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Markha Valley is one of the most beautiful and spectacular treks in Ladakh region of India. Rocky and snowy mountains, untouched villages, some beautiful Buddhist Gomphas and surreal in its beauty- Markha Valley is known for all the good reasons. By no means is this trek an easy one, considering that there are two passes of 4900m or even higher than that to cross. There is also the possibility of snowfall as the altitude increases. But at the end of the day, the trek is as rewarding as it is fulfilling.
The Markha Valley is situated on the southern part of the Stok Kangri massif. Leh takes up two days to acclimatize and then the trek begins. Starting from the Zingchen and Yurutse plateau before reaching Skiu, thereafter the confluence of rivers welcomes you to Markha Valley. With the trek amounting to a massive 5150 meters, Markha Valley is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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The beginning of this Himalayas trek is from Leh. The acclimatization is of utmost importance here due to the sudden drop in temperatures. There are several flights scheduled from the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi to the Bakula Rimpchore Airport in Leh, predominantly before dusk due to climate concerns.
A road journey obviously promises breathtaking landscapes but that takes too long and is considerably less preferred. Also, these roads are only open during summers and take around 2-3 days, depending on the climate.
You would require a basic knowledge of the Markha valley before the trek begins, due to frequent seasonal changes. As one might guess, it remains cold between the months of November to February. From March to the beginning of May at the most, the climate is beautiful, with a moderate amount of sunshine all throughout. Throughout the next couple of months, the monsoons announce their presence.
Ladakh being in the rainshadow zone of the Himalayas, experiences a lot of sunshine, so it might be a great idea to carry hats, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the wrath of the sun.
The best time to visit Ladakh for the Markha Valley trek would be from June to end of September in order to get the best experience!
The Base Camp for the trek is Nimaling. The two major attractions of this region are the Ganda La Pass and the Kongmaru La Pass. Nimaling promises amazing watercourses which stand above a height of 4700 meters. With beautiful meadows spreading over the entire terrain, the camping experience is definitely delightful.
The trekking points in Markha Valley are mainly based in countless high peaks with visually arresting mountain ranges and valleys. Beginning at Yurutse, the trek starts off at a height of 4150 meters to reach Ganda La which is at 4800 meters.
Then trekkers descend to Siku at 3800 meters. After that, they move on to the awaited Markha Valley that is just above Siku. Thereon, trekkers go on to reach Thochuntse at the peak and at a height of 4700 meters. The trek continues till 5150 meters at Kongmaru La and at the end the last stop is at Sumdo which is at 3800 meters. Travelers head back to Leh Ladakh from this point.
There is no specific requirement to bring a lot of edible items although you could always carry some biscuits or energy bars if required. Wherever you stay, they will serve you three meals a day. The food,though absolutely basic, is essentially nutritious, comprising of boiled potatoes, soup and rice. Who would not love to try the local cuisine here? It’s not only different but also delicious in a warm and homely manner.
Moreover, you can also drink the yak milk tea which is a specialty of the place. It’s quite unlike the sweet flavors that we are accustomed to. For something a little stronger, there is Chang, the local beer of the place which is available abundantly in any accommodations that you choose.
Here is a most commonly preferred trekking itinerary amongst trekkers to Markha Valley. Variations of this route are also chosen by tour guides or event organizers, and it is not unusual if your package makes you start at Spitok and go through Hemis.
Day 1: Arrive at Leh
Day 2: Leh sightseeing and acclimatization.
Day 3: Drive from Leh to Zingchen, Trek from Zingchen to Yurutse. (4-5 hrs.)
Day 4: Trek from Yurutse to Ganda La to Skiu. (7-8 hrs.)
Day 5: Trek from Skiu to Markha. (6-7 hrs.)
Day 6: Trek from Markha to Thochuntse (4-5 hrs.)
Day 7: Trek from Thochuntse to Nimaling (4 hrs.)
Day 8: Trek from Nimaling to Kongmaru La to Sumdo, Drive from Sumdo to Leh (7 + 2 hrs.)
Day 9: Departure from Leh.
The population in Ladakh is strikingly singular due to their cultural outlook and lifestyle. The inhabitants mostly follow the Tibetan regime. Archery and Polo comprise the regular activities, coupled with other social gatherings and festivities all year round.
Carry waterproof bags to keep mobile phones and cameras if required.
Double layered socks are suggested to avoid blisters in the feet while undergoing rigorous trekking.
Carry a windcheater to regulate the climatic conditions accordingly.
Ask for maps at Leh and in the local bookstores, it shouldn’t cost much. The map should be a good way to understand the place but the best way is asking the locals whenever you need to know something.
It is always preferable to have a guide for the Markha Valley Trek since this promises a safer and all-encompassing trekking experience, where you can roam around without the worry of getting lost. But if it really bothers you, and you feel like it is restricting your adventure, you should have no worries going independently. Just be aware of the season and the time of the year and do your research on the geography of this trek.
Who would want to miss the opportunities for adventure present in this once-in-a-lifetime experience? Pack your bags and set out for the Markha Valley trek this season!
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April 15, 2024 
