Markha Valley with Stok Khangri (6121m) – Trek No 17
Trip Overview
Markha Valley with Stok Kangri Trek
When it comes to trekking in Ladakh region for experienced trekkers, they pick up the best one. The Markha Valley Trek along with Stok Kangri is one of the most beautiful, strenuous treks in the Ladakh belt. It takes approximately couple of weeks to cover an entire stretch from Chilling to Leh via Stok Village. The Markha Valley and Stok Khangri trail also climbs up from an altitude of 3500 meters to 6150 meters. It is the highest trekable summit in India, the Stok Kangri summit, and requires proper acclimatization.
Passing through the fertile, rich green Markha Valley secluded by the Kang Yatse at 6400mts from east. Zanskar range from the south west. The trail winds to Stok Kangri en route steep climbs, narrow and rocky tracks, glaciers and changing climatic conditions. The Markha Valley along with Stok Kangri Trek further delves into the indigenous culture of the Indo-Tibetans. It dwells in the remote villages tucked at the lofty and steep ridges.
The major attractions on the Markha Valley along with Stok Khangri Trek are also the Hemis National Park. Houses some of the rare species of Himalayan wildlife like the Snow leopard, lynx, Ladakhi Urial (a type of goat), Arghali (great Tibetan sheep), Blue sheep, Red fox, Tibetan wolf, Dhole (wild dog), Marmot and Mountain hare; Rumbuk Village; Ganda La wherefrom one can enchant the breathtaking view of the Stok Kangri summit and Zanskar ranges; and shrines like Lhatos and Mani towards Markha village. Further it continues the trail onto a steep climb towards the Kongmaru La.
Thereby steep descent to a steep gorge. The journey dilates the changing landscape from rich to barren valleys. They are from a bright sunny day to a bizarre climate. The backpackers hit several obstacles to reach the Stok Kangri summit. One can get a 360° view of the farfetch snow capped peaks. Mt. K2, which is the second highest peak of the world. It is visible from the summit on a clear blue sky. Nonetheless one can also enchant the peaks of Sasser Group and Zanskar range.
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.
- Cross through Bridges, Valleys, Rivers, Streams, Meadows and Mountains during the Trek
- Traverse passes fluttering with Chorten and prayer flags that reflect the deep Buddhist heritage
- Enjoy a fully supported trek staying in beautifully situated campsites
- Stunning Views of Close Valley, and peaks like K2, Broad Peak and other Karakoram peaks to the northwest
( 340degrees) 220km Clear and Distant and Nanga Parbat ( above 8000m) 297km distant is a bit more to the
west and further west , the closest we see is the towering 7000m peaks of Nun &Kun from the Summit. - Climb Stok Kangri, a 6000m peak and an ideal introduction to Himalayan climbing
- Experience the beautiful Markha Valley across several days of superb trekking
- Many scattered high villages, each with irrigated fields of barley and potatoes
- Beautiful View of Kang Yatze mountain from Nimaling and Hankar.
- Explore Leh, the ancient Ladakhi capital, the Indus Valley and its Buddhist monasteries
- Comprehensive acclimatization programme
- Learn the Wolf Trap Techniques in the village of Skiu during the winter Season.
- Experience indigenous culture of the Indo-Tibetans dwelling in the remote villages tucked at the lofty and steep ridges.
- Visit Hemis Monastery: The Largest Monasteries of Ladakh.
- Visit Hemis National Park that houses some of the rare species of Himalayan wildlife like the Snow leopard, lynx, Ladakhi Urial (a type of goat), Arghali (great Tibetan sheep), Blue sheep, Red fox, Tibetan wolf, Dhole (wild dog), Marmot.
- Acquire Similar Structures as Potala Palace of Tibet in Thiksey Monastery of Ladakh
- Alluring views of the Indus valley and the Stok range of mountains from Thiksey Monastery
- Khardung La, The highest motorable road in the world.
- Witness Pasture Land Grazed by Yak, Sheep and other Domestic Animal.
- Experience Nature while taking route to Stok Kangri
- High Risk of getting Altitude Sickness
- Cross through the Challenging Passes like Khardung La Pass (5605m), Kongmaru La (5290m) and Soon.
