Lamayuru to Hemis Trek – Trek No 18

Trip Duration 17
Max Altitude 5100M
Group Size 2-20
Best Time for Visit September to December, March to May

Trip Overview

Lamayuru to Hemis Trek

The Lamayuru to Hemis trek is a breathtaking adventure that takes you through the pristine beauty of the Ladakh region in the Indian Himalayas. This challenging trek spans approximately 60 to 70 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken, and usually takes about 8 to 10 days to complete. The journey encompasses diverse landscapes, including high-altitude desert terrain, lush valleys, ancient monasteries, and majestic mountain ranges. Starting from Lamayuru, a small village famous for its ancient monastery and surreal moon-like landscapes, the trek leads you through rocky terrains, narrow gorges, and arid landscapes. As you traverse this stunning region, you'll witness unique geological formations and experience the tranquility of the remote Himalayan wilderness. The trail meanders through several high-altitude passes, presenting awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Stok Kangri, Nun Kun, and the Zanskar range. Some of the notable passes include Prinkti La, Konze La, and Dundunchen La, each offering a distinct vantage point to appreciate the grandeur of the Ladakh region. Throughout the trek, you'll encounter traditional Ladakhi villages where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the friendly villagers. The Ladakhi people are also known for their warm hospitality and unique way of life, deeply rooted in Buddhism. One of the highlights of the Lamayuru to Hemis trek is the visit to ancient monasteries such as Lamayuru Monastery, Wanla Monastery, and Hemis Monastery. These monasteries also provide a glimpse into the rich Buddhist heritage of the region, showcasing intricately designed murals, sculptures, and ancient scriptures. As you descend into the Markha Valley, the landscape also transforms into verdant meadows, and you'll come across the picturesque villages of Skiu, Markha, and Hankar. The journey also ends at the famous Hemis Monastery, a significant spiritual center and the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh.

Conclusion and Summary

The Lamayuru to Hemis trek offers not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual and cultural immersion, allowing trekkers to connect with nature, experience the unique Ladakhi culture, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. It's a journey that leaves a lasting imprint, captivating the hearts of adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

 Trip Highlight

  • Scenic Flight from Delhi to Leh to Delhi.
  • Visit one of the Highest Airport of the World: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport of Leh, India.
  • Trek on of the most isolated regions in India
  • Trek through one of the most beautiful treks in Ladakh
  • Walk the Changthang plateau, one of the highest in the world.
  • Traverse through Colourful mountains, two huge alpine lakes and plenty of wildlife all add to the surreal beauty of this trek.
  •  Experience basic luxuries in the wilderness.
  • Trek through the stunning high-altitude landscapes of Changthang, the land of the nomads
  • Views of Pasture Land Overgrazed by herds of sheep, goats and yaks on the plains of Changthang and other Valley.
  • Mesmerizing View of Moon Landscape at Lamayuru.
  • Explore Lamayuru Monastery: One of the Oldest Monasteries in Ladakh
  • Admire the surreal beauty of Tso Kar and Tso Moriri, the largest High Altitude lake in the Indian Himalayas
  • Visit and Explore Famous Buddhist Monasteries like Thiksey Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery and Hemis Monastery in Ladakh and Indus Valley.
  • Locate the The nomadic migratory shepards of Tibetan Origin inhabited by Changpas on elevated Rupshu Valley
  • The salt lake of Tso Kar (white lake) has widely been used by the local nomads, Changpas, as a source of salt which they transport to Tibet for trade
  • Learn the culture and Lifestyle of nomadic people living in valleys followed by this trek
  • Feel the culture and lifestyle as similar as tibetan lifestyle from Tibet
  • Extremely Astonishing views with a carpet of greenery splayed across campsites of Skiu, Markha and Hankar
  • Beautiful View of Kang Yatze mountain from Nimaling and Hankar.
  • Home to numerous species of wildlife including the wild Ass Kiang, Himalayan Marmot, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Antelope, and Himalayan Ibex and Birds like Horned Lark, Seed-eating Finch, Brown Headed Gull, Brahminy duck and The Bar Headed Goose.
  • Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in Delhi’s bustling markets
  • High Chances of Altitude Sickness during the Trek
  • Requires High Level of fitness and experience for higher altitude

