The 12-day Chang-Thang to Markha Valley Trek is an exhilarating journey through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh, combining the vast high-altitude plateaus of Chang-Thang with the rugged beauty of Markha Valley. Starting in the nomadic region of Chang-Thang, famous for its vast grasslands, pristine lakes like Tso Kar, and the unique Changpa nomad culture, the trek gradually ascends through challenging mountain passes, including Kongmaru La (5,150m). The route takes you through isolated villages, Buddhist monasteries, and the stunning Markha Valley, where you’ll witness dramatic gorges, ancient fort ruins, and views of towering peaks like Kang Yatse (6,400m). Along the way, encounter diverse wildlife such as blue sheep and Himalayan marmots, while camping in some of the most picturesque locations in Ladakh. This trek offers an unparalleled mix of raw wilderness, cultural immersion, and high-altitude adventure, making it an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers
The 12-day Chang-Thang to Markha Valley Trek is a thrilling high-altitude adventure that takes you through Ladakh’s most stunning and remote landscapes. Beginning in the vast Chang-Thang plateau, home to the nomadic Changpa herders, this trek offers breathtaking views of pristine lakes, rolling meadows, and dramatic mountain ranges. As you journey through this rugged terrain, you will traverse high mountain passes, including Kongmaru La (5,150m), and descend into the Markha Valley, known for its deep gorges, ancient Buddhist monasteries, and picturesque Ladakhi villages. Along the way, you will witness the region’s diverse flora and fauna, including Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and maybe even a snow leopard. This trek is an incredible blend of untouched wilderness, cultural immersion, and challenging adventure, offering an unforgettable experience for seasoned trekkers looking to explore the hidden beauty of Ladakh
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Arrive in Leh and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day resting to adjust to the high altitude. In the afternoon, visit Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and explore the local bazaar.
Overnight stay in Leh.
Drive to Rumtse, stopping en route to explore Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and Hemis Monastery.
Overnight stay at camp in Rumtse.
Begin your trek with an easy trail leading to a beautiful campsite near a spring.
Overnight stay in Kyamar.
Cross Kumur La Pass, enjoy breathtaking views of the Chang-Thang Range, and continue via Mandachand La Pass to reach Tisaling.
Overnight stay in Tisaling.
Trek across Shibuk La, descend through marmot-populated areas, and reach Tukje, where you can explore the village and its small Gompa.
Overnight stay in Tukje.
Trek along a dusty trail, cross the Manali–Leh Highway, and enter the remote valley of Kharanak Rupshu.
Overnight stay in Spangchen.
An easy trek to Kharanak Village, home to Ladakhi nomads, before diverting towards Lungmotche.
Overnight stay in Lungmotche.
A challenging day crossing Yar La Pass, with chances to spot wild donkeys (Kyang), before reaching the remote village of Datt.
Overnight stay in Datt.
Trek through a scenic gorge, cross crystal-clear streams, and pass ancient castle ruins before reaching Sora.
Overnight stay in Sora.
A steady climb to Zalung Karpo La rewards you with stunning views before descending to Langthang Chhu.
Overnight stay in Langthang Chhu.
Trek to Nimaling, the base of Kang Yatse Peak (6,200m), where you’ll see yak herds and lush grazing meadows.
Overnight stay in Nimaling.
Trek across Kongmaru La Pass, descend through Chuskirmo, and drive back to Leh, visiting Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey Monasteries en route.
Overnight stay in Leh.
✅ Trip Highlights: Trek through remote Ladakhi landscapes, cross high-altitude passes, visit ancient monasteries, and witness breathtaking views of Kang Yatse and the Chang-Thang Plateau.
📍 Leh (3,500m): The capital of Ladakh, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, rich in Tibetan culture, monasteries, and historic landmarks.
📍 Rumtse (4,040m): A picturesque village marking the starting point of the trek, known for its scenic beauty and proximity to high-altitude passes.
📍 Kyamar (4,050m): A serene campsite nestled near a spring, offering a peaceful start to the trek with stunning valley views.
📍 Tisaling (4,200m): A high-altitude pastureland, reached after crossing Kumur La and Mandachand La, offering breathtaking views of the Chang-Thang range.
📍 Tukje (4,627m): A nomadic settlement with a small monastery, located near a beautiful lake with mesmerizing sunset views.
📍 Spangchen (4,580m): A remote valley in Kharanak Rupshu, accessible via a dusty trail, showcasing the stark beauty of Ladakh’s wilderness.
📍 Lungmotche (4,550m): A picturesque village near the Yarla pass, home to Ladakhi nomads and surrounded by rugged mountains.
📍 Datt (4,200m): A traditional Ladakhi village with an ancient monastery, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
📍 Sora (4,600m): A scenic campsite amidst barley fields, reached via a breathtaking gorge with crystal-clear water streams.
📍 Langthang Chhu (4,500m): A rugged, high-altitude terrain accessed by crossing the Zalung Karpo La pass, offering dramatic mountain views.
📍 Nimaling (4,900m): A vast plateau at the base of Kang Yatse, home to grazing yaks and sheep, with stunning panoramic views.
📍 Shang (3,640m): A charming Ladakhi village with a monastery, reached after descending from the scenic Kongmaru La pass.