- Experience Lifestyle of well Renowned Villages of Ladakh like Indus Valley, Zanskar Valley, Markha Valley and Stok Valley
- Witness Glaciers like Siachen Glacier in the East Karakorams) where the meltwater torrent issues out of the very middle of the Gulap glacier’s terminal moraine at 5160m.
- Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in Delhi’s bustling markets
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
Drive to Hemis – 45 kms from Leh. Hemis is the largest monastery in Ladakh and home to about 500 monks. The various temples are open to visitors and the imposing giant statue of Buddha in one of the old temples is worth visiting. Recently , a museum has been built and most of the monastery artifacts are displayed here. We then continue to architecturally dominating Thiksey monastery which resembles the Potala palace in Tibet and covers a hillside. The huge 3-storied Maitreya Buddha is housed in one of the temples. The library with its old scriptures is also visited and the rooftop of the monastery offers one of the most beautiful views of the Indus valley and the Stok range of mountains. After visiting the monastery, one can visit the “Amchi” ( Tibetan medicine man) who sits in the monastery complex with his array of Tibetan herbal medicines. We have lunch at the monastery restaurant in Thiksey and then go on to Shey which is 5 km away and return to Leh.
After returning we recommend the guided hike to visit Leh Palace, the Old Fort & Tsemo Gompa. A miniature version of the Potala in Lhasa, Leh Palace is one of the major attractions in Ladakh. The palace was built in the 17th century and had nine storeys, but it is now dilapidated and deserted. It was the home of the royal family until they were exiled to Stok in the 1830s. The palace built for King Singge Namgyal, now houses the Ladakhi branch of the Indian Government’s archaeological conservation organisation. After this you will go on to visit Tsemo Gompa. The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa was built in 1430 by King Tashi Namgyal on Namgyal Tsemo Peak overlooking the town. The monastery contains a threestory high solid gold idol of Maitrieya Buddha (future Buddha also called laughing Buddha) and a one-storied statue of Avaloketesvara and Manjushri along with ancient manuscripts and frescoes. The fort above this gompa is in ruins, but the views of Leh from here are breathtakingly beautiful. If you are feeling capable after this, you can continue on to Sankar monastery and to the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Overnight in a hotel in Leh.
This morning, after an early breakfast, you will take jeeps (39kms / 1.5-2hrs) to Khardungla, the highest motorable road in the world where you will spend some time on the top for acclimatisation purposes (NB: cold winds blast across this point so please take warm clothes). Khardung La, La meaning pass in Tibetan (the local language), is the route between Leh and the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The Khardung La can be termed the gateway to the Karakoram or the land of black gravel. The Siachen Glacier lies partway up the latter valley. Built in 1976, it was opened to motor vehicles in 1988. Maintained by the Indian Army’s 14 Corps, the pass is strategically important to India as it is used to carry essential supplies to the Siachen. Khardung La is historically important as it lies on the major caravan route from Leh to Kashgar in Chinese Central Asia. Return to Leh for lunch. After lunch , drive towards Nimo from where we follow a rough jeep track up to the village of Chilling (3200m) . Spend the afternoon visiting the village which is the only one of its kind in Ladakh specialising in metalwork. An excursion can be made to the village of Sumdo also. Just below the camp site the broad Zanskar River flows by at great speed. Overnight camping
This morning rise early from your first night’s camping and begin your main trek. You will cross over the Zanskar River and trek to Skiu. The frigid Zanskar River originates from the high altitude plateau of Sarchu on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Originally known as the Tsarap the river gorges a path out of the rocky mountains of the western Himalayas, dropping in a continuous torrent of class 5 rapids. The river then eases into the forbidden Kingdom of Zanskar and slowly flows past the capital at Padum. Here it joins with the Stok River which flows down from the Pensi La pass on the road from Kargil to Padum. It is from this confluence of the Tsarap and Stok rivers that the mighty Zanskar takes birth. You will cross the Zanskar River by way of a box and cable bridge and rejoin your trekking team on the opposite riverbank for the trek to Skiu in the Marka Valley. The days trek is on undulating ground with no very high passes. As you approach the villages you will see the willow trees used for housebuilding and crafts; and the apricot trees, which produce their cash crop each summer. In the fields, which are watered by ancient irrigation channels, a rich barley is grown and cattle and sheep graze. It is an almost idyllic scene. From the camping place at Skiu you should make a point of visiting the nearby monastery and going onto the roof for the splendid views. Elevation at Skiu is 3344m. Overnight Camping.
