Max Altitude
17,100 FT
Grade
Moderate
Duration
7 Days
Trekking KM.
61 KM
Suitable for: | 15+ years. |
Experience: | Experience of any high altitude trek, at least 1 treks of 5,000m/16,400ft. |
Fitness: | Cover 5 km of distance in 30 minutes without a stress. |
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Trek Info
Located in the northern part of India, the union territory of Ladakh lies in the westernmost part of the Himalayas in the close vicinity of the Karakoram Ranges. The capital of Ladakh, Leh, the most desired adventure hub, is popular for its raw and arid thrill and a gateway to burned-out trails. With the Markha Valley trek, one gets to rediscover the parched region of the mighty Himalayas. The mysterious ride of 8 days, exhibiting lush green to yellow barren landscapes, passing alongside the Indus River will be borne in your mind for a lifetime.
Markha Valley is the largest valley in the region. Of course, Leh is the starting point of this trek, which is an added advantage to exploring the Buddhist monuments in Leh. You will be astonished to traverse through the tiny hamlets as you gain altitude. Surprisingly, these villages host cafes or tea houses serving to rejuvenate hot drinks when you are tired from the strenuous hike. One after another, Rumbak, Yurutse, Skiu, Markha, Hankar, and Nimaling settlements will revitalize you. Not only that, most of the villages have preserved monasteries, ruined forts, and temples. Amongst them, the Tacha monastery is an eye and heart catcher that lies between the mountains.
Though the trek goes through dry regions, the Indus, Markha, and numerous streams will come your way. Since the trail goes through Hemis National Park, all its treasured fauna, mountain sheep, arghali, rabbits, and snow leopards, can be spotted at every camping site. Ganda La and Kongmaru La are the two cardinal passes to be crossed en route. These passes are known for the panoramic views of the infinite Karakoram and Ladakh ranges. The stunning sights of K2 mountain, Stok Kangri, and Kang Yatse peaks are fulfilling and the motivation of this trek. On clear days one can get to see the distant Tibet region. Just a small trek ahead of Markha Valley and you will reach the base of Kang Yatse Peaks.
This is not one of those typical treks that retrace the same path while descending. Therefore, you get a wider and non-repetitive insight into Ladakhi Himalayas. Each day reveals mesmerizing views concealed behind the mountains.
Health Awareness
Government Employees {SCL}
Government Employees can avail the benefit of Special Casual Leave (SCL) when you join us for a trekking expedition. As per the rules of the Pay Commission, Special Casual Leave can be availed for up to 30 days in a calendar year for trekking/mountaineering expeditions through a registered organization. Trek The Himalayas is a registered adventure tour operator by Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF) and Ministry Of Tourism (MOT)
Trekkers have to apply for leave at least 20 days before trek departure date.
Note
NOTE: Markha Valley Trek is of 7 days and the highest altitude is of 17,100 ft. If you are looking for more challenging adventure in Leh try out the Twin Peaks Expedition. You can go for either Kang Yatse II or Dzo Jongo Peak as well.
Markha Valley trek begins from Leh. Arrive in Leh by flight or train. Take it slowly once you arrive in Leh. Since it is at the hazardous height of 11,000 ft direct landing at this height may trigger AMS. Make sure you rest well and do not strain your body during your stay in the hotel. Leh has gained popularity as the adventure capital of India. It is quite famous amongst wanderers, which you can evidently see as you roam here and there.
Cafes are loaded here which are hanging out places for adventurers. There is a good network connection in Leh and has ATMs. Leh is a good option to fill up your things to carry list if you have forgotten any item. Although cafes are in close vicinity, try to stay away from alcohol and avoid smoking. Apart from that, Leh is also known for monasteries, palaces, and temples. Make sure to visit them as you enjoy your small treat in Leh. You can also explore the local market in Leh and try the local cuisine. Staying outdoors will help you acclimatize to the altitude. Reserve the evening for rest. Sleep well and let your body acclimatize to the altitude.
This is an extra day added to the itinerary to help you get acclimatized better. Therefore utilize this day and try to stay outdoors. Acclimatization days in our treks are used to give your body time to adjust to the thinning air at high-altitude conditions. Several changes occur in your body while trekking in high-altitude regions and the purpose of acclimatization is to allow your body to operate optimally in a decreased oxygen level environment.