Itinerary

Flight to Delhi, Delhi hotels and transfers are not included in the cost. Please contact our office
for flight options. As we are able to offer you a range of competitive fares to Delhi; and your holiday will be protected by our Representative Guide . In Delhi, we can offer a range of hotels and sightseeing tours

After an early morning breakfast you will be transferred from the hotel to the airport, for the sweeping panoramic flight (included in your tour cost) to Leh (1hr). The flight takes you over the Greater Himalaya and lands at one of the highest airports in the world. You can hope to get excellent views of Stok Kangri as you fly-in. Once in Leh you will have gained an altitude of almost 3,200m and so can expect to feel the effects of the rarefied atmosphere. The expedition is tailored in a way that you have the first few days in your programme to relax and acclimatise. Flying straight up to 3,200m from sea level is not something you will do often in your lifetime! Today, you can take it easy & relax in the hotel and surrounding area. Ladakh’s landscape, Leh’s friendly people, and the laid back atmosphere of Leh town make it a quite place to visit. The region’s landscape is rugged, situated amidst multiple-hued mountains on the fringe of the lifegiving Indus River. After lunch, depending on how you feel, you can take a slow walk around the local bazaar in order to get used to the area, altitude and climate. A memorable sight, the bazaar hosts traditionally attired women selling fruit & vegetables and spinning & knitting, whilst exchanging gentle banter between themselves and with passers-by. Overnight in Leh hotel

After breakfast take a full day excursion to renowned monasteries and palaces of Ladakh region. Founded in 1433 by Palden Sherab, Thiksey monastery the beautiful village of Thiksey, dominated by an imposing Gelugpa monastery. This Thiksey monastery majestically overlooks the valley, a magnificent group of about 80 monks; discovery of the beautiful inner courtyard which distributes access to the various temples. The most amazing is certainly the temple of Maitreya with its gigantic interior statue which covers all floors of the building. To join the next site, we will take the path of school children.

Founded in 1632 by Lama Staktsang Raspa, Visit Hemis Monastery, it is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery of the Drukpa Lineage. The monastery houses an amazing collection of the age-old relics such as the idol of Lord Buddha made up of copper gilt, gold and silver stupas It holds the distinction of being the biggest as well as the wealthiest monastery of Ladakh. The annual Hemis festival honoring Padmasambhava is held here in June.

On the way back to Leh visit Shey (Built in 17th century by king Deldan Namgyal) capital of ancient Ladakh, is an interesting complex whose importance is still measured by the quality of the paintings and the astonishing quantity of chortens or other votive monuments that surround it, especially the copper gilt statue of lord Buddha. The Rock-carved statue of five Buddha can be seen below the palace on the roadside, which was probably carved during the reign of Singay Namgyal.

And the Stok Palace built in 1825th by king Tsespal Tundup Namgyal , residence of the present kings of Ladakh. Transformed into a museum, the collections presented evoke a recent past where the royal family ruled over this valley. O/N hotel.

After breakfast drive to Lamayuru enroute visit Likir, also known as lu-Khyil gompa, the Likir Monastery was ordered to built by the 5th king of Ladakh Lhachen Gyalpo and was thus founded by Lama Duwang Chosje in 1065. The monastery is of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, visit Alchi temple Renowned as the oldest Buddhist learning centre, the Alchi Gompa is one of the magnificently built monasteries in Ladakh. Located 70 kilometres west of Leh on the banks of the Indus River, it is also the largest and most famous of the gompas built by Tibetan translator Rinchen Zangpo in 11th century, continue drive to visit the mesmerizing Moon landscapes and the Lamayuru monastery renowned as Tharpa Ling which means the ‘place of freedom’; Lamayuru monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. Arahat Nimagon blessed the site and Naropa founded the monastery in the 11th century. O/N hotel

Upon arrival at Lamayuru Monastery, pack your backpacks and follow a stream towards the Prinkti La Pass, passing through the scenic Shila village and finally reaching Wanla campsite. On the first day of trek it will start with the climb of Prinkiti la pass 3729. It will take around 2 hours to get the top of Prinkiti la pass. From Prinkiti la it will take a narrow valley to get Wanla . On wanla you will fine beautiful Camp site. Spend the afternoon exploring the monastery or soaking up the sun in the beautiful surroundings

Leave Wanla for Hinju after the breakfast while enjoying nice views of mountains and narrow gorges. From Wanla (3250 m) you will trek alongside the silver stream to the village of Phenjila. After crossing a bridge the trail pursues on beside the river that gradually gives in to the deserted mountain scenery of the Himalayas. Your campsite will be awaiting you in the old village of Hinju (3730 m). The Hinju village has prayer flags at the start of the village. Overnight stay is in Hotel.