Crossing and re-crossing the Markha watercourse, we mark a long day’s walk of about 7 hours to the 30 or 40 houses belonging to Markha Village (3800meters). The track passes through fairly sumptuous vegetation at the riverside, as the upper valley-gradients are unvaryingly brown and dry. We will come across bridges at many of the more challenging crossing places. On the way route we pass several more dilapidated monasteries, which are every so often quite demanding to pick out, elevated on the valley sides. We will also witness a number of well-maintained chortens and prayer walls and at least one good illustration of wolf trap. Throughout the winter, snow leopards and wolves are a nuisance in these lofty valleys, which become bold on account of their hunger drop away to the hamlets and prey on domestic animals. The indigenous form of wolf trap is a stone insertion with pendulous sides, into which is positioned live or dead animals baits. I case a wolf jumps into the insertion to eat the bait, is incapable to escape and is stone to decease by the native folks. We also pass a pair of isolated house, one of which headdress acknowledged as a peraq. Right on a hill to the north of Markha there is a small Gompa. The local monk will be contented to show you the prehistoric wall paintings and festival masks which are enclosed within this exquisite old monastery – supposedly one of the primogenital in Ladakh. This trek from Skiu to Markha is as worthy a day’s trekking as any of the treks in the Himalayas.
We will keep continue moving above Markha Village and trekking eastwards, deep into the Markha valley, to Hangkar, which is a good camping spot. All through today’s 4 to 5 hour walk we will cross more remarkable monasteries, some abandoned and some unharmed, a testimony to the fact that this valley was formerly more heavily populated than it is at present. Concealed away between the two hamlets which form Hangkar Village, at high on a rock-strewn spur is another note worthy derelict monastery. This high valley makes tourists see small herds of blue sheep (Bharal), which often come right down to the stream to graze.
After leaving Hangkar, there is a good view of a splendid snow peak at the head of the valley. This peak is Kang Yatze, a 6400-meter tall mountain having a subsidiary peak at about 6100 meter which is very up-front and often scaled as a trekking crest its own right. Crossing another well-maintained wolf pit we pass through the Markha watercourse on the last bridge that we will witness and start sheer ascend on the way to the high plains well-known as Nimaling, This day we will ascend from about 4000 meters to a camp positioned at 4600 meters and we will sense the effects of elevation. The backdrop opens out as we navigate around to the north of Kang Yatze and quest out for the pass which we will have to cross in order to return to the Indus Valley.
We transverse up to the Kongmaru la (5100 meters) on a well-marked trail, which crisscrosses across rock for the final 250-meter to reach the pass. It is a 2 hours ascent. From the pass, we will come across the vistas of Eastern Karakoram Range. The southern landscape is made exquisite by Kang Yatze presenting pleasingly knotted rock formations, buttresses and pillars, some of them having remarkable colors. The first camping place is at Chuskirma, where there are a couple of stone-huts and few rough pastures
We will continue our decline trail, crossing a couple of imposing house, the utmost in the valley. Then we will pass another section of rock-strewn gorge. The gorge opens out a little as we reach close to the scenic settlement of Sumdo and soon afterward we reach a jeep road that is in the course of being constructed into the valley. Afterwards, we will follow this for an hour until we can view the houses and foliage of Martselang, which is positioned on the main Indus valley road. We opt to skirt above the valley on a train from here, which will take us after about an hour, through scores of striking chortens, to the tributary valley below the Hemis Monastery, At this place, there is a good camping spot in a field of large vegetation. If you are not tired of Gompas then you can re-visit Hemis.
We transfer by jeep to Stok village in the morning. This village lies immediately at the south of Leh. We will find is a royal palace in Stok Village, where the recently crowned young Ladakhi Ruler lives. Moreover, there is also small museum containing religious artifacts and traditional clothing belonging to the regal clan. There is time to scout the palace and monastery at Stok before the lunchtime. After lunch, we will begin our walk-in to Stok Kangri with an easy trek of 2 hours. At very close to the Indus valley, we are in a high and wild area visited only by hiking groups and by the indigenous people who spend some of the summer months in quaint villages of stone-huts. From these villages they tend their flocks of sheep and goats.
