*for 15 pax
The Markha Valley trek is known for being a popular yet authentic trek, offering you a glimpse into the local life while displaying incredible scenery. With two choices of routes available, you have no excuse not to embark on this adventure.
The Markha Valley trek is not the most challenging technically, however it is essential to be in good physical shape in order to be able to enjoy the trek. You also have to keep in mind that you will only have access to basic necessities and will be most likely be camping every night, It is recommended that no matter your experience, you hire a guide or an agency to take you through the Valley, as this will bring you peace of mind and valuable knowledge about the area and its people. Finally, you will reach high altitudes so make sure that your insurance covers hiking/trekking over 3000m.
Leh emergency numbers
- Police: 100
- Fire: 101 and 132
- Ambulance: 102 and 108
- Tourist Information Center, Leh: +91 198 2252297
- Foreign Registration Office: +91 198 2252200
- SNM Hospital, Medical Superintendent: +91 198 2252014
The Markha Valley Trek Ladakh spans 60-75 km distance depending on the routes taken and the places covered. You can travel to more places if you want to, increasing the distance needed to be covered. The standard itinerary states that you need around 4-6 days to complete the trek. You need to be mindful that heavy rains and extreme weather conditions may set you back a day or two. In that case, the total number of days to complete the trek will also increase.
Markha Valley is situated on the Himalayas at an elevation of over 5000m. It means you will not be able to travel here during winters and even early spring. The ideal time for Markha Valley Trek is from late spring to early autumn. May-September will be the best time to visit Markha Valley. However, summers tend to be very hot, and you won't find much shade anywhere in the way. Also, keep in mind that the occasional rains may make the trek difficult, especially the descent from Shang Sumodu. Therefore, the Markha Valley Trek best time would be the months of May, June, August, and September.
Markha Valley Trek may be difficult for many due to the high altitude and steep slopes that need to be braved on the way. The long walks of over 6-8 hours will also require a lot of strain and effort. The best way to ensure that the trek is slightly easy for you will be to train your body's general endurance beforehand. Also, staying at Leh for a few days will help your body get acclimatized to the weather and climate conditions. Trekking under the sun for hours will severely dehydrate you and make you weak. Make sure you drink plenty of glucose to avoid that.
The Markha Valley Trek Ladakh covers a distance of 60-75 km in total. The highest elevation that you would have to reach requires a continuous climb of 836m. There is also a very steep descent of about 1601m which will also need a lot of time to complete. The highest elevation of this trek is at 5260m at the Kongmaru La pass.
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