The Markha Valley trek in India is a journey of a lifetime, taking you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas. The trek is located in the Ladakh region of India, known for its rugged beauty and unique culture.
As you embark on the trek, you’ll be greeted by the majestic mountains and crystal-clear rivers that carve their way through the valley. The trail takes you through remote villages, where you’ll be greeted by the friendly local people and their traditional way of life.
The trek takes you through a variety of landscapes, from lush green fields and orchards to barren rocky terrain, as you gain elevation. The trail is challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. The views of the snow-capped peaks, including Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri, are truly breathtaking. The glaciers, the icefall, and the snow-covered peaks, all create a sense of awe and wonder.
As you trek, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries, where you’ll learn about the rich Buddhist culture of the region. The monasteries offer a glimpse into the religious and spiritual practices of the local people, and the intricate murals and statues will leave you in awe.
One of the highlights of the Markha Valley trek is the diversity of the flora and fauna you’ll encounter. The trek takes you through meadows, pastures, and forests, home to a wide variety of animals and plants. You might catch a glimpse of the elusive snow leopard, or spot a rare Himalayan bird.
Overall, the Markha Valley trek is a journey that will take you to the heart of the Himalayas, where you’ll discover the beauty of the landscapes, the culture, and the people of India. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with nature, push your limits, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Pass through rural communities as you go into the Himalayas, where you’ll come across pleasant folks living a traditional lifestyle.
Trek across a variety of environments, including verdant green plains, rugged deserts, and snow-capped summits.
You will arrive in Delhi, India’s bustling capital city. Depending on your time of arrival, you may have the opportunity to explore some of the city on your own.
This is a free day in Delhi, giving you the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. Some popular places to visit include the Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, and the Lotus Temple.
You will fly to Leh, the capital of Ladakh, which is located in the northernmost region of India. This day is for acclimatization to the high altitude of Leh, which is around 3,500 meters above sea level. You will be transferred to your hotel where you can rest and take it easy for the day.
This day is a half-day sightseeing tour of some of the popular attractions in Leh. You will visit the Stok Palace Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts, including jewelry, clothing, and weapons, from the royal family of Ladakh. You will also visit Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh, and Thiksey Monastery, which is one of the largest and most impressive monasteries in the region.
You will start your trek today, with a drive to Rumbak Lato, which is the starting point of your trek. From there, you will hike to the village of Rumbak, which is located at an altitude of 3,878 meters.
Today’s trek takes you to the base of Gandala pass, which is located at an altitude of 4,543 meters. This is a challenging day of trekking, as you will be gaining altitude and crossing rocky terrain.
Today is a highlight of the trek, as you will cross the Gandala pass, which is located at an altitude of 4,979 meters. You will then descend to the village of Skiu, which is situated at an altitude of 3,360 meters.
You will continue trekking today, heading towards the village of Markha, which is located at an altitude of 3,770 meters. This is a beautiful day of trekking, as you will pass through stunning landscapes and traditional Ladakhi villages.
Today’s trek takes you to Thachungtse, which is located at an altitude of 4,257 meters. This is a challenging day of trekking, as you will be gaining altitude and crossing rocky terrain.
Today’s trek takes you to the stunning high altitude plateau of Nimaling, which is located at an altitude of 4,860 meters. This is a relatively short day of trekking, allowing you to acclimatize to the high altitude and take in the stunning views.
On day 11, you will cross the highest pass of your trek, Kongmaru La, which stands at an altitude of 5,290 meters. You will then descend towards the village of Chuskyurmo, which is situated at an altitude of 4,140 meters. The trek will take approximately 7-8 hours.
On day 12, you will trek for about 3-4 hours from Chuskyurmo to reach Shang village, where you will end your trek. You will then drive back to Leh, which will take approximately 2-3 hours.
On day 13, you will take a morning flight from Leh to Delhi.
On day 14, you will depart for your home from Delhi.
During the trip; weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors,that are beyond our control can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the leader will decide what is the best alternative, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group. Where a change does occur, we do everything we can to minimize its effect, but we cannot be responsible for the results of changes or delays.
Note: Any other services not mentioned in the included or excluded services list will not be covered and will be the responsibility of the trekker.
