Markha Valley Trek
Remote Ladakhi valley between the Stok and Zanskar ranges. Ancient monasteries, nomad camps, and passes above 5,000m.
Leh, Ladakh · 8 days · Groups of 6–12
Highlights
- →Kongmaru La at 5,150m — one of the highest trekking passes in Ladakh
- →Markha village — ancient settlement with a 400-year-old monastery
- →Kang Yatze (6,400m) base views — permanent snow on the horizon
- →Nimaling Plateau — summer camp of Changpa nomads at 4,700m
- →River crossings of the Markha stream — cold, knee-deep, exhilarating
- →Hemis National Park — snow leopard habitat, blue sheep, lammergeier
Day-by-day Itinerary
Leh → Chilling (drive) → Skiu
Drive to Chilling via Nimmu. Trek starts along the Zanskar gorge. Reach Skiu by afternoon.
Skiu → Markha Village
Walk along the river valley. Pass ruined forts and chortens. Reach the main Markha village — monastery visit.
Markha → Thachungtse
Valley narrows. First views of Kang Yatze come into sight. Steady climb.
Thachungtse → Nimaling Plateau
High plateau at 4,700m. Nomad tents, yaks, and the Kang Yatze panorama. One of the best camps on the route.
Nimaling — rest + acclimatization
Rest day at altitude. Short walks on the plateau. Stars at 4,700m.
Nimaling → Kongmaru La → descent
Summit day — Kongmaru La at 5,150m. Views of both ranges. Long descent to Chuskirmo.
Chuskirmo → Martselang
Final descent through open desert terrain. Exit the Hemis National Park.
Drive: Martselang → Leh
Trek ends. Drive to Leh via Hemis Monastery.
What's included
- ✓All meals Day 1 dinner to Day 8 breakfast
- ✓Camping gear and tents
- ✓Experienced Ladakhi guide + pack ponies for group equipment
- ✓Hemis National Park permits
- ✓Transport: Leh to Chilling and Martselang to Leh
Not included
- ✗Personal travel to/from Leh
- ✗Personal gear
- ✗Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
FAQs
Is acclimatization needed before this trek?
Yes — spend at least 2 days in Leh before the trek starts (Day 1 is arrival day). The itinerary is structured for gradual altitude gain, but Leh acclimatization is essential.
What is the river crossing situation?
You'll cross the Markha stream 10–15 times depending on the season. Crossings are knee-deep and cold. Trekking poles help. We provide neoprene socks for sensitive trekkers.
Logistics
Meeting point
Leh Airport / Leh Bus Stand, Ladakh
Trip ends
Leh Airport / Leh Bus Stand, Ladakh
Minimum age
16 years
Fitness required
Moderate to high — sustained altitude above 4,000m for multiple days
Starting from
₹28,000
per person, all inclusive
Next batch: July 2026
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