Markha Valley Trek – An Unforgettable Ladakh Trekking Experience

Distance: 22.5 km Drive (Hike from Zingchen to Yurutse)- (8 km) Duration: 1-hour drive (Leh to Zingchen) + 2-3 hours trek 
Altitude: Leh (3,500m) to Yurutse (4,100m)

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Leh to Zingchen, winding through the Indus Valley, where ancient monasteries and quaint Ladakhi villages dot the rugged terrain. The short drive is just a teaser of what’s to come. From Zingchen, the trek kicks off with a gentle ascent through the Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan marmots, and blue sheep. As you make your way to Rumbak Village, you’ll be welcomed by traditional Ladakhi houses and warm hospitality—a perfect place for a short break. The final stretch to Yurutse (4,100m) is a picturesque climb, with golden barley fields swaying in the breeze. As night falls, camping under the star-studded Ladakhi sky offers the perfect setting for acclimatization before the days ahead.

Distance: 20 km Duration: 7-8 hours trek Altitude: Yurutse (4,100m) – Ganda La Pass (4,900m) – Skyu (3,400m)

Rise early for the challenging ascent to Ganda La Pass (4,900m). The climb is steep, but as you reach the summit, prayer flags fluttering in the wind and panoramic views of Stok Kangri and the Zanskar Valley make every step worthwhile.

The descent takes you through Shingo Village, where locals greet you with smiles, and you can witness traditional Ladakhi farming. The trail then leads to Skyu (3,400m), a peaceful village where ancient mani walls and a small monastery create an atmosphere of serenity—the perfect spot to rest after an exhilarating day.

Distance: 20 km Duration: 6-7 hours trek Altitude: Skyu (3,400m) to Markha (3,700m)

The trail from Skyu to Markha is a gentle, scenic walk along the Markha River, weaving through mani walls, stupas, and Chortens—testaments to Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Crossing wooden bridges and small streams, the journey takes on an adventurous feel, with opportunities to spot ibex, golden eagles, and bearded vultures soaring above. As you approach Markha Village, the largest settlement in the valley, you’ll be greeted by stunning Ladakhi architecture and a centuries-old monastery. The day ends with an evening tea session with a local family, offering a heartwarming glimpse into Ladakhi culture and traditions.

Distance: 12 km Duration: 5-6 hours trek Altitude: Markha (3,700m) to Hankar (4,026m)

The morning starts with a visit to Markha Monastery, where ancient murals and Buddhist scriptures whisper stories of the past. The trail continues past Umlung Village, where the first breathtaking views of Kang Yatse Peak emerge on the horizon. A highlight of the day is Techa Gompa, dramatically perched on a cliffside—a hidden spiritual retreat perfect for a quiet moment of meditation or photography. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Hankar (4,026m), a serene hamlet surrounded by towering peaks and lush pastures, making it an idyllic campsite for the night.

Distance: 11 km Duration: 6-7 hours trek Altitude: Hankar (4,026m) to Nimaling (4,800m)

Today’s trek takes you through vast alpine meadows, like Thachungtse and Nimaling campsite where yaks, blue sheep, and marmots graze freely, painting a picture-perfect Himalayan scene. The trail gradually ascends towards Nimaling (4,800m), one of the most stunning high-altitude campsites in Ladakh. The towering presence of Kang Yatse Peaks 1&2 (6,400m & 6,200m) dominates the landscape, drawing trekkers and climbers alike. Small glacial streams crisscross the terrain, offering refreshing rest stops along the way. As the sun sets, Nimaling transforms into a dreamlike setting, with golden hues painting the peaks and the crystal-clear night sky bursting with stars—a sight to remember forever.

Distance: (12 km) + 70 km drive Duration: 6-7 hours trek + 3-hour drive Altitude: Nimaling (4,840m) – Kongmaru La (5,265m) – Chogdo (3933m) – Leh (3,500m)

The final day begins with a challenging climb to Kongmaru La Pass (5,265m), the highest point of the trek. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges, stretching as far as the eye can see. At the summit, colorful prayer flags flutter against the wind, marking a moment of triumph. The descent is steep but awe-inspiring, leading you through dramatic gorges, vibrant rock formations, and hidden waterfalls, showcasing Ladakh’s diverse geological beauty. Reaching Chogdo Village, the trek officially comes to an end. A scenic 3-hour drive back to Leh allows you to reflect on the incredible journey, as the rugged landscapes gradually fade into the distance—leaving you with nothing but memories of an epic Himalayan adventure.