YamaTreks.com - Himalayan treks in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Tibet, Sikkim, Nepal and Bhutan.

Ladakh treks

- LADAKH HEALING TREK
- THE RUPSHU TREK
- LAMAYURU TO ALCHI TREK
- LAMAYURU-MARTSELANG
- MARKHA VALLEY
- NUBRA VALLEY
- NUBRA VALLEY VIA DIGGAR LA
- MYSTERIES TREK IN LADAKH
- KHARNAK NOMAD
- ZANSKAR, THE LAND BEYOND
- GORGES OF ZANSKAR & CHARCHA LA
- RAFTING ON THE ZANSKAR RIVER

LADAKH HEALING TREK

Style of Trek: Camping/guest house
Duration: 13 Days
On Trek: 4 Days
Grade: Gentle

INTRODUCTION

This is a tremendously exciting trip consisting of not just a meditation walk through the Tibetan-Buddhist villages of the former Kingdom of Ladakh. But you will have a chance to get a teaching from a Geshy on spiritual practice. The part of the revenue will donate to The LOTSAVA MODEL SCHOOL TEMISGAM. Lotsava Model School was founded in October 1999. Its mission was to establish a school in Temisgam to provide quality education including local Ladakhi language. Unfortunately not many schools teach the language any more and the many younger generation people cannot read or write the local Buddhist language. Classes began at the Lotsava School in 1999. Besides language, the school teaches history, Geography, social science crafts, and participation in community events. Now in its third year of teaching, with 55 students, the 5 teacher staff needs assistance with their operations budget for children’s sanitation, books, teachers' salaries, and cultural programs.

THE FORMER KINGDOM OF LADAKH

Area: 58,321 sq.km (23,328sq.mi)
(excluding the Chinese occupied Aksai Chin)
Population: 160,000
Main City: Leh (6,200 inhabitants)

Ladakh lies embedded in the mountain world of the Karakoram in the north-west, the Himalaya in the south-west and the Trans-Himalaya at its core. Its position at the upper course of the Indus makes it the important connecting point of the trade route from north-west India to Tibet and to Turkestan. The main chain of the Himalaya prevents the Indian summer monsoon from advancing this far. Likewise the extended cold winter has little snow due to the position of the mountains in the rain shadow. Winter is followed by a short, dry and relatively warm summer. All year-round, however, there are great daily changes of temperature, with strong winds blowing in winter. As a result of the dry and harsh climate, only sporadic high steppes are covered with grass, and arid and semi-arid deserts dominate a nonetheless grandiose mountain world.

HISTORY AND RELIGION

Following its demise, the first Tibetan Empire was divided among three brothers in 1020. One of them moved to Ladakh and founded the first royal dynasty there. In the following centuries, the Ladakhi kings extended their ruling territory. Lhachen Utpala (1080-1110) expanded his kingdom up to the realm of the related dynasties of Purang and Mustang (in present-day Nepal). New importance was attached to the culture of the Ladakhi monks when the reform sect of the Gelugpa, created by Tsongkhapa, led to the re-establishment of monasteries in the 15th century. Family feuds had ended at the beginning of the 15th century with the division of the empire. Lhachen Bhagan unified Ladakh in 1470 and founded a new dynasty, Namgyal. His successor was able to stand ground against an invasion from East Turkestan. Yet over the years Ladakh was to be plagued repeatedly by plundering, ravaging Islamic armies. During the reign of the powerful kings Sengge Namgyal (ca.1570 to 1620) and Deldan Namgyal (ca.1620 -1660) the empire was not only further extended but blossomed anew culturally in Ladakh. It came to an end when the great fifth Dalai Lama of Tibet (Nawang Lobsang Gyatso, 1617-82) convinced the Mongolians, whom he had converted to Lamaism, to enter a military campaign against west Tibet and Ladakh. Their King, Delegs Namgyal, turned to Kashmir for help. In the Battle of Basgo (ca. 1685) the Tibetan-Mongolian army was stopped. Yet from then on Ladakh remained under the influence of the Islamic empire of the great Moguls. Its history remained unalterably tied with the history of Jammu and Kashmir, but the country did not forfeit its Lamaistic tradition.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you transfer to the hotel.

DAY 2: FLY TO LEH : you will have an early morning transfer to the Domestic Airport for the flight to Leh. This must be one of the most sensational flights in the world! On the northern horizon you may be able to pick out K2, the world's second highest peak, and other Karakoram giants. On your left you can see Nun and Kun the highest peaks in Ladakh at 7100m and 7080m. On your arrival in Leh, transfer to hotel. Day at your leisure for acclimatization

DAY 3: ACCLIMATIZATION IN LEH, 11,500ft/3,505m: Explore Leh bazar and walk to up to Shanti Sputa. Over night at hotel.

DAY 4: FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING IN THE INDUS VALLEY. Today you will spend a full day visiting many of the important places in the wide Indus valley. This will certainly include Shey, - Palace of the old Ladakhi kings, Thikse - a large monastery which contains a three-storey-high statue of Chamba, Buddha of the future, and Hemis - the largest monastery in Ladakh. At the latter, ask to see the temple in the rear, which houses the Buddhas that have in the past 'spoken'. In the afternoon you drive back to Leh. Overnight at Hotel.

SHEY PALACE (15 km from Leh)

The old 'summer palace' of the kings of Ladakh was built about 550 years ago by Lhachen Palgyigon, the first king of Ladakh. It stands next to the remains of a larger construction on the east side of a hill which runs south-east towards the Indus. From the palace you can see over the fertile Indus plain north-east to Tikse Gompa and over the Indus to the Zanskar mountain range. The old Shey palace has the largest golden Buddha statue in Ladakh in its gompa. The statue is worked out of gold and gilded copper sheets, stands 12 meters high and has blue hair. It was erected by King Dalden Namgyal in the middle of the 17th century. The most important moment in the construction of such a figure is when the eyes are painted in and the statue can 'see'. No artist or monk would dare to look the Buddha in the eye so the pupils are painted over the artist's shoulder, with his back to the idol.

THIKSE GOMPA (17 km from Leh)

The 500-year-old Thikse monastery, perched on a hill high above the Indus, has the largest contingent of monks in Ladakh. On the right of the entrance to the main courtyard a new chapel houses an enormous 15 meter high seated Buddha figure. About 100 yellow-cap monks belong to the gompa. If you get there by 6.30am you can witness the daily morning prayers, but there are also prayers closer to noon, preceded by long, mournful sounds from the horns on the roof.

HEMIS GOMPA (45 km from Leh)

Hemis Gompa is famous far beyond the borders of Ladakh for its Festival. This takes place every year with mask dances on the 9th to 11th day of the fifth Tibetan month. Hemis also has a gigantic thangka, one of the largest in the world, which is only displayed to the public every 12 years at the Festival. Hemis Gompa is the largest and one of the most important in Ladakh quite apart from its annual festival. It was founded about 350 years ago by Stagtshang Raschen, who was invited to Ladakh by King Singe Namgyal.

A Buddhist scholar will give a talk and answer questions.
Overnight at hotel.

DAY 5: VISIT ORACLE NEAR LEH, DRIVE TO START OF TREK. We cannot guarantee this proposed audience with an oracle who foretells the future, but if possible we will arrange for you to meet her in a village near Leh. She has such a reputation that local people are afraid to talk to her for fear she will tell them things they would rather not hear. Much of today is free time to be spent doing your own thing.

In the afternoon, you drive to the start of your trek at Ridzong, and on arrival, you walk up to Ridzong Gompa. Ridzong monastery is nestled on a hilltop and is a meditation center inhabited by monks. No local house can be seen except for small Pullus here and there. Visit the Gompa and camp nearby.

DAY 6: TREK TO YANGTHANG. You start the trek to Yangthang. It will be a gradual walk, 3-4 hrs, ascending through a valley until you are near Yangthang, where you have to climb the hill to reach the village. Yangthang is a village with 15-20 houses. Overnight camp at the village.

DAY 7: TREK TO ULE. (12,800ft/3,901m). Another easy trek of 4-5 hrs, crossing by a good bridge you reach a small oasis called Ule. This region is home for the pasture people with their yaks and sheep. During the summertime these people make small Pullus (very small temporary shelter built of stones) and remain there for the entire summer. They come down to the village during the winter with their animals. Overnight camp near Ule.

DAY 8: TREK TO HEMIS SHUKPACHEN. Climb for approx. 50 minutes gradually to reach Sermanchan-La. From here it is an easy descent to the village of Hemis-Shukpachan, a major village the name of which derives from Conifers (Shukpa) that are seen everywhere in the village. There is a beautiful Gompa that you will visit. Here you visit local houses, test local food and beverages etc. Overnight camp at the village.

DAY 9: TREK TO TEMISGAM 4-5 hours trek, Passing through the village the trail then enters a sort of plateau to an ill-defined pass. There is then a steep descent and then contouring to the right around the mountainside. There is another climb to the summit of Meptak La. This is about 2 hours from Hemis Shukpachen. There is then an easy descent towards the village of Ang.You will then have a picnic lunch at Ang. Then another one hour to Temisgam.

Temisgam was capital of Ladakh in the 14th centry. The King Tagspa Bom chose it as the capital of his kingdom. Practice meditation and teaching by lama. Overnight in Temisgam

DAY 10: Temisgam which has a famous palace with a particularly fine statue of Avalokitesvara. This is the Bhudda of Compassion - the Dalai Lama being the living incarnation. Visit Lotsava School before lunch then drive back to Leh which is approximately 3-4 hours. On the way you will visit Alchi, one of the very oldest temples in Ladakh. On arriving back into Leh you check into the Hotel.

DAY 11: DAY AT LEISURE. Continue your exploration of Leh , go for shopping and witness cultural show in the evening.

DAY 12: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 13: RELAX IN DELHI. Late night transfer to International Airport.

DAY 14: FLY HOME.

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.

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THE RUPSHU TREK

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-October
Duration: 19 Days
On Trek: 9 Days
Grade: Strenuous/ Vigorous

INTRODUCTION

The Rupshu is a large area to the south east of Ladakh, on the road linking Kulu & Leh. The altitude of the valley varies between 4500m (14850ft) & 5500m (18150ft). The climate, which is extremely cold and dry, makes for little agriculture but a lot of grazing land. That is why it is sparsely populated. The inhabitants are called Changpas, who lead a nomadic life traveling with their herds of goats, yaks, dogs and flocks of sheep. The latter are their main source of income. Trade and transport of goods by caravans between Ladakh, Lahoul and Spiti provide them with additional earnings

DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI. Our local representative will greet you at the
international airport and help you transfer to the hotel.

