Markha Valley Trek,Itinerary,Package,Location,Distance,Height,Best time to Visit in 2025-26.
TREK DIFFICULTY: Difficult
TREK DURATION: 9 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE :17200 Ft.
LOCATION:Ladakh
TOTAL TREK DISTANCE: 65 Km
BASECAMP: Leh
BEST TIME: July to September
PICKUP POINT: Ladakh
Overview
From Chilling, the trek joins the old Silk Route, passing through the quaint villages of Markha and Hankar, rich with Tibetan culture. Within the realms of Hemis National Park, the valley enjoys a strange mixture of nature and Tibetan life. On the way, you are presented with views of serene landscapes, green fields, and simple mud cottages-especially balancing between adventure and culture.
The Markha Valley Trek is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for anyone pressed for time after a visit to Ladakh to absorb some nature and culture.
Highlights of Markha Valley Trek
1.Leh
A beautiful city where culture and history hang in an unparalleled balance, Leh is the starting point in your adventure. Famous for its majestic monasteries, ancient temples, and palaces, Leh forms the heart of Ladakh. This city's mild unresting aura can provide a calm prelude to the trek. Since Leh lies at a high altitude, a certain acclimatization period needs to be allowed, at least for a day. Short walks in Leh will help your body cope and get ready for the trek.
2.Hemis National Park
Crossing through Hemis National Park, you find a beautiful sanctuary of unique wildlife and scenic landscapes. Due to its rich biodiversity, and those lucky few trekkers have seen mountain sheep, rabbits, and the elusive snow leopard. Bird watchers will be pleased since the park shelters great birds such as golden eagles and lammergeier vultures. The colorful landscape is a wonderful bonus for this natural paradise.
3.Sara Village
Sara Village is a wonderful little village to present the traditional lifestyle of Ladakh. From grand entrances decorated with yak skulls-a great pride for the locals-sanctuaries to old monasteries and castles, everything is here representing local culture. The village is also surrounded by large wheat fields, making it a quiet and picturesque stop along the trek.
4.Kongmaru La
It is the highest and most exciting point on this entire trek. Situated at an elevation of 17,250 feet, the views here are spectacular. It will test your endurance because it is quite a demanding climb, and the views of the Ladakh ranges from the top are worth every step. Prayer flags make lots of vibrant colors as they flutter in the wind, there is a spiritual feel to the place, and the vast openness of the landscapes will leave you speechless.
5. Nimaling
Nimaling is amongst the most picturesque spots on the trek and offers a lovely camping ground. It is surrounded by endless meadows and a pleasant stream and endowed with tranquil natural allure. Serving at the highest elevation accessible, it is the base for Kang Yatse, a prominent outstanding peak of the region. From here, one has an extraordinary view of the rugged Ladakh ranges and Indus valley. As the night sets in, the sky becomes a celestial carpet, turning your campsite into a magical one.
Itenary for Markha Valley Trek
Day 1- Arrive in Leh
Altitude: 3,500 m / 11,500 ft.,Arrive in Leh, the capital of Ladakh,Rest to adjust to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness
Day 2- Acclimatization in Leh
Acclimatization day with light sightseeing,Visit the famous Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Sangam (where the Zanskar and Indus rivers meet), and Hemis Monastery,Take a short walk in the afternoon for better acclimatization,Overnight stay in Leh
Day 3 -Drive from Leh to Skiu, then trek to Sara
Altitude: Skiu: 3,400 m / 11,150 ft. Sara: 3,600 m / 11,800 ft. Drive Distance: 70 km | 2-3 hours Trek Distance: 11 km | 5-6 hoursBegin trekking towards Sara, passing through small villages and crossing rivers,Enjoy the beauty of the barren landscape mixed with green fields and traditional Ladakhi culture,Camp overnight at Sara village
Day 4 -Trek from Sara to Markha
Altitude: Markha - 3,700 m / 12,200 ft. Trek Distance: 10 km | 5-6 hours Today’s trek takes you to Markha Village, the most popular stop in the trek.Walk through the valley with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.You can set up camp at Markha village
Day 5 -Trek from Markha to Hankar
Altitude: Hankar - 4,100 m / 13,400 ft. Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hoursTrek from Markha to Hankar,Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and the occasional sighting of yaks,Camp overnight in Hankar
Day 6 -Trek from Hankar to Nimaling
Altitude: Nimaling - 4,800 m / 15,800 ft. Trek Distance: 12 km | 7-8 hoursBegin the trek towards Nimaling,The views of Kang Yatse Peak (6400 m) and other high mountains are awe-inspiring,Overnight camping at Nimaling
Day 7 -Trek from Nimaling to Chokdo via Kongmaru La and Drive to Leh
Altitude: Kongmaru La: 5,200 m / 17,300 ft. Chokdo: 3,900 m / 12,900 ft.Trek Distance: 13 km | 7-8 hoursCross the highest point of the trek, Kongmaru La Pass (5,200 m).Reach Chokdo, the endpoint of your trek, and drive back to Leh.Drive Back to Leh: 60 km | 3 hours
Best Time to do Markha Valley Trek
The best time to do the Markha Valley trek is from May to September because these months coincide with the summer, monsoon, and early autumn seasons. These months are best for trekking as they are warm with dry skies. Stability in weather and temperature make this a comfortable season for long-distance trekking and maintenance of full foliage during this period offers an eye-soothing view of green meadows and dreamy vistas. This time also ensures that trails remain accessible and apt for exploring the beauty of the valley. This period is truly the best time to see the Markha Valley in its full glory.
