Top 10 Trekking Tours to Ladakh Himalayas

Markha Valley Trek - 11 Days

Stok Kangri (6,153 meters/20,187 feet) is one of India's highest trekking peaks and a coveted summit for adventure enthusiasts. This non-technical but extremely challenging climb offers spectacular 360-degree views of the Karakoram, Zanskar, and Indus Valley ranges.

Important Update : Stok Kangri has been temporarily closed in recent years due to environmental concerns and is still closed as of early 2026. Verify current status before booking.

• Summit one of the world's highest trekking peaks
• Technical summit day with glacier crossing and ridge walking
• Stunning views of K2, Karakoram, and Zanskar ranges from the summit
• Visit Stok Palace and Museum
• Experience high - altitude mountaineering without extensive technical equipment

Trekking Route Delhi - Leh (acclimatization 3 days minimum) - Stok Village - Chang Ma - Mankorma - Stok Kangri Base Camp (4,900m) - Summit attempt (6,153m) - Base Camp - Stok Village - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : Late June to early September (July - August optimal)
• Maximum Altitude : 6,153 meters (20,187 feet)
• Difficulty : Very challenging (expedition - grade)
• Duration : 9 - 11 days (including acclimatization)
• Trek Distance : Approximately 45 - 50 kilometers
• Permits Required : Trekking permit from Leh district authorities, ILP

Physical Requirements : Excellent fitness is essential. Prior high - altitude trekking experience (above 4,500 m) is mandatory. Medical clearance is recommended. Pulse rate at rest should be 60 to 90 bpm; blood pressure should be between 100 to 140 / 70 - 90 mm Hg.

• Summit night starts at midnight
• 6 to 8 hours glacier trekking in sub-zero temperatures (-15°C to -25°C)
• Crampons, ice axe, and rope skills required
• Steep ridge walking with significant exposure

Lamayuru to Alchi Trek - 9 Days

The Lamayuru to Alchi Trek is a culturally rich journey that combines stunning landscapes with ancient Buddhist heritage. Starting from the moonscape - like terrain of Lamayuru and ending at the artistic treasures of Alchi, this moderate trek in Ladakh offers insights into Ladakhi Buddhist culture.

• Explore the ancient Lamayuru Monastery (one of Ladakh's oldest)
• Trek through the dramatic "moonland" landscape
• Cross three high passes: Prinkiti La (3,750m), Konze La (4,950m), and Stakspi La (4,900 m).
• Visit remote villages: Wanla, Hinju, Sumda Chenmo, and Sumda Chun
• Experience authentic Ladakhi homestays
• Explore Alchi Monastery with its 11th-century murals and artwork

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh - Lamayuru - Prinkiti La - Wanla - Konze La - Hinju - Sumdha Chenmo - Sumdha Chun - Stakspi La - Alchi - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : June to September
• Maximum Altitude : 4,950 meters (16,240 feet) at Konze La
• Difficulty : Moderate
• Duration : 9 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 60 kilometers
• Permits Required : ILP for certain sections

Cultural Highlights : This trek is perfect for those interested in Ladakhi Buddhist culture, ancient monasteries, and traditional village life.

Nubra Valley Trek - 10 Days

The Nubra Valley Trek takes you from Phyang Monastery over the world-famous Khardung La pass (5,359 meters) into the enchanting Nubra Valley, known as the "valley of flowers." This trek combines high - altitude passes with the unique landscapes of a cold desert.

• Cross Khardung La, one of the world's highest motorable roads
• Trek over Lasermo La pass (5,438 meters)
• Explore the white sand dunes of Hunder with double-humped Bactrian camels
• Visit Diskit Monastery with its 32-meter Maitreya Buddha statue
• Experience the unique cold desert ecosystem
• Soak in hot springs at Panamik

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh - Phyang - Lasermo La - Hunder (Nubra Valley) - Khalsar - Diskit - Khardung La - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : June to September
• Maximum Altitude : J5,438 meters (17,841 feet) at Lasermo La
• Difficulty : Moderate to challenging
• Duration : 10 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 70 kilometers
• Permits Required : ILP mandatory (7-day permit typically issued)

Important Note : Inner Line Permit validity for Nubra Valley is strictly monitored. Ensure your permit covers your entire duration in the valley.

Chadar Trek (Frozen River Trek) - 9 to 10 Days

The legendary Chadar Trek is one of the world's most unique trekking experiences, walking on the frozen Zanskar River. This winter expedition is regarded as one of India's most challenging treks due to extreme cold and unpredictable ice conditions.

Critical Update 2026: The Chadar Trek route has been significantly modified due to the ongoing Nimu-Padam - Darcha Road construction. The trek now covers approximately 20 kilometers instead of the traditional 62 - kilometer route. The starting point has changed from Chilling to locations closer to Leh depending on road construction progress.