DAY 2: DELHI TO CHANDIGARH TO MANALI (TRAIN/COACH).
We will be transferring to a railway station for the high speed train to Chandigarh. The train journey will take 3 hours. On your arrival in Chandigarh, our representative will meet you and drive straight to Manali (1920m/ 6336ft), covering 338 kms . Arrive Manali and check into your hotel for overnight stay.

DAY 3: REST IN MANALI. (6,430ft/1,960m).
Morning at your leisure. In the afternoon we will take a walk to Hadimba
temple and in the evening drive to Vashist hot springs. Overnight in the
same hotel.

DAY 4-5: MANALI - TO SARCHU TO BARANDINALA (9hrs.)
We will drive to Sarchu via Rotang La, 3978m (13,051ft). This pass featured heavily in the early exploration of the western Himalaya and provides excellent panoramic views of the high peaks. From here you drop down into the region of Lahoul valley, then Kelong and Jispa. You then cross the formidable Baralacha La, 4,891m (16,046ft) and enter a much more arid, sparsely populated stretch. There are one or two lakes and impressive canyons and huge plains. Camp at Brandinalla.

DAY 6: BRANDINALLA - SOKMIKCHIK (4050 m/13365FT - 4 hrs)
After breakfast, we will leave for the trek, initially on the highway for about 3 kms.Then we turn left onto the valley, following the river Tsarap Chu on our right side, till we branch off the river to follow a small stream coming down from Morang La. Dinner and overnight in camp at Sokmichik.

DAY 7: SOKMIKCHIK - TABOK (4550 m/15015 ft - 3 hrs)
The trail rapidly gains altitude through a narrow gorge, with thorny bushes and willow trees for first hour & another steep climb of 2 hrs. Our camp that night is walled in by the mountains from all sides.

DAY 8: TABOK - TUZAK (4500 m/148050 ft) via Morang La (5250 m/17325ft -- 6 hrs) We start early in the morning on a long & steep ascent of 4 hrs. through a narrow valley till we reach the pass. We then descend down to a small valley and onto a narrow gorge, which will bring us to a small meadow beside a stream. Overnight in camp.

DAY 9: TUZAK - YABUK (4400 m/ 14520ft -- 5 hrs)
Immediately after leaving camp the valley suddenly opens up. We make a steep ascent of 1 hour to a small pass and then descend down to Lun. Here we have a couple of river crossings before we arrive at our grassy campsite.

DAY 10: YABUK - ZARA (4250 m/14025ft -- 5 hrs)
We walk gradually through beautiful mountains . We cross the river Zara and arrive at Sangastha to visit some nomads' houses. We will cross the river again and follow an easy dusty trail till we arrive at Zara. Overnight in
camp.

DAY 11: ZARA - TSOKAR (4550 m/15015ft --5hrs)
This is an easy day trek. We turn right towards Pang and come out on the Leh-Manali road head just below the Tanglang La. We walk through more plains till we arrive at Tsokar, which means "The Salt Lake". A good day for bird watchers and we may see some herds of Skiyangs (wild asses).

DAY 12: TSOKAR - HERMANLA (4850 m) - ROJANGKURU (4700 m/15510ft -- 6hrs)
We will walk along the right side of the lake before we reach below the pass. Steeps ascent of 2 hrs. to the pass and then another half an hour will bring us to a beautiful meadow besides the stream coming from Kazur La. Overnight in camp.

DAY 13: ROJANGKURU - KAZUR LA (5300 m/17490ft -- 6hrs)
The trail stays on the right hand side of the stream before we reach below the pass. The climb to the pass takes 03 hrs. with trail ascending steeply nice view of peaks over 6000m/ 19800ft. Descend down to the broad valley and another flat walk of one hour to our camp.

DAY 14: GYAMA - TSOMORIRI LAKE (4500 m/14850 ft -- 7hrs)
After leaving camp we cross the stream and enter a narrow gorge and then a long descent to the Leh-to-Tsokar road. Easy walk from there of 1 hour to our camp.

DAY 15: TSOMORIRI
Day to explore the lake and also visit Karzok Monastery. Overnight in camp.

DAY 16: TSOMORIRI - LEH (3500 m/11500ft ; 218km --7hrs)
After breakfast we depart for Leh. Upon arrival check in hotel; overnight
at hotel.

DAY 17: LEH
After breakfast we leave for full day excursion to Shey, Thiksey and Hemis monasteries. Return to Leh in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight in hotel.

DAY 18 : LEH
After breakfast leave for halfday sight-seeing to Phyang and Spituk monasteries. Return to hotel for lunch. Rest of the day free for independent activities. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 19: LEH/DELHI (FLIGHT)
Transfer to domestic airport in time to board flight for Delhi. Arrive and transfer to hotel for overnight stay.

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is an Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns, The guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances.

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LAMAYURU TO ALCHI TREK

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time : May- November
Duration: 13 Days
On Trek: 6 Days
Grade: Moderate to Strenuous

DAY BY DAY ITINERARAY

DAY1: ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY2 : FLY TO LEH : you will have an early morning transfer to the Domestic Airport for the flight to Leh. This must be one of the most sensational flights in the world! On the northern horizon you may be able to pick out K2, the world's second highest peak, and other Karakoram giants. On your left you can see Nun and Kun the highest peaks in Ladakh at 7100m and 7080m. On your arrival in Leh transfer to hotel. Day at your leisure for acclimatization

DAY 3: ACCLIMATIZATION IN LEH: 11,500ft/3,505m: Explore Leh bazar and walk to up to Shanti Sputa. Over night at hotel.

DAY 4: VISIST STOK MUSIUM AND THE ROYAL PALCE : Stok palce is the last palce ever built by the Ladakhi king Tsepal Tundup Namgyal in 1824,

Day 5: DRIVE TO LAMAYURU,( 124mk/ 4 hrs) After breakfast we drive down the geologic wonderland of the Indus River valley, past the confluence with the Zanskar River, and on through the small villages of Nimo, Saspol and Khalse. We cross the Indus just past Khalse and begin a steep climb to the village of Lamayuru. We reach the monastery, perched on top of a steep cliff, in the early afternoon with plenty of time for a tour. This monastery is the oldest in Ladakh, dating from the 11th century. The monastery is built around a cave where the Naropa lived and meditated. After the tour we camp.

DAY 6: TREK TO WANLA (5 hrs trek)
We start our trek from Lamayuru with immediate descend. Later cross the stream, then the path gradually climbs across a mountain side and reach Prinkiti La (3720 m/22,200 ft). Continue further to Shilla and then to Wanla. On arrival set up camp and later visit the monastery. Overnight in tents.

DAY 7: TREK TO URSHI (6 HRS TREK)
We Start trek in the morning after the trek and easy ascending upto the destination. Arrive Urshi by late afternoon and set up camp. Overnight in tents.

DAY 8: TREK TO Tar via Tar la (7 hrs trek)
Today is a difficult and panoramic day. The path is well marked and steep ascend of about six hours takes you to the top of the pass and about another three hours descend to arrive at Tar village. Overnight in tents.

DAY 9: TREK TO MANGYU (5 hrs trek)
Start trek after breakfast and the path goes up along mountain side to a small pass, then take an easy descent towards Mangyu. This is an attractive village with interesting monastery. On arrival set up camp. Later visit the village and monastery. Overnight in tents.

DAY 10: TREK TO ALCHI (5 hrs trek) (4-5 hrs)

Today we take a nice path into a beautiful narrow valley. After another two hours of walking you arrive in Indus valley at Gera village. We follow the Indus upstream and cross it at Lardo and further walking takes us to the village of Alchi where we have a very old and remarkable monastery. Visit the village and monastery. Later transfer by surface to Leh. Hotel

DAY 11: DAY AT LEISURE. Continue your exploration of Leh , go for shopping and witness cultural show in the evening.

DAY 12: FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 13: RELAX IN DELHI. Late night transfer to International Airport.

DAY 14 : FLY HOME.

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.

Back to the top

LAMAYURU-MARTSELANG

Style of Trek: Camping
Best Time: May-October
Duration: 19 Days
On Trek: 10 Days
Grade: Gentle to Moderate to Strenuous

INTRODUCTION

This trek begins with a visit to the stunning Lamayuru Monastery, the oldest in Ladakh, and ends with a visit to the Hemis Monastery, the largest and richest in Ladakh. Lamayuru is about 80 miles west of Leh, just off the Leh to Kargil road. From Lamayuru the trek proceeds through Wanla and over two high mountain passes with their breath-taking vistas, before reaching Chilling on the Zanskar River. Just beyond Chilling the trek enters the Markha Valley and follows that popular trekking route.

The Markha valley epitomizes the best of Ladakh scenery. It has giant rock pinnacles, beetling cliffs, narrow defiles, prayer-flagged passes and evidence of a much older civilization, the history of which has been lost in antiquity. As you trek up the valley, there are the ruins of many forts and castles, some built in some pretty unlikely places!

It is a fairly long trek, crossing a final pass of over 17,000ft, and has the fine objective of visiting the base camp of the highest peak in the Zanskar range, Kang Yatse, 21,000ft.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 2 : FLY TO LEH : you will have an early morning transfer to the Domestic Airport for the flight to Leh. This must be one of the most sensational flights in the world! On the northern horizon you may be able to pick out K2, the world's second highest peak, and other Karakoram giants. On your left you can see Nun and Kun the highest peaks in Ladakh at 7100m and 7080m. On your arrival in Leh transfer to hotel. Day at your leisure for acclimatization

DAY 3 : AT LEISURE IN LEH. Again we will take it easy today and your guide can show you around town. Leh is very Tibetan in many respects; the national dress, 'stove-pipe' hats and felt boots with turned-up toes are much in evidence. The Royal Palace which dominates the town is very reminiscent of the Potala in Lhasa and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, large chortens, prayer flags and mud brick houses with flat roofs are a dramatic culture change from the hot, teeming frenetic rush of Delhi. Don't try to do too much on this first day! Visit the palace, poke around the bazaars, and if you're feeling really keen and strong, walk out to one of the villages just to the north.