What to Pack?
Trekking Gear:
- Backpack
- Trekking Poles
- Sleeping Bag (below -10°C rating)
- Trekking Shoes
- Gaiters
- Water Bottle/Hydration Bladder
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries
- Dry Bags
Clothing:
- Base Layer (Thermals)
- Fleece Jacket
- Down Jacket
- Trekking Pants
- Rain Jacket/Poncho
- Warm Gloves
- Sun Hat
- Warm Beanie/Cap
- Trekking Socks (3-4 pairs)
- Buff/Neck Gaiter
Accessories:
- Sunglasses (UV Protection)
- Camera/Phone
- Power Bank
- Toiletries Kit
- Hand Sanitizer
- First Aid Kit
- Earplugs
- Plastic Zip-Lock Bags
Food & Snacks:
- Energy Bars & Trail Mix
- Instant Soup
- Electrolyte Tablets/Powder
Optional Items:
- Camera Tripod
- Book/Journal
- Portable Solar Charger
- Multi-tool/Knife
Documents & Permits:
- ID Proof (Aadhar/Passport)
- Trekking Permits
- Travel Insurance
Frequently asked questions with answers
Q. Is Markha Valley Trek with more difficulty?
Yes, it is fairly difficult with its high altitudes and differing terrain. However, it is apt for the novices with a good amount of fitness and will have to do a proper acclimatization.
Q.How long is the Markha Valley Trek?
To finish the trek in full generally takes 6 to 8 days, with the pace of the trek and days of rest influencing the actual length.
Q. When is the best time to do Markha Valley Trek?
May to September if the weather is clear and with mild temperatures.
Q. How far is Leh from Markha Valley?
From Leh to the starting point at Chilling, the distance is about 70 to 80 km, covered in basically 3-4 hours by car.
During The Trek
At ThinAir Expedition, our treks are carefully designed by a team of highly experienced mountaineers and outdoor leaders, ensuring you experience the adventure of a lifetime while connecting deeply with nature, yourself, and fellow trekkers.
Every trek with us is led by certified and experienced trek leaders who know the mountains inside out — sharing fascinating stories, regional history, and insights into the local flora and fauna. By the end of your trek, you’ll not only have lifelong memories but also a deeper appreciation for the Himalayas.
Inclusion
🚐 Transport Pickup Time: Ladakh.
From the scheduled pick-up point to the base camp, we arrange transportation in vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dzire, or Tempo Traveller (12-seater). This is shared by trekkers at a pre-decided cost. All vehicles are non-AC for mountain travel safety.
🏡 Accommodation Base Camp Stay: 1-night accommodation in a local homestay or guesthouse, offering a glimpse of authentic Himalayan lifestyle. (Single-sharing available at INR 5,000 extra per person for the entire trek)
On-Trek Stay: Twin-sharing tents (Vango Halo Pro / A-Shape) built to handle extreme weather while keeping you comfortable after a long day’s trek.
⛺ Camping Equipment High-quality sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Foam mattresses for added comfort.
Safety gear including microspikes, gaiters, helmets, and ice axe (where required).
💊 Medical Support Our team carries an extensive medical kit and is trained in high-altitude first aid.
Oxygen cylinders (checked before every trek) are available at campsites and with the team at all times.
🌿 Permissions & FeesAll forest entry permits and camping fees for Indian nationals are included. (Additional charges apply for foreign nationals)
🍽 Meals Nutritious veg meals (with eggs) — Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner.
Jain and vegan meals available on prior request.
Dedicated kitchen tent and dining tent with tables and seating.
👨👩👧👦 Our Team Certified Trek Leader (AMC/BMC/NIM-trained) for safety and smooth execution.
Local Guides with deep knowledge of the trail, culture, and biodiversity.
Support Crew including cook, helpers, porters, and mules for common equipment.
🎒 Cloakroom Facility You can leave extra luggage safely at our base camp free of charge.
During The Trek
Exclusion
❌ Personal expenses like tips, medicines, and phone calls.
❌ Travel from your hometown to the pick-up point.
❌ Personal trekking gear (jackets, shoes, backpacks, cutlery) — available for rent at affordable rates on prior request.
❌ Backpack offloading (optional) – INR 400per bag/day (up to 12 kg).
❌ Trek insurance (mandatory) — to be arranged separately.
❌ Buffer day cost (if used) — to be paid directly to the trek leader.
❌ Any items not mentioned in the inclusions list.
Related Treks
Discover Nature’s Best with Expert Trekking Guides
