Treks of Ladakh

From gentle village-to-village walks to challenging high-altitude crossings, Ladakh offers some of the most spectacular trekking in the Himalayas. Hiking at altitude is hard work — acclimatise well before setting off.

Sham Valley trekking
Moderate

Sham Valley Trek

2–4 days 3–5 hrs hiking/day Passes up to 4,000m Guesthouses available

An immersive trek through one of Ladakh's most unspoilt regions. Unlike most Ladakhi treks requiring 5–8 hours a day with camping, Sham offers 3–5 hours of hiking with passes at 4,000m instead of 5,000+.

Crucially, roads run through the valley — if you struggle, a backup car is always available. You can choose to do just 1 or 2 days of the 4-day route. We recommend starting with the Hidden Village trek, staying at Namra hotel, then hiking to Hemis-Shukpachan and on to Ulley (home to the Snow Leopard lodge).

Route Highlights

  • Hidden Village trek (Day 1)
  • Hemis-Shukpachan village
  • Ulley — Snow Leopard lodge
  • Likir pottery workshop
  • Optional: Sangam point rafting

Accommodation

Guesthouses along the route · ~₹4,000/night

Why This Trek

Vehicle backup available · Flexible duration · Good for first-time high-altitude trekkers

Markha Valley scenery
Challenging

Markha Valley Trek

5–6 days 5–8 hrs hiking/day Passes up to 5,200m Hemis National Park

A challenging 5-day trek through the diverse scenery of Hemis National Park — rocky canyons and vast Ladakhi landscapes dotted with tiny mountain hamlets, with the white peaks of Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse looming large.

Most days require 5 hours of trekking, with one day reaching 8 hours. Twice you'll ascend passes as high as 5,000m with clear views across Ladakh and Zanskar. Best after 3–4 days acclimatisation in Ladakh.

What to Expect

  • Remote village homestays
  • Blue Sheep, Marmots, Yaks
  • Possible Ibex sightings
  • High passes with panoramic views
  • Camping or homestay options

Accommodation

Village homestays · ~₹2,000/person/night

Note

Basic facilities · First come, first served · Camping option more expensive (horses needed for gear)

Day Hikes

Shorter walks that can be done from the camp or nearby, perfect for acclimatisation or those preferring a gentler pace.

Gotsang Cave Hike

Half day · 40 min drive + 1–1.5 hr hike each way · Moderate

Behind the renowned Hemis Monastery, a narrow path goes unnoticed by most. It leads to the 13th century Gotsang meditation cave and stupa, on the fringes of Hemis National Park. A steep climb up with a quick descent down — one of Ladakh's hidden gems.

Taxi + guide: ~₹4,000

Hidden Village Trek

Half day · 2 hr drive + 1–2 hr hike each way · Easy to Moderate

In the Sham Valley, this village is accessible only by foot, along a steep gorge with stunning greenery and a flowing stream. Once you arrive, enjoy a local meal in a traditional house. A perfect introduction to Ladakhi trekking and village culture.

Taxi: ₹3,000–5,000 · Guide (optional): ₹3,000–3,500

Village & Camel Walk

2–3 hours · From the camp · Easy

A gentle walk through the local village to the Bactrian camel conservation centre — camels that once travelled the Silk Route. Continue to Matho monastery for views across our valley. Can be combined with morning prayers at Thiksey (early start required).

Self-guided or with camp staff

Prefer exploring by vehicle?

See our guide to Trips within Ladakh →

Ready to Plan Your Trek?

Tell us your interests and fitness level, and we'll help you plan the right trekking experience — from gentle day hikes to multi-day adventures.

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