DAY 4 : PHYANG SIGHT SEEING. The Phyang Gompa has 50 lamas and seven 'novices' of the red-cap sect and possesses five chapels. The monastery is interesting for its museum containing some old Chinese, Tibetan, Mongolian and possibly Saracen weapons and armour. The museum room itself is said to be nearly 900 hundred years old. The monastery has had several renovations recently, including the addition of a large house for the head lama and a new entrance hall with a large prayer wheel. The 650 year old Dukhany Temple was renovated in the late '70's. Return to Leh hotel.

DAY 5 : DRIVE TO LAMAYURU, CAMP. After breakfast we drive down the geologic wonderland of the Indus River valley, past the confluence with the Zanskar River, and on through the small villages of Nimu, Saspol and Khalse. We cross the Indus just past Khalse and begin a steep climb to the village of Lamayuru. We reach the monastery, perched on top of a steep cliff, in the early afternoon with plenty of time for a tour. This monastery is the oldest in Ladakh, dating from the 11th century. The monastery is built around a cave where the Naropa lived and meditated. After the tour we camp in fertile green village of Lamayuru.

DAY 6 : TREK TO HINJU. 7 hrs. Leaving Lamayuru we gradually climb the mountain-side opposite the monastery until we reach a small valley. We follow the valley up to Prinkiti-La pass (12,200 ft) and then descend into a gorge. At Shilla we cross a bridge and continue on the right bank to the village of Wanla. We now follow the left bank of the Yapola River and cross a bridge to Penji-la. We go up the valley and take the right fork to Hinju, where we camp.

DAY 7 : TREK TO SUMDA. 5-6 hrs. We continue up the Hinju valley on our way to Konzke-la pass (16,236 ft). The final ascent becomes steep, but the fabulous views of snow-capped peaks make it well worth the effort. From the summit we begin a long descent to pastures along the river. We continue along the left bank till we reach Sumda and camp.

DAY 8 : TREK TO CHILLING. 6-7 hrs. We cross the valley to the rock shelters where we cross the bridge and begin the ascent to the pass. We reach Dundunchen-la pass (15,744 ft) after a steep climb for more spectacular views. The trail is steep on the descent as we head towards a valley. The valley continues to narrow until it opens out at Chilling on the banks of the Zanskar River. The villagers here are metal craftsman.

DAY 9 : TREK TO SKIU. (9,900 ft) 4 hrs. We begin this day by crossing the Zanskar River in a cable car located upstream a short distance from Chilling. We follow the well worn path to the village of Skaya. From here it is a short walk to the lush green campsite at Skiu. The village of Skiu is at only 9,900ft, and the Markha Valley here is narrow, so the temperatures can soar. We camp at Skiu, and at dusk it is worth climbing back up the valley to where the Skiu Nala meets the Markha river. Here there is a small monastery cared for by an old nun who comes every evening to light the candles at the altar of 'Chamba', the future Buddha.

DAY 10 : TREK TO MARKHA. (11,776ft). 6 hrs. A very pleasant walk up one of the loveliest sections of the Markha valley. Woody bushes grow thickly along the river which is spanned by several bridges over which the trail marches to Thinlespa. The camp is beyond this small village on the right bank of the river, just before the village of Markha.

DAY 11 : TREK TO THACHUGTSE. (13,078ft). 6-7 hrs. The trail continues eastwards climbing steadily up the valley through the picturesque village of Markha, which has a fascinating monastery well worth a visit. Coming in from the south is the trail from Rubering La, one of the routes from Zangla. From Markha the country changes and the warm, relatively heavily wooded section of the lower Markha is left behind. Between the twin villages of Lower and Upper Hankar is a ruined fort, the walls of which climb sharply up a crag to an aerie of a lookout tower - worth visiting for those with a good head for heights. Follow the Nimiling river up the narrow valley to the camp at Thachugtse. It will be considerably cooler here.

DAY 12 : TREK TO NIMALING. (16,097ft). 3 hrs. The trail continues to climb up the valley to a picturesque lake with a reflection of snow-capped Kang Yatse, the highest peak in the Zanskar range. From here the Nimaling plain is a broad undulating meadow which slopes upwards to the base of the ice-clad Kang Yatse which dominates the area. Nimaling with tiny ponds and rivulets flowing all over its meadows provides pasturage in the summer for an astonishing number of animals; yaks, sheep, goats, dzos and horses, not only from the Markha but also from villages all around. Himalayan marmots and white-tailed hares are seen in plenty and it is not unusual to spot the occasional blue sheep or wolf. You should reach camp in the early afternoon and have the rest of the day to relax and explore.

DAY 13 : REST DAY IN NIMALING. A day to recuperate and enjoy this beautiful alpine meadow. You can take a short hike to the base of the glacier on Kang Yatse.

DAY 14 : TREK TO SUMDO. (13,230ft). 7-8 hrs. After crossing the Nimaling river, climb to the top of the highest pass on the trek, the 17,409ft Kangmaru La with its wonderful views from the top. Snow peaks in every direction, and on a clear day the giants of the Karakorams, including K2 can be seen on the north-western horizon. The trail descends steeply to the head of the Martselang valley past the sulfur springs of Chyushkarmo, and follows the Martselang stream to the village of Sumdo or Shang-Sumdo, at the confluence of the Shang Nala and the Martselang.

DAY 15 : TREK TO MARTSELANG. DRIVE TO LEH 3-4 hrs trek. An easy descent mainly along the left bank of the Martselang river to where it broadens into the valley of the Indus river at the village of Martselang. Transport will be waiting here for the 2 hr drive to Leh, after first visiting the Hemis Gompa. Overnight at the hotel in Leh.

DAY 16 : AT LEISURE IN LEH. A chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 17 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 18 : RELAX IN DELHI . International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.

DAY 19 : FLY HOME

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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MARKHA VALLEY

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-November
Duration: 18 Days
On Trek: 10 Days
Grade: Moderate to Strenuous
Will the trek run? Guaranteed to run

INTRODUCTION

The Markha valley epitomizes the best of this scenery. It has giant rock pinnacles, beetling cliffs, narrow defiles, prayer-flagged passes and evidence of a much older civilization, the history of which has been lost in antiquity. As you trek up the valley, there are the ruins of many forts and castles, some built in some pretty unlikely places!

It is a fairly long trek, crossing a pass of over 17,000ft, and has the fine objective of visiting the base camp of the highest peak in the Zanskar range, Kang Yatse, 21,000ft.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 : ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 2 : FLY TO LEH 11,500ft/3,505m : you will have an early morning transfer to the Domestic Airport for the flight to Leh. This must be one of the most sensational flights in the world! On the northern horizon you may be able to pick out K2, the world's second highest peak, and other Karakoram giants. On your left you can see Nun and Kun the highest peaks in Ladakh at 7100m and 7080m. On your arrival in Leh transfer to hotel. Day at your leisure for acclimatization

DAY 5 : DRIVE TO SPITOK, TREK TO ZINGCHEN . After breakfast we drive to Spitok Gompa (approx. 2 hours) for a visit. This monastery was built about 500 years ago by Gyalpo Bumlde, although one temple, dedicated to Mahakala was built about 900 years ago. About 125 yellow-hat sect lamas are considered Spitok Lamas, but at least half of them live and pray at Spitok's dependent monasteries at Sankar, Stok and Sabu. All the lamas do however gather together for major festivals. The name Spitok is probably derived from the Central Tibetan language and means, Effective as an Example, referring to the fact that this was the Tibetans first monastery in Ladakh. The head lama for Spitok is the head lama for Ladakh and represents Ladakh as a member of Parliament, spending much of his time in Delhi. Spitok Gompa contains both old temples and those built in the 1970s. Ancient thankas are preserved there, some having been taken from the Potala in Lhasa after the Chinese invaded Tibet. After leaving the gompa, we cross the bridge over the Indus river and meet up with the horseman. The trek begins here and follows the Indus for a short distance, before striking out for the mountains. You soon enter the narrow gorge that leads to the first camp at Zingchen.

DAY 6 : TREK TO YURUTSE. 6 hours. You will follow the trail beside the river till the valley widens at Rumbak, where you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Stok mountains. Take the right fork of the river and continue to the very small village of Yurutse. The purple and green rock formations are quite impressive. Continue past the village to the base camp of Ganda La.

DAY 7 : TREK TO SKIU. (9,900ft). 7hrs. The climb over the Ganda La is not as steep as that up to the Stok La, but it is a bit longer. From the top of the pass there is a fabulous view of snow-capped peaks. The descent into the Skiu valley is steady. The wide pastures at the top of the valley closes into a narrow 'waist' at Shingo, where there is a stream junction and a few houses and fields. From here the river swoops exuberantly down the tight narrow gorge choked with willow and wild rose, with the trail following, swapping from bank to bank as it goes. The village of Skiu is at only 9,900ft, and the Markha Valley here is narrow, so the temperatures can soar. We camp at Skiu, and at dusk it is worth climbing back up the valley to where the Skiu Nala meets the Markha river. Here there is a small monastery cared for by an old nun who comes every evening to light the candles at the altar of 'Chamba', the future Buddha.

DAY 8 : TREK TO MARKHA. (11,776ft). 6 hrs. A very pleasant walk up one of the loveliest sections of the Markha valley. Woody bushes grow thickly along the river which is spanned by several bridges over which the trail marches to Thinlespa. The camp is beyond this small village on the right bank of the river, just before the village of Markha.

DAY 9 : TREK TO THACHUGTSE. (13,078ft). 6-7 hrs. The trail continues eastwards climbing steadily up the valley through the picturesque village of Markha, which has a fascinating monastery well worth a visit. Coming in from the south is the trail from Rubering La, one of the routes from Zangla. From Markha the country changes and the warm, relatively heavily wooded section of the lower Markha is left behind. Between the twin villages of Lower and Upper Hankar is a ruined fort, the walls of which climb sharply up a crag to an aerie of a lookout tower - worth visiting for those with a good head for heights. Follow the Nimiling river up the narrow valley to the camp at Thachugtse. It will be considerably cooler here.

