Markha Valley is bestowed with the diverse beauty of rocky mountains, snowcapped peaks, and serene hamlets. Thus, making Markha Valley Trek a rollercoaster ride in different terrains. Circling some parts of Hemis National Park, this trek has a difficulty level of moderate to difficult depending on your fitness level. Also known as the tea house trek, this trek offers varied levels of adrenaline rush. Some of which include steep ascends, river crossing, bridge crossing, etc. What by day paints a picture of a picturesque landscape, by night covers you with a blanket of numerous stars. Starting off Chilling village, this trek sure makes for one hell of an experience.
Best Time To Go For Markha Valley Trek
The best time to visit Markha Valley Trek is during the months of June and September. These months comprise the summer season in Ladakh. During these months the temperature is moderate and the terrain is mostly clear. Moreover, it is the best time to visit both the Srinagar-Leh route and the Manali-Leh route. Post-September, the roads get blocked due to frequent snowfall and most passes get closed. Traveling during the months of June and September, you can also save yourself from the blows of harsh winter winds.
The ideal duration of this trek comprises a total of 6 days. A duration of 6 days takes you through various scenic check-points such as Chilling, Skiu, Markha, Hankar, Nimaling, Kongmaru La, Shang Sumdo, etc. Moreover, it lets you take sufficient halts in-between the trekking trail. Even though Markha Valley is considerably warmer during June, August, and September, it is nowhere as warm as the planes. Therefore, make sure to always carry woolen clothing and an extra pair of socks.
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How To Reach The Base Camp
The base camp for Markha Valley Trek is a small hamlet called Chilling. This village is situated at an elevation of 3,346 meters above sea level. Moreover, it is connected by Leh by the following modes.
By Road:
- By Bus: Situated at a distance of approximately 66 km from Leh, Chilling can easily be reached by road. Moreover, it is the only mode of transport to reach Chilling from Leh. The village is situated inside the premises of Hemis National Park. One can make their journey by bus every Wednesday and Sunday.
- By Car/Taxi: Another way to travel to Chilling village by the means of car or taxi. It is also the fastest mode to reach Chilling by Leh. Taxi rides will cost you somewhere around INR 1200 and INR 1500. If you don’t have much experience driving in high altitude regions, it is recommended that you hire a local driver.
Suggested Read: 7 Valleys In Ladakh That Prove It Is Indeed A Paradise On Earth!
5 Highlights Of Markha Valley Trek
Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh crosses past many awe-inspiring checkpoints. Some of these checkpoints are beautiful campsites while some are picturesque villages. Listed below are some of the highlights of this trek.
1. Skiu Village
Skiu Village is situated adjacent to Kaya Village. This village is situated within the premises of Hemis National Park. It is one of the very first villages that you will pass through in this trek. It is circled with huge rocky mountains. Here, one can stay in homestays and can also opt to camp.
Suggested Read: Stok Kangri Trek: A Remarkable Yet Difficult Trekking Experience In Ladakh!
2. Markha Village
Situated alongside the famous Markha River, Markha Village is the biggest village situated in Markha Valley. It is home to more than 22 families and is an important checkpoint of Markha Trek. Here, one can also find numerous homestays to rest for the night. En route, you can also spot local people with their yaks.
Suggested Read: Explore The Hemis National Park In Ladakh to Witness Wildlife In High Altitudes
3. Hankar Village
Hankar is a small village with awe-inspiring landscapes. It is also considered as one of the most beautiful stops in this trek. This village also offers you picturesque views of a monastery. Moreover, staying the night in this village will also bring you closer to the local cuisine of Ladakh.
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4. Kang Yatse Hill
On your way to Markha Trek, you will also enjoy the spectacular views of Kang Yatse Hill. This throne-shaped peak is situated inside the premises of Hemis National Park. Enjoy gazing at the snow-covered peaks and capture the incredible landscape with your camera. Kang Yaste has two summits roughly situated at an elevation of approximately 6400 meters.
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5. Kongmaru La
Kongmaru La is situated at an elevation of 5130 meters above sea level. It is also the highest point of the trek and offers spectacular views of the Kang Yatse Hill. This high-altitude pass connects Markha Valley with the Indus Valley. You will pass through this pass on your way to Chokdo Village.
Further Read: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip: Everything You Need To Know From The Scratch!
Head on for a breathtaking experience with Markha Valley Trek in Ladakh. Also, witness the intriguing changes in the enchanting landscape as you get-going. This trek accounts for nothing more than a thrilling holidays in Ladakh. So say Juley to your next adventure in the mountain peaks of Ladakh.
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Frequently Asked Questions About A Gateway To Ladakh
What is the best time to go for Markha Valley Trek?
The best time to go for Markha Valley Trek is during the months of May and September. During these months the temperature is moderate and the terrain is mostly clear.
What are some of the safety tips to keep in mind while trekking in Ladakh?
Given below are some of the safety tips to keep in mind while trekking in Ladakh:
- Owing to the high altitude, It is important that you take time to acclimatize for a few days upon your arrival in Leh and before going on a trek.
- Always equip yourself with a personal first-aid box.
- Make sure you are accompanied by a travel guide before heading for a trek.
- During your trek, make sure to take sufficient water breaks to keep yourself hydrated.
- Also, pack ample dry snacks like dry fruits to help you keep the pace.
- Carry a sturdy pair of hiking shoes that you are comfortable wearing.
- Pack an extra pair of socks and undergarments.
- Pack extra batteries and power banks.
What are the top treks in Ladakh?
Given below are some of the top treks in Ladakh:
- Stok Kangri Trek - Difficult
- Kang Yatse 2 Trek - Difficult
- Chadar Trek - Difficult
- Markha Valley Winter Trek - Moderate
- Sham Valley Trek - Moderate
Are there any villages situated in Markha Valley?
Listed below are some of the villages situated in Markha Valley:
- Rumbak
- Skiu
- Sara
- Shingo
- Markha
- Hankar
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A true stargazer, an enthusiastic traveler, and a free-verse poet, Saumya sees the world in-between pages and pathways. She is always up for a travel plan, dark chocolates, and photo walks. Creative and quirky just constantly run through her head. Moreover, she has a flair for storytelling through video-making but that is still a work-in-progress.