Leh is a major hub for adventure as well as a culturally rich center. It presents innumerable opportunities for sightseeing starting from the monasteries and temples, the local market as well as many places serving delicious local cuisine. Today, you can hike up to the Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and Thiksey Gompa to experience the Buddhist culture. Thiksey Gompa is the largest in central Ladakh, located on a hill. Avoid gaining height by hiking to nearby passes or valleys. This is only to avoid stressing your body, as it may hinder the process of acclimatization.
Additionally, you can interact with the locals and fellow travelers to gain some knowledge about the adjacent areas. Roam in the Leh city and the Leh Bazaar. You can collect souvenirs from a variety of shops. You must spend the sunset at the Shanti Stupa, which is known for its dazzling lights in the evening. Say goodbye to the wonderful Leh and rest in your hotel. Your actual trekking day begins tomorrow.
Get set as your real trek journey commences. You will be riding along the skillfully paved roadways crossing marvellous landscapes. Throughout the road, you will encounter military camps decorated with colorful big rocks around the camps. Do not miss Gurudwara Pathar Sahib on the right and Magnet Hill on the left as you move ahead. The Stok Range remains on the right until it vanishes slowly when you reach Hemis National Park. You will be pleasantly surprised once you reach Sangam. Indus and Zanskar rivers, both bottle green, yet so unique, form the most spectacular confluence. This point is also famous as starting end for rafting. Take a diversion here towards Chilling. The surrounding view henceforth changes magically. The open terrain beside the road enters into the closed valley. Valley has stunning purple, black, and grey shades of the mountains. Juniper and tall alpine trees will border the route as you cross the Zanskar river over green iron bridges. Take a deep breath once you get down at Chilling, as the walking will begin in a few minutes. Chilling is the point where the Markha River merges into Zanskar.
The trek ahead incepts a steep ascent going through Zingchen Gorge. Amidst you will also cross the river on a trolley at Kaya-Do place. The trail many times comes across the river. Skiu will mark the first camping in the tents. It is located at the confluence of rivers Shgri Nala and Markha. Skiu village is largely divided into two sections, upper and lower village. Lower Skiu has 12 houses quite close to each other. A small trudge, old monastery, and ruins of a palace separate it from upper Skiu. There are small white stupas and mani stones laid towards upper Skiu. Markha River lies on the right of the village.
Most of the places here offer homestays. Relax after a mini-trek, while looking forward to the upcoming trek.
Start fresh for the actual first trekking day. Be vigilant about birds and animals. Markha valley harbors enormous wildlife. Magpie birds will be visible right after you step out of the house. The trail is quite evident and well-paved intermittently. The Markha River will remain escorting on the right, which incepts from Kang Yatse peaks. In an hour a cafe can be spotted, take a small break here and keep walking. The trail is enclosed by the valley that goes through sparse forest cover. After another hour’s trudge and the first wooden bridge comes to Zanpa Yoakma.
In about 25 minutes another coffee shop at Hamourja is waiting for you to rejuvenate. You will cross the Markha River a couple of times during the trek as you pass through various winter settlements containing Lhatos (religious shrines built for the local deities) as well as Mani walls (walls made of stone inscribed with prayers). Look out for black sheep, deer, and mountain goats on these banks. Keep walking straight to Nagding village for another 40 minutes. Right in front of the houses spot meditation caves at a height on the valley walls. These caves are believed to be having paintings from the 20th century. The banks of the Markha River get wider and you can find yourself stepping in the powdered sand. Enjoy the feeling of Himalayan sands.
After about 1 hour from Nagding village, a big entrance of Sara village appears. The entrance is decorated with skeletons of wild animals. Unlike Skui, Sara seems like an open area. Sara Village is also home to a monastery and ruins of an old castle which is believed to be the resting spot of the Royal families on their way to Srinagar in ancient times. You may also see wheat plantations and Bushoi (a cotton-like flowering plant and also a natural painkiller). Also, a unique thing that you will notice is that the entrance to Sara village is decorated with skulls of animals like Yak or Sheep. These animal skulls are perceived as a sign of pride for the locals.
From here, the first tea houses arrive immediately after 30 minutes at Chalak village. The Chalak Village comes after crossing a wooden bridge. The village has houses placed on small hills with stone protection shelters for domestic animals at the base. Visit any of the villagers and they will greet you with Namkin Chai and biscuits. Re-energize with affectionate talks and hot drinks. You will see Barley fields in the village. From Chalak, it is a gradual ascent up towards Markha and you will pass by the section of the trail marked by Bharal horns. The destination is 2 hours away from here.