DAY 10 : TREK TO NIMALING. (16,097ft). 3 hrs. The trail continues to climb up the valley to a picturesque lake with a reflection of snow-capped Kang Yatse, the highest peak in the Zanskar range. From here the Nimaling plain is a broad undulating meadow which slopes upwards to the base of the ice-clad Kang Yatse which dominates the area. Nimaling with tiny ponds and rivulets flowing all over its meadows provides pasturage in the summer for an astonishing number of animals; yaks, sheep, goats, dzos and horses, not only from the Markha but also from villages all around. Himalayan marmots and white-tailed hares are seen in plenty and it is not unusual to spot the occasional blue sheep or wolf. You should reach camp in the early afternoon and have the rest of the day to relax and explore.

DAY 11 : REST DAY IN NIMALING. A day to recuperate and enjoy this beautiful alpine meadow. You can take a short hike to the base of the glacier on Kang Yatse.

DAY 12 : TREK TO SUMDO. (13,230ft). 7-8 hrs. After crossing the Nimaling river, climb to the top of the highest pass on the trek, the 17,409ft Kangmaru La with its wonderful views from the top. Snow peaks in every direction, and on a clear day the giants of the Karakorams, including K2 can be seen on the north-western horizon. The trail descends steeply to the head of the Martselang valley past the sulfur springs of Chyushkarmo, and follows the Martselang stream to the village of Sumdo or Shang-Sumdo, at the confluence of the Shang Nala and the Martselang.

DAY 13 : TREK TO HEMIS. 5-6 hrs trek. An easy descent mainly along the left bank of the Martselang river to where it broadens into the valley of the Indus river at the village of Martselang. The trail ends at the Hemis Monastery, the largest and richest in Ladakh.

DAY 14 : RETURN TO LEH. We visit the monastery in the morning and then meet our transportation for the 2 hr drive to Leh. Overnight at the hotel in Leh.

DAY 15 : AT LEISURE IN LEH. A chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 16 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 17 : RELAX IN DELHI. Late night transfer to International Airport.

DAY 18 : FLY HOME.

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

TREK NOTES
IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite to when a rest day is taken. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns off the beaten track, local availability of, horses or yaks, can contribute to the need for changes. The Trek guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances. Timings are approximate.

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NUBRA VALLEY

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-November
Duration: 14 Days
On Trek: 5 Days
Grade: Moderate

INTRODUCTION

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 : ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 4 : DRIVE TO THE NUBRA VALLEY. After checking out of the hotel, we drive on the highest motorable road in the world over the 18,380 ft Kardung La pass. The road descends from the pass down a spectacular gorge through the Kardung village and on down to the valley floor where we set up camp at the village of Khalsar.

DAY 5 : DRIVE TO DISKIT AND HUNDER . After breakfast we follow the Shyok River to beautiful village of Diskit, where we visit the stunningly perched, Diskit Monastery. We then drive further down the river to scenic village of Hunder, which is a far as tourists are allowed. In the afternoon we head up the Nubra River to Sumur and visit the Samtanling Gompa with its large children's school. We return to the camp at Khalsar where we meet our horseman.

DAY 6 : TREK TO HOTONG. The trek begins on a trail above the valley floor that descends to a small village located on a rushing stream that pours out of a side gorge. The trail then follows the valley floor through an incredible array of rocks and boulders. The steep mountains rising on either side of valley are magnificent with snow-capped peaks and rugged rock formations. We camp the first night at Hotong, next to a spring.

DAY 7 : TREK TO AKGAM . Upon leaving the camp at Hotong, we climb up the side of the canyon to escape the Shyok River which sweeps in right next to the canyon wall. We finally descend again to the valley floor and proceed to the vibrant green patch in the distance which is Akgam. We reach our camping spot in a meadow next to a clear rushing stream, early in the afternoon.

DAY 8 : TREK TO TANGYAR. The trail follows the stream up the narrow, green valley. As we gradually ascend in altitude, we reach lower village of Tangyar, about 2000 ft higher than Akgam. A gompa perched high on the side of the valley can be seen across the bright green fields of barley. We climb another 500 ft to fields above Tangyar, where the villagers spend the summer tending to the fields and their livestock. We camp in this upper broad meadow.

DAY 9 : TREK TO WARI LA BASE CAMP. We continue up this broad valley and soon leave the cultivated fields behind for the high mountain pastures of the Yak, sheep, and goats. Brightly colored lichen adorn the boulders and delicate wildflowers including eidleweiss dot the sparse vegetation growing in this alpine environment. We are surrounded by snow-capped peaks again as we gently make our way up to the base camp below the Wari La pass. Golden eagles can usually be seen soaring above the base camp.

DAY 10 : TREK TO SAKTI, DRIVE TO LEH. Spectacular views await at Wari La pass with the Karakorams to the north and the Zanskar range to the south. K2 can be seen on the far left of the Karakorams. The green fields of Sakti can be seen far down the valley to the south. We descend down this valley and meet our driver in the early afternoon for the ride back to Leh.

DAY 11 : AT LEISURE IN LEH. A chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 12 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 13 : RELAX IN DELHI. Late night transfer to International Airport.

DAY 14 : FLY HOME.

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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NUBRA VALLEY VIA DIGGAR LA

Style : Camping
Grade : Strenuous
Best time : June to October

This border area was first opened to outsiders in 1994. Fertile green villages are found along the Nubra and Shyok rivers which flow in the wide valley floor formed by the Karakoram Mountains to the north and the Ladakh Range to the south. This valley was on a major branch of the silk route between Leh and Yarkend, and a small herd of camels that descended from the caravans can still be found in the valley near Hunder. This trek begins from Sabo via the valley floor and then slowly climbs up a Diggar la pass La Pass (about 5300/ 17,490 ft) in the Ladakh Range before descending to Tangyar and Agam.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 : DRIVE TO SABU (3400m/11,155ft), TREK TO SABU ZONG (3,830m/12,565ft). 3 to 4 hours trekking. It is only a short drive (7 kms) to Sabu situated at the foot of Sabu mountain (14,749ft/4,496m). From this pretty and prosperous village you start trekking north on the road through the extended village, following the Sabu River, to the camp site at the end of a dirt track. Camp.

DAY 2 : TREK TO PULU BEFORE THE DIGGAR LA (4,770m/15,649ft) 5-6 hrs.
Above the village you follow a well-marked trail up a sharp valley with a tumbling stream on the right. Sabu Mountain in on the left. Granite mountains, burnt grey or brown, are on either side of you. You may well see Dzos grazing in the valley and see other cattle, donkeys and marmots. There are one or two stone shelters on the way and again you may meet local people who are often up here collecting dried yak dung for their fires in the village. Eventually, you reach a large area of undulating meadows where there is a good choice of camp sites. Behind you, there are wonderful views across the Indus Valley of the Zanskar Mountains, with Stok Kangri (6,121m/20,082ft) dominating the scene. The camp area is about as close as practicable before the ascent of the pass. Camp.

DAY3 : DIGGAR LA (5,250m/17,230ft) TO DIGGAR LARTSA (4,665m/15, 305ft). 6hrs. Follow the stream to the east, skirt a large moraine and begin climbing; the La summit can be seen from here. The ascent is a series of zig zags up a steep rise to the pass which is adorned with prayer flags and the views are breathtaking (that is if you have any breath left at all!). The mountains you can see to the north are the Saser range of the eastern Karakoram, which contain Ladakh's highest peak Saser Kangri, 25,165ft/7,670m. Do not expect to see K2 from here – it lies further to the northwest. However behind you there are also fabulous views of the Zanskar range. Moorcroft describes the ascent as being no less than 1,200ft/366m from the foot of the climb. It is about 2 to 3 hours to the pass, and the same down from the Pass to Diggar Lartsa. Heading north from the pass you descend into the valley, joining a small stream which flows all the way to Diggar village. After descending a short steep slope below some ruins cross to the left bank. The route crosses a beautiful small plateau where the stream forms slow moving pools. At the end of the plateau there is a camping place. There are more further down but they get fewer the closer you get to Diggar. Camp.

DAY 4 : TREK TO DIGGAR VILLAGE. (3,855m/12,647ft). 3-4 hrs. As you near Diggar, which can be seen as a green patch in the distance, the path drops steeply to a collection of chortens and prayer flags and passes an impressive granite peak on the left. The stream disappears into a deep gorge on your right and flows far below the village. The marmots here are more easily spotted and you may well see Lammergeyers. At the village there is an interesting temple built onto a huge boulder and old monastery above, which is currently being extended. House owners on the opposite side of the valley seem to be fighting a losing a battle against the river as every year it erodes their fields more and more. You may be invited into the camp owner's house to partake in a drink of the local brew. From the mani wall to the north west of the village you have tremendous views of the vast plain of the Shyok river and the eastern Karakoram. Camp at the far end of the village.

DAY 5 : TEK TO KHEMA ( 4400m/ 14520ft) 5 hs. We leave Diggar village up in the valley to Khema, passing a few Doksa fom Digga village. In the high pasture the path is well defined and the walk is interesting as we might see a some wild life . Khema is small village. Camp

DAY 6 : TREK TO TANGYAR (4000m/13200ft). 5-6hs. Today we go over the small pass of Kirtila 4800mt . We follow the valley up in the morning through the zig zag to the Kirtila pass. From the top you will have beautiful view of Khalsar and the Nubra valley. From the top we descend to Tanga Doksa then continue to Tangyar village. Camp

DAY 7 : TREK TO AGHAM - DIVE TO DISKIT (3,340m/11,022ft) 3-4 hrs.
Leaving the beautiful village of Tangyar behind, you contour around the mountain side to the left for about an hour. Then you come to above a huge, flat plain and cross it (altitude 3,700m/12,139ft). After skirting some granite bluffs, you enter a narrow, twisting defile leading down to the bottom of the main river valley. This descent takes about 45 minutes. The defile itself is fascinating geology with compacted strata of varied coloured sands. Then it is out onto the valley floor and about an hour on the flat to Agham. On your right are cliffs of conglomerate, and Agham itself is a veritable jungle of bushes and trees. There are a number of different camp sites here set amongst tamarisk trees. The new road goes past here. This a short day's trek, but in the afternoon you could walk up the road to a new bridge which takes half an hour, and then another half hour brings you to a rather nice traditional Ladakhi house on the right hand side. We meet the transport and dive to Diskit camp or Guest House.

DAY 8 : DESKIT MONASTERY FESTIVAL . Today we witness the festival if the timing of the trek corresponds to the festival date. This is a wonderfully relaxing day where you will visit arguably the most beautiful monastery in Nubra Valley at Deskit.