• Walk on the frozen Zanskar River (when it forms a solid ice sheet)
• Trek to the spectacular frozen Nerak Waterfall
• Stay in natural cave shelters including Tibb Cave
• Experience temperatures as low as -30°C to -40°C at night
• Witness local Zanskari culture and remote villages
• One of the most unique winter adventures globally

• Climate change has affected ice formation patterns
• Ice stability varies yearly; some sections may not be accessible
• Trek dates depend on weather and ice conditions
• Mandatory 48-hour acclimatization in Leh before starting
• Medical check-up and fitness certificate required
• Registration with LAHDC Leh mandatory

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh - Chilling / Modified Starting Point - Zaribago/Tibb Cave - Nerak - Return via same route - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : Mid - January to mid - February only (when river is frozen)
• Maximum Altitude : Approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet)
• Difficulty : Extremely challenging (expedition-grade winter trek)
• Duration : 9 to 10 days (including acclimatization)

• Daytime : -5°C to -15°C
• Nighttime : -25°C to -40°C

• Prior high - altitude trekking experience strongly recommended
• Extreme cold weather gear, including sleeping bag rated to -30°C
• Waterproof gumboots with crampon compatibility
• Multiple layers of thermal clothing
• Experienced guide mandatory
• Travel insurance with high - altitude and evacuation coverage

Note : The Chadar Trek is NOT suitable for beginners. This is an expedition-level trek requiring exceptional physical and mental strength.

Snow Leopard Trek - 10 to 13 Days

The Snow Leopard Trek is a specialized wildlife expedition into Hemis National Park, offering one of the world's best opportunities to spot the elusive snow leopard in its natural habitat during winter months.

• Track snow leopards in Hemis National Park
• Winter wildlife watching, including blue sheep, ibex, red fox, and golden eagles
• Trek through the remote Rumbak and Tarbung valleys
• Experience traditional Ladakhi homestays
• Photography opportunities in stunning winter landscapes
• Expert naturalist guides and wildlife trackers

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh (acclimatization) - Zingchen - Rumbak Village - Tarbung - Hemis National Park - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : Late January to mid -March
• Maximum Altitude : Approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
• Difficulty : Moderate (cold weather endurance required)
• Duration : 10 - 13 days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 30-40 kilometers
• Permits Required : Wildlife permit for Hemis National Park, ILP

Wildlife Sighting Notes : While snow leopard sightings have increased significantly in recent years, they are never guaranteed. Success rate varies between 30% and 70% depending on conditions, duration, and guides.

Wildlife Sighting Notes : Recommended For: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in conservation. Physical fitness is moderate, but extreme cold tolerance is essential.

Rupshu Valley Trek - 16 Days

From the majestic deserted landscapes to lofty passes, discover what makes Rupshu Valley so striking. This extensive trek offers a wonderful opportunity to venture into wilderness and experience the nomadic lifestyle of the Changpa people.

Spread over 8,851 square kilometers, Rupshu Valley is adorned by lofty peaks of the Zanskar and Ladakh ranges along with crystal-clear lakes. Located southeast of Leh, it's originally part of Changthang, a 4,500-meter-high plateau in the northern Tibetan region.

• Experience the vast, high - altitude Changthang Plateau (average 4,500 m).
• Visit the stunning Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri Lake
• Cross notable passes: Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La (4,890m), Morang La, and Kongmaru La
• Encounter nomadic Changpa herders and their pashmina goats
• Trek through remote areas with minimal human habitation
• Witness unique high - altitude wildlife including Tibetan wild ass (kiang)

Trekking Route : Delhi - Manali - Sarchu - Tak - Morang La - Daktho - Yabook - Sangtha Village - Lungmo Che - Dango Village - Dat - Sorra - Zalung Karpo La - Langthang Chu - Hankar Sumdo - Nimaling - Kongmaru La - Shang Sumdo - Hemis - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : July to September
• Maximum Altitude : Approximately 5,400 meters (17,716 feet)
• Difficulty : Challenging (long duration, high altitude, remote)
• Duration : 16 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 150 kilometers
• Permits Required : Multiple ILP permits for different protected areas, including Pangong, Tso Moriri, and Changthang

Special Considerations : This is a remote, long-duration trek requiring excellent physical fitness, previous high-altitude experience, and self - sufficiency. Limited rescue options in remote sections.

Lamayuru to Padum Trek - 18 Days

As the name indicates, this challenging trek starts from Lamayuru Monastery and, after crossing various nomadic villages and lofty passes, reaches Padum, the capital of Zanskar. This is one of Ladakh's most remote and demanding treks.

