Markha valley

Distance: 75 km
Duration: 7 - 9 days
Country:
India flagIndia
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

Trekking Markha valley

Prepare for an adventure treking Markha valley. This overview provides essential details on routes, difficulty, costs, and the best times to go, helping you plan a successful trek.

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.