The monastery was founded and built around 1420 AD by Lama Shesrab Zangpo of Stod (the chief disciple of Tsong Kha-Pa, the founder of the 'yellow hat' sect of Tibetan Buddhism) during the reign of King Dragspa. Approximately 100 monks live in the Gompa. The little town at Deskit at the foot is the largest village and is the administrative centre of Nubra, complete with a bazaar and shops. Presently, there is a huge outdoor statue of the Buddha being constructed on a protruding bluff above the town. Incidentally, on the way to Deskit, you pass the famous sand dunes of Nubra and if any of you are interested, then it may be possible to arrange a Bactrian camel safari. In any event, continuing onwards you drive to Hundar which has a palace, deserted 50 years ago, and now belonging to the monastery. It was originally three stories, but ever since a flood filled up the bottom floor with silt 100 years ago, it is only now two stories. Hundar is a pretty village full of religious and historical sites including the palace and monastery and a huge Chorten arch with fine paintings in the dome. Inside the temple, the desiccated hands and head of a Tibetan soldier from an invading army of the past are kept in the chapel of the protector deities. Remember to ask the monks who may tell you the legend surrounding them. Overnight camp at Hundar.

DAY 9 : DRIVE TO TIRIT, AFTERNOON VISIT SAMSTANLING . This is a beautiful short drive of less then two hours that starts to give you an idea of the scale and beauty of the Nubra Valley. The road at times is cut out of cliff faces, and on the way, you will meet the road coming down from the Khardung La. Thereafter, you drive over the Shyok to Tirit. Our Ladakhi partner's family has a small "palace" here, set in huge gardens and orchards. They have 25 large family-sized tents with separate showers and toilet block. There is a very nice dining room attached to the main building. After lunch, visit Samstanling Monastery, passing on the way the abandoned Royal Palace. The monastery was founded by "Lama Tsultim Nima", some 140 years ago, and is the sister Gompa of Rizong Monastery. The "Kushok" (reincarnate spiritual leader), whose title is Shas Rinpoche, is a very close adviser on scholarly matters to the Dalai Lama and is often found in meditation retreat at Samstangling. At present 60 monks reside in this gompa nestled among apricot orchards. After this visit, drive up the Nubra Valley from Sumur for 22 kms to Panamik. This is the beginning of the Restricted Area; the military base for the Siachen Glacier is 50 kms further up the valley to which you will see supply convoys being driven. Often, if you are lucky and have keen eyes, you can spot herds of blue sheep not far from the road and there are an unending number of interesting road signs. In Panamik, we hope to arrange for you to visit a house in the village. Return to overnight at the tented camp .

DAY 10 : Dive to Leh . We drive on the highest motorable road in the world over the (5569m/18,380 ft) Kardung La pass. The road descends from the pass down a spectacular gorge to Leh.

Land Cost: On Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

MYSTERIES TREK IN LADAKH

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-October
Duration: 17 Days
On Trek: 9 Days
Grade: Strenuous/ Vigorous

INTRODUCTION

The Mysteries Trek is a wonderful high altitude trek (3939m/13,000 to 5454m/ 18,000 feet) that crosses several mountain passes. It offers gorgeous views of the Ladakh and Zanskar Ranges before descending to Tsokar Lake. We then cross the "Changtang" of the Rupshu plateau where nomads move from place to place with their yaks and cattle in search of pasture. We then venture to the shores of the exquisitely beautiful Tsomoriri Lake. Here we will visit nomad camps and view bar-headed geese, brahminy ducks, and rare, black-necked cranes.

The itinerary also allows us to visit some of the centuries old Buddhist monasteries while acclimatizing in preparation for the trek.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 : ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you transfer to the hotel.

DAY 2 : FLY TO LEH. You will have an early morning transfer to the domestic airport for the flight up to Leh. This surely is one of the most sensational scheduled flights in the world, taking you right over the top of the Greater Himalaya before dropping down in a series of steep turns, to land at the small military airport at Leh. Flight time is about 1 hour. You will be met on arrival and driven through Leh to check into your Hotel. Leh is at an altitude of 11,500 ft and therefore we recommend that the rest of the day is spent resting to help adjust to the altitude.

DAY 4 : PHYANG SIGHT SEEING. The Phyang Gompa has 50 lamas and seven 'novices' of the red-cap sect and possesses five chapels. The monastery is interesting for its museum containing some old Chinese, Tibetan, Mongolian and possibly Saracen weapons and armour. The museum room itself is said to be nearly 900 hundred years old. The monastery has had several recent renovations, including the addition of a large house for the head lama and a new entrance hall with a large prayer wheel. The 650 year old Dukhany Temple was renovated in the late '70's. Return to Leh hotel.

DAY 5 : DRIVE TO MIRO, TREK TO CHUMIK CHANMO. (4242m/ 14,000 ft) After breakfast we drive to up the Indus River valley and cross the bridge at Upshi. We follow the Manali highway until we reach the village of Miro. Here is where we begin the trek by crossing the bridge and following the river for a short distance before turning up the right hand side of the valley. We follow the stream up the valley, ascending gradually up to Kortsangla pass at 16,700 ft. We trek for about 5 hours this first day.

DAY 6 : TREK TO KYAMER. (4545m/15,000 ft) 5.5 hrs. This day will be very easy and exciting. We might see ibex, deer, marmot, and especially Edelweiss.

DAY 7 : TREK TO MANDALCHAN VIA KYMARLA. (5109m/16,860 ft). 5 hrs. This day will be a bit more difficult. It will take 4 hours to get to the pass, but the spectacular panorama of the Great Ladakh and Zanskar Ranges make it very worthwhile. From the pass we descend a steep trail to Mandalchan. There is a nice camp before crossing the river.

DAY 8 : TREK TO PANGUNAGU. (4818m/15,900 ft). 7 hrs. We cross the stream in the morning and gradually ascend to Mandalchanla pass (17,200 ft). We descend to a valley where we eat lunch by the stream. We then leave the stream and go up the right slope of the valley to a small pass at about 16,400 ft. After several more passes, we cross the last pass, Thatangla (17,000 ft) and descend to camp. On this day it might be possible to see wild donkeys, sheep, goats, rabbits, and lots of marmots. You will also see beautiful flowers including Eidelweiss at the camp. The varied geological forms are amazing and the colors of the mountains are truly breath-taking.

DAY 9 : TREK TO NURUCHAN. (4787m/15,800 ft). 8 hrs. This is one of the longest days of the trek. After 3 hours you will see some springs near a road. At Nuruchan there are several possibilities for camping, but the best campsite is after the village. You will see many herds of yak.

DAY 10 : TREK TO KY-MA SHALMA. (5303m/17,500 ft). 6 hrs. From the beginning of this part of the trek we ascend towards the small pass Zangbula at 17,000 ft. Then we proceed down into a valley where we can visit some nomads. They are likely to offer us some Yak cheese. These people come from Sumda. We then hike along the beautiful stream ascending toward Ka-yourula pass at 18,000 ft. After the pass we descend to camp.

DAY 11 : TREK TO KORZOK DOG. (4636m/15,300 ft). 9 hrs. (approximately 15 miles). We cross the river in the early morning near the nomad's camp. Then we go up to the Kamapanela pass at 17,700 ft. We then descend to a valley where there are more nomads. We gradually ascend along a river to Gogmo chy la pass at 18,000 ft. Here we have a beautiful view of Tsomoriri lake. We go down to Korzok Dog and camp.

DAY 12 : TREK TO KORZOK VILLAGE. (4381m/14,460 ft). 2hrs. We visit another nomad camp in the morning. These are true Changtang Nomads. We then follow the stream until we reach the village of Korzok.

DAY 13 : DRIVE TO LEH. Our vehicles meet us at Korzok and drive us down to the Indus River Valley and back to Leh, where we check into the hotel.

DAY 14 : RELAX IN LEH. We will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 15 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 16 : RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.

DAY 17 : FLY HOME

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Whilst every effort is made to keep to the above itinerary, clients will hopefully appreciate that this is Adventure Travel in a remote mountain region. There will quite likely be changes to the itinerary in terms of anything from on-the-spot choice of campsite . Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns, The guide will do everything in his power to see that you are inconvenienced as little as possible in such circumstances.

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KHARNAK NOMAD

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-October
Duration: 17 Days
On Trek: 9 Days
Grade: Strenuous/ Vigorous

INTRODUCTION

The Kharnak Nomad Trek is a wonderful, high altitude trek that crosses a few of the mountain passes offering spectacular views of the Ladakh and Zanskar Ranges. It begins from Shang proceeding to the Nimaling high pasture land to Zalung karpo la to Tsokar Lake. We then cross the "Changtang” plateau where nomads move from place to place with their yaks in search of pasture. Here we will visit nomad camps and the puga valley where we might be able to view bar-headed geese, brahminy ducks, and rare, black-necked cranes.

The itinerary allows for us to visit couple of nomad camps and get an impression of Markha valley and Kangyatse (6420m/21186ft) as well as the Puga valley ( sulfurs and borax) and Sumdo, a Tibetan settlement .

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 4 : SIGHTSEEING OF ALCHI MONASTERY. We drive to Alchi to see the most beautiful murals and paintings in Ladakh. Alchi was built in the 11th century by Lotsava Rinchen Zangpo. Drive back to Leh and prepare for trekking the next day.

DAY 5 : SHANG SUMDHO TO CHUSKYURMO (4070 m/ 13431 ft) 3-4 hrs. This will be a day of climbing up a beautiful gorge, tiresome but stunning. Keep your eyes peeled for snow leopards at all times! After 3-4 hours, you will arrive at Chuskyurmo, whose waters are reputed to have medicinal qualities.

DAY 6 : CHUSKYURMO TO NIMALING (4720 m/ 15576 ft) via Kongmaru la 5220 mt 17226 ft . 5-6 hrs From Chuskyurmo upwards, the valley opens and you have a great opportunity for viewing blue sheep (Ladakhi: napo), one of several species of wild goat living in the mountains of Ladakh. From Kongmaru la there is a fabulous view of Nimaling You will see the stone huts of villagers from Markha, who inhabit this pasture land several months of the year. *In case of extreme cold, it is advised not to camp at Nimaling, but to continue down the valley towards Thatchuntse.

