Contents
Introduction
“The answer to the enigma of why we climb is somewhere between the beginning of the climb and the summit.” Gregory Child
Visitors can enjoy some amazing and thrilling trekking adventures in Ladakh. For those looking for adventure among the peaks and slopes of the Himalayas, this area is a paradise. In Ladakh, there are numerous trekking alternatives with varying degrees of difficulty and time. While some treks take two weeks to complete, others can be finished in as little as three days. Any of these hikes, though, will provide you with priceless experiences.
Beginners and families with young children can choose an easy trip, but those seeking a more difficult experience might choose a longer journey that crosses several passes above 5000 meters and even attempt the summit of a 6000-meter peak.
However, certain hikes are only feasible beginning in early July because of the winter’s intense snowfall on the mountain passes. The Chadar walk on the frozen Zanskar river and the Snow Leopard trip are two treks that are organized in Ladakh from January to March each year and begin with the arrival of winter.
Markha valley hike
The most well-known trek in Ladakh is the Markha Valley Trek in the Hemis National Park. The snow-covered Stok Kangri mountain to the north and the Zanskar range to the south are separated by the Markha valley, which runs parallel to the Indus river. You will encounter stunning mountain landscapes, exotic animals, and tiny, secluded settlements around lush barley fields while on this walk. You will have the chance to stay in homestays in these areas and learn about the locals’ way of life.
It takes 6 to 8 days to complete the trek, depending on where you start. There are two ways to go to the Markha valley: one from Spituk and the other from Chilling. The longest option is the journey from Spituk. The hike ends in Hemis after passing through the Ganda La (4961m) and Kongmaru La (5260m) passes. Chilling is a simpler and quicker starting point for individuals who don’t have enough time or want to skip the Ganda La pass.
Phyang to Hunder trek through the Nubra valley
The Indus valley and the Nubra valley are connected by the hike from Phyang to Hunder. It follows a historic trade route that was formerly a part of the network of the Silk Roads, which connected Central Asia to India. The Laser La pass (5438m), the highest point of this off-the-beaten-path walk, is always covered in ice and snow even in the summer. The Karakoram range may be seen in a stunning view from the pass. In 5 days, this trek is completed.
You will tour the Nubra valley’s key attractions after the trip. At the Hunder Sand Dunes, you can ride a double-humped Bactrian camel and take in the sight of the 32-meter-tall statue
Trek from Rumtse to Tso Moriri
The Rumtse to Tsomoriri hike is for you if you enjoy viewing breathtaking scenery. One of Ladakh’s most breathtaking and untamed hikes is this one. This seven-day walk takes you across Changthang’s high-altitude plateau (Rupshu). The region has unique topography, and when you traverse 6 passes above 5000 meters, you will encounter mountains with various textures and colors. Ladakh is a freezing desert, but it also boasts several stunning lakes that may be enjoyed by tourists. You will get the chance to see the lovely Tso Kar and Tso Moriri lakes while on your walk.
The first night in Kamar is at an elevation of 4500 meters, and the following six days are always between 4500 and 5500 meters. This trek quickly ascends to a very high altitude. As a result, it’s crucial to be properly acclimated to the altitude before beginning the climb.
The pashmina goat and yak herds that the Changpa nomads keep are housed on the Changthang plateau. They move 8 to 10 times a year, so it’s impossible to predict where their camp will be in advance. If you’re fortunate, you might run across the nomads along the trail and be welcomed to enjoy a cup of butter tea inside their yak-wool tent. The primary community in the area is Korzok, the largest hamlet.
Trek to Sham Valley
The Sham valley walk, which is frequently referred to as the “baby trek” due to its simplicity, undoubtedly affords hikers some beautiful scenery. This is the hike for you if you’re seeking a simple hike suitable for your kids. It is possible to perform it all year long and never exceeds a height of 4000 meters.
The journey travels through several small villages where you can stay the night in a homestay and eat the regional cuisine that the local folks make. You can visit some historic and well-known monasteries at Likir, Rizong, Temisgam, Basgo, and Alchi during and after the journey.
