Markha Trek In Ladakh
Area: Ladakh/Himalayas
Duration: 10Days
Max.Altitude: 5400m
Grade: Moderate-challenging
Season : Mid June – End Sep
The Markha Valley Trek is certainly one of the most beautiful treks in Ladakh. It ventures high into the Himalayas crossing two passes, it circles from the edges of the Indus Valley, down into parts of Zanskar, and passes through terrain that changes from incredibly narrow valleys to wide-open vast expanses! It is made more interesting by the ancient form of Buddhism that flourishes.
The trails are decorated by elaborate “chortens”(shrines) and “Mani”(prayer) walls that further exemplify the region’s total immersion in Buddhist culture. As we trek to the upper end of the Markha Valley we are rewarded with spectacular views of snow capped mountains.
ITINERARY
Take the morning flight for Leh from Delhi. On arrival at Leh meet our representative and transfer to pre booked hotel/Guest house for relax and acclimatization. In evening visit Shanti-Stupa, Sangkar monastery and walk to the market.
It's a gradual climb from Zingchan to Rumbak. From here one gets fabulous views of the snow capped Stok Mountains. From here we move along the Rumbak Nala towards Yurutse. At Yurutse village you will find fields of barley and potatoes. Overnight in Tents.
A gradual ascent followed by a steep climb gets one to the Ganda la (4900 M). From the pass view the beautiful Zanskar Range at your South. This is followed by a long descent to Shingo village. From Shingo the trail heads into a narrow gorge leading towards Skyu. At Skyu there is a confluence of the rivers coming from Markha valley and Shingo. Here we meet the trail which is coming from Chilling side. Overnight in tents.
It's a very pleasant hike, up the Markha valley with the trail crossing numerous streams. The trail passes through quite lush vegetation at the riverside, whilst the upper valley-slopes are uniformly brown and dry. Markha is a nice village with a deserted fort and a small village. In winter, wolves and snow leopards are a nuisance in these high valleys, becoming bold on account of their hunger descend to the villages and prey on domestic animals. You will see rock curved statues of Buddha and wall painting under a big stupa. Overnight in the tents.
From Markha the country changes and the relatively heavily wooded sections of the lower Markha is left behind. One will be required to cross the river several times as there are no bridges here. Hankar, en route, is the highest village in the Markha valley. Overnight in tents.
This is one of the most beautiful high valleys in Ladakh and is dominated by the Kangyatse peak, which dominates the area. Nimaling with tiny ponds and rivulets flowing all over its meadows provides pasturage in the summer for an astonishing number of animals; yaks, sheep, goats, dzos and horses from all over Makha valley. Overnight in tents.
Today you will climb the last pass in Markha Valley, Kongmaru La 5,400 m with its wonderful views from the top. There are snow peaks in every direction and on a clear day the giants of Karakoram. The trail descends steeply to the village Sumdo passing the springs of Chyu skyurmo. Overnight in tents.
Today you will drive back to Leh on the way visit Hemis, Shey and Thiksey monastery. Overnight in Leh hotel.
Transfer to the airport for the spectacular flight across the main chain of the Himalaya to Delhi..
Trip Inclusions
Experienced guide for the monasteries
Safety and health precautions
InReach satellite messaging system (when allowed)
Oxygen saturation monitoring system
Full medical kit
All accommodation in Leh with breakfast
Camping accommodation during trekking
All camping equipment including sleeping tent, foam mattress, kitchen tent, dining tent, and toilet tent
All meals and drinks during trekking
High-quality food served by experienced cooks and attendants
Service of horse/mule drivers and horses or mules
Entry fee into Hemis National Park and camping fees
Airport transfers
Trip Exclusions
Flights – please ask us if you need help with arranging your domestic flights
Medical and evacuation insurance
Lunch and dinner in Leh (breakfast is included with accommodation)
Laundry services
Other services not mentioned in the package
Tipping our crew
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