DAY 7 : NIMALING TO YAKRUPAL (4600 m/15180 ft) 6-7 hrs. This day presents the challenge of up and down walking above 4500 meters. You cross first one, then a second pass from which you have a fabulous view into Zanskar. Don’t forget to look for wolves! During the afternoon, you will first drop deeply down to the Langtang Chu, then gradually stroll up the valley towards your grassy campsite at Yakrupal.

DAY 8 : YAKRUPAL TO TSOKRA (4060m/ 13398 ft) 6-7 hrs. This morning, you will climb up up up, finally reaching the fabulous Zalungkarpo La after several hours. After a short break (bring prayer flags!) on the pass, you will descend into the wilderness of Kharnak, finally camping at Tsokra. Your horses will be happy with the abundant grass, and you will have the opportunity to see both ancient ruins and one of the most beautiful cliff faces in Ladakh.

DAY 9 : TSOKRA TO DAT (4200m /13860ft) 5-6 hrs. Today’s walk is one of the most beautiful on the trek, and there is no climbing –– so you can really enjoy it! Your path will wind through willow groves and around rivers that flow into Zanskar. Check for snow leopard prints on the sandy banks! You will camp in Dat, the winter site for the Kharnak nomads. If time permits, pay a visit to the gompa before dinner.

DAY 10 : DAT TO LUNGMOCHE (4550 m/15015 ft) via Yar La (4950 m/ 16335 ft )5 hrs. This morning, you will walk on flat ground for several hours, appreciating the vastness of the fairly bleak Dat valley. Towards lunchtime, you will take a turn at a natural spring, and begin your approach to the Yar La. From this pass, you will see a great change in landscape. You are now arriving in the Changthang plains. A one-hour descent from the pass will bring you to Lungmoche, a windy but beautiful campsite.

DAY 11 : LUNGMOCHE TO ZARA (4390 m/14487 ft) via the nomad settlement at Yagang. (5-6 hours) Today’s walking is fairly gentle, and after several hours you should reach the nomad headquarters of the Kharnak people at Yagang. Here you can interact with the nomads and enjoy some lunch. Several more hours of walking will bring you to the settlement of the Rupshu nomads at Zara, where you will spend the night.

DAY 12 : ZARA TO PANGUNAGU (4430 m/13290 ft) 2-3 hours. Leaving the nomad camp after breakfast, you should arrive on the Manali road after just an hour’s walk. From here, an opening into the Tsokar basin lies in front of you, and it is a short 2 hour walk to your camp at Pangunagu. For the rest of the day, you can explore the TsoKar basin -> an afternoon walk to the shore of the lake (45 min) should be considered a must.

DAY 13 : REST DAY AND CLEAN UP THE CAMPING SITE. Afternoon The taxi will meet you and drive to Leh via Tanglang la the second highest road in the world.

DAY 14 : RELAX IN LEH. You will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 15 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 16 : RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.

DAY 17 : FLY HOME

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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ZANSKAR, THE LAND BEYOND

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: May-October
Duration: 19 Days
On Trek: 9 Days
Grade: Strenuous/ Vigorous

INTRODUCTION

This trek is an epic journey through some of the most remote and spectacular areas of Ladakh and Zanskar. It is a treat for both newcomers to the Indian Himalaya and veteran trekkers alike. The trek combines the best of the Himalayas - the classic villages and fascinating culture of central Zanskar with the vivid history and colorful, living gompas (monasteries) of Ladakh.

Note that the trekking itinerary and campsites may vary slightly depending on trail and weather conditions and the various trekkers' acclimatization rate.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 1 : ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and help you Transfer to the hotel.

DAY 4 : DRIVE TO WANLA VIA ALCHI MONASTEREY 5to6 hours
The monastery of Alchi is the one of the oldest in ladakh and has a magnificent mural built by lama Rinchen zangpo. Camp and overnight in wanla.

DAY 5 : WANLA TO HANUPATA, 6 to 7 hours
After crossing the bridge of wanla river we follow on its right side the rough vehicle road until we reach hinju, ursi and then phanjila. Then, we cross the river over a small bridge. After that, we turn west up the spang nala and continue on the gently rising trail to the large village of hanupata with its gompa. River camp and overnight in hanupata.

DAY 6 : HANUPATA TO PHOTOKSAR OVER SIRSIR LA (7 to 8 hours)
The trail follows the spang nala and then up its narrow valley. As you reach the top of sirsir la (4 800 metres) you will have a nice view to the singge la and zanskar mountains. The descent is steep at first, then more gently to photang river. We follow it downstream until photoksar village after having crossed the river. This is a beautiful camp and we overnight in photoksar.

DAY 7 : PHOTOKSAR TO YULCHUNG-NERAG (7 to 8 hours)
Today we will climb two passes, the bumiktse la ( 4 200 metres) and after that the highest pass of this trek, the singge la ( 5 000 metres), both easy climbs. On top of the latter we have a fantastic view to the zanskar mountains! There is a steep descent to our next camp and we will overnight above the village of yulchung-nerag.

DAY 8 : YULCHUNG-NERAG TO LINGSHED TO HANUMA LA (7 to 8hours)
We first cross the small kiupa la (3 900 m) and descend steeply to the villages of skiumpata and gongma. From here we have to cross another pass, the murgum la (4 100 metres) before we easily reach lingshed, the largest village in the trans singge la region. We will visit the monastery that belongs to the gelukpa school of buddhism. We camp and overnight near lingshed gompa.

DAY 9 : BASE HANUMA LA TO ZINGCHAN OMA CHU (6 to 7 hours)
On top of hanuma la (4 700 metres) we can see lingshed and its monastery very clear. We trek easily down and follow a narrow valley to reach snertse, continuing the steep and difficult trail to zingchan near the oma chu river and cross the bridge. Here we are in the zanskar region. We camp and overnight at the bridge of zingchan oma chu.

DAY 10 : ZINGCHAN OMA CHU TO HANUMIL (6 to 7 hours)
We start with a steep climb to parfi la (3 900 metres). On its edge you will find chortens and prayer flags. A steep descent will bring us toward the raging zanskar river. From here the trail is easy walking to the attractive village of hanumil. We camp and overnight in hanumil.

DAY 11 : HANUMIL TO PISHU (5 to 6 hours) Today we do not have to cross any passes! We follow the zanskar river on the right side and arrive, after only two hours, in pidmo village. Here we cross the bridge and walk toward pishu. This is a nice camp and we overnight in pishu.

DAY 12 : PISHU TO KHARSHA (5 to 6 hours)
We first make a little detour before discovering the longest hanging bridge, which spans the 55 metres over the zanskar river and leads us to zangla. We pass rinam village and continue on very dusty river banks. Here it is often very hot! Yet, the first sight of the largest monastery of zanskar valley soon will come into view. The camping site is situated just below the willow garden of karsha monastery which we will visit in the afternoon. We camp and overnight in karsha.

DAY 13 : KHARSHA TO PADUM (3 to 4 hours)
After the crossing of the stod (or doda) river, we head toward pibiting and finally reach padum. In the afternoon, we will visit of the small market. We camp and overnight in padum.

DAY 14 : PADUM –KARGIL DRIVE .

DAY 15 : KARGIL –LEH:

DAY 16 : RELAX IN LEH. We will have a chance to relax in the relative luxury of Leh, and do any last sightseeing and exploring. There will no doubt be a chance to have a final celebration with your guide and crew before the flight tomorrow. In the summer there are often polo matches on a Sunday. Overnight in the hotel.

DAY 17 : FLY TO DELHI. Our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

DAY 18 : RELAX IN DELHI. International flights usually leave after midnight, so sleep in and relax. Leave for the airport about 10 pm.

DAY 19 : FLY HOME

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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GORGES OF ZANSKAR & CHARCHA LA

Style of Trek: Camping
Best time: September-October
Duration: 31 Days
On Trek: 20 Days
Grade: Strenuous/Vigorous

INTRODUCTION

This is truly one of the finest long distance treks in all of the Himalaya. The prospect of undertaking this journey is at the same time daunting, exciting and challenging. For the explorer in you it is the stuff to make the adrenalin flow! It is definitely something you will remember for the rest of your life.

From the heat of Delhi we fly in a small aircraft to the cooler foothills of the Himalaya. We then drive up the Kulu valley to Manali, which is surrounded by pine forests, terraced fields and orchards of apple and orange trees. Hinduism is the predominant religion in the valley, although Tibetan refugees have built a fine Buddhist monastery in Manali.

After a rest and look round Manali and environs, we drive across the Rohtang Pass, made famous by early explorers. Descending on its northern side into Lahoul, the mountains surround us. At the village of Darcha we meet our trek staff, and the horses, before setting off on foot into the Himalaya. The hardest day is the crossing of the Shingo La (16,719ft) which is the snow-covered gateway to Zanskar.

The terrain immediately becomes dramatic and arid as we enter a vast land of Tibetan Buddhism. The white chortens, mani walls, ghost traps and prayer flags form part of the striking part of the cultural landscape. Western travelers never fail to be affected by it, especially when they meet the friendly local people in their traditional dress. The particularly memorable parts of this trek will be our visit to Phuctal Gompa, a lonely and spectacular monastery clinging to a rock face and our proposed meeting with the school teacher Punchok Dawa, the king of Padum.

Beyond Padum the country is more rugged. We cross several high passes, snow bridges, rivers and follow deep gorges. Villages are perched improbably on the edges of precipices, their green terraces of barley appearing as oases in this mountain desert.

After the trek we spend time relaxing in Leh, capital of Ladakh, before flying over the Himalaya back to Delhi.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

DAY 2 : ARRIVE IN DELHI. We will be met at Delhi airport early on Sunday morning, and transferred to Hotel. The day can be spent making any last minute preparations, shopping, or just relaxing by the pool. Should you want to do any sightseeing this can be arranged. Overnight at the Imperial Hotel.

DAY 3 : Fly to Bhuntar and transfer to Banons Resort Hotel.

DAY 4 : DAY AT LEISURE IN MANALI. There is plenty to do in Manali. Visit the large and thriving Tibetan Buddhist monastery, or highly recommended is a visit to the hot spring baths higher up the valley at Vashist. You can walk or take a taxi. Overnight at the Banons Resort Hotel.