On this day, we will carry out a trek taking few hours up to the base camp area of Stok Kangri. It is a very congenial campsite on a grassy area beside lots of Mel-water streams. We can enjoy the view above the camp in the afternoon. The area above the camp offers breathtaking views of contiguous peaks like Gulap Kangri, Stok Kangri, Parcha Kangri and many more.
It is the day for taking rest and acclimatization to make certain that the group is feeling all set to carry out the climb of Stok Kangri. It takes the half-four ascent up to the pass at 5000 meters above our campsite, perhaps taking the climbing hardware that can be accumulated at the pass in preparation for the following day’s ascent.
This is the day for ascending up to the peak. We will start only after ensuring that they is no contingency like poor weather, etc. According to the fitness of the team, we will either go for a one-day scaling from our base camp, or decide on to institute a high camp, from where we can make the climb on the next day. Much of the ascent encompasses walking transversely through scree and rocky gradients, which are likely to be unadorned of snow by the time of our excursion; if not there has been unseasonal snowfall. The ultimate part of the ascent will comprise the use of crampons and ice-axe on the snow-slopes up to approximately 35 degrees. However, this is not a technically challenging ascent, at an elevation of over 6000 meters displaying peaks in Tibet at the north-east and a bird’s eye view of the Indus valley, there is certain demand of good physical fitness. If we accomplish to hike the peak on the first day itself, there may be a chance to go for one of the other easy peaks above the base camp.
Finishing our 130km trek we descend to Stok Village at 3610m. The trek down hill to Stok village will take nearly 5hrs. The walk has good views of the valley and you will following a path beside the stream with plenty of chances to see blue sheep, ibex & marmots. After reaching the summit of Stok Kangri walking down hill to Stok village will be child’s play and having been more than around ten day above 3,500m you will have become very fit and should feel as if you can walk for hours as your trek ends. Your vehicles will meet you at the end of the trail and will drive you to Leh (45mins). Once back in Leh you can check into your hotel and have a well deserved hot shower and relax. Overnight in a hotel in Leh.
This morning you will fly back to Delhi for overnight hotel or onward flight connections. Reach the airport for the pleasant flight across the spectacular chain of Himalayas in order to reach Delhi
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 |
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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.
- All park entrances & permits
- Stool, Table and mattresses.
- Food veg and non-veg.
- Cook, helper and guide.
- Ponies for Luggages for Trekking with Camping.
- the use of a Friendship World trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat
- Ponies/Potters for Luggages for Trekking with Homestay.
- Monument entrances, wild life fees and camping charges.
- Climbing permit to Stok Khangri and Equipment.
- 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
The ideal Best season to travel
Spring (March, April, May):
Spring is the finest time to trek in the Ladakh region after autumn. You will enjoy the long, warm days of this season. The weather will be warmer, and the river will be full of snowmelt in the lower region. The trail will be vibrant this season because it is Rhododendron season. Along the journey, you’ll see some wildflowers.
Summer (June, July, August):
The hottest month of the summer, as well as the beginning of the monsoon season. The temperature ranges from 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Because Ladakh is dry, there is very little chance of monsoon. It is safe to trek during the monsoon season. However, you must take precautions because the monsoon will affect the lower region, making the path slippery and the possibility of landslides.
Autumn (September, October, November):
Autumn is the best season for trekking because the skies are clear and blue. You will have the best trekking memories if the temperatures are bearable and the weather is stable. The rainfall is low during this season, and the scenery is stunning. The temperature ranges from -1 to 22 degrees Celsius.
Winter (December, January, February):
December to February is the winter season. The nights, on the other hand, are much colder, with temperatures dipping below zero degrees. If you go trekking during this season, you will discover that it is less crowded, but you will have to struggle with the snowfall. While trekking, you must proceed with caution.
Flight to Leh
- Almost every trip begins with a flight from Delhi to Leh. As it is the easiest way for your trek to the Ladakh Markha Valley.
- Delhi is 613 kilometers from Leh Airport. The domestic airport of Leh is located in Leh Ladakh India.
- The airport is located at a height of 3,256m above sea level. It is 23rdhighest Commercial airport in the world.
- The flying time is around 1 hour 15 minutes. All flights take off and land in the morning due to the presence of mountain wind in the afternoon.
