Markha Valley Trek
Ladakh's best-known tea-house style trek, crossing dry valleys, village homestays, monasteries, river crossings, and high passes near Hemis.
Know before you go
Trip readiness
Best timing
June to September
Treat this as the first planning window, then verify local trail and weather conditions.
Time needed
6 days
Include acclimatization and transport buffers for mountain routes.
Permit status
Permit required
Check current Ladakh protected-area rules and Hemis National Park access requirements before booking.
Difficulty
Strenuous
Ladakh Himalaya route. Match this to fitness, altitude experience, and daily walking hours.
Live conditions
Trail weather available
Use the weather card before starting, especially during monsoon and winter windows.
The Markha Valley Trek is one of Ladakh's most popular multi-day routes because it combines stark high-altitude scenery with village stays, Buddhist cultural markers, and big views near Kang Yatse. The standard route requires acclimatization in Leh, careful pacing, and comfort with river crossings and passes above 5,000 meters. Most travelers arrange the trek with a local operator or guide, especially for logistics, homestay coordination, and current permit requirements.