DAY 5 : DRIVE TO JISPA. (10,826ft). Our journey is by private bus over the Rohtang Pass (14,500ft / 4000m) with views of snow peaks of the Himalaya in every direction. The Rohtang was the first major pass to be crossed by early western explorers and its colourful history is well told in John Keay's excellent book 'Where Men and Mountains Meet'. We descend to the Chandra Valley and follow it downstream, to its confluence with the Bhaga valley pausing for a picnic lunch just before Keylong. We camp at Jispar, which is about four miles south of Darcha in the Bhaga valley. Ahead the road continues up north east, up the Bhaga Valley and over the Baralacha La (4891m/16,046ft) and on across the Zanskar Range eventually to Leh. However our trek route starts at Sarchu which is tomorrow’s destination.

DAY 6 : DRIVE TO SARCHU. Our journey continues on the Manali-Leh highway and today we will start to see a big changes in the landscape as we move into the rain shadow north of the main Himalayan chain. After about an hour we will reach the settlement of Darcha, which basically consists of an army checkpoint and a small collection of tea huts and shops. This was originally the place where groups used to camp before starting to trek up the Barai Nala to Shingo La and into the Zanskar valley. In 1995, after an unusually heavy monsoon, the Barai river changed its course and flooded the campsite and now groups camp at Jispa. After some minor checkpoint formalities we continue on our way up to Patseo where there is an army camp. We then start the long ascent of the Baralacha La (4883m) which cuts the main Himalayan chain. If the weather is with us, we should see fine views of the surrounding mountains and the plains around Sarchu. After a long descent, we reach Sarchu where we will camp for the night.

DAY 7 : BEGIN TREK (6hrs). Today we start trekking and we leave Sarchu following the Lingti Chu valley. This day will be spent walking through mainly pasture land as the trail follows the river slowly upwards. The trail follows the mountain side for a while until the ground widens into a high desert valley. The valley then narrows at Chumikmarpo and the approach to the Phirtse La. Camp overnight.

DAY 8 : TREK TO RIVER CAMP. We continue up the valley crossing two canyons and experiencing our first river crossing before climbing to a wide plateau. As the valley narrows further, we pass a collection of Gaddi shepherd huts and tumble-down prayer walls built from mani stones. We then climb steeply to cross a small pass before descending to camp near the river.

DAY 9 : TREK TO BASE OF PHIRTSE LA. As we head up the valley further we begin to feel more and more isolated as the gorge narrows further and the thinning of the air makes this day a relatively strenuous one. Camp at the base of the Phirtse La.

DAY 10 : CROSS PHIRTSE LA (17,876ft - 8hrs). This is a tough day, but one that is rewarded with the fine views from the top of the pass. The trail, which is not very well defined, passes through a meadow from where it pushes on to the top of the Phirtse La. The path is steep in some areas and crosses a number of scree slopes before it finally reaches the top, after 4 to 5 hours. It all feels worth it as you stand at the top looking east towards the spectacular mountains of Changtang and northwest towards the Zanskar valley. If everyone is feeling fit we will probably have lunch at the top and then tackle the steep but short descent to the river. From here we will trek a little way down the valley before reaching our campsite for the night.

DAY 11 : TREK TO ZINGCHEN (14,664ft). We quickly leave the river a climb a small pass where we see fine views of the Zanskar valley spreading out ahead of us. It is from this pass that we get our first views of the massive granite mountain of Gumburonjon. We then descend and finally reach our campsite at Zingchen, a small grassy meadow.

DAY 12 : TREK TO PURNE. (12,300ft). Today is the day we finally meet the main Zanskar valley and other trekkers who have taken the more popular trail into the Zanskar valley over the Shingo La. We descend steeply for approximately 500m through a gorge before joining the main valley at a bridge crossing the Kargyak River a short way from the village of Kuru. We then follow the main trail down through the villages of Tabla and Testa before a steep descent takes us to a further bridge that we cross to get to our campsite at Purne. Camp overnight.

DAY 13 : VISIT PHUKTAL GOMPA. This is half a day's diversion leaving the camp standing at Purne. We walk up a very deep and impressive gorge with a fast flowing river to this remarkable and remote monastery. The 500-year-old Gompa is built literally on the side of a cliff. Here we can visit the inner temples and see a stone tablet left by the Hungarian, Alexander Csoma de Koros, one of the first explorers in Tibet, 1826-27. We then return to Purne where we can relax with a beer and exchange stories with other trekkers. Overnight camp.

DAY 14 : TREK TO RERU. (12,073ft). The valley deepens and takes on the proportions of a gorge. We pass some small hamlets: Cha, Kaydang (with a small tea shop) and on to Hamuni. We then continue past the village of Surle and on towards Ichar where we cross the river on a new strong metal bridge. This is in marked contrast to the two small bridges made entirely from woven birch twigs which we will have passed earlier that day. The fortified village of Ichar is about 30 minutes walk away and is well worth a visit, as it is perhaps the most beautiful of the villages on the way to Padum, the capital township. We then walk through more magnificent, gorge scenery and with further small monasteries to visit. We camp by a small lake behind Reru village. In the past, unwary campers have been surprised by the lake being filled during the night to allow for irrigation of the fields the next day. The locals are very amused when campers wake to find their tent under water!!

DAY 15 : RERU TO PADUM. (11,483ft). Before reaching Shila, which is marked by a high waterfall, we pass Mune Gompa and come to Bardan Gompa, an impressive monastery sitting on top of a rocky outcrop in the middle of the gorge. The building was erected in the early sixteen hundreds on the orders of Nawang Namgyal, the first ruler of Bhutan, who was given various lands in Ladakh to further his Drukpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, by the ruler of Ladakh at that time. The valley which we have walked down for the past six days now opens out into the much wider Lunak Valley and we reach Padum, the capital of Zanskar. Camp overnight.

DAY 16 : AT LEISURE IN PADUM. Today there is a chance to relax and celebrate the completion of the first part of the trek. Padum may be the kingdom’s capital, but it has only about a hundred houses built on a barren rock-covered hill, on which a fort once stood, with newer houses in the surrounding fields. Unlike most other Zanskaris who are nearly all Buddhists, its inhabitants include a large number of Indo-Aryans, who are followers of the Sunnite Muslim sect. We may well be able to arrange an introduction to Phunshok Dawa, Gyalpo ("Precious Ruler") of Padum. Phunshok's ancestors collected taxes and had a quasi-judicial role dealing with any disputes or family problems for the villages around Padum. Nowadays the present holder of the title of 'Gyalpo' is the local school teacher. He speaks good English and his stories of times past and explanations of Zanskari culture are of great interest. Camp overnight.

DAY 17 : DRIVE TO ZANGLA. After the tourist ban in the Summer of 1995 the Indian government agreed to pump extra money in Zanskar. One of the results is that there is now a jeep track which runs from Padum to Zangla and beyond. Like it or loath it jeep tracks will continue to be developed in the region and today we make full use of this one. We will set off from Padum early in the morning to try and get most of the driving done before the temperature gets too ferocious. The journey will be quite slow as the track is rough and the jeeps available in Padum are not reliable as those found in other parts of India! We should get to Zangla in the early afternoon and that should give some time to look round the village and to walk up to the old palace which was once the seat of the throne in Zanskar. The descendant of the other one-time ruler of Zanskar, Mr Nimu, still lives here, and we may be able to meet him. Camp overnight.

DAY 18 : TREK TO BASE OF CHARCHA LA. Today we trek north-east, following the course of the Zumling River upwards to the Charcha La. You’ll become well-used to the variety of Zanskari bridges as you are likely to cross the river 20 times during the day.

DAY 19 : CROSS CHARCHA LA TO TOM TOKH. From below the pass, it takes about four hours to ascend to the crossing at nearly 5,000m, marked by a chorten. Descending from the pass, we follow a narrow gorge, crossing a shallow stream several times, sometimes on ice bridges and avalanche debris. At one point the gorge is less than two meters wide for about 50 meters. This can be difficult if the water level in the stream is high. We camp tonight below the pass at Tom Tokh Sumdo.

DAYS 20 & 21 : TREK TO TILTA SUMDO. Our route over the next few days follows a very rough, rocky and unstable trail with many river crossings - 20 to 30 in all - before we reach Tilta Sumdo, where the Khurna Cho flows in to form a major confluence and join the Zanskar River further to the north. The walk is much more dificult if the river is high or if there have been many recent rockfalls. Camp overnight.

DAY 22 : TREK TO BASE OF RUBERUNG LA. Today we have another hard day’s walk, with further river crossings to be made. Camp overnight.

DAY 23 : CROSS RUBERUNG LA, TREK TO MARKHA VILLAGE. The ascent to cross the Ruberung La is up a narrow gorge with numerous other gorges joining it. It would be easy to take the wrong trail without a guide. The top of the pass at 4,900m is reached after about three hours. From the top of the pass the path is quite clear and descends to a stream, which you follow for four or five hours down to the Markha River and our campsite just before Markha Village. Camp overnight.

DAY 24 : TREK TO NIMALING (4-5hrs). We are now back on the beaten track and are following part of the popular Markha Valley trail. This will come as a welcome change to the rigors of the last few days. We follow the trail passed many teahouses that have sprung up until we reach the settlement of Nimaling. The village is set in a large flat bottomed valley and has a semi-permanent population of herders that bring their animals to this meadow for summer grazing.

DAY 25 : CROSS LALUNG LA, TREK TO GYA PHU. Almost as soon as we join the main Markha Valley trail, we leave it again to trek up the Lalunga La (17,000ft). We are taking this alternative route as the main trail leads to the campsite at Shang which over the years has become very popular and as a result extremely dirty. From the top of the Lalunga La fine views of the Karakorum mountain range are afforded. After a gradual descent we reach Gay Phu where we camp for the night.

DAY 26 : TREK TO LATO, DRIVE TO LEH. The final walk is an easy one and a good time to ponder over the hard days you have left behind. We continue to walk through pasture land and meadows to the village of Lato where vehicles will be waiting for us to take us to Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Overnight at Kang Lhha Chen Hotel.

DAY 27 : AT LEISURE IN LEH. There is time to buy postcards and do some souvenir hunting in the narrow back streets or crowded bazaars. You will also have a chance to visit the deserted Royal Palace. Ladakh was at one time a powerful Himalayan kingdom in its own right and Leh, its capital, is a tremendous medieval town. Besides the Royal Palace the town is a hive of trading activity and crowded with people in Ladakhi national dress. Here too are many Tibetan refugees and a taxi ride to visit their enclave is well worth it. Overnight at Kang Lhha Chen Hotel.