Altitude sickness
Beyond 2,500m (8000ft), Altitude sickness is a sneaky monster that may attack even the fittest trekkers. These demands do everything in your power to prepare for altitude trekking and take things carefully throughout your Ladakh Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri journey. With increasing altitude, the amount of available oxygen decreases, which is the primary cause of high-altitude sickness.
So, you may suffer from different altitude sicknesses taken at the altitude of 5,263m. i.e., Acute Mountain sickness (AMS), High pulmonary edema (HAPE), High-altitude cerebral edema.
Your body requires time to adjust to thin air, so start at a lower altitude and work your way up. Some of the symptoms of Altitude sickness are:
- Increased breathing.
- Increased urination.
- Restless sleep.
- Periodic breathing at night because of altitude.
- Shortness of breath.
- Extreme fatigue.
- Respiratory failure.
- Cerebral edema.
Certain care should be made to ensure that the situation does not worsen. However, if the symptoms worsen, you may need to return to a lower height and seek medical help. There are, however, several other precautions you may take while trekking to Markha Valley to lessen your risk of altitude sickness.
- Trekkers can modify their bodies by slowly and gradually climbing, as our bodies require time to adjust to the oxygen level. For high altitude trekking, at least one day of acclimatization rest is essential, and you should ascend as high as possible before returning to a lower altitude for the night.
- You should do various strength training exercises such as running, cycling, jogging, push-ups, and go to the gym to acquire strength and stamina for your adventure.
- As the air gets increasingly thin, an increase in elevation reduces oxygen levels, and in the Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri, an increase in altitude also means less vegetation. The consumption of alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, and tobacco decreases the body’s water content.
- The greatest remedy is to always stay hydrated. On your walk, instead of drinking cooled water, drink warm water.
- Diamox is the most effective altitude sickness medication; thus, you should bring a subscription with you on the trek. However, you should consult with your physician to see whether it is advantageous.
Things to know before traveling to Ladakh Markha Valley.
Drinking-Water in Ladakh.
Trekkers must hydrate their bodies at a higher altitude than in lower elevations to avoid dehydration and altitude sickness. Lack of fluid can be the main hindrance during the trek. You should hydrate your body with at least 3-4 liters of water daily (Tea, soup, or normal drinking water).
Ladakh is a high-altitude cold desert with many snow-covered mountains, perennial /snow-fed rivers, Lakes (Tso), and experiences heavy winter snowfall, which is the main source of water in Ladakh. So, Ladakh doesn’t have a water shortage. Though Ladakh is rich in water resources, drinking water has always become the main problem of Ladakh, especially in the winter season. People in Ladakh depend on melted ice water and use the infiltration gallery technique to supply safe drinking water.
Springwater, lakes, rivers are available throughout the route, but are not safe, as you are not used to the local water, not just you, the people in Ladakh also used boiled water to drink. So, we recommend you drink boiled water or purified water. Coldwater is free of charge, but for boiled water, you have to pay a certain amount. However, if you are refilling your bottle with normal water, treat it with purifying tablets or a water filter (Steripen) before drinking. As Plastic water Bottles and Polystyrene are banned in Ladakh, you will not get to buy plastic water bottles throughout the trek.
Every day, carry enough water for the day before beginning the trek. We recommend you bring a Reusable water bottle of 2-3ltr or a water pouch favorable for both hot and cold water.
Here are some ways that you can use to make the water drinkable.
- Boiled water
Boiling water is the best way to purify the water. As we are climbing to a higher altitude the water needs to be boiled for about 3-minute and season it with a pinch of salt before drinking. You can get free tap water in the teahouse/guest houses but for boiled water, it cost a certain amount.
- Purification tablets or electrolyte powder.
Purification tablets like chlorine or iodine tablets are commonly used tablets by trekkers to disinfect the water. 1 tablet is enough for a liter of water. It takes around 30 min for the tablets to dissolve and become drinkable. Water purified by tablets may leave a taste in your mouth.
Electrolyte powder is another option. Electrolyte powder is a better way to purify water than tablets because electrolyte powder contains minerals such as salt, Potassium, Magnesium, which are important for your body during the trek.
- UV Light water purifier/ SteriPEN.
It is a simple, effective, economic, and environment-friendly way to purify water. It kills the bacteria and virus within 10 sec by exposing them to ultraviolet light using Steripen, without changing the flavor of the water. This is a highly recommended means of purifying water (a one-time investment).