At every small distance, you can find Mani stones laid around white stupas. These stones are engraved with Buddhist prayers, some of them in the Sanskrit language too. Be humble in front of these historic symbols. Do not dare to touch these stones. The villagers believe these stones are protected by some powers, and any harm to them will cause harm to that person. Do not forget to notice the ruins of the palace at every turn in the valley. This can be figured out by flags at a height on small temples. These palaces were considered viewpoints and signalling points during the reign of the Kings. Markha Village is considered the largest village, you can find numerous houses, scattered away. You will have to walk in the running stream of the Markha River to reach the Markha village. The water in the Markha River can be thigh-high at some points, so it is better to take off your shoes and socks and pull up your pants to cross the river. The cold water will bring back all the energy. In 20 minutes, you can see the hamlet. Markha is the biggest village in the entire valley and comprises 25 houses.
Take the most advantage of the innocence of the salient villages because today will probably be the last habitats on the route. Today is one of the most beautiful days of trekking and the views start opening up as you traverse the upper Markha Valley. The trail is beautiful and refreshing when it merges with flowing rivers and streams. These water bodies can also be crossed over a bridge. Umlung village is a small village and will serve as the last teahouse of the trek with yet another serene monastery to your sight.
After Umlung you can get the first sight of Mt. Kang Yatse(6400m). It seems as if the peak is calling you! Follow its voice, again overcome the river several times and enter the Hankar village. Try to spot the magically placed Tacha monastery on a mountain. It is the last hamlet of the trek and your refuge place.
Get all enthusiastic, after yesterday’s tough trek, today will be an easy and short trek. Start walking and in 1 km you will find diversions or paths separating out. The other route goes to Rupshu and Zanskar. Keep walking on the left path until a stone bridge. This marks that you are on the right trail. Henceforth, you can see many diversions, please be careful and follow the trek leader/guide. In the next 2 hours, the pastures of Thochuntse become visible. There camping sites and tea houses here. Thochnugtse also has some lovely green fields which are quite a contrast to the aridness of the desert in Ladakh. Keep walking slowly, enjoying the view. The trail is quite steep for like an hour after which becomes a gradual incline.
Try to engulf yourself in nature and move slowly just as you focus on the Kang Yatse peak. The peak seems to grow bigger and bigger. Surprisingly, tranquil twin lakes also come along the path. From the lakes, it is a long and gradual descent to the plateau of Nimaling. The trails enter into a huge grassland after a few fights crossing streams of the high altitudes. Sheep, mountain goats, and sometimes rabbits are found grazing at Nimaling. It is a pleasant camping place. It is the highest point you will attain on this trek and being the highest campsite Nimalaing offers spectacular views of the Kang Yatse Peak on the right. There are instances of snowfall at this site hence we prepared for that. Above all that, just try to merge into the high world and sleep in peace.
This day will be nostalgic and exciting, as this is the last day of the trek landing at the highest pass of the trek. Kongmaru La is visible distinctly from Nimaling on your left. Also, this day will be filled with surprises. Cross the stream near the campsite and then you will have to follow the clear trail to reach the pass. After a strenuous climb of 2 hours to Kongmaru La pass, you will be pleasantly welcomed by the Karakoram Range Mountains and the excellent array of peaks. Hold your breath for the mind-blowing sight of the huge K2 Mountain, the second-highest peak in the world. There are prayer flags moving along the wind. To your surprise, there is a good network connection from the pass.
The trail then gradually descends, coinciding with villages to say goodbye. The immediate trail from the pass has a steep and narrow descent which later opens to Chikirmo village. The descent can be pretty hard on your knees as it is quite steep. Throughout the route, you can get indulged in the scenery of the Indus Valley and the Ladakh range. After a gradual climb down and rocky terrain, you will reach Chokdo. This is the last stop of the entire trek, which also has many homestays. Get into the pickup vehicle that will take you to Leh.
Take a sigh of relief in this village, as your next stop will be the last stop, Leh. The further road is descending showing the monastery and Hemis Gompa. Fill them in your eyes, heart, and mind. Close your eyes to rewind the entire Markha Valley diaries.
First of all everyone to reach Leh.
You have to come to our hotel, once you book the trek our trek coordinator will share with you the hotel name, location and contact person number.
