Trek Grade
Moderate to Difficult
Highest Altitude
17,070 ft
Base Camp
Leh
Best Time
June, July, Aug to Mid Sept
Markha Valley Trek
Located in the River Valley of Ladakh, the charming Tea House Trail in Markha offers a picturesque and adventurous trek through the arid, cold desert landscape of Hemis National Park. This trail features numerous river crossings, some waist-deep and reaches a height of 17,060 feet when crossing the high pass of Kongmaru La. Along the way, trekkers are treated to breathtaking views of Mt Kang Yatse (21,300 feet) and encounter stunning rocky canyons and diverse wildlife. The most enchanting aspect of this trek is the quaint villages of Markha Valley, with their humble mud houses surrounded by green fields amidst the rugged Ladakh mountains. These villages showcase Tibetan culture with traditional ornamented kitchens and Buddhist prayer flags. What sets this trek apart is the opportunity to stay in village homestays along the trail, making it one of the rare tea-house treks in India. This allows trekkers to enjoy a rewarding experience without needing camping logistics. For those with limited time in Ladakh looking for a memorable trekking experience, the Tea House Trail in Markha Valley is an ideal choice.
On the third day of your trek, you will catch sight of Kang Yatse for the first time as you make your way towards the upper Markha valley. As you ascend from Umlung, the impressive pyramid-shaped peak of Kang Yatse dominates the landscape, creating a captivating and enchanting scene. This mountain serves as a serene and majestic presence during your journey, offering stunning views from various points of the trek, until you reach the Kongmaru La pass.
Nestled in the heart of a desolate, high-altitude desert, the villages of Markha and Hankar present a breathtaking anomaly – vibrant green landscapes that thrive in an otherwise arid environment. The juxtaposition of the harsh desert mountains sheltering a verdant haven of civilization is a sight to behold. Markha stands out as one of the largest villages encountered on the trek, while Hankar embodies a more untouched, rugged beauty, adding to the diversity of Ladakh’s natural beauty.
From the summit of Kongmaru La, the breathtaking panorama unfolds as a sweet payoff for the arduous ascent. When the skies are clear, this vantage point offers a stunning introduction to the Indus Valley and the majestic Ladakh ranges. As you pivot, the towering form of Kang Yatse comes into view, standing sentinel over the landscape. The spectacle is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The Markha Valley trek is popularly known as a ‘tea house trek,’ where travellers can expect to find lodging in parachute tents at many villages. In addition to the captivating experience of trekking through a cold, arid desert valley, participants are treated to breathtaking views of the Ladakh and Zanskar mountain ranges and the impressive peaks of Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri. The route passes through the picturesque Hemis National Park, offering a glimpse of its beauty. The trek features thrilling waist-deep river crossings along the Markha River, passes through charming Buddhist villages, and navigates rocky canyons, contributing to its distinctive appeal. With its convenient proximity to Leh, easily reachable by a short flight from most major Indian cities, the Markha Valley Trek is a compelling option for any traveller visiting Leh.
Trek Cost
- Stay will be on a twin-sharing basis in tents
Pickup time 12 P.M from TRC Taxi Stand, Srinagar, in front of Tourism Office Building
Fix Diparture Dates
Markha Valley Trek Videos
Videos by experts watch these videos to prepare well for a Successful Trek
Want To Trek Like Pro?
Check out the following videos if you want to trek like a pro trekker and improve your skills. These videos contain helpful tips, tricks, and techniques to help you trek like a pro. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, these videos can provide valuable insights to enhance your trekking experience. So, watch the videos below by Trekup India experts to take your trekking skills to the next level.
Know Everything About Acute Mountain Sickness
Acute Mountain Sickness is a medical condition that can occur when individuals travel to high altitudes, typically above 8,000 feet. It is caused by the decrease in air pressure and oxygen levels in the air as altitude increases. Symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. To avoid Acute Mountain Sickness, it is important to gradually adjust to high altitudes and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. To learn more about this condition, check out the videos by Trekup India.
Day Wise Detailed Itinerary of Markha Valley Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Leh
- Stay: overnight stay at the hotel,
- Meal: Lunch and Dinner
- Altitude: Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meters.)
You will arrive in Leh from other parts of India on this day. You can travel there by flight or road. You would need to rest, as you would be coming to an altitude of 11,500 ft, which creates Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) for some. Make sure you get enough rest at the hotel. Once you have rested enough, you can explore Leh. Also, you have network availability along with ATMs so that you can enjoy the ambience of cafes.
Day 2: Rest at Leh
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Altitude: Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meters.)
