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Markha Valley Trek – A High-Altitude Himalayan Adventure in Ladakh

Price $1600 10 Days
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Markha Valley Trek – A High-Altitude Himalayan Adventure in Ladakh

$1600 per person

The Markha Valley Trek is one of the most iconic high-altitude treks in Ladakh, known for its surreal landscapes, remote villages, and deep-rooted Tibetan Buddhist culture. Starting from Chilling or Spituk, near Leh, this spectacular trail winds through the Hemis National Park, crossing icy rivers, desert valleys, and high mountain passes like Kongmaru La (5,260 meters).

Along the way, trekkers witness Ladakh’s natural grandeur — snow-capped peaks such as Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri, towering cliffs, and vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Moreover, traditional Ladakhi homes, mani walls, and centuries-old monasteries like Tacha Gompa add spiritual depth to the physical journey. These features make the Markha Valley Trek an unforgettable experience for fit adventurers seeking solitude, culture, and awe-inspiring Himalayan beauty.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

The Markha Valley holds sacred value in the local Buddhist community. According to legend, monks and pilgrims once traveled through this valley centuries ago, establishing meditation caves and spiritual sites. Tacha Gompa, dramatically perched on a cliff, is believed to be a place where monks meditated for years in isolation. It is also said that protector deities watch over the valley, ensuring a safe passage for trekkers who journey with a pure heart. These stories, passed down through generations, add a mystical layer to the already captivating terrain.

Trek Details

Region: Ladakh (Hemis National Park)

Trek Start/End: Chilling or Spituk to Shang Sumdo

Max Altitude: 5,260 meters (Kongmaru La)

Duration: 6–9 days (depending on route)

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Best Season: Mid-June to September

Highlights of the Markha Valley Trek

Crossing high passes with panoramic views of Zanskar and Stok ranges

Interaction with locals in Markha, Hankar, and Nimaling villages

Wildlife sightings in Hemis National Park (blue sheep, marmots, Himalayan fox)

Visits to ancient Buddhist sites like Tacha Gompa and Ganda La monastery

Stunning desert-meets-glacier landscapes unique to the Ladakh region

 

Hemis National Park

Sham Valley 

10 Days
18+ Age
term-custom-icon Trekking

From Our Gallery

1
Day 01: Arrival in Delhi – Airport Pick-up & Hotel Stay in Delhi
Our representative will receive you at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and transfer you to your hotel in central Delhi. Relax, freshen up, and prepare for your Himalayan journey.
Stay: 4/5 star hotel in Delhi Altitude: 216m
2
Day 02: Arrival in Leh (3,500 m) – Rest & Acclimatization
  • Activities:
    • Airport pickup & hotel check-in
    • Light walk around Leh market 
    • Hydration & rest to acclimatize
  • Stay: Guesthouse/Hotel in Leh
  • Note: Avoid physical exertion today, altitude gain is significant.

