Ladakh is strategically located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Currently, it extends from the Kuen Lun mountain range to the south of the Great Himalayas. Leh is one of those limited destinations that offer a perfect setting for hiking and mountaineering. With a picturesque backdrop and uneven terrain, it offers an exciting combination of scenic charisma and challenging heights for the adventurous enthusiast.
In addition to this, the harsh conditions have not traumatized the determination of hikers and mountaineers to avoid the challenges imposed by nature. If you don’t bring your tent, you can easily find accommodation for the night in the villages. Trekking in India, especially in Ladakh, has lately caught the attention of many trekkers from all over the world. It is easily accessible by road, train and air.
Basic requirements for Ladakh trekking
- To trek in and around Tso Moriri and Nubra Valley, you will need an interlining permit.
- To climb Stok Kagri, permission from the IMF is a must.
- To trek in Hemis National Park, you need the approval of Dhaba.
Technically permission is needed for all peaks in Ladakh, but you will be checked at Stok Kangri.
How to prepare for trekking in Ladakh?
Trekking in Ladakh starts at an altitude of about 3500 meters and therefore proper acclimatization is required to avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness). The best way to acclimatize is to rest for two days and then start with short hikes followed by intense climbing.
Tourist packages
At high altitudes, heavy objects cannot be carried on one’s back as this slows them down and therefore mountaineers use guides and horses. Travel agents organize travel packages that include horses, food, and tents. You can even have home stay trekking packages arranged at your convenience.
Popular trekking packages
Markha Valley Hike – The trek starts from Spitok and heads to the southwest of the Indus River, which runs through the valley. Hikers reach the point where the Indus River joins the Zinchen. After this, the mountaineers must cross the Kongmaru Pass and reach Hemis.
Henaskut to Wanla – The route starts from Henaskut, which is 160 kilometers from Ladakh. Hikers may encounter some difficulties on this route and must climb many passes including Pirkiting La and Yogmala.
Lamayuru to Padum – Himachal is the true end point of this trek. Stretching from Lamayuru to Padun, it shows beautiful landscapes and encapsulates the longest trail.
Tsomoriri to Kibber – Hikers come across various monks, monasteries and locals along with beautiful landscapes swaying side by side. The route from Tsomoriri continues to Kyangdam and finally reaches Parang La, the highest point.
Adventure trekking tour in Ladakh has many options ranging from 3 days to 15 days tour packages. Includes Hemis to Zangla via Junglam, Sham trek, Lamayuru to Darcha, Lamayuru to Hemis, Chader trek, Rumste to Tsomoriri, Saboo to Khaltsar, Hemis to Takh, Spituk to Stok, Hemis to Tsomiriri, Liker to Khaltse and Lamayuru to Hemis . Choose the routes according to your convenience.