S.N | Particular
|
Quantity | Type | Remarks |
1 | Woolen Cap | 1 | ||
2 | Sunglasses | 1 | UV protected | |
3 | Bob Scarf/buff Mask | 1 | ||
4 | Warm down Jacket | 1 | ||
5 | Thermal Inner Layer | 2 pairs | ||
6 | Gloves | 1 pair | ||
7 | Sleeping Bag | 1 | 20 + Degrees | |
8 | Trekking Trousers & Inner Vest | As per necessity | ||
9 | Trekking Shoes | 1 pair | Full Ankle | |
10 | Woolen Socks | 3/4 pairs | ||
11 | Trekking Poles | 1 pair | ||
12 | Water Bottle | 1 | Thermos | 1 L+ |
13 | Waterproof Jacket | 1 | ||
14 | Slippers | 1 pair | ||
15 | Sun Block | 1 | SPF 30 | |
16 | Personal First Aid Kit | 1 | ||
17 | Trekking Bag | 1 | Rucksack | 50 L+ |
18 | Area Map | 1 | ||
19 | Head Light with extra battery | 1 | ||
20 | Micro Spikes | 1 pair |
Trekking at high altitudes requires warm clothing to protect you from the cold. A down jacket with a hood is a must for altitudes above 4,000 m. You can rent a down jacket for USD 30-40 based on trekking days, but please note that in case of loss or damage, you will need to reimburse the cost of USD 150 per item.
A good quality sleeping bag is essential for a comfortable night’s sleep during the trek. You can rent a 4-season sleeping bag for USD 30-40 based on trekking days, but again, if you lose or damage the sleeping bag, you will need to reimburse the cost of USD 150 per item.
Before embarking on your trek, make sure to acclimatize to the altitude by spending a few days in Kathmandu. This will help your body adjust to the change in altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
It is essential to have proper trekking shoes that are comfortable and provide good traction. Make sure to break in your shoes before the trek to avoid blisters and discomfort.
The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable, so it is crucial to pack for different weather conditions. Layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket and pants, are recommended.
Trekking poles can be a lifesaver, especially when trekking uphill or downhill. They help reduce the pressure on your knees and provide extra stability.
It is important to stay hydrated while trekking. Carry a water bottle or bladder with you and make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. Avoid drinking untreated water and carry water purification tablets or a water filter.
Toiletries like wet wipes and hand sanitizer are essential, especially when there is no access to running water. It is also important to carry toilet paper and dispose of it properly.
Trekking in the Himalayas can be physically demanding, so it is essential to be in good physical shape. Regular exercise and cardiovascular training can help prepare your body for the trek.
Respect the local culture and traditions by learning a few words in the local language and dressing modestly. Avoid giving money or sweets to children, as it can encourage a culture of begging.
Trekking in the Himalayas can be an unforgettable experience, so take the time to enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture. Take plenty of pictures, but remember to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
It’s important to pack light but essential items for a trek. Some common items to pack include warm clothing, rain gear, sturdy trekking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, first aid kit, personal toiletries, and a camera. It’s also important to carry necessary permits, documents, and extra cash.
The level of fitness required for a trek depends on the difficulty level of the trek, altitude, duration, and terrain. It’s recommended to have a good level of cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. Prior physical exercise and training, such as walking, jogging, or hiking, can help prepare for a trek. Consulting with a doctor before embarking on a trek is advisable, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
Trekking involves certain risks and challenges, including altitude sickness, extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, slippery trails, river crossings, wildlife encounters, and limited medical facilities. It’s important to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions, such as acclimatizing properly, following safety guidelines, wearing appropriate gear, and being prepared for emergencies.
Altitude sickness is a common concern during high-altitude treks. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to descend to a lower altitude, rest, and hydrate. Severe cases may require immediate medical attention. Acclimatizing properly, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol and strenuous activity, and following the advice of experienced guides can help prevent altitude sickness
Safety should be a top priority during a trek. Some tips for staying safe include following the designated trails, avoiding shortcuts, staying with the group, wearing appropriate gear, using trekking poles for stability, avoiding risky maneuvers, adhering to local guidelines and regulations, and listening to the instructions of experienced guides. It’s also important to carry a reliable communication device, such as a satellite phone or whistle, for emergencies.
Trekking often takes place in remote areas where local cultures and ecosystems are fragile. It’s important to respect the local culture, traditions, and customs, and to follow the “Leave No Trace” principles, which include packing out all trash, avoiding littering, not disturbing wildlife, using established campsites, and respecting local flora and fauna. Interacting with locals in a respectful manner, learning about their culture, and supporting local economies through responsible tourism practices can enhance the overall trekking experience.
In case of an emergency during a trek, it’s important to stay calm and take appropriate action. If possible, inform the trek leader or guide about the situation. Follow the established emergency protocols and procedures, such as using communication devices to call for help, providing first aid to the injured, and following evacuation procedures. Having travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage can also be helpful in case of unforeseen emergencies.