Markha Valley Trek

11 Days

The Markha Valley trek in Ladakh carves a path through Hemis National Park’s stark beauty. Lush green fields nestled amidst towering, arid mountains create a dramatic landscape. Adventure awaits with multiple river crossings, some reaching waist-deep, and the ascent to the 17,060-foot Kongmaru La pass. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking views of the 21,300-foot Mount Kang Yatse and the dramatic rocky canyons that flank the trail. Wildlife sightings are also a possibility.

But the heart of the Markha Valley trek lies in its charming villages. Here, traditional Tibetan culture flourishes. Picture humble mudbrick houses adorned with colorful prayer flags, and ornately decorated kitchens. The Markha Valley, despite its short stretch of 40 kilometers, holds a hidden history waiting to be unraveled. Archaeological evidence suggests a rich past, with remnants ranging from prehistoric cave paintings to structures built centuries ago. Surprisingly, even though it sits close to the well-studied Indus Valley and major transportation routes, the Markha Valley has largely escaped the attention of archaeologists.

Unlike many treks, Markha Valley offers a unique opportunity to visit these very homestays, creating a more culturally immersive and rewarding experience. The Markha Valley’s past is rich and complex, waiting to be revealed and experienced

Overview

Ladakh’s Markha Valley trek offers stunning scenery with contrasting landscapes, from lush fields to arid mountains. Hike past deep river crossings and conquer the Kongmaru La pass. Experience the unique charm of traditional Tibetan villages with homestays replacing tent camping, making the trek more culturally immersive and easier to manage.

Trek Schedule:

10th August – 20th August 2024

Trek Fees:
INR 45,000/- + GST (at actual) (Ex- Leh)

Age group: 16 to 50 yrs

Eligibility:
1. Age relaxation applicable based only on physical fitness
2. Prior trekking experience is must. If not, you should be able to trek in outdoors with at least 4-5 kg backpack for about 6-7 hrs.
3. Please follow Giripremi’s training module for better results – Training Module

Register yourself
by paying booking amount Rs. 10,000
(Non-Refundable Rs. 5,000)

Cancellation Policy:

  1. If cancellation is made one month or more prior to the trek, we will refund 100% of the paid amount excluding (non-refundable amount)
  2. If cancellation is made 15 to 30 days prior to the trek, we will refund 50% of the paid amount (non-refundable amount)
  3. If the cancellation is made within 15 days prior to the trek, there will be no refund

If the trek gets cancelled due to any natural calamities like Uttarakhand floods, Nepal Earthquake, Covid-19 pandemic, we will refund the trek fees deducting actual expenses incurred depending on the stage of the trek.

Covid-19 Regulations: There is not prior  requirement as of now

Trek Highlights

  • Breathtaking views of the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges, the 21,000 ft Kang Yatse and the 20,086 ft Stok Kangri peaks.
  • Enjoy the views of worlds second highest peak K2 from Kongmaru la on a clear day.
  • Trek through beautiful Hemis National Park
  • Attain highest altitude of 5197 meters.

Itinerary

Arrive and report in Leh (3500m). Take time to rest, acclimatize to the altitude, and explore the local markets.

Day 2 in Leh prioritizes acclimatization with a relaxed day. Explore the markets for any remaining trek needs (optional), but prioritize rest and an early night. This is your last day with reliable network access, so connect with loved ones and fuel up for an early start next day!

Depart Leh early in the morning and drive to Rumbak (3960m). Take a short hike to Yuruche and spend the night there. The drive distance is approximately 18 km, duration 2-3 hours, from here we will trek to Yuruche. It will be a short hike from the vehicle drop point which would not take more than an hour. After reaching we would eat and keep ourselves hydrated as much as possible to acclimatize well to the altitude. We will spend the night here.

On day 4 we embark on a challenging trek through Hemis National Park. Ascend Ganda La (4900m), enjoying panoramic views of the Zanskar and Himalayan ranges. Descend to Shingo, have lunch, and continue through a spectacular gorge before reaching Skiu (3300m) for the night. Explore the old monastery and castle ruins.

On this day we follow the Markha River on a relatively flat path. Cross the river at several points and pass winter settlements with Lhatos (religious shrines for local deities) and Mani walls (stones inscribed with Buddhist prayers). Arrive in Markha (3800m), the largest village in the valley, and stay overnight.