Proceed towards Sumda Chenmo via Konski La 4900 mtrs. The next morning a steady climb will take you across the upper Hinju village. At the top you will be greeted with impressive views of both the Karakoram Range and the Zanskar Range. The climb up Konski La (4945 m) starts with a gentle ascent but gradually gets harder with a steep incline. However once on top, you will be rewarded with spectacular view of the mountains and vast meadows. On the climb down, you will cross more green pastures. The path gets narrower as you descend just like that the beautiful Sumda village appears on the bank of the stream. From where you can have a view of back route from Pirkiti La. The Valley across the Kanski La has a few huts of shepherds from Hinju where they make butter and cheese. Overnight in Camp.

The trail leads to Dundunchan la Base along with Sumda chu . Today you will find some beautiful landscape. It also possibleto some  Wild animal like Ibex, Snow leapord , Wolf and fox. Arrive  base of the pass after a good walk for 4-5 hrs. Overnight In Camp at Base camp Dundunchanla.

Have a fantastic view from Dundunchan La (4700 mtrs) and trail Leads to Chilling village where the Zangskar River follows towards Nimo village. Trek starts with the climb of Dundunchanla. It will take almost 2 hours to arrive at Top. Have a fantastic view from Dundunchan La  and trail Leads to Chilling village where the Zangskar River follows towards Nimo village.  The chilling village is famous for metal works in  Ladakh. Initially the people of Chilling were brought to Ladakh  From Nepal, Deldan Namgyal to built the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha at Shey. After completion of statue they rewarded with and at chilling and settled down here by king. Arrive chilling. Overnight in the Guest House.

At the starting you will find a interesting and adventures to crossing Tully.  Here you need to cross Zangskar River with a cable car of Tully. And we have to change the horses too. Because the horses cannot cross the other side of River. The staffs will transfer all the luggage by tully.  And the trek starts with some up and downs. You will enjoy the landscape and scenery.  After noon you will Reach Sku via Kaya Overnight in Camp.

The trail joins the Markha stream and will follow it for a few days. The day’s trek is relatively easy, but it involves crisscrossing the stream at numerous points depending on the water level. Markha has a monastery and a fort for a local cultural sightseeing. From Skiu, follow a good path on the right bank of Markha where one can find great vegetation. Then cross right bank of river and cross through barren plain and arrive at Chaluk. Thereafter walk along the left bank of river and after another crossing climb towards Markha village. Good camp site beyond the Village and near river. Overnight in camp..

Today’s trek is quite refreshing. You will trek up and down all along the green meadows and cross the river at several intersections. You will able to notice the richness of Himalayan trees and herbal plants along the route. You will also find several tea houses along the trek to where you may take a break, have a tea or a “munch”. You will also pass an old monastery and a ruined castle surrounded by Mani Wall, Chortens and Prayer Flags. You will stay in Hunker, the highest village in the Markha Valley where blue sheep can be seen on the high Rocky Mountains.Many monasteries are spread along our route today. After the Umlung monastery, the valley narrows and we stop to camp at the foot of Kang Yaste (6400 m).

The trek starts by entering a river gorge and you will then walk along the river. After crossing the bridge, a steady 2 hrs climb up the mountain will take you to a little lake. You will be invited to an impressive view of Kang-Yatse (6400 m) and the colorful surrounding mountain ranges. From there it is only a short walk, with encounters with big, furry yaks, to the campsite at Nimaling. This is one of the most beautiful high pastoral valleys of Ladakh (4710 m). Camping in the lush green meadows next to the blue cold river, while enjoying the nomadic herdsmen’s Life in the Markha Valley, is a rare experience. Here you have the chance to buy fresh, homemade bread and curd from the local farmers.

After breakfast a hard and rather steep climb will take you up the mountain to Gongmaru- La (5150 m), the highest pass of this trek. A long and steep descend will take you down into the deep river gorge. The spectacular view and the intense colours of the surrounding mountains make it hard to concentrate on the rocky path. After a 3 hrs walk you will reach Chu-skarmo where you will lunch with a cup of tea. Another couple of hours’ walk will take you to the camp at Shang Sumdo.

