Starting From
44,850
39,000.00
Starting From
44,850
39,000.00
Markha Valley Trek (232+ Reviews)
The trek starts and ends in Leh
Jammu Railway Station
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh
Leh
June to September
Leh to Leh
Veg
Homestay / Camping
Leh
9 Days
Moderate
16732 Ft
85 Km
Overview
The Markha Valley Trek is a popular trekking route located in the Ladakh region of India
Location: The Markha Valley Trek is situated in the Ladakh region of northern India, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The trek starts from the village of Chilling, which is about a 2-3 hour drive from Leh, the main city of Ladakh.
Altitude: The trek involves varying altitudes, with the highest point being Kongmaru La Pass at approximately 5,100 meters (16,732 feet) above sea level. It’s important to acclimatize properly due to the high altitude to avoid altitude sickness.
Route: The typical route for the Markha Valley Trek spans around 80 to 100 kilometers (50 to 62 miles) and usually takes around 6 to 8 days to complete. Here’s a rough itinerary:
- Chilling to Skiu: The trek usually starts from Chilling, and the first day involves hiking to Skiu, a small village along the Markha River. This is a relatively easy day of trekking.
- Skiu to Markha: The second day usually involves trekking from Skiu to Markha village. This part of the trek offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and passes through several small villages.
- Markha to Hankar: On the third day, trekkers typically continue from Markha to Hankar. This part of the trek involves crossing the river multiple times and offers stunning views of the valley.
- Hankar to Nimaling: The fourth day usually involves trekking from Hankar to Nimaling, which is a high altitude pastureland. This part of the trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La Pass: On the fifth day, trekkers usually trek from Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via the challenging Kongmaru La Pass. This is the highest point of the trek and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Shang Sumdo to Leh: The final day usually involves trekking from Shang Sumdo to the road head where vehicles will be waiting to take trekkers back to Leh.
Difficulty: The Markha Valley Trek is considered moderately difficult. While the terrain is not extremely technical, the high altitude and long hours of trekking each day can be physically demanding. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are important for completing the trek safely.
Best Time to Trek: The best time to undertake the Markha Valley Trek is from mid-June to September when the weather is relatively stable and the trekking routes are accessible. However, it’s essential to check local conditions before planning your trek as weather patterns can vary.
Overall, the Markha Valley Trek offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of the Ladakh region.
Itinerary
Arrive in Leh by 12 PM. Today is for rest & acclimatization. Being outdoors is recommended as it
helps in the acclimatization process. Explore the local market of Leh. Have the local cuisine and
enjoy shopping for dry fruits and local handicrafts.
Explore the cultural and natural beauty of Leh. This will make you familiar with the town and also help in acclimatizing to the weather. Leh is the center point of Ladakh and also a major town from where all expeditions begin. It is also a culturally rich place. There are dozens of monasteries and ancient temples that you can go around. They are located in and around the town. Enjoy the local cuisines which are a major attraction for travelers.
Drive to Skiu . (1/2 Hour). Same day Trek to Skiu Camp (1 hours)overnight stay Camp.
After breakfast trek Skiu to Sara – 3500 m (10 km) 5/-6 hours overnight stay Camp.
Trek from – Sara to Markha 3710 m (10 hours) 5-6 hours overnight stay Camp
Trek – Markha to Lower Hunkar 3968 m (6 hours) overnight stay Camp.
Trek from Lower Hunkar to Nimaling – 4535 m (6-7 hours) overnight stay Camp
Trek from Nimaling to Leh 3500 m via Kongmaru las pass 5336m (8 hours trek) same day drive to leh 3 hours overnight Hotel
Departure from Leh
Markha Valley Trek Map
Inclusions
Exclusions
Transport from Leh Airport to Leh Airport
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in our Hotel/Home Stay Accommodation in tents on triple share basis
All meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and Dinner
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
High quality Dome | tents | Sleeping bags | Mattress | Liner | Pillow Toilet tents | Dining Tent Dining table
Porters | Helper | Kitchen team
Good Experience Trek Leader Guide and Technical Guide
Medical Kit | Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
Technical equipments Helmet, Rope, Ice Axe
Personal Insurance mandatory for Markha Valley Trek
Personal toiletry Items
Meals in Leh market hotel/home stay
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
Inner Line Permit Fee
Medical certificate is mandatory for trek permit
On the first day en route to base camp the breakfast and lunch are not included
Last day en route lunch and dinner are not included
Transport from Leh Airport to Leh Airport
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in our Hotel/Home Stay Accommodation in tents on triple share basis
All meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, snacks, soup and Dinner
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
High quality Dome | tents | Sleeping bags | Mattress | Liner | Pillow Toilet tents | Dining Tent Dining table
Porters | Helper | Kitchen team
Good Experience Trek Leader Guide and Technical Guide
Medical Kit | Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
Technical equipments Helmet, Rope, Ice Axe
Personal Insurance mandatory for Markha Valley Trek
Personal toiletry Items
Meals in Leh market hotel/home stay
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head Inclusions
Inner Line Permit Fee
Medical certificate is mandatory for trek permit
On the first day en route to base camp the breakfast and lunch are not included
Last day en route lunch and dinner are not included
What to carry
- Trekking shoes: A good pair of trekking shoes is essential for a comfortable and safe trek. Look for shoes that are sturdy, provide good ankle support, and have a good grip on different types of terrain.
