Markha Valley Trek
✓ Verified against the agency · —The classic Ladakh trek through the Hemis National Park. Crosses two high passes — Ganda La (4,960m) and Kongmaru La (5,260m) — connecting the Indus Valley to the Markha Valley. Homestays in Yurutse, Skiu, Markha, Hankar, and a high camp at Nimaling (4,700m) below Kang Yatse. Snow leopard habitat. Best season: late June to mid-September. Mandatory 1-2 day acclimatization in Leh before starting.
Distance
65.8 km
Max elevation
5,260m / 17,257ft (Kongmaru La)
Duration
6–8 days (6 trek + 2 acclimatization)
Safety classification
DifficultyMulti-day trek
GuideGuide required (safety)
GearTraction / poles
OfficialYes
MaintainedYes
Season
Mid-May to end of September. District tourism states May-September as the trekking season. Do not go October-April: Kongmaru La (5,260 m) closes under deep snow and temperatures drop below -20 C. Early June can still hold snow on the pass; in July-August the Markha river fords run highest in the afternoon from snowmelt.
Hazards
- ▲Altitude: Nimaling camp sits above 4,700 m and Kongmaru La at 5,260 m - AMS/HAPE risk, with the highest ground on the final days
View on the 3D map →View only — no download