Markha valley

Distance: 75 km
Duration: 7 - 9 days
Country:
The Markha Valley trek takes you through the heart of the Ladakh region in India, offering a mix of stark landscapes and lush green valleys. With its blend of cultural immersion in remote villages and challenging high-altitude passes, this trek provides a well-rounded Himalayan experience.

Table of contents

Itinerary
Route
Difficulty

Trekking Markha valley

Distances

  • 7 - 9 days, 75 km, +1,500 m, 5,150 m high point
  • daily: 5 - 7 hours, 10 - 15 km, +200 - 300 m gain

Route

  • through hike
  • starting in Spituk/Zingchen
  • ending in Shang Sumdo

When to go

  • June to September

Markha valley itinerary

Trek through the beautiful Markha Valley in the Ladakh region of India, experiencing breathtaking landscapes and local culture.
Day 1

Spituk to Zingchen (3,400 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +93 m
This day is optional; alternatively, trekkers can save a day by taking a taxi to Zingchen.
Day 2

Zingchen to Yurutse (3,900 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: +500 m
Continue your trek to Yurutse, passing through gorges and a scenic valley. Spot some wildlife on the way.
Day 3

Yurutse to Skiu (3,400 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -500 m
Hike to Skiu, where the Markha River joins the Shingo River. You'll cross the river on a rope bridge. Alternatively you can stop before Skiu at the lovely tiny village of Shingo and then have a slightly longer next day to Markha.
Day 4

Skiu to Markha (3,700 m)

Distance: 11 kmTime trekking / climbing: 7 hoursElevation change: +300 m
Trek to the charming village of Markha, passing through green fields and experiencing local Ladakhi culture.
Day 5

Markha to Thachungtse (4,200 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 8 hoursElevation change: +500 m
Ascend towards Thachungtse, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. A challenging but rewarding day.
Day 6

Thachungtse to Nimaling (4,700 m)

Distance: 10 kmTime trekking / climbing: 5 hoursElevation change: +500 m
Continue to Nimaling, a high plateau surrounded by towering peaks. A great place for wildlife spotting.
Day 7

Nimaling to Shang Sumdo (3,650 m)

Distance: 12 kmTime trekking / climbing: 6 hoursElevation change: -1,050 m
Descend to Shang Sumdo through beautiful landscapes. Say goodbye to the high-altitude plateau.

Markha valley route

Can be done in any direction, most start at the Skiu/Zingchen/Chilling end to build up slowly to the high pass.

How difficult is Markha valley

The trek is 5 / 10, based on the below factors:

Terrain & route condition 5 / 10

Treks that involve rugged or uneven terrain, such as rocky paths, scree slopes, or dense forests, may require more technical skills or physical effort.

Altitude / Elevation 7 / 10

Considering the maximum altitude reached during the trek. Higher altitudes can present challenges like thin air, low oxygen levels, and potential altitude sickness.

Distance 6 / 10

The total distance of the trek. Longer treks generally require more endurance and physical fitness.

Elevation gain 6 / 10

Total elevation gain throughout the trek. Treks with significant altitude changes can be more challenging, especially if they involve steep ascents or descents.

Technical difficulty 4 / 10

Some treks may require basic technical skills like river crossings, using ropes, or scrambling over rocks.

Access to facilities / Remoteness 3 / 10

Based on the availability of support facilities such as accommodation, food, water sources, and emergency services. Treks with limited infrastructure or remote areas can be more challenging due to self-sufficiency requirements. The less support facilities there are the harder the trek.

Climate & weather 5 / 10

How tough are the prevailing weather and climate conditions during the trek. Harsh weather, extreme temperatures, or unpredictable conditions can add to the difficulty.