8 Days Itinerary
The Markha Valley Trek begins with your arrival in Leh, a high-altitude desert city nestled at 3,500 meters. The first day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, with opportunities to explore the town’s cultural landmarks like Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and the vibrant local market. On Day 2, you'll drive along the scenic Zanskar River to Chilling, from where the trek officially begins. After crossing the river by a cable trolley, a gentle hike leads you to the village of Skiu. The journey continues on Day 3 with a longer trek through dramatic landscapes, river crossings, and Buddhist monuments as you make your way to Markha, the largest village in the valley.
As the altitude increases, the trail from Markha to Hankar offers stunning views of Kang Yatse peak and quiet stretches through remote villages and monasteries. From Hankar, the ascent to the high-altitude Nimaling Plateau is both challenging and rewarding, providing a sense of serenity amidst rugged Himalayan beauty. Day 6 brings the most demanding stretch—crossing Kongmaru La Pass at 5,260 meters, followed by a descent through a dramatic canyon to Chokdo. The final leg of the journey is a relaxing drive back to Leh with an optional visit to the historic Hemis Monastery. After a well-deserved rest, the trek concludes on Day 8 with your departure from Leh, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Ladakh's landscapes, culture, and high-altitude adventure.