- Backpack with rain cover (50-60 ltr): A backpack is necessary to carry all your gear. Make sure it's the right size for your trek, and comes with a rain cover to keep your belongings dry in case of rain.
- Thermals (upper and lower): Thermals are lightweight and comfortable base layers that help regulate your body temperature in cold weather. Bring both upper and lower thermals to keep warm.
- 3 T-shirts (advisable quick dry): Choose quick-drying T-shirts made from breathable and moisture-wicking materials. This will help keep you cool and dry during your trek.
- 2 trek pants: Choose lightweight and comfortable trek pants that are easy to move in and can dry quickly if wet.
- Jacket (-10 degrees): A warm jacket is essential for cold weather. Choose a jacket that is waterproof and windproof, and provides good insulation.
- Fleece or hood (2): Fleece jackets or hoodies are great mid-layer options to keep warm. Bring at least two, as they can also be used as an extra layer at night.
- Sunglasses (UV protected): Protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays with sunglasses that are designed for outdoor activities.
- Sun cap: A sun cap or hat with a brim will protect your face and neck from the sun.
- Hand gloves: Bring a pair of lightweight gloves to keep your hands warm and protected from wind and sunburn.
- Woolen cap: A woolen cap will keep your head and ears warm at night or in cold weather.
- Socks (3 pairs min): Bring at least three pairs of good quality socks that are moisture-wicking and provide good cushioning and support for your feet.
- Headlamp: A headlamp will come in handy if you're hiking in low-light conditions or need to find your way in the dark.
- Trekking pole (if needed): Trekking poles can help reduce strain on your legs and provide additional support on steep terrain.
- Rain cover\poncho: A rain cover or poncho will keep you and your gear dry during unexpected rain showers.
- Day pack (if you plan to offload your bag): If you plan to offload your backpack during the trek, bring a smaller day pack to carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
- A toiletry kit: Bring a small kit with personal hygiene items, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper.
- Lunchbox, cup, spoon: If you plan to bring your own food, bring a lunchbox, cup, and spoon to carry and eat your meals.
- 2 one-liter bottles: Staying hydrated is crucial, so bring at least two one-liter bottles to carry water.
- 2-3 plastic covers to keep your wet or used clothes: Plastic bags are useful for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings. They can also be used to pack out any trash or waste you generate during the trek.
How to reach
Reaching Leh, the starting point for the Markha Valley Trek, typically involves traveling by air or road, as the region is landlocked and located in the remote Himalayan Mountains. Here are the primary ways to reach Leh:
By Air:
- Flight to Leh: The most common and convenient way to reach Leh is by air. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Srinagar. Several airlines operate regular flights to Leh, especially during the peak tourist season from May to September. Flight duration varies depending on the origin city but generally ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
By Road:
- Manali-Leh Highway: The Manali-Leh Highway is a popular road route to Leh, especially for those traveling from northern India. The highway passes through breathtaking landscapes, high mountain passes, and remote villages. The journey from Manali to Leh covers a distance of approximately 473 kilometers (294 miles) and typically takes around 2 days, with an overnight stop in Keylong or Sarchu. The highway is open from late May to early October, depending on weather conditions.
- Srinagar-Leh Highway: Another scenic road route to Leh is via the Srinagar-Leh Highway, which connects Leh with the city of Srinagar in the Kashmir Valley. This route traverses through the picturesque Kashmir Valley, crossing high mountain passes like Zoji La and Fotu La. The distance between Srinagar and Leh is approximately 434 kilometers (270 miles), and the journey usually takes around 2 days, with an overnight stop in Kargil. Similar to the Manali-Leh Highway, the Srinagar-Leh Highway is open from late May to early October.
Fitness and preparation guide for Markha Valley Trek
We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools.
Fitness target:
To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.
How to achieve this fitness?
- Start jogging at least 4 days a week
- If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
- Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day.
- Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.
- You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek.
This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing.
Cancellation policy
Life is unpredictable and we understand sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and it is our endeavour to make it as easy possible for you. However, please understand we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and ration in advance. Therefore any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below-
Cancellation prior to 30 days from start of the event: Get monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges on trek fee.
Cancellation between 30 days and 15 days to the start of event: 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.
Cancellation less than 15 days to the start of event: No refund.
Please note cancellation will be only accepted by email.
Booking amount is non refundable
Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a programme before departure in the event of logistical problems arriving due to natural calamities, strikes, wars on any other circumstances that makes the event inadvisable. In this case, 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.
Itinerary changes & trip delays:
We plan itineraries based on the information at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, there are subject to change. In the event that the itinerary is changes or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc. We will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However The Himalayan Daredevils are not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.
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