Electricity and Internet facility.
Electricity facility.
Due to the Difficult terrain and Himalaya mountains of Ladakh, the region is not connected to the National Electricity Grid thus, they do not have hydroelectricity. Only one village in Ladakh – Photoksar has electricity.
But fortunately, Ladakh known as the “Roof of the world” is blessed with abundant sunlight and clear sky making it unusually suitable for solar energy technologies. As a result, the entire Ladakh region is powered by solar power lights/batteries and Diesel generators that are sufficient to light bulbs and charge devices. So, you won’t have to worry about running out of power or recharging your devices during the journey.
Don’t expect to have a charging socket in your rooms. There is a commonplace for charging, usually in the dining area. Charging a normal mobile set might be free of cost, but charging camera batteries, power bank, and other devices might cost you extra. Solar battery power might harm your device, so charge it at your own risk. As a result, it is recommended that you bring a power bank and spare camera batteries. If possible, use a device with low brightness, Wi-Fi and GPS turned off, and Airplane mode.
Internet Facility and Network Service
Only in the main town and neighboring area of Leh, have full 4G coverage with a high-speed Wi-Fi/internet connection. But as you climb to higher altitudes, the other way to connect by the internet is via. your cellular network’s data package.
There are many telecommunications services in India, such as Airtel, Vodafone, Aircel, Jio, and BSNL, However, BSNL telecommunication service is a highly preferred network over other networks in Ladakh. It has the widest coverage and stable signal range throughout Ladakh. Airtel and Jio also work in Ladakh becoming second best and third best following BSNL. With the BSNL 4G service, you will be connected during your journey.
Buy the BSNL Postpaid sim card from the stores in any store in Delhi or Leh. Prepaid sim cards do not work in Leh, Ladakh, and Jammu, Kashmir. By taking data packages you can use the cellular and internet data service throughout the journey.
Document needed to buy a sim card.
For Foreigners = 1 passport size photo, Passport photocopy, or valid identity card.
Essential Backpack items for Ladakh Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri.
bag of a trekker also reveals the trekker’s level of experience. A good trekker should be a smart backpacker. You should be pre-prepared for the things that you need in the trek. Here are some of the things that you need to take with you for the trek.
Travel documents
- Airline tickets with the itinerary.
- Travel insurance policy documents.
- Original valid passport.
- Copies of passport.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Indian cash.
- Travel permits.
Clothing
- A pair of waterproof trekking shoes or hiking boots.
- A pair of flip flop slippers or running shoes.
- 2 Sets of thermals (leggings and tops)
- Pairs of hiking long sleeve shirts or tops.
- Pairs of hiking shorts and pants.
- Fleece jumpers or a set of tracksuits.
- Good quality windproof down jacket.
- Lightweight waterproof rain jacket and pants.
- Neck gaiter, leg warmer, and a packet of pocket hand warmers.
- 5-6 pairs of quick-dry socks, underwear, and sports bra.
- Pair of inner and outer gloves.
- Knitted Hat, sun cap, beanie, or bandana.
- Glacier Sunglasses or eyeshade.
Trekking equipment
- Waterproof trekking bag of 40-50liter and Rucksack or duffel bag (if your backpack is not enough for all your items and need a potter).
- Reusable water bottle (both hot and cold) of at least 2liter.
- A sleeping bag and sleeping bag liner.
- Trekking stick/ poles.
- Route Map.
- Ice Axe
- Ladders and Ropes
- Crampons (if you are trekking in the Winter season, Dec-Feb).
- LED Head Torch or solar lamp.
- Stuff sacks, Paper bags.
- Plug adapter, Charging appliances, Power bank, Camera batteries.
- Pocket knife.
- Travel Wallet.
Toiletries
- Rolls of Toilet paper, wet wipes, and tissue.
- Medium-sized quick-drying towel.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, body lotions.
- Portable mirror.
- Shampoo and soap.
Personal First Aid Kit
- Antibiotics
- Painkillers, Paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, Nicole
- Sanitary pads
- Anti-inflammatory spray.
- Anti-Nausea tablets.
- Anti-diarrhea pills or power.
- Altitude sickness tablets- Diamox
- Water purifying tablets or electrolyte powder.
- Insect Repellent.