Choose any option to reach Leh
You can take any option of Manali Highway, Srinagar Highway or direct flight to go back from Leh. Our services are up to hotel only and hotel check out time is 10:30 AM.
1. Accommodation:
• Guest house in Leh on Day 1, day 2 and day 7 as per the itinerary.
• Camping/Home stay during the trek.
2. All meals while on trek (Veg + Egg) : from day 3 lunch to day 7 packed lunch.
3. Trek equipments: Sleeping bag, mattress, tent (twin sharing), kitchen & dinning tent, toilet tent, utensils and crampon (if required).
4. First aid medical kits, stretcher & oxygen cylinder.
5. Mountaineering qualified & professional trek Leader, guide, cook and Support staff.
6. Transport from Leh guest house to Zinchen and return from Chokdo as per the itinerary.
7. Mules to carry the central luggage.
1. Any kind of personal expenses.
2. Airfare and pickup and drop from airport.
3. Food in Leh.
4. Any kind of emergency evacuation charges
5. Necessary permits, entry fees etc.
6. Mules or porter to carry personal luggage.
7. Anything not specifically mentioned under the head.
8. Insurance.
10. Environment fee/inner line permit : Rs. 600 per person
Things can be provided on demand and availability (participant has to pay extra for these things)
1- Satellite phone/setphone - is a type of mobile phone that connects via radio links via satellites orbiting the Earth instead of terrestrial cell sites like cellphones. Therefore, they can operate in most geographic locations on the Earth's surface.
2- Gamow/PAC HAPO Bag (Portable Hyperbaric Bag) - is a unique, portable hyperbaric chamber for the treatment of acute mountain sickness (AMS), also known as altitude sickness.
3- AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) - are portable life-saving devices designed to treat people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, a medical condition in which the heart stops beating suddenly and unexpectedly
Normally TTH expect to carry your personal luggage on your own, if you wish to offload your backpack, you can give it to Mule/porter.
Charges of offloading backpack for entire trek:-
INR 4200/- if you make an online payment, 10 days in advance
INR 4500/- if you inform us after reaching Leh
The backpack cannot weigh more than 11 kgs. Backpack should have waterproof cover. Suitcases/strolleys/ bags will not be allowed.
The fee can be paid by online transfer/Check deposit/Cash deposit/Demand draft. Instruction for
payment will be forwarded along with your confirmation email. When your transfer is done, please
e-mail us a confirmation mail with your transfer details, so that we can follow up your reservation efficiently.
Cancellation terms:
For the cancellation of services due to any avoidable/unavoidable reasons, Trek The Himalayas must be notified of the same in writing at [email protected] At the time we receive your written cancellation, refunds based on the total fare are as follows.
Cancellations prior to 25 days from the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 24 days and 15 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation between 14 days and 10 days to the start of the Trip
Refund options
Cancellation less than 9 days to the start of the trek
Refund options
In the unlikely event that TTH cancels a trek prior to the scheduled departure date:
While it is extremely rare for TTH to cancel a trek, we understand that unforeseen circumstances or natural disasters may occasionally require us to do so before the scheduled departure. These circumstances could include continuous rain or snow, thunderstorms, snowstorms, landslides, floods, earthquakes, or any other natural calamity that poses a risk to the safety of our trekkers. Additionally, unforeseeable events such as local riots, curfews, pandemics, lockdowns, government orders, or any similar situations that compromise the safety of the trekking experience may also necessitate a cancellation.
In the event of such a cancellation, TTH will provide you with a voucher equivalent to the amount you paid for the trek. This voucher can be redeemed for any of our treks within the next year, allowing you to still enjoy an adventure with us at a later date.
Note
In the rare event that TTH shifts a trek:
We would like to emphasize that weather conditions in high-altitude areas are highly unpredictable and can undergo sudden changes at any time, irrespective of the day. Additionally, circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, and lockdowns, may impact the feasibility of conducting a trek. In cases where we are unable to proceed with an event due to such circumstances that are beyond our direct control, we will make every effort to provide you with an alternative trek that is safer and more suitable.
In such situations, we will issue a voucher to offset the cost difference between the originally scheduled trek and the alternative trek. This voucher can be redeemed at any time within one year from the date of issue. Please note that a refund fee or reimbursement of the cost difference is not applicable in these cases.
