5 Best Treks in Ladakh

Ladakh is a place that needs very little introduction, it’s that popular! Trekking in Ladakh is an amazing way to explore this amazing part of the world and what could be more magical than waking up surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers.

Here are the 5 best treks in Ladakh:

1. Markha Valley Trek

Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 5,260 m (17,257 ft)
Best Season: June to September

The popular Markha Valley Trek is considered to be one of the most picturesque and best treks in Ladakh. You will be trekking amidst lush green alpine meadows and high altitude passes. Trekking in Ladakh through the Markha Valley is challenging but the effort it takes to complete this trek is well worth it. You will get to see the best of Ladakh on this trek.

2. Chadar Trek

Duration: 9 Days
Altitude: 3,390 m (11,,122 ft)
Best Season: January & February

The Chadar Trek – Frozen River Trek is amongst the most challenging treks in Ladakh. Trekking in Ladakh on the frozen Zanskar river, you will need a good level of fitness and a very positive attitude to complete this trek. In winters, it can get as cold as -30 degrees. Trekking in Ladakh on Chadar Trek will reward you with some of the most surreal moments; walking along a frozen river bed surrounded by high mountains, watching wildlife such as foxes and leopards. The route may involve trekking through extremely challenging terrains like steep descents and boulder-hopping, but there is nothing more fulfilling than camping out under starry skies after sunset.

Trekkers need to prepare themselves for cold, wet conditions. Trekking along the frozen Zanskar river is an interesting experience as you will be walking on ice from village to village.

3. Stok Kangri Trek

Duration: 9 Days
Altitude: 6,070 m (19,914 ft)
Best Season: June to September

Stok Kangri Trek is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh and it’s a considerably challenging trek in Ladakh. Stok Kangri Trek is 9 days long and it starts from Stok Village.  This trek offers varied terrain, spectacular views of mountains ranges and challenging ascents and descents. Mt. Stok Kangri stands tall at an altitude of 6,070 m above sea level.

4. Snow Leopard Trek

Duration: 10 Days
Altitude: 6,070 m (19,914 ft)
Best Season: June to September

Snow Leopard Trek is one of the most sought after treks in Ladakh. They are elusive animals that usually remain hidden in the high altitudes of the Himalayas. This trek is always preferred by adventure lovers. Snow Leopards are found in some parts of Ladakh so it’s a chance to spot these exotic creatures! Snow Leopard Trek also includes an opportunity to camp out under the stars at night and enjoy dinner amidst the spectacular views of mountain ranges.

5. Sham Valley Trek

Duration: 5 Days
Altitude: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)
Best Season: April to October

Sham Valley Trek is one of the easiest treks in Ladakh. So if you’re looking for a simple and beautiful trek in Ladakh, Sham Valley Trek is your pick. Sham Valley is a place where you can witness Buddhist monasteries, barren mountains, and different kinds of flora. This trek is 5 days long and it’s not very challenging either. Sham Valley Trek will give you an opportunity to explore the lesser-known side of Ladakh.

For the adventurer who loves experiencing new cultures, Ladakh is a must. The terrain is rugged and unpredictable meaning that you never know what will happen next.

There are 5 treks in particular that we recommend – if you have any questions about these or anything else related to this blog post, let us know!

We’ve got expert guides waiting for your call so don’t hesitate- just contact our team today. Let me know which trek sounds best to you below in the comments!

You can also read more about Trekking in Ladakh here:
Frequently asked questions about Ladakh
10 Reasons why you should visit Ladakh