Certified Local Guides
Our expert guides are lifelong residents of Ladakh, with deep knowledge of the terrain, culture, and weather patterns. They speak Ladakhi, Hindi, and English fluently.
Cross ancient passes, walk through remote villages, and witness the majestic peaks of the Zanskar Range on Ladakh's most iconic 7-day trek — guided by certified local experts.
Trek Overview
Nestled between the Zanskar and Ladakh mountain ranges, the Markha Valley is a landscape of dramatic contrasts — towering snow-capped peaks, flower-strewn meadows, turquoise rivers, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is one of the most sought-after trekking destinations in Ladakh, and for good reason.
Beginning from Jingchen village (3,380 m) — just 30 minutes by road from Leh — this 7-day Markha Valley expedition takes you through legendary mountain passes including Ganda La (4,900 m) and the high Kongmaru La (5,100 m), past the ancient Skyu and Markha villages, and into the summer grazing grounds of Nimaling with breathtaking views of Kang Yatse (6,400 m).
The trek culminates at the famous Hemis Monastery, one of Ladakh's most revered and visited monasteries, before a comfortable drive back to Leh.
Why Trek With Us
Zanskar Kanishka Expeditions is a J&K Tourism Department registered operator and an active member of ALTOA (All Ladakh Tour Operators Association), bringing you decades of trusted Himalayan expertise.
Our expert guides are lifelong residents of Ladakh, with deep knowledge of the terrain, culture, and weather patterns. They speak Ladakhi, Hindi, and English fluently.
We carry first-aid kits, portable oxygen cylinders, and follow strict acclimatization protocols. Your safety in high-altitude terrain is never compromised.
Our skilled camp cooks prepare nutritious, varied meals — from Ladakhi dal to continental breakfasts — to keep your energy levels high throughout the trek.
We tailor every expedition to suit your pace, group size, budget, and experience level. Solo trekkers, families, and seasoned expeditioners are all welcome.
Officially registered under the J&K Tourism Department and a proud member of ALTOA — your guarantee of a legitimate, responsible tour operator.
We practise Leave No Trace principles, support local porters and horsemen, and contribute to preserving Ladakh's pristine environment for future generations.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Click any day to expand the details. Our expert team handles all logistics so you can focus entirely on the journey.
After an early morning drive from Leh to Jingchen village (3,380 m), your Markha Valley expedition begins. Cross the Rumbak River and follow a scenic trail through juniper forests to Rumbak village (3,800 m). Continue ascending gradually through open mountain slopes to reach the Gandala Base Camp (4,120 m) — your first campsite. Enjoy panoramic views of the Stok Range as your team sets up camp. Rest and acclimatize for the higher passes ahead.
Today's highlight is the Ganda La Pass (4,900 m). Ascend from base camp through rocky switchbacks to reach the summit, where fluttering prayer flags frame awe-inspiring views of the Stok Mountains and the Zanskar Range. Descend through a dramatic gorge into the Markha Valley — watch for the elusive Himalayan marmot darting along the trail. Reach the charming village of Skyu, home to a small hilltop monastery, where you camp for the night.
Begin with an easy walk along the right bank of the Markha River, passing lush sea buckthorn bushes prized for their medicinal and nutritional properties. River crossings lead you through Chaluk and Tunespa villages — both offering a glimpse of traditional Ladakhi farm life. Today's longest stage rewards you with the valley's best views before finally arriving at Markha village (3,700 m) — the largest and most storied settlement in the valley, complete with ancient castle ruins and meditation grottos.
Cross several river channels as you make your way toward Umlung village, where an old monastery perches above the trail. A gentle walk leads to Hanker village, dramatically backdropped by the snow-capped Kang Yatse peak (6,400 m). Hanker's hillside fortress, though in ruins, offers a compelling view of the ancient Ladakhi kingdoms. Camp at Thuchengtse (4,150 m) for a well-deserved rest before tomorrow's ascent to Nimaling.
A shorter trekking day that rewards you richly. After a scenic ascent past a small glacial lake, you arrive at Nimaling (4,720 m) — a vast, open plateau where nomadic herders bring their Pashmina goats and yaks each summer. The grand silhouette of Kang Yatse dominates the skyline. The weather here is famously changeable (locals say: sunny, cloudy, and snowy — all in a minute), so layer up. Use the afternoon to acclimatize and enjoy the extraordinary mountain panorama.
The most demanding — and most rewarding — day of the trek. A long zigzag ascent brings you to Kongmaru La Pass (5,100 m), the highest point of the entire Markha Valley expedition. From the summit, you are treated to a 360° panorama encompassing the Ladakh, Zanskar, and Karakoram ranges. The descent is long but straightforward, passing through Chuskurmo to reach the picturesque village of Shang Sumdo (3,660 m) — a well-earned finale to the high-altitude section.
The final day of your Markha Valley expedition. Trek along the riverbed, crossing the stream multiple times, to reach the legendary Hemis Monastery (3,500 m) — one of Ladakh's largest and most celebrated gompas, home to ancient thangkas, masks, and stupas. After a guided monastery visit, your pickup vehicle will transfer you comfortably back to Leh town, bringing the 7-day adventure to a triumphant close.
Be Prepared
You'll start with bed tea in your tent, followed by a hot breakfast in the dining tent prepared by our camp cook. Your guide leads you on the day's trail while horses carry your main luggage — you carry only a light daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. At a scenic rest point, the team serves a warm lunch. By mid-afternoon, you arrive at camp where snacks, hot tea, and juice await. Evenings bring a multi-cuisine dinner (Indian, Tibetan, Continental, or Chinese), and your guide briefs you on the following day's route. Expect to sleep soundly under a million stars.
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Get In Touch
Fill in the enquiry form and our expedition team will respond within 24 hours with a personalised itinerary and quote for your Markha Valley trek.
Changspa Road, Gangba Complex
Leh – 194101, Ladakh, India
Within 24 hours (Mon–Sat)
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