DAY 28 : FLY TO DELHI. This is one of the most remarkable flights to be taken in India in that it crosses the Greater Himalayan range. On one side of the aeroplane can be seen in the distance the peaks of K2, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum and on the other side of the aeroplane, so close that you feel you could reach out and touch it, is the Nun Kun massif. Upon arriving in Delhi we transfer to the Imperial Hotel.

DAY 30 : AT LEISURE IN DELHI. You have a full day in Dehli for relaxing, last minute shopping and any sightseeing you would like us to arrange. A day room will be kept at the hotel from midday onwards. Transfer to the airport in the evening for the early morning flight on Monday.

DAY 31 : FLY TO HOME

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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RAFTING ON THE THE ZANSKAR RIVER

Total: 15 days
Rafting: 8 days on paddle boat option)
Grade: (Class II/III rapids—one Class IV)
Camping : 8 nights camping, 6 nights hotels

THE ZANSKAR RIVER

The Zanskar River journey will thrill you with fine whitewater, awe you with dazzling scenery, and immerse you in the entrancing Buddhist culture. Our adventure covers most of western Ladakh, with its ancient monasteries, palaces, and villages, using four-wheel-drive vehicles and our feet, but mostly our rafts. From the plains of Delhi to the heights of the Zanskar Mountains, from remote Buddhist lamaseries tucked away in cliffs rising sheer above the spirited river to the wonders of the old trading post of Leh, you’ll enjoy a multi-faceted display of the attractions that gave rise to the myth of Shangri-La.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY

This trip begins with a rendezvous at the airport in Delhi, India, on Day 1. We recommend a morning or mid-day arrival to allow time to rest from the flight and see a little of Delhi. Even better, extend your stay by arriving early to explore Delhi’s many attractions or Agra’s Taj Mahal.

DAY 1 : ARRIVE DELHI: Our Local representative will greet you at the international airport and take you to your hotel.

DAY 2 : FLY TO LEH. You will have an early morning transfer to the domestic airport for the flight up to Leh. This surely is one of the most sensational flights in the world, taking you right over the top of the Greater Himalaya before dropping down in a series of steep turns, to land at the small military airport at Leh. The flight time is about 1 hour. You will be met on arrival and driven through Leh to check into your Hotel. Leh is at an altitude of 11,500 ft and therefore we recommend that the rest of the day is spent resting to help adjust to the altitude.

DAY 3 : LEH – KARGIL
Today we drive for about six hours to Kargil, passing through a spectacular moonscape. We drive over the Fotu La (4242m/14,000ft), a high mountain pass, and exit the Indus valley to enter the Suru valley. En route, we visit Lamayuru monastery, a major landmark on the old silk route. Legend has it that a lake behind the monastery, which was drained by the sage Naropa so the monastery could be built, once filled Lamayuru village. Spectacularly set on the mountainside, the 10th-century monastery belongs to the old Tibetan Drikung Kargyu Schools. We’ll also stop at Mulbek Mytra Gonpa, which was founded in 2nd century and is carved on a rock face . We will overnight in Kargil B,L,D...D’Zozila Hotel

DAY 4 : KARGIL – RANGDUM
Today we’ll take a spectacular 6- to 8-hour drive past the villages of Panikar and Parkachik, with magnificent views of the 7,100-meter 23430 feet Nun and Kun massifs, hanging glaciers, and large meadows. Our destination is Rangdum Gompa (3636m/12,000ft), founded in the early 16th century and currently home to about 40 monks. Rangdum has a small “museum” with fine artifacts. It is perched picturesquely atop a centrally rising hillock within the arms of a bifurcated mountain stream. We’ll camp nearby. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 5 : RANGDUM – REMALA
We drive six hours further to Remala (11,926'), the starting point for the rafting trip on the Doda River, a tributary of the Zanskar. Our drive takes us over the Pensi La (14,500'), which affords us grand views of the Zanskar peaks and the Drong Durong glacier that feeds the Zanskar River 25 miles
below, into which we venture the next day. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 6 : REMALA – KARSHA (11,470')
The rafting expedition begins today! After a safety and orientation session, we put in on the Doda River and raft to Karsha Gompa, near Padum, a journey of about 18 miles (five hours). We ease into the rhythm of the river with gentle Class II rapids, a good introduction for first-timers. And the scenery is no less inviting—we’re surrounded by 19,000-foot-high peaks of startling beauty! After settling into camp in the afternoon, we take a hike to Karsha Gompa, a 15th-century monastery clinging to steep cliffs, and whose abbot is a brother of the Dalai Lama. Three chapels contain numerous statues and other art objects, among which is a set of exquisite silver and copper chortens. Of particular interest is a large temple accessible through a vent in the roof, where frescoes believed to be more than 300 years old adorn the damaged walls. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 7 : KARSHA – PIDMU
Following a leisurely morning start, we raft about 18 miles from Karsha to Pidmu (11,027'). The river begins to speed up, and we’ll enjoy more Class II rapids and some Class III. After settling into camp in mid-afternoon, we visit the nearby villages of Pidmu and Hanumil. The landscapes continue to be otherworldly, and the cultural interaction with villagers who rarely see outsiders is fascinating. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 8 : PDMU – NYERAK
After packing camp, we raft 12 miles to Nyerak (10,781') through a section of Class III whitewater and into the amazing depths of the breathtaking Zanskar gorge, a mini–Grand Canyon that never ceases to amaze. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 9 : NYERAK – LAMAGURU
Today’s 20-mile run takes us from Nyerak to Lamaguru (10,466')—a great day for whitewater with fairly continuous Class III rapids and even a Class IV section where the river squeezes through a narrow 15-foot gap. We stop for lunch near a waterfall at the confluence of the Markha and Zanskar Rivers. A landscape of colorful rock formations and deep gorges combine to make this one of the most scenic days on the river. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 10 : LAMAGURU
A layover day at this perfect campsite for a well deserved rest. There are optional hikes to Kaya and Skiu villages. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 11 : LAMAGURU – NIMO Twenty-five miles of thrilling Class III rapids brings us to the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers at Nimo. We camp just before the confluence. B,L,D...Camp

DAY 12 : NIMO – ALCHI – LEH
Our last day on the river! We raft for approximately 15 miles through Class III/IV rapids from Nimo to the take-out at Alchi. From Alchi we walk up to the treasure-filled 11th-century monastery to view the exquisite frescoes and wood carvings, and walk through its temples, towers, chortens, and gateways. Over 11 centuries old, profusely painted walls depict the events of the Buddha’s life, lamas, and musicians. Its murals, which date from the 11th and 12th centuries, pre-date the Tibetan style of painting present in all the other gompas. Some of them are reminiscent of the paintings in the far-off Ajanta caves and are presumed to be almost the sole survivors of Tabo in Spiti of the Buddhist style current in Kashmir during the first millennium A.D. We return to Leh for dinner and overnight. B,L,D...Spic ‘n Span Hotel or similar

DAY 13 : LEH
Today we’ll enjoy a sightseeing tour of some of the area’s magnificent monuments. Leh Gompa is situated above the Leh Palace and was built in 1430. It contains a 45-foot-high statue of the Buddha (which the Ladakhi call Chamba). According to the lamas, this splendid statue is the future Buddha, and a butter lamp burns day and night in front of it. The Stok Palace Museum is across the river from Leh, a one-hour drive away. The palace houses a museum of artifacts associated with the dynasty, and there is also a small gompa. The museum in the Stok Palace is a showcase of the royal thankas, and the collection of turquoise headdresses worn for the royal wedding is the most impressive in Ladakh. The small monastery at Shankar harbors accomplished modern tantric murals and a thousand-headed Avalokitesvara deity. It has innumerable collections of small gold statues and many interesting paintings. It is well lit and can be visited in the evening as well. B,L,D...Spic 'n Span Hotel or similar

DAY 14 : LEH – DELHI
Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi. In Delhi you will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to see the sights of Delhi on your own, or to join an optional city tour (the cost is $26). This tour begins with a visit to the Jama Mosque, built in 1650, followed by a drive past the breathtaking Red Fort (1639-48), built by Shah Jehan, creator of the Taj Mahal. Then we proceed on to Raj Ghat, the memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. In the afternoon, the tour continues with a drive past Safdarjang’s Tomb (1753) and a visit to the 236-foot-high Qutab Minar, the most perfect of towers of the Persian world. Within the Qutab complex, amidst the ruins of Quwat-ul-Islam mosque, stands the iron pillar that has stood the variances of weather and has not rusted in more than 1500 years. The drive through New Delhi includes the Embassy area (Diplomatic enclave), Government buildings, India Gate, Sikh Temple (Bangla Sahib Gurudwara), Birla Temple, and Connaught Place, New Delhi’s main shopping area. We top the day off with a group farewell dinner. B,D...Nikko Hotel or similar

DAY 15 : DEPART
Transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights. B…

Land COST : on Request

What’s Included

• All Accommodation in Delhi and Leh with breakfast.
• Camping accommodation as per the program with all meals during the treks.
• Mule drivers and mules during the trekking.
• All monastery entrance fee, wild life fee and Camping fee
• English-speaking guide in monasteries and in the trekking.
• Service of cook and attendants during the trekking.
• All Camping equipment including North face sleeping tent, foam mattresses mess tents dining tent & toilet tent
• All Transportation from pick up from the Delhi Airport to Airport.

What’s not included :

• Medical and evacuation insurance
• Miscellaneous expenses and tipping to the staff
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks food in Leh and Delhi
• Air ticket to and from Delhi.
• A single supplement
• Laundry and other services not mentioned in the package. If you need any arrangement Please let us know.

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Email: namgial@yamatreks.com and/or namgial@gmail.com

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Beyond Ladakh

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Ladakh treks

LADAKH HEALING TREK

THE RUPSHU TREK

LAMAYURU TO ALCHI TREK

LAMAYURU-MARTSELANG

MARKHA VALLEY

NUBRA VALLEY

NUBRA VALLEY VIA DIGGAR LA

MYSTERIES TREK IN LADAKH

KHARNAK NOMAD

ZANSKAR, THE LAND BEYOND

GORGES OF ZANSKAR & CHARCHA LA

RAFTING ON THE THE ZANSKAR RIVER