Markha Valley
The Markha Valley - a homestay trek through Ladakh’s high desert villages, monasteries and the Kongmaru La
The route
The line through Ladakh (Hemis NP), India - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Waypoints
- 1Chilling/ZinchenTrailhead
Start
- 2SkiuJunction
Homestay
- 3MarkhaJunction
Central village
- 4NimalingCamp
High meadow
- 5Kongmaru LaPass
High pass
- 6Shang SumdoTrailhead
Finish
Season & conditions
Jun-Sep
Strong sun, cold nights, wind; very dry
Best Jun-Sep; acclimatize in Leh first; river crossings can be high early. Confirm.
On the trail
Arid Ladakh valleys, river crossings, villages and a high pass
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Shorter Skiu-Markha section; the Nimaling/Kang Yatse side
Getting there & staying
Chilling/Zinchen, from Leh
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Village homestays and parachute tea-tents
Layered outdoor kit, sturdy footwear, sun/rain protection, ample water; patchy mobile coverage - carry a map/PLB where remote
Services in Leh; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
Hemis NP; parachute-cafe/homestay network; acclimatize in Leh. Confirm.
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Altitude illness is the main risk at these elevations - acclimatize, ascend slowly, know the descent rule (Kongmaru La 5,260 m), river crossings, sun, cold
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.