Ladakh is one of the driest regions in the Himalayas along with some of the regions like Mustang and Dolpo in Nepal. Its position beyond the Himalayan peaks guarantees it protection from the intense rainfall brought by the Indian monsoon; one of the reasons why it is advisable to go trekking in Ladakh in the summer.
Markha valley trek
Markha Valley Trek is the most beautiful trek in the history of Ladakh. Located in a picturesque river valley called Markha, this trek offers you the best experience of the mighty Himalayas in 7 days. The route takes you through the majestic, cold and arid Markha Desert which is part of the famous Hemis National Prak.
The hike is a bunch of high altitude passes, river crossings, rock canyons and wildlife. In this hike, on the third day of the hike, you will get a great view of Kang Yatse Mountain. This peak near the pyramid is 21,300 feet high. It also leads to the high Kongmaru La Pass which is 17,060 feet high. From this pass, you will get a lifetime view of the vast Indus mountain range and Ladakh mountain ranges.
Nubra valley trek
Nubra valley is called the valley of flowers. It is located north of Leh. The hairy Bactrian Bactrian camel roams the dunes and is the highlight of the area. The route also passes Deskit and Samstanling monasteries and Khardung la pass (18,380 feet) located at sea level.
It can be visited with a seven-day permit, giving you enough time to explore the arid topography and hike to a Gompa or two. Explore the picturesque ancient monastery of Thiksey which sits atop a hill overlooking the Indus.
Hemis gompa is one of the biggest trekking routes in Ladakh. Nubra Valley Trek goes through Khardung La which is the highest road in the world at 18,380 feet.
Stok Kangri trek
Stok Kangri trek is one of the highest peaks in the world. It stands at 20,100 feet and is taller than Europe’s tallest mountain, Elbrus at 18,510 feet, and, albeit slightly, taller than Africa’s tallest mountain, Kilimanjaro at 19,340 feet. It scales the two highest mountains of two different continents and is undoubtedly the flagship of India.
The biggest and only challenge while trekking Stok Kangri is the peak day where you have to face freezing temperatures, walk on the glacier for about 6-7 hours at night and trek on the ridge for about two hours to reach the top. While Stok Kangri requires no technical experience, it is by no means intended for beginners.
Sham valley trek
The Sham Valley Trek, popularly known by the locals as ‘the children’s trek’ traverses the Sham region of lower Ladakh. Don’t let the name fool you though. Shorter than the Markha Valley Trek’s Kangrio Slope, the Sham Valley trek is sometimes strenuous due to the altitude and you will surely feel stuffy and sweaty. The shorter duration coupled with the opportunity to observe traditional Ladakh village life makes for a truly rewarding experience.
The Sham Valley Trekking Trail includes several beautiful villages such as Hemis Shukpachan which is located in the middle of a rich cedar forest.
