




The Markha Valley & Dzo Jongo trek brings together everything seasoned trekkers love about Ladakh: vast panoramas, rugged trails, high passes, and a non-technical 6000-meter summit, while still remaining accessible to those with moderate high-altitude experience. Beginning in Leh, the journey gradually acclimatizes you through cultural exploration before opening into the spectacular Markha Valley, one of Ladakh's most iconic trekking trails.
The trek is crafted for trekkers who want a challenging but achievable progression toward a Himalayan summit. You'll move through desert canyons, cross the celebrated Kongmaru La pass (5260 m), and reach the high alpine reaches of Nyimaling, an expansive grazing plateau beneath Kang Yatse II. From here, the adventure shifts toward the thrilling ascent of Dzo Jongo Ri East (6218 m), a peak that rewards strong, well - prepared trekkers without the need for technical mountaineering equipment. The summit day is demanding but safe under expert guidance, offering unforgettable 360° Himalayan views.
This trek in Ladakh is a progression from valley trails to high-altitude wilderness to a summit that marks a milestone for many trekkers. Along the way, encounters with wildlife, remote hamlets, meditation caves, and sacred gompas immerse you in Ladakh's timeless mountain culture. For those seeking one of Ladakh's best moderate-to-difficult Himalayan treks, this adventure is the right one!
Land in Leh and meet your driver for a smooth transfer to the hotel. Settle in comfortably, hydrate well, and attend a detailed acclimatization briefing. Enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner as you ease into Ladakh's crisp mountain environment.
Spend a slow day visiting nearby monasteries like Spituk and exploring Stok Palace. Light activity supports gradual acclimatization, helping your body adjust to the altitude while immersing you in Ladakh's rich Buddhist culture.
Continue high-altitude adaptation with visits to iconic monasteries such as Hemis and Thiksey. Their prayer halls, murals, and panoramic viewpoints create a meaningful cultural and acclimatization experience before the trek begins.
Travel through Ladakh's historic landscapes via Alchi Gompa before driving to Skyu. Begin a short, straightforward trek to Harmochen camp. Meet your support team, enjoy warm hospitality, and settle in amidst sunny mountain surroundings.
Follow the Markha River through ancient meditation caves, chortens, and dramatic valley scenery. Reach Markha, the valley's largest village, and explore its gompas and traditional homes. Camp comfortably and enjoy the welcoming village atmosphere.
Trek along historic trails surrounded by cliffs and high-altitude wildlife, including blue sheep. Visit the hilltop Tetsa Monastery before continuing to Hankar, a peaceful campsite that helps you prepare for the altitude gains ahead.
A shorter trekking day allows your body to adjust while still offering panoramic mountain views. Spot marmots, pikas, and other alpine fauna. Camp at Tachungtse, where the quiet surroundings support restful acclimatization.
Ascend toward the expansive Nyimaling Plateau, one of Ladakh's most beautiful high-altitude grazing grounds. Enjoy majestic views of Kang Yatse II, meet grazing livestock, and choose between two scenic camping locations depending on conditions.
Spend the day relaxing or exploring nearby lakes and valley trails. This recovery period is vital for preparing your body for the upcoming summit push while enjoying Nyimaling's pristine alpine terrain.
Spend another day adjusting at high altitude with scenic acclimatization walks. Weather permitting, cross Lhalung La (5320 m) to reach a secluded campsite, an ideal option for improving summit readiness or accommodating conditions.
A relatively short trek leads to Dzo Jongo Base Camp. Many trekkers take the extended route over Lhalung La for breathtaking panoramas and additional acclimatization. Spend the afternoon exploring glacial lakes and reviewing summit plans.
A crucial rest day to conserve energy before the summit attempt. Finalize gear, attend a safety briefing, and take gentle exploratory walks around base camp. Clear views of surrounding peaks help build excitement for the climb ahead.
Begin before dawn for the ascent to Dzo Jongo Ri East. The climb is non-technical but demanding, with microspikes assisting on snow patches. The summit rewards you with unmatched views over the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges. Descend carefully to base camp for a well-earned rest.
Descend through stunning canyons and cross the crimson-hued Kongmaru La pass, marked with fluttering prayer flags. Continue to Chokdo, where your vehicle awaits for the return drive to Leh. Celebrate the expedition with a relaxed evening in town.
Fly from Leh to Delhi or connect onward, ensuring all flights are booked on a single ticket. Reflect on the achievement of completing one of Ladakh's most rewarding high-altitude journeys.
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