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The Rupshu Valley is a remote high-altitude desert lying southeast of Leh and is actually a western extension of the vast Tibetan Plateau. Once closed to outsiders, this region now unveils some of the most breathtaking landscapes found in Ladakh. Known for its raw natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry, the trek to Rupshu Valley offers a rare blend of adventure, solitude, and discovery.
The Rupshu trek in Ladakh takes you through a region inhabited by different sects of Indo-Tibetans, where the unique fusion of their traditions can be witnessed in monasteries and villages scattered across the valley. The terrain constantly changes its hues, while high mountain passes offer panoramic views of the mighty Ladakh and Zanskar ranges.
Traversed by ancient trading routes, the Rupshu trekking tour is both a cultural and adventurous journey. The region remains sparsely populated, home mainly to the nomadic Changpas, who depend on their herds of yaks and sheep for survival. As you move through the sweeping cold deserts, you'll witness a land where time seems to stand still - where traders once crossed the mountains with caravans of sturdy mules traveling into western Tibet.
Nestled beneath the towering peaks of the Himalayas, the Rupshu Valley is adorned with pristine high-altitude lakes such as Tsomoriri and Pangong, adding to the awe-inspiring beauty of this remote wilderness.
The Rupshu Valley trek begins at Hemis (3,505 m), about 40 km from Leh. From here, the trail moves via Martselang to Shang Sumdo (3,850 m), followed by a steep climb to Latza Kongmaru (4,800 m). The ascent from Shang Sumdo to Latza Kongmaru is challenging yet rewarding, preparing trekkers for the high-altitude terrain ahead.
From Latza Kongmaru, the trail ascends to Kongmaru La (5,030 m), one of the trek's highest passes, offering sweeping views of Ladakh's rugged beauty. The path then descends to Langtang Chu (4,250 m) and moves towards Yakrupal (4,700 m). The journey continues to Zalung Karpo La (5,200 m), another high-altitude pass, before descending to Sorra (4,200 m) and the scenic hamlet of Dat (4,200 m).
From Dat, the route climbs to Yar La (5,000 m) before reaching Lungmo Che (4,010 m). The trail then leads to Lun (4,100 m), marking a noticeable change in landscape and terrain. The Rupshu trekking tour further ascends to Marang La (5,300 m), the highest point of the expedition, and finally descends to Takh, where the rugged mountain desert gives way to greener valleys.
The trek to Rupshu Valley concludes at Manali (2,050 m), offering trekkers an extraordinary experience of crossing the remote, untamed beauty of the Ladakhi highlands — a true test of endurance and spirit.
Upon arriving at Delhi Airport, meet our representative who will assist with your transfer to the pre-booked hotel. Relax and prepare for your upcoming adventure. Overnight stay in Delhi.
Catch an early morning flight to Leh - a breathtaking experience as you soar above the Himalayas. On arrival, meet our tour executive and transfer to your hotel. The day is reserved for rest and acclimatization to Ladakh's high altitude. In the evening, explore Leh's colorful local market. Overnight stay in Leh.
After breakfast, head out for a cultural excursion to the famous monasteries of the Indus Valley.
Return to Leh for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, drive to Hemis Monastery, the starting point of your Rupshu trek in Ladakh. Spend the day exploring the monastery and its small museum. Overnight stay at Hemis.
Today, your Rupshu trekking tour begins! Trek from Hemis through the scenic Martselang Valley. Follow the narrow gorge trail to reach Shang Sumdo, a peaceful campsite ideal for preparing for the longer treks ahead. Overnight stay in camp.
Trek along the riverbanks surrounded by ochre-colored cliffs. Pass through small gorges near Chukirmo Village, where ponies may need to be unloaded twice. Continue the steep ascent towards the Kongmaru La Base (Latza Kongmaru). Overnight in tents.
Climb up to the high Kongmaru La Pass for stunning views of Kang Yatse Peak, the Ladakh Range, and the distant Karakoram mountains. Descend along a zigzag trail to reach Langtang Chu Valley, close to Nimaling meadows. Overnight camping.
The trek continues through a wide valley. Cross small streams and follow the moraine wall to reach Yakrupal, a serene campsite surrounded by rocky slopes. Overnight stay in tents.
Ascend gradually until the valley splits. Take the right trail and climb up to Zalung Karpo La Pass. From here, enjoy sweeping views before descending into the Sorra Valley. Overnight in camp.
Trek through beautiful wooded gorges that open into a broad valley. Along the route, you'll pass chortens (Buddhist shrines) and manis (stone prayer walls) beside the Dat and Sara rivers. Overnight at Dat.
A steady climb leads to Yar La Pass, from where you can see the vast expanse of the Rupshu Valley. Sometimes, you may spot wild donkeys (Khyangs) grazing nearby. Continue descending to Lungmo Che for an overnight stay.
The scenery changes dramatically into a wide barren plain through which the Zara Chu stream flows. You may meet Changpa nomads with their herds of yaks and sheep. Overnight camp at Lun.
Cross the river and trek up to a beautiful plateau at 4,500 m. Ascend gradually to Marang La Pass (5,300 m) — the last major climb of your trek to Rupshu valley. Then, descend towards Takh for a well-deserved rest. Overnight camping.
Drive from Takh to Manali, crossing the Rohtang Pass (3,990 m) and the lush green slopes of the Kullu-Manali Valley. Overnight stay at a hotel in Manali.
Relax in Manali during the day. In the evening, board an overnight Volvo bus to Delhi. Overnight journey.
Arrive in Delhi in the morning. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, marking the end of an unforgettable Rupshu trekking tour.
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