3
Day 03: Leh – Local Sightseeing & Culture
Explore Leh's rich culture and history. Visit Thiksey Monastery, Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and walk around the old Leh market.
Stay: Same hotel in Leh
Add-on: Try local Ladakhi cuisine and butter tea!
4
Day 04: Drive to Chilling(3200m) - Trek to Skiu(3400m): 5-6hrsDay 2: Drive to Chilling(3200m) - Trek to Skiu(3400m): 5-6hrs
Total Distance from Chilling to Leh is about 60 km. Road is mostly paved with some rough patches near the end. Drive along the Indus River, then merge with the Zanskar River at the Sangam viewpoint (a popular tourist stop). Continue on a scenic road towards Chilling, a small village on the Zanskar river known for metalwork and the trek starting point. At Chilling, the traditional way to cross the river was via a metal trolley (pulley system), but now a footbridge has been constructed. This bridge connects the left bank of the Zanskar River to the trail toward Skiu. There is a narrow trails through a stunning gorge carved by the river.                            Skiu is a small village with traditional Ladakhi houses. Buddhist stupas, prayer flags, and dramatic cliffs one can see around. It is first night stay of the trek
5
Day 05: Skiu to Markha(3700m): 20kms: 6-7hrs
The trail follows the Markha river almost the entire way. Gentle ascent with some undulating terrain and stream crossings. Trail passes through willow groves, barley fields, and small patches of irrigated land. Spectacular cliffs, canyons, and Buddhist prayer walls (mani walls) along the way. Pass quaint villages, chortens, and mani walls. Reach Markha village, one of the largest in the valley. Hermis or Sara are small resting spot or camping ground a few hours from Skiu. You might see a tea tent or small settlement depending on the season. Chaluk is another small village/hamlet along the trail, around halfway to Markha. It is a good place to stop for a snack or refill water.
6
Day 06: Markha to Hankar(4000m)
Cross several wooden bridges. Visit Tacha Gompa, perched on a cliff. There is a possibility for enthusiastic trekkers to hike to the base of the Kang Yatse glacier in a few hours from Nimaling. Camp near Hankar village.
7
Day 07: Hankar(4700m) to Nimaling(4841m): 10-11kms: 6-7hrs.
A beautiful but to Nimaling steeper climb. Nimaling is a high-altitude pasture, with views of Kang Yatse peak (6,400 m).
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Day 08: Nimaling to Chogdo(3900m) via Kongmaru La (5260m): 15kms: 7-8hrs
Steep ascent to Kongmaru La, with prayer flags and panoramic views. Long, steep, and technical descent through a dramatic gorge. Narrow trails and sharp rocks make this section slow-going. You need to cross the river several times before you reach the Chogdo.
9
Day 09: Drive back to Leh from Chogdo via Shang Sumdo: 60kms
Trail or rough jeep road (depending on the vehicle and weather). Some vehicles can reach Chogdo, but often pickup is easier from Shang Sumdo, 1–1.5 hours walk down the valley if needed. Than drive to Leh directly.
10
Day 10: Buffer / Reserve / Departure Day
  • Certificate
  • Party
  • End of tour

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Accommodation
Meals
Overall
Transport
Value for Money

  • Accommodation & Gear
High-quality alpine tents (twin sharing basis) Season-rated sleeping bags and insulated sleeping mats All essential camping gear provided and set up by our team
  • Meals & Hydration
All meals included: Nutritious vegetarian breakfast, packed lunch, evening tea/snacks, and hot dinner Boiled or filtered drinking water provided daily
  • Support Team
Experienced trek leader and certified mountain guide Skilled cook and kitchen team Camp helpers and porters/mules for luggage and equipment transport
  • Transfers
Pick-up and drop-off as per the trek itinerary (from base location)
  • Medical Safety
Comprehensive first-aid kit with basic high-altitude medications Oxygen cylinder available for emergency use (on high-altitude treks)
  • Luggage & Packing
Participants need only carry a light daypack with essentials (water bottle, snacks, jacket) Main backpack/duffel (up to 10 kg) will be carried by porters/mules
  • Travel & Rescue Insurance: All participants are required to carry personal travel and emergency evacuation insurance   
  • Personal Expenses: Expenses such as phone calls, laundry, bar bills, battery charging, and additional porters/horses if required.                                                                                                                                                                     
  • Unexpected Costs: Any expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the itinerary (e.g., weather delays, route changes, natural calamities).                                                                                                                             
  • Town-Based Costs: Any meals, drinks, or accommodation outside the trekking route (in towns or cities) are not included.                                                                                                                                                             
  • Gratuities: Tips for trekking staff, guides, and support crew are not included (though appreciated).                                 
  • Anything Not Mentioned Above: Any services or items not explicitly listed under “Inclusions” are to be considered additional.

 

Himrovers: Himalayan travel experts offering thrilling motorcycle tours, unforgettable trekking, adventures, and authentic experiences across India’s majestic mountain landscapes.

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