Markha Valley Trek

The Markha Valley Trek is one of the most astounding and well-known treks in the Ladakh region of India. Located in the northwestern part of India, the Ladakh region is famed for its savagery and uneaten beauty. The trek follows a remarkable high valley with excellent views across the mountain region and is one of the best ways to experience the unique culture of the High Himalaya region. The Markha Valley trek goes long with the Markha River downstream taking in several high passes including Ganda La (15748 ft) and Kongmaru La (17,060 ft). From both passes, you get grand views across the landscape with the tall peaks of Kang Yatse and the Stok Kangri (20,086 ft) coming into sight. Not only is the trek one of mountain beauty, but it also takes trekkers through an outlook of ancient farming with many green irrigated fields and local villages being passed along the way. You'll also encounter several monasteries and meet the shiny dressed monks as they go about their daily lives. You will be open to several waist-deep river crossings, high rocky canyons, and tour many Buddhists villages en-route.

Quite less are aware of the dryer and barren side of this heavenly place. The most desired adventure hub Leh, popular for its raw and arid thrills, is a gateway to the burned-out trails. With Markha Valley trek one gets to redeem the dry region of mighty Kashmir. The mysterious ride of 9 days, exhibiting lush green to yellow barren landscapes, passing alongside Indus river, will stay in mind for your lifetime.

Markha Valley is the largest valley of the Ladakh region. Leh is the starting point of this trek, which is an added advantage to explore the Buddhist monuments in Leh. You will be astonished to traverse through the tiny hamlets as you gain altitude. Surprisingly, these villages host cafes or tea houses serving rejuvenating hot drinks when you are tired from the strenuous hike. One after another, Rumbak, Yurutse, Skiu, Markha, Hankar, Nimaling settlements will revitalize you. Not only that most of the villages have preserved monasteries, ruined forts, and temples. One of them, the Tacha monastery is a beautiful and heart catcher that lies between the mountains.

Though the trek goes through dry regions the Indus, Markha and numerous streams will come your way. Since the trail goes through Hemis National Park, all its treasured fauna, mountain sheep, Argali, rabbits, snow leopards can be spotted at every camping site. Ganda La and Kongmaru La are the two cardinal passes to be crossed en route. These passes are known for the panoramic views of infinite Karakoram and Ladakh ranges. The amazing view of K2 mountain, Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse peaks are fulfilling and the motivation of this trek. On limpid days one can get to see faraway Tibet region. A small trek ahead of Markha Valley and you will get to the base of Kang Yatse peaks. The trail is of easy to moderate grade with 1-2 steep sections, is recommended to all age groups. This is not one of those typical treks that retrace the same path while descending. Therefore, you get a wider and non-repetitive insight into Ladakhi Himalayas. Each day reveals mesmerizing views concealed behind the mountains.