Leh Trekking: Conquer The Best Himalayan Trails In Ladakh

A beautiful view of rugged terrains at Indus Valley, a top spot for Leh Trekking

Leh trekking is an enchanting experience, located in the northernmost region of India and in the topmost state of Jammu And Kashmir. Trekking in Leh offers unforgettable times. This destination is covered by some of the highest peaks of the Himalayas. Besides being renowned for its lovely landscapes, Leh has several ideal routes for trekking. This place is ideal for those wanting to explore the high-altitude hikes amidst cold deserts, valleys, lakes and hilly terrains. A trip to Leh, Ladakh promises a blend of natural, cultural and adventurous wonders.

10 Leh Trekking Adventures You Can’t Miss

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating experiences of these Leh trekking adventures, perfect for every adventure seeker.

1. Markha Valley Trek

A stream flowing through rugged Markha Valley, the best place for trekking in Leh

Photo: SlartibErtfass der bertige / Wikimedia Commons

Markha Valley Trek is one of the famous trekking routes in Leh, Ladakh. Trekkers can admire both Himalayan Landscapes and the culture of the village. Markha Valley is located inside the premises of Hemis National Park and this trek lets all admire the wildlife too. Markha Valley runs parallel to Indus Valley. This trek starts from Chilling which is the entry point of Hemis National Park. Trekkers pass through different villages like Skiu, Sara, Markha and Hankar. Markha Valley Trek is almost 5-6 days and also passes through the brilliant Kongmaru La.

Difficulty Level: Moderate Challenging
Altitude: 5620 meters

2. Nubra Valley Trek

 Camels walking near the river at Nubra Valley, the best place for Leh Trekking

Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Nubra Valley Trek starts from the Phyang Village which is in the Indus Valley and ends at Hunder which is in the Nubra Valley. This trekking trail is an ancient trade route and was an essential part of the old Silk Road. The highest point of the Nubra Valley Trek is Lasermo La Pass which is covered in snow even during summer days. The trek lasts for 5 days and offers views of the wonderful Karakoram Range. On reaching Hunder, trekkers come across beautiful sand dunes and take a ride of the double-humped Bactrian Camel.

Difficulty Level: Moderately Challenging
Altitude: 5400 meters

3. Rumtse To Tso Moriri Lake

The blue waters of Tso Moriri Lake, the endpoint of Rumtse Trekking in Leh

Photo: Rafał Kozubek / Wikimedia Commons

Rumtse To Tso Moriri Lake Trek is one of the most beautiful treks of Ladakh. Tso Moriri Lake is the highest-altitude lake in India. This trek is also known as Rupshu Trek. It takes seven days to complete this trek and takes all trekkers through the high-altitude plateau of Changthang. Trekkers admire several Tibetan landscapes with another high-altitude lake Tso Kar. Trekkers come across Changpa Nomads with their yaks and Pashmina Goats who are the natives of this region. This trek is extremely difficult and it crosses six mountain passes.

Difficulty Level: Challenging
Altitude: 4522 metres

4. Stok-Kangri Trek

 Trekking in the snow to the summit of Stok-Kangri, a perfect spot for trekking in Leh

Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons

Stok-Kangri Trek offers a marvellous mountaineering experience. Climbing to the peak of Stok-Kangri is extremely difficult as climbers have to use mountaineering gears such as crampons, axes, ropes, boots, etc. It is essential to be well acclimatized. Before trekking to Stok-Kangri, there is a guided course provided to all climbers. This trek starts from Stok or Spituk. On reaching the top of the mountain, magnificent views of the surrounding area can be seen. This trek can also be combined with the Markha Trek.

Difficulty Level: Extremely Difficult
Altitude: 6153 meters

5. Sham Valley Trek

Two Girls hiking at Sham Valley Trek, one of the difficult treks in Leh, Ladakh

Photo: Dr.klara / Wikimedia Commons

Sham Valley Trek is an easy trek enjoyed by tourists of Ladakh. This trek is also known as ‘Baby Trek’ as the trails are easy and the trek is suitable for both beginners and experienced. Sham Valley offers pretty views of the surrounding area and lasts for 3 days only. This trek allows trekkers to merge in and get influenced by the culture of the locals. They can indulge in some culinary diets and also stay at traditional Ladakhi Houses. The trek begins from the village of Likir, takes you through many monasteries, lets you cross the Tsermangchen La pass and returns you back to the Hemis Shukpachan, the ending point.

