Markha Valley Trek
Markha Valley Trek
Markha Valley Trek
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10 Aug → 15 Aug 2026 6D₹12,999Past
Base: ₹12,999
Markha Valley Trek is a high-altitude trek in Ladakh that passes through remote valleys within Hemis National Park and parts of the Zanskar Range. The route is known for cold desert scenery, barren mountains, deep canyons, glacial streams, remote villages, monasteries, and Tibetan cultural heritage.
The trek begins in Leh and typically proceeds via Skiu, Sara, Markha, Hankar, and Nimaling before crossing Kongmaru La. Villages along the route offer homestays, guesthouses, tea houses, and opportunities to experience local hospitality and traditional Ladakhi culture.
Highlights mentioned in the source include the Markha River valley, multiple river and stream crossings, Tacha Monastery, Umlung Gompa, Hemis Monastery, wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, marmots, Tibetan wolf, red fox, and the possibility of spotting snow leopard in the Hemis National Park region. Nimaling is described as a notable high-altitude grassland and campsite.
The trek is described as moderate, though the source also notes it can feel moderate to difficult because of high altitude, long walking days, remote terrain, and the crossing of Kongmaru La. Proper acclimatization in Leh is recommended, and the route involves basic living conditions in guesthouses, homestays, or tents depending on terrain.
The best season given in the source is May to September, with mid-May to mid-September also described as the preferred weather window. During peak season, daytime temperatures are generally stated as 15 to 25 degrees, while nights can reach 0°C or below, especially at higher camps such as Nimaling.
Route notes
- Starts in Leh, Ladakh
- Common route includes Skiu, Sara, Markha, Hankar, Nimaling, Kongmaru La, and Chokdo
- Several crossings of the Markha River and other streams are involved
- Daily trekking distances are stated as approximately 5 to 13 km
Accommodation
Accommodation is usually in basic guesthouses or homestays, with tents used depending on terrain and route conditions.
Best time to visit
May, June, July, August, and September are identified as the trekking season, with greener valleys in summer and golden fields and clearer views in September.
Itinerary
Arrive in Leh for the start of the Markha Valley trek. This day is for reaching Leh and preparing for the trek.
- Leh
Spend the day in Leh for acclimatization before starting the trek. Proper acclimatization is recommended because the trek starts above 3,000 meters and later goes beyond 5,000 meters.
- Leh
- Acclimatization
Drive from Leh to Skiu, then begin trekking to Sara. The route enters the Markha Valley trail system and passes through villages along the valley.
- Leh
- Skiu
- Sara
- Markha Valley
Trek from Sara to Markha village. This section follows the valley trail and passes through settlements and agricultural areas along the route.
- Sara
- Markha
- Markha River
Trek from Markha to Hankar through the valley. The route continues through remote Ladakhi settlements with multiple river and stream crossings along the Markha River corridor.
- Markha
- Hankar
- Markha River
Trek from Hankar to Nimaling. The trail gains altitude toward the high-altitude grasslands of Nimaling, which is used by local shepherds for grazing livestock.
- Hankar
- Nimaling
- High-altitude grasslands
Trek from Nimaling to Chokdo by crossing Kongmaru La, then drive back to Leh. Kongmaru La is the highest point of the trek at 17,300 ft, and this day includes the summit pass crossing and descent before the return transfer.
- Nimaling
- Kongmaru La
- Chokdo
- Leh
What's included
7 days / 6 nights- Flights
- Hotel stay
- Transport
- Tour guide
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
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