Trekking in Lower Ladakh â€“ Trek No 04.

Trip Overview

Trekking in Lower Ladakh

Trekking in Lower Ladakh offers an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning landscapes, rugged terrains, and rich cultural experiences. Lower Ladakh, also known for its captivating beauty and relatively accessible trails, attracts trekkers seeking a blend of natural wonders and cultural immersion. The journey typically starts in Leh, the main town and gateway to Ladakh, where trekkers acclimatize to the high altitude and soak in the local culture. Leh also adorned with monasteries, vibrant markets, and a backdrop of majestic mountains. The trek usually commences from Likir, passing through picturesque villages, monasteries, and barley fields. Trekkers venture along the ancient caravan route of the Silk Road, encountering breathtaking views of the Zanskar and Stok ranges. The trail leads to Yangthang, a charming village nestled in a valley, allowing trekkers to interact with the warm Ladakhi people and appreciate their unique way of life. Continuing the journey, the trek leads to Hemis Shukpachan, known for its green oasis amidst the arid landscape. Trekkers traverse through diverse terrain, including arid plains, rocky paths, and lush meadows, while being surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Along the way, visits to ancient monasteries, such as Rizong and Hemis, offer insights into the region's spiritual heritage. The trek then proceeds to Tingmosgang, a historic village with a stunning backdrop of rocky cliffs. Trekkers explore the old fort and surrounding monasteries, gaining a deeper understanding of Ladakh's historical significance. The final leg of the journey takes trekkers to Alchi, renowned for its ancient monastic complex and beautifully preserved 11th-century frescoes.

Conclusion and Summary

The trekking experience in Lower Ladakh provides a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and an opportunity to witness the unique heritage of the region. The rugged yet breathtaking terrain, the warm hospitality of the Ladakhi people, and the spiritual ambiance of the monasteries make this trek an enriching adventure for those seeking to explore the lesser-known treasures of Ladakh. The trip is usually a moderate-level trek suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, offering a taste of Ladakh's enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture in a relatively shorter time frame.

Trip Highlights

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
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
Walk the Changthang plateau, one of the highest in the world.
Great view of its surrounding valleys and mountains from Maptek La Viewpoint
Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in Delhi’s bustling markets
Mesmerizing View of Moon Landscape at Lamayuru.
Explore Leh, the ancient Ladakhi capital, the Indus Valley and its Buddhist monasteries
Explore Rizong Monastery, Yundrung Monastery, Lamayuru Monastery: One of the Oldest Monasteries in Ladakh
Explore Ruins of Historical Fort and small Monastery enshrining with highly sacred marble statue of Avalokitesvara in Temisgam Valley
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
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.
Cross through several 3000m Pass like Maptek La (3750m), Prinkti La (3506m), Bongbongchan La (3650m), Tsermangchen La (3750m), Chagatse La (3650m), Phobe La (3550m)
Comprehensive acclimatization programme if Needed

Itinerary

Day 01 Leh to Liker to Yangthang 4-5 hours

Drive to Liker around 45 kms from Leh towards Srinagar. At Liker, before starting the trek, you can visit the monastery atop a hill upstream of the village. As you begin your trek you come across Yangthang and Sumdo villages crossing small passes called Phobe La (3550 meters) and Charatse La (3650 meters). Overnight stay is in camp.

Day 02 Yangthang to Rizong to Hemis Shukpachan 5-6 hours

After the breakfast proceed towards Rizong monastery. The walk is through a thick grove of poplar, willow, apricot and apple trees along a stream before getting to the popular nunnery of Rizong at a site called Chulichan in about half an hour. The valley on the right is the way to the monastery, which is known for its strict rules of observing monastic life as per Buddhist tenets. After having lunch, the trek towards Hemis Shukpachan village involves crossing a simple pass behind the monastery. Overnight stay is in camp.

Day 03 Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam 3-4 hours

Today is a bit longer trek involving crossing of Maptek La (3750 meters), which has great views of surrounding valleys and mountains. Soon after the pass you get the sight of Ang village. From Ang the road leads down to the Temisgam village, which has ruins of historical fort and a small monastery enshrining the highly sacred marble statue of Avalokitesvara. Overnight stay is in a camp.

Day 04 Temisgam to Khaltse 4-5 hours

Walk down to Khaltsey via Bongbongchan La, and your trek finishes at the Srinagar Leh highway. The same day you drive to Lamayuru for sightseeing of Yundrung Monastery perched on pillar shaped interesting geographical formations, which gives this valley a ‘moonlike’ image. Overnight stay is in Guest House.

Day 05 Lamayuru to Leh

After having breakfast visit Rizong monastery and drive back to Leh, en route visit Alchi and Liker monasteries.

Tour Ends

Price Includes

Guided Trekking: Professional guides well-versed with the region’s trails, culture, and safety measures.
Accommodation: Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags) for overnight stays in scenic locations or guesthouses/homestays in villages along the route.
Meals: Usually, meals during the trek, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Local Ladakhi cuisine might be provided, and dietary preferences are often accommodated if informed beforehand.
Permits and Entry Fees: Necessary permits for trekking in certain regions or entry fees for visiting monasteries and other cultural sites.
Transport: From Leh to the trek starting point and back, and sometimes within the trek route as required.
Support Staff: Cooks, porters, and mules/yaks to carry equipment and supplies.

Price Excludes

Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unforeseen circumstances.
Personal Expenses: Any expenses outside the provided package, such as extra meals in Leh, souvenirs, or additional activities not included in the itinerary.
Equipment Rental: Personal trekking gear like trekking poles, backpacks, or specific clothing items might not be included and could be rented or purchased separately.
Alcohol and Additional Snacks: Beverages beyond the provided meals and extra snacks or personal food preferences.
Tips and Gratuities: For guides, cooks, porters, and support staff, tipping is often discretionary but appreciated for their hard work and assistance.
Emergency Evacuation Costs: Any unforeseen medical emergencies or evacuation due to altitude sickness or other health issues may not be covered and might require separate arrangements or insurance coverage.