Venture into the remoteness of Zanskar, which remains inaccessible by vehicles for much of the year. Nestled between the Himalayan Range and Indus Valley, this strenuous yet adventurous trek offers glimpses of off-the-beaten-path attractions. The trek showcases high mountain passes, snow-capped peaks, Buddhist gompas, charming villages, and fields of potatoes and barley.

• One of the longest treks in Ladakh
• Cross five high passes including Sirsir La, Bumiktse La, Singge La, and Hanuma La
• Trek through the remote Zanskar Valley
• Visit ancient monasteries: Lamayuru, Phuktal, Karsha, and Lingshed
• Experience traditional Zanskari culture in remote villages
• Spectacular high-altitude landscapes and glaciers

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh - Lamayuru - Hanupatta - Sirsir La - Photoksar - Bumiktse La - Photang Valley - Singge La - Kiupa La - Gongma - Skiumpata - Margum La - Lingshed - Hanuma La - Snertse - Parfi La - Hanumil - Pishu - Rinam - Karsha - Padum - Pensi La - Kargil - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : July to September
• Maximum Altitude : Approximately 5,300 meters (17,388 feet) at highest passes
• Difficulty : Very challenging (expedition-level)
• Duration : 18 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 180 kilometers
• Permits Required : Multiple ILP permits for different restricted areas

Physical Requirements : Excellent fitness; prior multi-day high - altitude trekking experience is essential. This is one of Ladakh's most demanding treks requiring mental resilience and physical endurance.

Trans Zanskar Trek (Darcha to Padum) - 15 Days

The excitement associated with exploring Zanskar Valley is a dream of every serious trekker. This classic trans - Himalayan crossing takes you from Himachal Pradesh into the remote Zanskar region of Ladakh, crossing the formidable Shingo La pass.

Starting from Darcha in Lahaul Valley, trekkers cross a series of lofty mountains with elevations around 5,000 - 5,100 meters, followed by high and steep passes before reaching Padum. En route, wanderers visit ancient monasteries like Lingshed, Sani, and Phuktal, as well as green views of pea and wheat fields that add color to the barren high - altitude desert.

• Cross the challenging Shingo La pass (5,091 meters)
• Trek along the Zanskar River through dramatic gorges
• Visit ancient monasteries: Phuktal, Karsha, and Sani
• Experience traditional Zanskari villages and hospitality
• Walk through the stunning Padum Valley

Trekking Route : Delhi - Manali - Rohtang Pass - Keylong - Darcha - Palamo - Zanskar Sumdo - Chumik Nakpo - Shingo La - Lakong - Kargyak - Kuru - Testa - Purne - Phuktal Monastery - Purne - Raru - Ichar - Padum - Kargil - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : July to September
• Maximum Altitude : 5,091 meters (16,703 feet) at Shingo La
• Difficulty : Challenging
• Duration : 15 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 140 kilometers
• Permits Required : ILP for Zanskar region

Special Features : This trek connects Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh and is one of the classic trans-Himalayan crossings. The remote Phuktal Monastery, accessible only on foot, is a major highlight.

Sham Valley Trek - 7 Days

Despite being the easiest trek in Ladakh, the Sham Valley Trek (also known as the "Baby Trek") attracts a large number of trekkers and families. Adorned by low passes and moderate elevations, this trail is suitable for people of all age groups and beginners.

Sham Valley is also known as "Apricot Valley" and transforms into an eye-catching beauty during the blooming season (late spring/early summer). The sprawling gardens of apricots and apples, along with green rice fields, make Sham Valley one of the most beautiful areas in Ladakh.

• Perfect introduction to Ladakh trekking for beginners
• Visit multiple ancient monasteries: Likir, Ridzong, Alchi, Lamayuru, Hemis, and Spituk
• Experience traditional Ladakhi village homestays
• Trek through apricot and apple orchards
• Low altitude makes acclimatization easier
• Suitable for families with children and senior citizens
• Cross low passes with stunning valley views

Cultural Experience : Trekkers stay at local houses serving as homestays, getting familiar with the authentic Ladakhi lifestyle, cuisine, and hospitality. This cultural immersion is a highlight of the trek.

Trekking Route : Delhi - Leh - Likir - Phobe La - Sumdo - Chagatse La - Yangthang - Tsermangchen La - Hemis Shukpachen - Mebtak La - Ang - Temisgam - Leh - Delhi

• Best Season : May to October (longest season among all Ladakh treks)
• Maximum Altitude : Approximately 3,900 meters (12,795 feet)
• Difficulty : Easy to moderate (perfect for beginners)
• Duration : 07 Days
• Trek Distance : Approximately 50 kilometers
• Permits Required : ILP for certain sections

Recommended For : First - time trekkers, families with children (10+ years), senior citizens with moderate fitness, those seeking cultural immersion over extreme adventure, photographers, and monastery enthusiasts.

Best Time for Apricot Blossoms : Late April to mid-May