Note:
Cash Voucher Terms:
Itineraries are based on information available at the time of planning and are subject to change. "Trek The Himalayas" reserves the right to change expedition dates, people or itineraries as conditions warrant. If a trip must be delayed or the itinerary changed due to bad weather, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, airline schedules, sickness, or other contingency for which TTH or its agents cannot make provision, the cost of delays and/or other changes are the responsibility of the participant. TTH reserves the right to decline, or accept, any individual as a trip member for any reason whatsoever.
Back pack & rain cover | (50 - 60 ltr) with comfortable shoulder straps |
Day pack + rain cove | 20 - 30 ltr (If hire a mule or porter) |
Walking stick | Advisable (At least one) |
Water bottle/Hydration pack | 2 bottles of one liter each, People who use hydration pack 1 hydration pack and 1 bottle of one liter, Carry at least one thermos flask. |
Personal Medical Kit | Consult your doctor |
Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electral/ors |
T-shirts | 4 Full sleeves (Non-cotton) |
Fleece T-shirts | 1 Nos. |
Fleece jacket | 1 Nos. (Alternative: a woolen sweater) |
Down feather / Hollofil jacket | 1 Nos. |
Wind & waterproof (jacket & pant) | 1 Pair |
Trek pants | 3 Synthetic (avoid shorts, fitting denims, capris) |
Fleece/woolen gloves | 1 Pair |
Poncho | 1 Nos. |
Sunscreen cream | Moisturiser |
Hand sanitizer | Antibacterial powder |
Toothbrush and toothpaste | Lip balm / Chapstick |
Toilet Paper & wipes | Quick dry towel |
Head torch | 1 Nos. (Avoid Hand torch) |
Woolen cap | 1 Nos. |
Balaclava | 1 Nos. (Optional) |
Neck-gaiters | 1 Nos. |
Sunglasses | Dark with side cover, it should be U/V protected, People who wear spectacles- (A)- Use contact lenses. (B)- Photo chromatic glasses. |
Trekking shoes | 1 Pair (Waterproof, high ankle with good grip) |
Floaters/flip-flops | 1 Pair |
Cotton socks | 6 pairs |
Woolen socks | 1 pairs |
Gaiters | 1 Pair (TTH will Provide) |
Fitness regime for:
Moderate |
Calculate Your BMI :
Congratulations, your body is in good conditions!
BMI Range | Category |
---|---|
Less than 16.5 | Serverely Underweight |
16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5 - 25 | Normal |
25 - 30 | Overweight |
Customise Trek
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While it is not mandatory to hire a guide for the Markha Valley Trek, it is highly recommended, especially if you are new to the area or inexperienced in trekking. A guide can help you navigate the route, provide information about the local culture and history, and ensure your safety throughout the trek.
The best time to do the Markha Valley Trek is from mid-June to mid-September when the weather is relatively mild and dry. However, it is important to note that the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, and trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, precipitation, and other weather conditions.
The Markha Valley Trek is a moderately difficult trek that requires a good level of physical fitness. Trekkers should be able to hike for 5-6 hours a day, sometimes at high altitudes, and carry a backpack weighing up to 10 kg. Prior trekking experience is helpful, but not necessary.
Yes, altitude sickness is a concern on the Markha Valley Trek, as the highest point on the trek reaches an altitude of 5,212 meters. Trekkers should take proper precautions, such as acclimatizing gradually, staying hydrated, and taking medication if necessary.
Accommodation on the Markha Valley Trek is primarily in basic guesthouses and homestays, with limited options for camping. Trekkers should be prepared for rustic conditions and bring their sleeping bags and other camping gear if they plan to camp.
The Markha Valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, blue sheep, marmots, and various species of birds. While sightings are not guaranteed, trekkers should keep an eye out for these animals and respect their habitats.
Yes, permits are required for the Markha Valley Trek, as it passes through the Hemis National Park. These permits can be obtained from the park office in Leh or through a trekking agency.
Trekkers should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for trekking in mountainous terrain, as well as a sleeping bag, camping gear (if camping), and a backpack. Other essential items include sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and any necessary medications. It is also important to bring cash for food, lodging, and other expenses along the way.
The starting point of the Markha Valley Trek is the village of Chilling, which can be reached by road from Leh. Private taxis and shared taxis are available for hire, and some trekking agencies also offer transportation services.
Yes, the Markha Valley Trek can be done in reverse, starting from the village of Shang Sumdo and ending in Chilling. However, this route is less popular and may require additional planning and preparation.