Trekking in Ladakh: Markha & Sham | The Indus River Camp

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. See our rooms & rates.

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