This morning after you have had your breakfast, you can enjoy another day to acclimatize your body. You can take this day to get accustomed to the place and have a good time outdoors. You can visit the Buddhist culture by visiting Thiksey Monastery, Thiksey Gompa, and Shey Palace. Visit the famous market of Leh, Leh Bazaar, and enjoy the mesmerizing view from the Shanti Stupa. And talk to local people or fellow travellers to find out about the nearby area.
Day 3: Leh to Chilling by Road, Chilling to Skiu by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: Leh to Chilling by Road – 65 km, Chilling to Skiu by Trek – 9 km,
- Time Taken: Leh to Chilling by Road – approx. 3 hrs, Chilling to Skiu by Trek – approx. 5 hrs.
- Altitude: Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meter.), Chilling (10,500 ft / 3200 meters.), Skiu (11,150 / 3400 tr.)
- Altitude difference: Leh to Chilling – 1000 ft / 300 meter.)11, Chilling to Skiu (650 ft / 200 meter.)
- Trek Grade: Leh to Chilling by road, Chilling to Skiu by trek – Gradual.
After breakfast at Leh, you will begin your journey by road; you will enjoy beautiful hills and rivers on the way. A trail leads from here on until you reach the flatlands. You must climb up until you reach another road. You will be walking along the side of the Markha River till you arrive at Skiu and through Kaya Village. The village lies between the big Rocky Mountains.
Day 4: Skiu to Markha by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: 20 km,
- Time Taken: approx. 7 hrs.
- Altitude: Skiu (11,150 ft / 3400 meter.), Markha (12,360 ft / 3767 meter.)
- Altitude gain: 1210 ft / 367 meters.
- Trek Grade: Gradual – Moderate
A delicious breakfast will kick off your day and begin your trek. Many wildlife birds are found there, which you might get to see; the trail will lead through the riverbed. You will cross the Markha River once or twice but still walk by the river. After crossing the bridge, you will reach the village of Narding, followed by a campsite called Sara. After going across another bridge, you will reach the village of Chalak, after which lies Markha Village.
Day 5: Markha to Hankar by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: 11 km,
- Time Taken: approx. 5 hrs.
- Altitude: Markha (12,360 ft / 3767 meters.), Hankar (13,990 ft / 4264 meter.)
- Altitude gain: 1630 ft / 497 meters.
- Trek Grade: Gradual – Moderate
Start your morning with breakfast with hot tea and enjoy Kang Yatse’s view. After walking for a few kilometres, you need to cross the river, and you will reach a small settlement, Umlung, once you have walked through the picturesque village of Hankar.
Day 6: Hankar to Nimaling by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: 10 km,
- Time Taken: approx. 6 hrs.
- Altitude: Hankar (13,990 ft / 4264 meters.), Nimaling (15,380 ft / 4689 meter.)
- Altitude gain: 1390 ft / 425 meters.
- Trek Grade: Gradual – Moderate
Upon waking up the next morning, you will be greeted with a spectacular view. The trek from Hankar will be a steep climb. After that, you will pass through a pass called Zalung Karpo La; you will then be walking through the lower trail till you arrive at the campsite of Thochuntse. From Thochuntse, the trek gradually ascends till you reach the picturesque Kang Yatse Pond. From the pond, you will go downhill till you reach Nimaling.
Day 7: Nimaling to Chokdu via Kongmaru La by Trek
- Stay: overnight stay at the homestay,
- Meal: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Trek Distance: 12 km,
- Time Taken: approx. 6 hrs
- Altitude: Nimaling (15,380 ft / 4689 meters.), Kongmaru La (17,050 ft / 5197 meter.), Chokdu (12,800 ft / 3901 meter.)
- Altitude difference: Nimaling to Kongmaru La (1670 ft / 508 meters.), Kongmaru La to Chokdu (4250 ft / 1296 meter.)
- Trek Grade: Gradual – Moderate
Today the trek will take you to the highest point. You will be climbing a steep hill till you reach Kongmaru La Pass. From there, you will catch sight of the huge, beautiful K2 Mountain, the second-highest mountain peak in the world. The trail then gradually descends through a narrow pass till you reach Chikirmo Village. On the way, you will be mesmerized by the view of the Indus Valley and Ladakh ranges. And from there, climb down through the rocky terrain till you reach Chokdu.
Day 8: Chokdo to Shang Sumdo by Trek and Shang Sumdo to Leh by road
- Stay no stay,
- Meal: Breakfast and Lunch
- Trek Distance: Chokdo to Shang Sumdo by Trek – 5 km, Shang Sumdo to Leh by road – 50 km,
- Time Taken: Chokdo to Shang Sumdo by Trek – approx. 2 hrs, Shang Sumdo to Leh by road – approx. 2 hrs,
- Altitude: Chokdu (12,800 ft / 3901 meters.), Shang Sumdo (12,130 ft / 3697 meter.), Leh (11,500 ft / 3500 meter.)