- Salt or anti-leech oil (If traveling in the rainy season, July- Aug)
- Earplugs
You can buy or hire trekking clothes and equipment in Delhi and Leh. If you are buying it, you have to allow an extra day for shopping; however, if you are hiring it, you must inform us in advance so that we can arrange it before you arrive in Delhi. This way you can reduce the weight of your luggage and save time and money.
Branded, New as well as fake and used trekking clothes and equipment are available in Delhi at a reasonable price.
Accommodation, Meal, and Transportation
Accommodation
We will be accommodating at a star category Hotel in Delhi and Leh.
During the trek, we will be accommodating in basic facilities Lodges/ Teahouses/ Guesthouses and mostly camping during stok kangri Mountain Climbing
Meal
During the trek, we will provide you three-time meals. You can choose from the given menu.
Breakfast– Tingmo (Steamed Tibetan bread), Khambir Tagi (wheat-based bread), Pava (barley flour/Sattu roasted and kneaded with oil), Kulcha (Hard Bun), Tsampa Porridge, Bread with Butter/ Apricot jam, Boiled egg, Omelets, Gur Gur Cha (Tasaza in Tibetan and / Butter Tea in English), etc.
Lunch– Dal Bhat set (Rice, Vegetable curry/ Meat curry, Spanish, Lentils, Pickle, Salad), Fried rice, Garlic soup, Noodles soup, Mo: Mo (dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan Noodles soup/broth), Skyu (soup-based stew), Chhutagi (pasta-like dish/dumplings soup), Tapu (highly nutritious apricot dish), etc.
Dinner– Dal Bhat set (Rice, Vegetable curry/ Meat curry, Spanish, Lentils, Pickle, Salad), Fried rice, Garlic soup, Noodles soup, Mo: Mo (dumplings), Thukpa (Tibetan Noodles soup/broth), Skyu (soup-based stew), Chhutagi (pasta-like dish/dumplings soup), Tapu (highly nutritious apricot dish), etc.
There are other varieties of options of food in Leh Ladakh and you can buy it from your pocket.
Transportation
By Air– Flight from Delhi – to Leh and returning.
By Road- From Leh to Spituk.
From Hemis to Leh.
Guide and Staff Arrangements
Throughout the trek, all your activities will be handled by our well-qualified and professional staff. They will do all the escorting. As this is one of the tricky treks, we are providing you with a highly experienced and licensed guide with fluent English speaking and has excellent navigation. They will accompany you from Leh and guide you throughout the journey to Ladakh Markha Valley. Each group of 4-5 trekkers will be assigned an assistant guide, as well as a porter for two trekkers (2*15kg =30kg). If your luggage weighs more than 15kg you will be provided a porter individually but you will be charged extra.
All our lead guides, assistant guides, and potters are well professional and experienced. So, we hope for your respect and cooperation with them throughout the trek.
A typical day on the Ladakh Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri.
Every day will begin with the ringing of your alarm clock at 6 a.m. and a knock on your door from your guide with the invitation of breakfast. Get up, have breakfast, pack your backpack and get ready to start your day’s walk by 7 a.m. You need to start your trek early to avoid the scorching sun and to reach your overnight destination on time/ before dawn.
You’ll walk along, the dry ground over the villages; clicking photos; creating memories; interacting with your guide; hearing each other’s stories. Lunch will be served in the afternoon. Having the flavorful lunch and an hour of rest, we will proceed to the day’s final destination as per the itinerary.
On arrival at the destination, check into your accommodation. Get freshen up and some rest. Most of the place, where we stay has a common dining area with a heater, there you will get to meet other travelers. You can sit there, laugh at each other stories, play cards, sing songs, play music, and have a good time. This will help you forget all the tiredness of the day. Later in the evening, you will have your dinner together. After dinner, your guide will give some short briefings about the next day’s trek regarding when you must get up, when we have to start our trek the next day, where we will stay the next day, how many hours we have to walk and so on.
