (6,400m), irrigated barley terraces, mani stone walls, and authentic Ladakhi peasant culture.
Key Expedition Highlights
- Summit the 5,030m Kongmaru La Pass with panoramic views across Ladakh and the Karakoram giants
- Camp beneath the colossal glaciated pyramid of Mt. Kang Yatse (6,400m) on high Nimaling plateau
- Trek through Hemis National Park — home to snow leopards, blue sheep (bharal), and golden eagles
- Explore iconic Ladakhi monasteries: Spituk Gompa (500 yrs old), Shey Palace, Thiksey, and Alchi
- Cross roaring glacial streams and ancient trans-Himalayan trade trails into inner Zanskar gorges
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Delhi
Arrival in Delhi, airport reception, transfer to hotel, and rest.
Delhi to Leh Flight (3,500m)
Early morning flight to Leh. Gentle acclimatization walk to Shanti Stupa. Rest in hotel.
Leh Monastery Sightseeing
Explore ancient Buddhist monasteries of Ladakh: Shey Palace, Thiksey Gompa, and Alchi. Rest and hydration.
Leh to Spituk & Zinchen to Rumbak (1 hr drive, 2-3 hrs trek, 4,000m)
Drive to Spituk Gompa. Trek along Indus-Zinchen confluence gorge climbing to Rumbak with fabulous views of Stok mountains.
Rumbak to Yurutse to Ganda La Base (8 km, 4-5 hrs trek, 4,500m)
Trek along Rumbak stream past barley fields of Yurutse village to camp below Ganda La base. View of Stok range.
Ganda La Base over Ganda La (4,900m) to Skiu (12 km, 6-7 hrs trek, 3,100m)
Steep climb to Ganda La pass (4,900m) with views across Zanskar range. Long descent through Shingo gorge to Skiu confluence.
Skiu to Sara (8 km, 4-5 hrs trek, 3,600m)
Pleasant hike up the valley crossing streams to the tiny oasis hamlet of Sara. Overnight in tents.
Sara to Markha Village (10 km, 5 hrs trek, 3,800m)
Gradual trek along the beautiful Markha River to Markha village, the heart of the valley. Camp near the village.
Markha to Hankar to Thochuntse (9 km, 5 hrs trek, 4,100m)
Pass ancient ruined forts and Hankar (highest village in Markha). Cross glacial streams to reach Thochuntse.
Thochuntse to Nimaling High Plateau (10 km, 6-7 hrs trek, 4,700m)
Climb past grassy ridges, carved Buddhist prayer mani walls, and chortens into the vast Nimaling pasture dominated by Mt. Kang Yatse.
Nimaling over Kongmaru La (5,030m) to Chokdo & drive to Leh (14 km trek, 7 hrs, 2-3 hrs drive)
Climb to the summit of Kongmaru La (5,030m) with sweeping Karakoram views. Descend Martselang gorge to Chokdo and drive in Innova to Leh.
Leh Free Leisure Day
Relax, explore Leh bazaars, shop for local handicrafts, and celebrate trip completion. Hotel stay in Leh.
Leh to Delhi Flight & Departure
Transfer to Leh airport, board morning flight to Delhi for onward journey home. Expedition concludes.
Package Inclusions & Exclusions
- Delhi airport transfers and all road travel / sightseeing in Leh by Toyota Innova Crysta
- Hotel accommodation in Leh on Bed & Breakfast (BB) basis
- All wholesome meals during the trekking days
- Ponies to carry personal baggage and camping gear
- Certified local Himalayan guide, professional camp cook, and helpers
- Hemis National Park entry, permits, and camping fees
- Domestic and international air tickets (Delhi-Leh-Delhi)
- Cold drinks, mineral water, laundry, personal gear, and alcoholic beverages
- Any items not explicitly listed in Trip Includes
Expedition Visual Dossier
Leh - Spituk - Rumbak - Ganda La - Skiu - Markha - Nimaling - Kongmaru La
- 30+ Years of native Himalayan leadership
- Wilderness First Responder trained guides
- Leave-No-Trace 100% trash pack-out policy
- Fair wages & complete insurance for mountain crew
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