- Altitude gain: Chokdo to Shang Sumdo (670 ft / 204 meters.), Shang Sumdo to Leh (630 ft / 197 meter.)
- Trek Grade: Chokdo to Shang Sumdo by Trek – Gradual, Shang Sumdo to Leh by road
On the last of the trek, you will be trekking from Chokdo to Shang Sumdo and walking through the riverbed, which will be an easy walk back. Upon reaching Shang Sumdo, you will go from there by road to Leh. This is your last stop from there; our Trekup India team will bid you farewell, and then from Leh, you will be on your own. You will have the option to travel from there anywhere you like.
Markha Valley Trek Route Map
We’ve prepared a comprehensive Trek Route Map for your upcoming adventure to Markha Valley Trek, which outlines the entire journey including all stops and trails. This map provides detailed information on the terrain, distance between points of interest, and estimated travel time to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trek. We’ve carefully curated the map to ensure that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Please take a moment to review it thoroughly, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Markha Valley Trek Altitude Chart
The Trek Altitude Chart is a useful tool for Trekkers to monitor their altitude changes during their rides, allowing them to plan their routes more efficiently and track their progress over time. This Markha Valley Trek chart is beneficial for both casual and experienced Trekkers, helping them make the most out of their Trek experience.
Trek Cost Inclusions
- Stay 7 Nights of tented accommodation at individual campsites of Trekup India on sharing basis.
- Meals: Trekup India provided cooked meals during the trek starting with Dinner on Day 01 to Lunch on day 08 (Meals are simple, nutritious, and vegetarian and non-repeated meals)
- Transport: Leh to Chilling and Shang Sumdo to Leh on sharing jeeps
- Trek Insurance (Optional): Trekup India recommends that all trekkers consider getting trek insurance. This is optional, but highly recommended. Trek insurance covers unexpected events that may occur during your trek. The cost of the insurance starts from INR 210. Please read more about what is included in the coverage and why it is mandatory on treks.
- Trek Equipment: Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.
- Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black foam mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.
- Health & Safety: First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.
- Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee
- Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.
- Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules are to carry all trekking equipment, ration, and vegetables.
Trek Cost Exclusions
- GST 5% (it is Mandatory)
- Any Meals/accommodation beside the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.
- Any Bus / Airfare to/from trek start/end point
- Personal Medical expenses do carry your medication.
- Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.
- Any still / video camera fee
- Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot.
- Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage (Offload Charges for bag 365 per day, per bag if paid online (at base camp 2,550). Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.
- Any emergency evacuation charges
- Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section.
What should you pack for the Markha Valley Trek
Markha Valley Trek is a high-altitude trek. The trekking gear you have to have for this particular trek differs from normal treks. Thus, read this whole segment. There is an important question that the trekker who is doing trek asks, like what all things to carry while trekking. Below, we have provided the details on everything you should take; an easy way to remember is by Head to foot or foot to head. We have prepared from Head to foot.
Head Gears
When trekking it's important to carry headgear to protect your head and face.
Heading out for a trek? Don’t forget to carry headgear to protect your beautiful face and head from the sun, wind, and dust! It’s an essential accessory that keeps you safe and comfortable throughout your adventurous journey. So, make sure you pack it before you step out into nature!
- Head Lamps – When trekking at night, headlamps are essential to illuminate your path while keeping your hands free. Headlamps come in different sizes and lumens, so it is essential to choose one that suits your needs.
- Hats or Cap – Caps or hats are also necessary when trekking in different weather conditions. Caps protect your head from the wind and freezing temperatures at night, while hats provide shade and protection from the sun during the day. It’s essential to ensure that your hat has a strap to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
- Sunglasses – Sunglasses are also essential for trekking. Your sunglasses should protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and fit your face perfectly to avoid falling off while climbing, jumping, or crossing obstacles. The glass of your sunglasses should also be designed for different weather conditions to provide optimal visibility.
- Buff / Balaclava – Lastly, a buff or balaclava is a must-have to protect your mouth or neck from extreme temperatures and keep them warm. Buffs and balaclavas come in different materials, thicknesses, and designs, so it’s important to choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Depending on the weather conditions and your activities, you can wear them as neck warmers, face masks, or headbands.
Clothes
When trekking in high altitudes, prepare for cold weather by wearing layers. Layering traps heat, keeps you warm, and allows you to easily adjust your clothing as temperatures fluctuate.
