Ladakh's most storied valley
Markha Valley Trek
The classic Markha Valley trek — remote villages, homestays, river crossings and towering Himalayan views through Hemis National Park.
About the Markha Valley
The Markha Valley is Ladakh's most loved trek for good reason: it threads together dramatic gorges, Buddhist monasteries, tiny stone villages and two high passes, all within the wildlife-rich Hemis National Park.
This is a journey of contrasts — one day walking beside a glacial river, the next crossing a 5,000-metre pass with the twin Kang Yatse peaks filling the horizon. Traditional homestays put you at the heart of Ladakhi mountain life.
Trip highlights
- Cross the Gandala La and Kongmaru La passes
- Authentic Ladakhi village homestays
- Panoramas of Kang Yatse I & II
- Ancient monasteries and prayer-flag ridgelines
- Wildlife of Hemis National Park
The itinerary
- Day 1
Arrive in Leh (3,500 m)
Rest and acclimatise. Evening trek briefing and gear check with your guide.
- Day 2
Acclimatisation in Leh
Visit local monasteries and the old town to help your body adjust to the altitude.
- Day 3
Drive to Zingchen & trek to Rumbak
Short drive then a gentle first walk into the valley, entering Hemis National Park.
- Day 4
Rumbak to Skiu via Gandala La (4,900 m)
Cross your first pass with sweeping views, then descend to the confluence at Skiu.
- Day 5
Skiu to Markha
Follow the Markha river past willow groves, mani walls and small farmsteads.
- Day 6
Markha to Thachungtse
Climb gradually with the Kang Yatse massif dominating the skyline ahead.
- Day 7
Thachungtse to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La (5,260 m)
The trek's high point — a big pass day and a stunning descent through a red-rock gorge; drive to Leh.
- Day 8
Departure
Transfer to Leh airport for your onward journey.
What's included
- Airport transfers in Leh
- Accommodation (hotel in Leh + camps / homestays on trek)
- Experienced English-speaking trek guide
- All meals during the trek
- Pack animals for baggage
- Camping equipment (tents, kitchen, dining)
- Hemis National Park permits & fees
Not included
- Flights to and from Leh
- Personal trekking gear & sleeping bag
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Lunches & dinners in Leh
- Tips and personal expenses
Interested in the Markha Valley Trek?
Bookings are handled personally. Send us a message and we'll share the full itinerary, pricing and available dates — with no obligation.
Markha Valley Trek — FAQs
It is a moderate trek ideal for reasonably fit first-time Himalayan trekkers. The main challenge is the altitude, which our acclimatisation days are designed to manage.
Early in the season a few crossings can be knee-to-thigh deep. Your guide chooses the safest lines and timing; sandals or crossing shoes are recommended.
We can run this as a supported camping trek or a village-homestay trek. Tell us your preference and we'll tailor the itinerary.