Markha Valley Trek Ladakh India

Markha Valley Trek Itinerary

Day 1: Departure from Dublin

Meet at Dublin Airport for your international flight to Delhi via Abu Dhabi. Overnight on the flight.

Day 2: Arrival in Delhi

Arrive in Delhi, transfer to your hotel, and rest after the long journey. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed Delhi Bazaar Tour, exploring colorful markets and sampling local food.

Day 3: Fly to Leh (3,500 m) – Acclimatization Day

Take an early morning flight to Leh, the gateway to Ladakh. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and rest to acclimatize to the altitude. In the evening, take a gentle walk around Leh Market or visit Shanti Stupa for a panoramic view of the town.

Day 4: Leh to Spituk – Trek to Zingchen (3,400 m)

Your adventure begins with a short drive to Spituk Monastery, the trailhead of the Markha Valley Trek. The walk leads across the dusty Indus plains into the narrow gorge of Zingchen. Camp under willow trees beside the river, surrounded by Himalayan silence and a sky full of stars.

Day 5: Zingchen to Ganda La Base (4,000 m)

Enter Hemis National Park, home to snow leopards, blue sheep, and golden eagles. The trail winds through Rumbak Village, where Ladakhi families welcome you with butter tea and warm smiles. Overnight at the base of Ganda La Pass, surrounded by the peaks of the Stok Range.

Day 6: Cross Ganda La Pass (4,900 m) – Trek to Skiu (3,500 m)

Climb steeply to Ganda La Pass, with magnificent views of the Zanskar and Stok Ranges. Descend into a gentler landscape dotted with ancient monasteries and chortens, arriving at Skiu, where the Markha River begins to whisper its stories.

Day 7: Skiu to Markha Village (3,700 m)

Follow the shimmering Markha River, crossing it several times through barley fields and stone prayer walls. Arrive in Markha Village, the cultural heart of the valley. Explore its ancient fort ruins and monastery before staying in a cozy homestay surrounded by golden fields.

Day 8: Markha to Thachungtse (4,200 m)

The trail ascends gradually past Hankar, the last inhabited village of the valley. The majestic Kang Yatse Peak (6,400 m) dominates the skyline ahead. Camp at Thachungtse, a quiet meadow beneath the stars.

Day 9: Thachungtse to Nimaling (4,700 m)

Climb higher to the alpine pastures of Nimaling Plateau, one of the highest grazing lands in Ladakh. Surrounded by yaks and herders’ tents, you’ll rest amidst breathtaking views of Kang Yatse and endless open skies.

Day 10: Nimaling to Sumdo via Kongmaru La Pass (5,150 m)

This is the grand finale. Ascend the challenging Kongmaru La Pass, the highest point of the trek. From the top, gaze across the Zanskar Range and beyond. Descend through a spectacular gorge to Sumdo, where the landscape softens and the air warms.

Day 11: Sumdo to Hemis – Return to Leh

A gentle descent brings you to Hemis Monastery, one of Ladakh’s most revered Buddhist sites. Its ancient courtyards, prayer wheels, and golden statues mark the perfect end to your Himalayan adventure. Drive back to Leh for a comfortable night at the hotel.

Day 12: Rest Day in Leh

A relaxing day to rest and reflect. If weather permits, enjoy a short city walk or visit local attractions such as Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, or Thiksey Monastery.

Day 13: Fly to Delhi

Take the scenic morning flight back to Delhi. Free time in the afternoon for shopping, a city tour, or optional visits to the Red Fort, India Gate, or Humayun’s Tomb. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 14: Fly Back to Dublin

Final day in India. Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Himalayas and the Markha Valley.

 Thank You

Thank you for your interest in this journey!
If you have any questions or would like to join this adventure, please contact us anytime — we’re happy to assist.