The Markha Valley trek is one of Ladakh’s classic Himalayan journeys, threading through Hemis National Park from the Indus valley deep into the Zanskar range. The trail follows rivers between high passes, linking Buddhist villages of stone houses, barley fields and small monasteries that see few visitors beyond trekking season. At its highest point, the route crosses Kongmaru La at around 5,200 metres, with views toward the twin summits of Kang Yatze. For travellers seeking culture and wilderness in equal measure, Markha is one of the finest introductions to Ladakh.
Why go
The trek’s strength is variety. One day you are walking through apricot orchards and whitewashed villages; the next you are crossing a barren pass above 5,000 metres with only prayer flags and grazing yaks for company. Accommodation is mostly in family-run homestays, so evenings bring simple local meals and a glimpse of Ladakhi mountain life. The valley is also rewarding for wildlife watchers: Hemis National Park is home to blue sheep, marmots and, very rarely glimpsed, the snow leopard.
Best time to visit
The main trekking season runs from June to September, when the high passes are clear of snow and temperatures are manageable. July and August are the warmest months but can bring occasional rain. Late May and early October are possible for experienced trekkers, though the passes may still hold snow. Winter is far too cold for trekking here, while Ladakh’s rain-shadow valleys barely feel the monsoon at all.
Getting around
Most treks begin in Leh, Ladakh’s main town, which you reach by air from Delhi. Spend at least two nights acclimatising in Leh before starting the trek. The route is usually walked in six to nine days, overnighting in homestays at villages such as Skyu, Markha and Hankar. Common itineraries start at Chilling or Spituk and finish over Kongmaru La at Shang Sumdo. Porters and guides are easily arranged in Leh; confirm current permit requirements locally before you travel.
Good to know
- Leh sits at around 3,500 metres and the route tops 5,000 metres on the passes, so pace yourself and give your body time to adjust.
- Carry enough cash in rupees. Homestays generally do not accept cards and there are no ATMs on the trail.
- Rivers may need to be crossed and can rise with afternoon snowmelt, so start walking early in the day.
- Pack warm layers, a sun hat and strong sunscreen: the sun at altitude is intense even on cool days.
- Water is available from streams, but carry purification and fill up whenever you pass a clear source.
Markha blends Ladakhi village life with high-pass adventure. Trek in summer, walk slowly, and let the valley set the pace.
Arjun Mehta is the pen name behind Mountains Bliss — practical mountain-travel guides with routes, costs, seasons and safety notes, researched from real trekker discussions and cross-checked before publishing. No sponsored posts, ever.
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