After breakfast you will follow the trail along the riverbed and reach the motor able road that will take you back into civilization. After 2 hours of walking amidst this stunning red scenery covered with Chortens, you will reach the village of Martselang. From Martselang a Jeep will take you to the ancient Hemis Monastery, of the Drukpa lineage. Here you will gain a certain perspective into the life of a Buddhist monk. Overnight Stay at Hemis.

On the final day of your trek, you will embark on a leisurely two-hour trek along the jeep road to Martselang. There, a jeep will pick you up and take you back to Leh. While in Leh, make sure to visit some of Ladakh’s most popular monasteries, including Thiksey, Shey, and Hemis. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction after completing this unforgettable adventure.

Early morning transfer to leh airport to catch flight for Delhi.  Trek Ends

Departures & Availability

The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.

Check Available Dates
Start Date Price Availability

All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.

Price include

  • All transportation by Toyota Qualis, Innova or Scorpio.
  • Two men tent, Kitchen and dinning tents.
  • Kitchen equipments and Toilet Tent.
  • Stool, Table and mattresses.
  • Food veg and non-veg.
  • Cook, helper and guide.
  • Ponies for Luggages for Trekking with Camping.
  • Ponies/Potters for Luggages for Trekking with Homestay.
  • Monument entrances, wild life fees and camping charges.
  • GST

Price Excludes

  • Any flight tickets
  • No accommodation in Leh is included in Trekking Packages.
  • Sleeping Bags, trekking shoes and clothing.
  • Any Kind of Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered
  • Any thing not specifically mentioned under the head “Prices Included”.
  • Tips, Insurance, Laundry, Phone Calls.
  • Any Kind of Drinks (Alcoholic, Mineral, Aerated)
  • Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond control.

Gears And Equipment

Trip Information

CHANGES TO YOUR ITINERARY

For your best interest, sometimes it might have to make necessary alterations to your holiday itinerary. Where practical, we will advice you before you depart from your hometown, although occasionally we may be forced to make changes en route. We will keep you informed at all times.

MOUNTAIN FLIGHT DELAYS

Bad weather in mountainous regions can cause flight delays. These problems mainly happen in Ladakh region of India. If the delay is extended it may be necessary for us to re-route the trek and tour, perhaps to an area more readily accessed by road transport. We do not accept responsibility for charges incurred as result of flight delays and missing international flight connections. However, we will make every effort to assist you.

INHERENT RISKS OR DANGERS

You understand and accept that your proposed tour may expose you to levels of physical exertion to which you may not be accustomed to or be exposed to inherent dangers when traveling through remote areas which may be subject to, among other things, unfavorable political, physical, health or climatic conditions. By agreeing to use our services, you accept these dangers and unfavorable conditions.

INSURANCE

You must purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes a provision for helicopter rescue when you pay your deposit.

YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS

We strongly recommend that you visit your doctor and dentist before your holiday. You must ask your doctor about current inoculation requirements. Full details of pre-existing medical conditions must be forwarded to us when you book. Older clients or clients with pre-existing medical conditions may require a letter from your doctor clearing them for the trek and Beyond Himalayas Pvt. Ltd. reserve the right to check these documents prior to confirmation of tours and treks

PASSPORT

A valid passport is required for all tourists. The passports must be valid for minimum of six months from the start of journey, with at least two clean pages per country to be visited.

VISA REQUIREMENTS

A valid visa is required for the entire destination. You should always consult your doctor or nearest travel clinic for the latest information on recommended health precautions, both vaccination and malaria prophylaxis.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

GENERAL

Extensive medical kits are carried on all trips. In addition, medical oxygen and Portable Altitude Chambers are carried as a precaution on high altitude treks and climbing expeditions. All meals on trek are prepared specifically for your group to strict hygiene standards, and sterile washing facilities are provided.

HIGH ALTITUDE

Sickness from altitude can affect anyone. Serious problems are avoided by building in rest and acclimatization. For normal symptoms a drop in altitude, or time in portable acclimatization chamber, leads to quick recovery.

All trips are graded. There are Easy, Moderate, Challenging and Mountaineering categories.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance that includes helicopter evacuation is highly appreciated

AGE LIMITS

Client over sixty are required to complete a medical and personal travel history questionnaire. Persons under sixteen can join specified family departures and private groups

Lamayuru to Hemis Route Map

Lamayuru to Hemis

FAQS

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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.

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