About

The Markha Valley Trek, set in the captivating Markha river valley within the Hemis National Park of Ladakh, offers a unique 7-day Himalayan adventure. This trek traverses high-altitude passes, river crossings, rocky canyons, and showcases diverse wildlife, providing stunning views of Mt. Kang Yatse and the Kongmaru La pass. Along the route, trekkers encounter the iconic barren landscapes of Ladakh, traditional mud houses, and Buddhist motifs in Markha Valley villages, immersing them in the local culture and architecture. Unlike other treks, Markha Valley stands out by offering accommodations in local homes, making it one of the few tea-house treks in the Indian Himalayas.

Best Time for Markha Valley Trek

Ladakh, known for its cold desert landscape, experiences harsh winters, making summer the optimal season for trekking activities. Therefore, the ideal period for embarking on the Markha Valley Trek spans from July through September, when sunny days and moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for high-altitude hiking.

Winter Trekking in Markha Valley

Attempting the Markha Valley Trek during winter is highly discouraged. This adventure is specifically suited for the warmer months, from late July to the end of September, as the region’s severe cold and snow cover during winter render the trail inaccessible and unsafe.

Trekking in October

While inquiries about October treks are common, it’s important to understand that this is not a suitable time for the Markha Valley Trek. With the onset of autumn in Ladakh, the likelihood of snowfall increases, especially at higher elevations, leading to the closure of the trek.

Trekking in December

The Markha Valley sees significant snowfall in December, further emphasizing that this trek is not feasible during the winter months.

Summer Trekking in Markha Valley

The summer season stands out as the most favorable and visually stunning time to undertake the Markha Valley Trek. It is during these months that trekkers can fully enjoy the accessibility, exceptional services, and the mesmerizing landscapes that this region has to offer.

Highlights of Markha Valley Trek

The Markha Valley Trek offers a myriad of attractions, with the Markha Valley standing out as its primary highlight. This remote valley boasts breathtaking panoramas, traditional mud houses, and ancient Ladakhi tribes, alongside Buddhist monasteries that add to its mystical charm. Trekkers are treated to stunning views of the Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri peaks, showcasing the contrasting landscapes of Ladakh and the Zanskar Valley. As the trek ventures deep into the expansive Hemis National Park, adventurers are immersed in the rich biodiversity of the region, encountering varied Himalayan wildlife and captivating flora. The journey also features exhilarating river crossings, providing both excitement and tranquility as trekkers ford waist-deep streams amidst rocky canyons, creating an unforgettable and immersive experience.

How Difficult is Markha Valley Trek

Understanding the difficulty level of a trek is crucial before making plans. The Markha Valley Trek falls within the moderate to difficult category, making it accessible to fit beginners as well as seasoned hikers. This trek includes traversing high-altitude passes that exceed 15,000 feet, so participants should be prepared for significant climbs over these passes. Additionally, while there are days on the trek that present a milder challenge, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery of Ladakh, it’s important to note that the trek’s most extended stretch occurs on the second day, covering a distance of approximately 20km. Despite this, the elevation gain on this particular day is relatively modest, helping to mitigate the physical demand on trekkers.

How to Reach Markha Valley

The Markha Valley Trek is nestled in the captivating Markha Valley within the Ladakh region, boasting straightforward accessibility from Leh. The trek’s starting point is merely 60km away from Leh city, placing trekkers right in the heart of Markha Valley and alongside the Markha River for their journey.

Travel Options:

Air: The closest airport to the trek’s commencement at Chilling is Leh Airport. Upon arrival in Leh, travelers can utilize the shared cab services offered by us to conveniently reach the base camp for the trek.
Train: Ladakh lacks direct railway connectivity. The nearest major railway station is at Jammu Tawi, from where you can opt for a shared cab or bus to reach Ladakh, though be prepared for a lengthy journey.
Road: Ladakh enjoys road links with the rest of India, accessible via either Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh. The roads are generally in good condition but do brace yourself for extended travel times due to the vast distances involved.