During this 14-day trek to Ladakh Markha valley, you will walk for a minimum of 4 hrs to a maximum of 8 hrs in a day. You will have a scenic flight to Leh, before starting and ending your journey. Then you will have a drive from Leh to Spituk from where your trek starts. You will start your trek with a short visit to the Spituk Gompa and processing on the trail along the Indus River entering Hemis National Park. You will pass through the beautiful village with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains (Mt. Kang Yatse), Gorge (Zinchen Gorge), cross the passes (Ganda la pass, Kongmarula Pass), visit the monasteries (Spituk Gompa, Tacha Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Shey palace). You might also get to witness the wild animals like Himalayan Blue sheep, Ibex, Lammergeier, and Gloden Eagle during the trek. Every stop along the way will be a wonderful day. Experiencing the mountain life, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and tasting the authentic Ladakh food you complete the Ladakh Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri with unforgettable memories that will last for a lifetime.
Visa procedure.
To travel to India, you’ll need a tourist visa that is valid for the period of your stay in India. Better, you have a tourist visa valid for at least 1 month, because anything can happen during the trip, and staying in India after your visa expires would result in you paying a penalty. Apply for a Tourist visa at your nearest Embassy of India.
Here are the documents that you need to apply for the tourist visa.
- Duly filled Tourist Visa Application Form for India.
- Original Passport with at least 2 blank pages and a minimum validity of at least 6 months.
- Old passport (in case you have)
- Photocopies of your passport’s information page.
- Recent passport-size photo (not less than 3 months) of yourself with white background.
- Copy of proof of Residence: National Id Card and latest Utility bill (not less than 6 months old)
- Proof of profession: Certificate from the employer. If a student, a copy of Id Card from the educational institute and for a retired person, copy of retirement papers.
- Valid travel and return flight tickets.
- A bank statement from the last 3 months and endorsement of foreign currency equivalent to US$ 150 per applicant (endorsement should not be older than 1 month), International credit card with a running year endorsement in the passport.
- Receipt of the tourist visa fee of India.
Entry permits and Requirements
Ladakh Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri does not need any permits but if you are traveling from Spituk you will need a Forest Entry Permit.
| Permit | Foreign Nationals | Indian citizen | |
| 1. | Forest Entry Permit/ Hemis National Park Fee. | INR 100 | INR 20 |
Note– This permit can be obtained from Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Leh, or can be obtained from the entrance of Hemis National Park and To climb the Stok Kangri you need a valid permit from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. You can get one in Leh or even at the base camp. Currently it costs 30€ / person.
(If you are traveling from a travel/trekking agency like us- we will arrange all the Permits.)
Documents required to get these permits.
- For Indian– Original Passport/ Aadhar card / Students ID card / driving license/ Election card/ Pan card.
For Foreigner– Original passport with valid visa or OCI Card.
For more permit information, feel free to contact us.
Travel Insurance
During the journey, you may encounter several unexpected incidents or losses. Trekking is an adventurous and occasionally dangerous activity, especially at high altitudes. Trekkers must have travel insurance before visiting Ladakh, India for trekking. During this 12-days trip to Ladakh Markha valley, you may encounter a physical injury, illness, or an unexpected accident, and you will have to bear all expenses and losses.
Choose an insurance policy that covers all of your possible risks from the start of your journey to your final destination. The following threats should be covered by your travel insurance:
- Cancellation of Domestic and International flights.
- Lost and stolen baggage and passport.
- Hospital and Medical expenses (physical injury, Acute Mountain sickness, Altitude sickness, sudden accident)
- Emergency rescue such as Helicopter.
- All high-altitude trek dangers up to 5,500m.
You need to choose your travel insurance wisely so that, in the case of such an incident, your travel insurance will cover the costs.
You can get your travel insurance in either your home country or in India.
Responsible Travel
Ladakh is a union territory and a part of larger Kashmir in India. It is a most famous place in the high altitude of India having a breathtaking landscape, crystal clear skies, high mountain passes, thrilling adventure activities, Buddhist monasteries, and festivals.
- Ladakh shares a border with Tibet, so the region is highly influenced by the Tibetan culture, food, and festivals. We expect you to respect the locals and their local culture.
- You will be entering the Hemis National Park. So, before trekking through, this area, make sure you have a permit.
- As the state has banned the use of bottled water and Polystyrene, we expect you not to bring or buy plastic bottles and also dispose of your plastic garbage (Food warper, Polystyrene, Plastic bottle) properly.
Your small act of neglect and disrespect can cause a major problem in the future.
Your responsible travel will help India achieve long-term sustainable tourism.
Markha Valley Trek with Stok Kangri Route Map
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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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