Region - Ladakh Himalayas
Duration - 9 days (approx.)
Grade - Difficult
Maximum Altitude - 1500 feet
Trekking Distance - 75 km (approx.)
Base Camp - Spituk
Best Season - Mid- May to Early- September
One of the most popular treks in Ladakh, the Markha Valley trek is an amazing amalgamation of intriguing barren landscape of Ladakh, stunning views of the Western Himalayas and a sneak-peak into Buddhist culture. Also known as ‘Tea House Trek’, it takes the trekkers through willow groves, canyons with fluttering Tibetan prayer flags, and spots of wild roses as the cool breeze brushes past your face.
One of the main highlights of this trek passing through the well-known Hemis National park and a chance to have a rendezvous with the nomadic families living there. Markha Valley Trek offers an insight into Tibetan and Buddhist culture through the monasteries and stupas. During the trek, one can stay in parachute tents in the villages.
During the trek through a dry cold desert valley, savor breathtaking views of Ladakh and Zanskar ranges, Stok Kangri peak (20,086 feet) and Kang Yissay peak (21000) feet. This challenging trek also involves walking past two high passes of Ladakh- Gandala La (15748 feet) and Kongmaru La (17060 feet).
As Markha Valley trek is high on difficulty level, it also involves crossing River Markha where at some places water might come till your waist and walking past rocky canyons. It is one of the most challenging treks in India. The geographical diversity in this trek is simply amazing.
