Ladakh: The Markha Valley

14 days - from $2190

A classic trek in 'Little Tibet', combining stunning mountain panoramas and barren hillsides with pretty villages and lush meadows
Isolated for many months of the year by snow, Ladakh remains one of the best places to experience the unique culture of the High Himalaya. Crossing the Ganda La we follow the Markha River, climbing through gorges, barley and mustard fields and picturesque Ladakhi villages. We hope to spot blue sheep and Ibex scrambling over the rocky slopes, with the stark peaks of the Stok, Matho and Zanskar ranges towering above. From the high-altitude yak pastures we have time to explore some of the surrounding peaks, and from the top of the highest pass, the Gongmaru La (5200m) we can enjoy incredible views of the Karakorum, the Himalaya and into Tibet. We end the trek with a spectacular walk down a gorge to Hemis, the largest and most famous of the Ladakhi monasteries.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Delhi. 2 Fly to Leh: rest of the day to acclimatise. 3-4 Exploring in and around Leh, visiting the town, palace and monasteries at Shey and Thikse. Optional jeep drive to the Khardung La (the highest motorable road in the world). 5 Short drive to Jinchen; trek to Rumbak. 6-7 Cross the Ganda La to Skyu in the Markha Valley. 8-9-10 Follow the Markha River, passing monasteries and remote villages to the high plateau at Nimaling. 11 Cross the Gongmaru Pass (5200m) with superb views of the high mountains of Ladakh. 12 Finish the trek near Hemis, visit monastery and drive to Leh. 13 Fly to Delhi. 14 End Delhi.

Mode of travel: 7 days point-to-point walking with full porterage. Altitude maximum 5200m, average 3900m.
Group size: Normally 6 to 16, plus leader and appropriate local staff.
Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, all en suite, 7 nights full-service camping.
Food: All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $376.25
Trip Reference: TGR
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.
Trip Reference: TGR