Difficulty Level: Easy
Altitude: 3874 meters

6. Spituk To Stok Trek

A bird’s eye view of Ladakh from Spituk, the beginning point for trekking in Leh

Photo: Abhas Mishra abhas1108 / Wikimedia Commons

The trek from Spituk to Stok offers pretty views of the Indus Valley and surrounding mountains. This trek is moderately difficult and can be performed by both beginners and experienced. Visitors can visit Spituk Monastery before beginning the trek and Stok Monastery at the end of the trek. Spituk To Stok Trek takes trekkers through Stok La Pass which is the highest point of the trek. This trek also takes trekkers to the village of Rumbak which has traditional houses and savoury delights. Stok La Pass offers views of the snow-clad mountains around.

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Altitude: 4855 m

7. Kang Yatse II Climb Trek

Climbing to the huge Kang Yatse II Peak, one of the best Leh Trekking places

Photo: SlartibErtfass der bertige / Wikimedia Commons

Kang Yatse II is another peak worth climbing. This peak is also above 6000 meters and is another high-altitude trek which is extremely difficult to perform. Climbing this peak is another alternative to Stok Kangri and lies in Hemis National Park. Kang Yatse II Climb Trek lets trekkers pass through the pass of Kongmaru La which lies in the vicinity. This climb is also paired with the Markha Valley Trek. It is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude before climbing to the summit.

Difficulty Level: Extremely Difficult
Altitude: 6250

8. Lamayuru To Alchi Trek

 The famous trek trail of Lamayuru, a serene village known as the moonland of Ladakh

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Lamayuru To Alchi Trek is a slightly difficult trek with two difficult mountain passes of Kongskil La and Stakspi La along with passing through the villages with traditional lifestyles. Trekkers can also visit Lamayuru and Alchi Monastery which are connected by the trekking route. The route rewards everyone with beautiful landscapes and mountain scenery. The trek is of 4-5 days with nightstays in villages. Trekkers can experience local culture, learn about the traditional Ladakhi Cuisine and visit diverse monasteries.

Difficulty Level: Moderate
Altitude: 3100 meters

9. Padum To Lamayuru Trek

 Green terrain at Padum, a starting point for Leh Trekking which ends at Lamayuru

Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons

Padum to Lamayuru Trek happens in the Zanskar region. This place is one of the most remote areas in Ladakh and is extremely beautiful. The trek also lets trekkers come across the monasteries. It also covers ancient monasteries, small villages and the beautiful range of the Zanskar. Before the start of the trek, trekkers can visit the famous Phuktal Monastery. This monastery is the most isolated and unique monastery in the region of Zanskar. The trekkers shall pass through three difficult passes, Hanuma La, Sir Sir La and Singge La.

Difficulty Level: Challenging
Altitude: 3510 meters

10. Chadar Trek, Frozen River Trek

 Chadar Trek, also known as the Frozen River Trekking in Leh on the Zanskar River

Photo: Goutam1962 / Wikimedia Commons

Chadar Trek is also known as the Frozen River Trek locally. The Zanskar River freezes in winter and offers an exciting opportunity for trekking on frozen rivers. This river stretches for 105 kilometres with temperatures like -25 to -35 degrees Celsius. The trekkers pass through frozen waterfalls, gorges and trails of ice. Many documentaries have been shot at this place. The trek starts from Chilling Village and it takes about 4 days to cover the trek. There are many caves along the river where trekkers can stay at night.

Difficulty Level: Extremely Difficult
Altitude: 4000 meters

Leh Trekking is an extraordinary adventure which will leave all with cherished memories. With multiple trekking routes spread across diverse landscapes and valley regions, trekking in Leh is a top choice to make. Whether travellers are exploring the cold deserts or passing through lush green valleys and exploring the mystical places in Ladakh, this place promises a blend of cultural immersion, fitness and fun. Book a trip with TripXL to Leh, Ladakh and seek the adrenaline rush amidst the beauty of this region.

Cover Photo: Darshan Chudasama / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The most famous trek in Ladakh is the Markha Valley Trek. Trekkers can admire the majestic views of the Himalayan Landscapes and also come across the local village life.
Stok-Kangri Trek is the highest trekking in India. This trek takes trekkers to the highest trekkable peak. It is performed at an altitude of 20,100 ft.
Leh is located at an altitude of 3524 ft above sea level. It is well connected to Manali and Srinagar.
Yes, Diamox is necessary for Leh and shall be taken twice a day two days before reaching Leh and two days after reaching Leh. This is also advised by the Ministry of Leh, Ladakh.
Leh has a strong influence of Tibetan Buddhism. Thus this city is also known as Little Tibet or the Land of Lamas locally. Leh is home to many monasteries and painted Gompas.

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