Layering is important for different seasons when trekking. When planning a high-altitude trek, it is important to prepare for the cold weather. Wearing layers is the best approach as it provides both protection and flexibility when the weather changes frequently in the mountains. Layering helps to trap heat and keep your body warm, while at the same time allowing you to easily adjust your clothing as the temperature fluctuates. By wearing layers, you can enjoy your trek comfortably and stay safe in the unpredictable mountain weather
- For spring, summer, and monsoon treks, consider wearing three layers: a woollen sweater, a fleece, and a padded jacket.
- For autumn treks, add one more fleece layer to make it four layers.
- For winter treks, you may need five layers with thermals, a woollen sweater, two fleeces, and a padded jacket.
- T-shirt/sleeve shirt– Bring three T-shirts and two quick-dry trek pants, wearing one and carrying the others. Long sleeve shirts help to protect from sun UV rays. We recommend synthetic T-shirts as they get dry quickly when they get wet.
- Hiking / Trekking Jacket– down jackets (-5 to-10 C) or two-three-layer jackets.
- Thermals– at least two pairs of thermals help keep the body warm during cold weather.
- Undergarments– you can carry them according to your habitual and hygiene requirements.
- Gloves– 1 pair of gloves will keep your hand warm and nice.
- Trek Pants– Bring 2 to 3 comfortable trekking pants. Trekking pants play a significant role, as they are designed for comfort and mobility, making trekking easier. It should be Synthetic so that it gets dry quickly when wet.
- Rain Wear– you can carry a raincoat or Poncho. During long rains and snowfalls, the waterproof jackets start leaking. Still, the Poncho and raincoats keep you dry, so choose accordingly.
Tip: If you choose a raincoat on your trek, carry a small waterproof cover so things inside your backpack can’t get wet. If you carry a Poncho, you don’t need to worry. It protects both you and your backpack.
Foot Gears
When it comes to planning a trek, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that you have the right kind of foot gear.
- Trekking shoes which are waterproof and have ankle support. Walking / Hiking sandals which can be used off the trek, i.e., in the morning and evening hours when you reach the campsite, basically to get your feet rest from heavy boots, sometimes used for crossing streams and rivers, it’s more comfortable and safer than crossing barefoot or wetting your shoes. Sneakers (Optional) can be worn for normal driving days or used around the camp.
- Socks– you should at least carry 3 to 4 pairs.
- Microspikes & Gaitorswill be provided by Trekup India when required. You don’t have to carry them.
Personal First Aid Kit
Don't forget to pack your personal first aid kit! It's always better to be safe. So, make sure you're prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
Below are some common medicines generally required/used during your adventure trip; however, please consult your doctors prior.
- Antiseptic towel or water syringe (to clean the wound)
- Butterfly bandage for a small cut
- Cotton and elastic bandages and sterile gauze pad for larger wounds
- Latex gloves are used when the wound bleeds.
- Medicine for Diarrhea (Upset stomach)
- Medicine for cold, flue/fever, headache
- Some pain killers
- ORS pouches
- Quick pain relief spray (External use)
- Any personal medicine prescribed by your doctor
- Dimox / Similar for high altitude sickness
- Bug Repellent
- Carry some nutria/energy bars and drinks (non-alcoholic)
- Note: Kindly consult your doctor before purchasing or taking any medicine.
Gadgets and Other Items
You might also consider bringing a camera, binoculars, portable charger, and snacks. Be well-prepared and tackle any trail with confidence.
- Trekking Poles
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Spare batteries for phone and camera, power bank
- Lightweight flashlight or headlight
- A waterproof bag made of plastic is used for the camera.
- Plug/converter for electrical items
- 1-litre water bottle
- A journal with a pen would be a good idea to keep your notes.
- Some book of your interest for the ideal time
- Get into the habit of maintaining a Map and guidebook of the region.
Hygiene & Personal toiletry
Remember to pack hygiene and personal toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and toilet paper.
- Sunscreen with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful rays
- 1 or 2 small quick-drying towels to help you dry off quickly in case of rain or sweat
- Toilet paper, tissues or wet wipes for maintaining hygiene while on the trek
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and mouth freshener to keep your mouth clean and fresh throughout the journey
- Deodorant or talcum powder to help you stay fresh and odor-free, especially during hot and humid climates
- Shampoo to keep your hair clean and healthy
- Sanitary pads or tampons (for female trekkers) to manage menstrual cycles
- Lip-gloss or salve to protect your lips from dryness and chapping
- Bio-degradable soap to keep yourself clean and hygienic while on the trek
- Nail clipper and other personal items that you use daily