We start the trek from Chilling after cross the Znskar River we reach Hemis Ntional Park. After that we follow the trail to Markha Valley.Evening we reach at Skui. O.N Stay in a private home stay at Skiu.
The Markha valley trek is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh. This trek passes through beautiful villages tucked in the deep valley surrounded by towering mountains. The high pass of Kongmaru La offers spectacular views of the Kang Yatse peaks. You can stay in homestays throughout the trek and it’s an excellent opportunity to discover the everyday life of locals. Markha is part of the Hemis National Park, home to the elusive snow leopard. This trek from Chilling is a shorter and easier version of the Markha valley trek from Spituk.
We start the trek from Chilling after cross the Znskar River we reach Hemis Ntional Park. After that we follow the trail to Markha Valley.Evening we reach at Skui. O.N Stay in a private home stay at Skiu.
After breakfast we start trek along the river, the trail to Markha Passes through small villages. Markha is a pretty village with just around 20 Households. You can visit the old monastery and the ruined fort which are above the village. O/N Stay in private home stay.
Today walk along the river. Afternoon you can visit Techa Gompa which is built on a cliff near Umlung Village. O/N Stay in a Private home stay at Hankar.
Today the trek route start from the Hankar village leads you to Nimaling where villagers their cattle for grazing during summer.There is a possibility for enthusiastic trekker to hike to the base of the Kang Yatse Glacier in a few hours from Nimaling. O/N stay in Camp.
Today ascend the Kongmaru La and enjoy the spectacular views of Kang Yatse and Kaarakoram peaks from the pass.The descent is steep and long towards the Shang Gorge. You need to cross the river several times before you reach the village Shang Sumdo. O/N stay in a private home stay.
Today walk to Hemis Monastery, one of the well-known monasteries in Ladakh. Afte lunch we drive back to Shang Sumdo or Martselang to Hemis by Jeep.
Weather Information
The weather in Ladakh is generally dry and sunny. During the summer, the average temperature goes up to 25 or 30 degrees Celsius in the day while the nights are cooler depending on the altitude (it can reach the freezing point at Nimaling in September). However, the weather in the mountain can change quickly and outbreaks of rain can occur; you should be prepared for this possibility. The sun is strong in Ladakh and some days can be really hot during the Markha valley trek, especially in the valleys at lower altitude.
Ladakh is a high-altitude desert and portion of Tibetan plateau extends in the northern plains of the Changthang region. The high mountains stop the rain clouds so Ladakh is not affected by the monsoon. However, some light to moderate showers can be experienced occasionally. All mountains trekkings and activities are planned according to the good weather but one should remember that in any mountain area weather is not predictable and you should be prepared and fully equipped to deal with weather.
How to reach Markha Valley
The transport from Leh to Chilling (at the beginning of the Markha valley trek) and from Hemis to Leh (at the end of the trek) will be arranged by car. The distance between Leh and Chilling is 60 km. The distance between Hemis and Leh is 40 km.
The best time is June to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the trails are clear. Winters are extremely harsh, making the trek nearly impossible.
The trek is moderate to challenging due to long trekking hours, river crossings, and high-altitude climbs. Prior trekking experience and good fitness levels are recommended.
The trek covers 65-75 km and typically takes 6-8 days, depending on the chosen itinerary.
The highest point is Kongmaru La Pass at 5,275m (17,300 feet), offering stunning views of Kang Yatse.
Yes, both Indian and foreign trekkers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the Hemis National Park. It can be obtained in Leh.