Explore short, high-impact treks in Hemis National Park and the Markha Valley, designed for trekkers who want a rich Himalayan experience in just a few days.
These treks combine high mountain passes, wildlife spotting, and authentic village life, with all routes based in local Ladakhi homestays.
From crossing iconic passes like Ganda La (4850m) to exploring valleys rich in wildlife such as blue sheep and marmots, these itineraries offer a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and accessibility – whether you’re short on time or building up to a longer trek.
Homestays with local Ladakhi families
Simple, home-cooked meals (3 meals per day)
Basic facilities (no running water, compost toilets)
Explore the different routes available within this region. Each route offers a unique experience — from gentle introductions to challenging high-altitude crossings.
A compact high-altitude trek crossing Ganda La, ideal for well-acclimatised trekkers.
Requires: 4+ days acclimatisation in Leh
Duration: 2 nights / 3 days
Best Season: May to Sep
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Drive to Jingchen, gradual valley walk to Rumback. 2–3 hours.
Cross Ganda La (4,850m). 6–7 hours.
Descent to Skiu and drive back. 2–3 hours walk + drive.
Adds an acclimatisation day for a more comfortable pace.
Requires: 3+ days acclimatisation in Leh
Duration: 3 nights / 4 days
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
2–3 hours walk.
Short hikes towards Ganda La.
Cross Ganda La. 6–7 hours.
Descent + drive back.
A balanced trek with built-in acclimatisation.
Requires: 3+ days acclimatisation in Leh
Gradual ascent. 2–3 hours.
Rumback (Acclimatisation Day)
Cross Stok La (4,850m). 7–9 hours + drive.
A faster version for strongly acclimatised trekkers.
Requires: 4+ days acclimatisation in Leh
2–3 hours walk.
Cross Stok La. 7–9 hours + drive.
A more demanding route with a steep first-day climb.
Requires: 4+ days acclimatisation
Difficulty: Challenging
Steep ascent. 5–6 hours.
Cross Ganda La. 6–7 hours.
Cross Stok La. 7–9 hours.
An easy, flexible trek focused on wildlife and village life.
Requires: 3+ days acclimatisation
Difficulty: Easy
2–3 hours walk.
Optional hikes toward Stok La.
Easy return walk.
A short scenic trek covering the best of Markha Valley.
Duration: 3 nights / 4 days
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Easy valley walk. 3–4 hours.
Gradual ascent. 3–4 hours.
Steady climb. 6–7 hours.
Cross Gongmaru La (5,260m). 5–7 hours + drive.
Includes an overnight stay at Chogdo.
Duration: 4 nights / 5 days
Same as above until Day 4 (overnight at Chogdo)
Day 5
Chogdo → Leh
Drive back with monastery visits.
Includes acclimatisation at Hankar.
Requires: 3+ days acclimatisation
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
2–3 hours walk.
3–4 hours.
Short hikes.
6–7 hours.
Cross Gongmaru La.
Drive back.
A faster version without acclimatisation day.
Requires: Strong acclimatisation
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Overnight at Chogdo → return next day
The key to staying comfortable on a trek is layering. Suggested items:
Sleeping bags are generally not necessary — homestays provide bedding. The exception is treks via Nimaling tented camp: bring a light sleeping bag for Jul/Aug, or a good one for other months.
Plastic bottle ban in Leh. Use reusable bottles only. Many items above can be purchased or hired in Leh. LWTC has fleece sleeping bag liners, trekking poles and water bottles for hire.
Green note: Use rechargeable batteries whenever possible. If you must use disposable batteries, please take used ones home to dispose of safely.
Don't buy mineral water in plastic bottles. Some guesthouses in Leh provide filtered water; you can also fill up at the Dzomsa Laundry for a small charge. Homestays provide filtered or boiled water. Purification tablets or a good filter will save you money and reduce plastic waste.
Leh sits at 3,500m. Rest on arrival day and drink lots of water. Do not start a trek until at least day four.
Suggested acclimatisation:
Day 1 — Rest at your guesthouse. Day 2 — Explore Leh on foot, take it easy. Day 3 — Walk around Leh or do a monastery day-tour. Day 4+ — Begin your trek.
Prevention: Go slowly, drink lots of water, listen to your body. Mild symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness) usually resolve with rest at the same altitude.
Severe symptoms may indicate HACE or HAPE — descend immediately. These are life-threatening conditions.
We strongly recommend being vaccinated against rabies before visiting Ladakh. There are many stray dogs — be particularly careful in the evenings in Leh.
Respect the rights and beliefs of local people and minimise your cultural and environmental impact.
If transferring within 3 weeks of the start date, do not use a bank-to-bank transfer — it takes too long. Use an online transfer service instead.
Balance: The remainder must be paid in cash (INR) at our Leh office by 2pm the day before trek start. For Snow Leopard treks, payment is required 3 days before. We do not accept foreign currency, cards, or travellers cheques. ATMs and money exchanges are close to our office.
We strongly recommend personal travel, medical and cancellation insurance. Bring any special medicines you need.
Ensure your policy covers high-altitude trekking up to the maximum height on your trek. Adequate cover is your own responsibility.
Not included: mineral water, soft/alcoholic drinks, snacks, air tickets, travel insurance, items not listed above.
Porter: Quoted separately. Includes porter's food, accommodation, and 5% GST.
Note: Prices are per person, not per room. You may need to share during busy periods.
Not included: all drinks and snacks, air tickets, transport/detours not in itinerary, travel insurance.
Not included: hot drinks (except breakfast tea), mineral water, soft/alcoholic drinks, snacks, air tickets, transport not in itinerary, travel insurance.
*Inner Line Permit: Non-Indian nationals need a passport. Indian nationals need one of: Passport, Driving Licence, Service ID (Central/State/PSU), PAN Card, Aadhar Card, NPR Smart Card, or Election ID Card. Bring appropriate ID — it is your responsibility.
We reserve the right to pass on any increase in costs (accommodation, taxis, fees).
Let's design your perfect Ladakh journey together.
