Markha Valley is the largest valley in the region. It is one of the most popular treks. Though the trek goes through dry regions, the Indus, Markha, and numerous streams will come your way. Since the trail goes through Hemis National Park, all its treasured fauna, mountain sheep, arghali, rabbits, and snow leopards. The high pass of Kongmaru La offers spectacular views of the Kang Yatse Peaks.
Itinerary
Day 1: Chilling – Skiu
Time: 2-3 hrs
Distance: 6.9 km
Elevation gain / loss: +189m / -18m
Cross the Zanskar river and enter the Hemis National Park
Follow the trail to Markha valley
Homestay can be arranged in Skiu
Day 2: Skiu – Markha
Time: 6-7 hrs
Distance: 21.2 km
Elevation gain / loss: +451m / -57m
Continue walking 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 ruins of a fort above the village
Homestay can be arranged in Markha
Day 3: Markha – Hankar
Time: 4-5 hrs
Distance: 11.2 km
Elevation gain / loss: +305m / -35m
Walk along the river
You can visit Techa gompa which is built on a cliff near Umlung village.
Homestay can be arranged in Hankar.
Day 4: Hankar – Nimaling
Time: 5-6 hrs
Distance: 10.7 km
Elevation gain / loss: +836m / -25m
The path starting from Hankar village leads you to Nimaling, where villagers bring their cattle for grazing during summer.
There is a possibility for enthusiastic trekkers to hike to the base of the Kang Yatse glacier in a few hours from Nimaling.
Day 5: Nimaling – Kongmaru La – Shang Sumdo
Time: 6-8 hrs
Distance: 17.0 km
Elevation gain / loss: +439m / -1601m
Ascend the Kongmaru La and enjoy the spectacular views of Kang Yatse and Karakoram 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.
Homestay can be arranged in Shang Sumdo
Day 6: Shang Sumdo – Hemis
Time: 3-4 hrs
Distance: 10.7 km
Elevation gain / loss: +281m / -283m
Walk to Hemis monastery, one of the well-known monasteries in Ladakh.
Jeep can be arranged from Shang Sumdo or Martselang to Hemis
All the itineraries can be customised to suit your own special interests, preferences and abilities