The Markha Valley trail continues past old stone mills, a ruined castle, and the Techa Monastery. Enjoy the scenic route with multiple river crossings. After leaving Umlung village, witness the majestic Kang Yatse peak for the first time. Take a lunch break in Hankar, the last village in the valley, before reaching the green pastures of Thachungtse (4100m) for camping.

Hike to the beautiful plateau of Nimaling (4700m), the highest campsite on the trek. Take in the breathtaking views of Kang Yatse on the right at the campsite. Trek starts on a good path with several small inclines and a series of grassy ridges. There are a series of Mani walls (walls carved with Buddhist prayers) and chortens en route. This is one of the most beautiful high valleys in Ladakh and is dominated by the Kang Yatse II peak.

Challenge yourself with the trek's highest point - Kongmaru La Pass (5197m). Witness the mighty K2 mountain (weather permitting) and descend through a narrow pass to Chikirmo Village. Enjoy the scenic vistas of the Indus Valley and Ladakh ranges. Descend through rocky terrain to reach Chokdu (3901m) for the night.

Drive back to Leh via Hemis, with the possibility of visiting the famous monasteries of Thikse, Hemis, and Shey. Drive to Leh takes about 2 hours. Reach Leh by late afternoon.

Enjoy a relaxing day in Leh. This day can be used as a buffer day for trek, in case of bad weather.

This marks the end of your incredible Markha Valley Trek! From here, you can begin your journey back home or embark on your next adventure. Hotel check-out is at 9/10:00 AM.

Trek Cost: Rs. 45,000/- + GST (at actual)

Cost Includes

  • 1. Travel arrangements from Leh to Leh in jeep / bus
  • 2. Accommodation in comfortable tents on sharing basis while on trek
  • 3. Sleeping bags, Sleeping Mattresses , toilet tents & kitchen tent, Dining tent and cutlery.
  • 4. A variety of wholesome hygienic vegetarian meals
  • 5. Services of cook, kitchen helpers with the entire necessary kitchen items, utensils etc.
  • 6. Qualified and experienced high altitude guide
  • 7. High altitude porters
  • 8. Insurance of technical staff and camp staff (Members to obtain their own insurance).
  • 9. First aid kit with oxygen cylinders
  • 10. GAF's Qualified Mountaineer will accompany throughout the trek (Only if the batch size is more than 10)

Cost Excludes

  • 1. Any accidental and emergency evacuation charges based on the point of the trek where you are
  • 2. Porter charges / Bag off-loading charges - Around INR 300-400 per bag per day
  • 3. Beverages or drinks of any sort, including soft drinks, drinks or bottled / mineral water
  • 4. Personal climbing gear or equipment, not mentioned above
  • 5. Any other services not specifically mentioned in the service inclusions
  • 6. Extra luggage drop off charges at Leh (if any)
  • 7. Trek Insurance - COMPULSORY (INR 300-400). We will assist you for this process.
  • 8. Tent Accommodation - INR 2,000
  • 9. GST as applicable (Current rate 5%)

Registration Process –

Step 1>> Booking Amount
Register yourself by paying booking amount Rs. 15,000 (Non Refundable Rs 5000 + Refundable Rs. 5000)

Step 2>> GAF Medical Form
Print and submit the Medical declaration Form Download

Step 3>> GAF Indemnity Bond
FOR ADULTS – Print and submit the notarized indemnity bond Download
FOR MINORS – Print and submit the notarized indemnity bond Download

Step 4>> Submit scanned copy:

  1. Aadhar Card Scanned Copy
  2. Medical form of local agency Download
  3. Trek insurance copy – Contact us for the process

Step 5>> Balance Payment of your trek (Before 20th July 2024)

Bank Transfer:
Account Name: GIRIPREMI ADVENTURE FOUNDATION
Bank Name:  HDFC Bank, FC Road Branch
A/c No. : 50200062745252
IFSC code: HDFC0000103

Google Pay:
G-Pay Number: 8668548653
UPI: 8668548653@okbizaxis
(Please mention participant’s name and activity name in the remarks section)

2 Months Training Module for High Altitude Treks – Download

Acclimatization at high altitude – Download

Suggested Kit list – Download

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Markha Valley Trek
  • INR 45,000
  • Leh
  • 17060
  • Hard
  • Campsite, Tents
  • 14
  • 50