Markha Valley Trek

Here’s a detailed itinerary for the Markha Valley Trek, organized by “The Great Outdoors”:

Day 1: Arrival at Leh (Rest & Acclimatization)

• Activities: Welcome at Bakula Rinpoche Airport. Transfer to hotel. The entire day is dedicated to rest, allowing your body to acclimatize to Leh’s high altitude and the pristine air of Ladakh.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Leh.

  
  

Day 2: Leh (Acclimatization Walk to Shanti Stupa & Tsemo Gompa)

• Activities: After breakfast, embark on a short trek within Leh. Visit the Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, built in the 15th century by King Tashi Namgyal. The monastery offers panoramic views of Leh town and the surrounding Zanskar range, including the mighty Stok Kangri peak. Continue your walk through the alleyways of Leh to Shanti Stupa, a symbol of peace and harmony built in 1999. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Leh Palace and southern ranges.

• Evening: Free time to explore Leh’s local market.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Leh.

Day 3: Drive from Leh to Sku and then trek to Sara.

• Drive & Trek: Early morning, depart from Leh and drive for approximately 3 hours to Sku, the starting point of the trek. From here, start trekking towards Sara Village, a 2-hour scenic walk through flowered meadows and narrow streams.

• Post-Lunch: Explore Sara village and enjoy the tranquility of the valley.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at the Sara campsite.

  
  

Day 4: Sara to Markha (3760m)

• Trek Duration: Approx. 4-5 hours.

• Activities: Begin trekking early to avoid the midday heat. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to spot wildlife. Pass by local shepherds with their herds. Arrive at Markha Village by lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the village.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a campsite in Markha.

  
  

Day 5: Markha to Hankar (4024m)

• Trek Duration: Approx. 4-5 hours.

• Activities: After leaving Markha, visit the Yensa Monastery, an important religious site for the Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Continue trekking towards Umlung Village and then onto Hankar. On the way, enjoy views of Kang Yatse II peak and observe the trail leading towards it.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a riverside campsite in Hankar.

Day 6: Hankar to Nimaling (4700m)

• Trek Duration: Approx. 5-6 hours.

• Activities: Trek through a relatively challenging trail to Nimaling, the most picturesque campground on the trek. The trail features loose terrain and rugged beauty, but the destination is worth the effort. Upon arrival, marvel at the panoramic views of the valley and the flowered meadows.

• Evening: Enjoy and share experiences with fellow trekkers.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a campsite in Nimaling.

Day 7: Nimaling to Chokdo – Drive to Leh via Kongmaru La Pass (5250m)

• Trek Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours.

• Activities: Begin the trek after breakfast, crossing a small stream via a wooden bridge. The trail gradually ascends towards Kongmaru La Pass (5250 meters), offering stunning views of the Kang Yatse Peak and the Markha Valley. Descend towards Chokdo, where a vehicle will pick you up and drive you back to Leh.

• Accommodation: Overnight stay at a hotel in Leh.

  
  

Day 8: Departure from Leh 🛫

• After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home, marking the end of your Markha Valley adventure.

• Accommodation: Twin-sharing basis throughout the expedition. This includes 3 nights in a hotel/guesthouse in Leh and 4 nights camping during the expedition.

• Transportation: All transfers and transportation in a comfortable Tempo Traveller or cab.

• Meals: All meals provided from Day 1 (Dinner) to Day 8 (Breakfast), including freshly prepared, nutritious meals (veg and non-veg) during the expedition—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.

• Mountain Guides & Support Staff: Experienced and certified mountain guides along with a skilled support team throughout the expedition.

• First-Aid & Oxygen: First-aid kit with oxygen backup available for the duration of the expedition to ensure safety at all times.

• Permits & Fees: Includes IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) permit, ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators Association) fees, and environmental charges.

• Expedition Equipment: All essential mountaineering equipment such as snow boots, crampons, harness, helmet, carabiners, rope, and ice axe (except for personal clothing).

• Camping Equipment: High-quality camping gear, including dining tents, kitchen tents, sleeping tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mattresses, and toilet tents.

• Luggage Support: Horses/mules to carry personal and central expedition luggage throughout the trek.

• Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses such as packaged drinking water, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, toiletries, and other personal items.

• Single occupancy room or Individual tent (available at extra cost).

• Meals During Transit: Meals during road journeys are not included.

• Unforeseen Expenses: Additional costs incurred due to delays caused by adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

• Non-Included Services: Any expenses not explicitly mentioned in the “Inclusions” section.

• Insurance: Travel, health, or mountaineering insurance is not provided.

• Emergency Evacuation & Medical Costs: Any costs related to emergency evacuations, medical treatments, or hospitalisation charges.

• Personal Clothing: Participants are responsible for their own personal clothing and gear.

• Airfare: Domestic or international airfares are not covered.

• Gratuities: Tips for the ground staff, including guides and porters, are not included.

• Valid Government ID: A valid government-issued photo ID or passport for verification purposes.

• Medications: If you are on any prescribed medication, ensure you bring an adequate supply for the duration of the trip.

• Backpack: A comfortable, sturdy backpack (50-60 liters) to carry your essentials during the expedition.

• Daypack: A smaller daypack (20-30 liters) for short hikes or carrying personal items during daily activities.

• Hydration: One thermos and a water bottle (1 liter each) or a hydration bladder to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

• Headlamp: A reliable headlamp with extra batteries for night-time use during the expedition and camps.

• Personal Toiletries: Bring your own toiletries, including any personal hygiene products you may need.

• Curiosity and Enthusiasm: Bring along your curiosity to immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the landscapes, and connect with the people.

• Warm Clothing: Pack appropriate warm clothes to suit your personal needs, especially for the cold summit night.

• T-Shirts (Non-Cotton): 2 moisture-wicking, quick-dry t-shirts for trekking.

• Warm Sweater: 1 warm sweater for extra layering during colder conditions.

• Down Jacket: 1 insulated down feather jacket for warmth in low temperatures.

• Fleece Jacket: 1 fleece jacket for added insulation during cold evenings.

• Trekking Pants: 3 pairs of durable, comfortable trekking pants.

• Thermal Base Layers: 1 pair of thermal inner-wear (top and bottom) to stay warm at higher altitudes.

• Rain Protection: 1 raincoat or poncho for unexpected weather conditions.

• Woollen Cap: 1 woollen cap to keep your head warm in cold conditions.

• Gloves: 2 pairs(to be safe incase one gets wet) of warm, insulated gloves to protect your hands during cold weather.

• Neck Gaiter or Bandana: 1 neck gaiter or bandana to protect your neck and face from cold winds and sun.

• Trekking Shoes: 1 pair of sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes with good grip.

• Flip Flops or Sandals: 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals for comfortable wear at the campsite.

• Socks: At least 3 pairs of breathable socks for trekking.

• Woolen Socks: 2 pairs of warm woolen socks for colder nights.

• Sunglasses and Hat: To protect your eyes and face from strong sunlight at high altitudes.

• Sunscreen (SPF 30+): High SPF sunscreen to shield your skin from the intense sun in Ladakh.