Conquer Your Fear With These Best Treks In Leh Ladakh

Before you start reading our blog, do figure out a season in which you're planning to go for which we have curated a complete guide for the same - An Ultimate Guide To Leh-Ladakh, pick your favorite season and enjoy the beauty of nature at it's best only in Leh Ladakh.

Mountaineers take a delight in exploring Leh-Ladakh because of it's picturesque views. Experience the real thrill of being a part of challenging treks which raises the adrenaline rush in you. Push yourself out of your comfort zone to a journey full of surprises from mother nature. Explore these treks to discover unrealistic landscapes amidst the beauty of Leh-Ladakh. Exotic valleys are waiting to be explored by you - Pack your backs and choose your favorite one for an unforgettable experience.

1. Chadar Trek

The Chadar Trek or the Zanskar Gorge is a winter trail at 11,123 Ft above ground level, in the Zanskar region of Ladakh, in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Traditionally the only means of travel and exploring this frozen trail in the area is during the harsh winter months. This chilling hiking experience is enjoyed on the frozen Zanskar river, a tributary to Indus which looks like a sheet of ice and hence is referred to as Chadar in the local language. The trek is 65 miles (105 km) one way, it is daunting and tiring. On an average, a trekker covers 15 to 17 km every day and while most of the trek is completed walking, one might also have to climb icy rocks and boulders during the journey. Let us tell you something scariest, so while you enjoy your days walking on sheets of ice, nights have to be spent dosing lightly in the icy frozen caves. Doesn't that sound terrible? Yes! It is...

Best Time For Chadar Trek: January And February

Difficulty: Moderate To Challenging

Altitude: 11,123 ft

Suggested Read: An Extensive Guide To Chadar Trek: An Icy Affair On The Wildest Indian Trek

2. Nubra Valley Trek

It’s one of the most challenging treks but the attractions it offers will leave you awestruck which includes Gompas and surreal untouched remote villages. Its altitude is marked as 5496 mts, you’ll discover beautiful vegetation and orchids once you reach the Nubra river. The main attractions on this trek include Thikey and Shey Gompa along with exploring small villages like Khardung, Khalser, Agyam, Khalsar, Tirit, Lukung and Sumur which will help you understand the traditions and culture of localities better. Apart from that, you’ll be passing through mesmerizing gorges, meadows and high mountain passages of Khardunga La and Lasermo La. It’s also known as the "Valley Of Flowers" as in the peak season you'll be able to witness blossoming flora.

Best Time For Nubra Valley Trek: June To October

Difficulty: Easy To Moderate

Altitude: 5496 mts

3. Markha Valley Trek

Markha valley trek is also known as Tea House Trek - This trek goes offers scenic routes to Hemis national park, Gandala L, and Kongmaru La. You will also witness the best views of Ladakh and Zanskar ranges along with Buddhist villages and rock structures. The difficulty level of the trek is quite challenging -Another factor which makes this trek interesting is the waist deep river crossing which helps you cross the Markha river to explore the remote villages. The maximum altitude of this trek is approximately 16, 830 ft and trekking distance is about 75 km.

Best Time For Markha Valley Trek: June To October

Difficulty: Challenging

Altitude: 16,830ft

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4. Stok Kangri Trek

It's one of the most difficult treks in Leh Ladakh that you can be a part of - it's definitely not a relaxing one. It is advisable for only experienced trekkers. The journey to Stok Village will be a treat to your eyes as you'll be witnessing surreal peaks of Gulap Kangri and Parcha Kangri. Stok Kangri is also one of the highest peak in the Stok Range of the Himalayas. It is 24kms away from the Leh region. Be sure that you're medically fit to be a part of this trek as it can be a challenging one. 

Best Time For Stok Kangri Trek: June To September

Difficulty: Challenging

Altitude: 6153 m

5. Kang Yatse Trek

The extension of Markha Valley Trek leads to Kang Yatse Trek. Imagine walking on the banks of Markha River exploring the real beauty of flora and fauna. You will encounter several nomadic tribes through your journey who are there to experience the simplicity of life and nature. It takes approx 12-13 days to complete this challenging trek - it takes you through some scenic valleys, beautiful rivers and some really quaint villages that give a glimpse into the local life of people here.

Best Time For Kang Yatse Trek:  End of May to mid-September 

Difficulty: Challenging

Altitude: 20,000ft

Suggested Read:

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6. Snow Leopard Trek

The Snow Leopard Trek is one of the most popular winter treks in Ladakh. It's situated at the altitude of 4100 meters and covers up the entire Rumbak valley. It's time to get acquainted with the folklore of Rumbak Valley.  The main attractions of Snow Leopard Trek include rich Buddhist Monasteries, Mud Palaces and Ancient kingdoms of Ladakh. Be ready to spot exotic species of Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, Yak and Wild Horse. It's also a home to several rare bird species like the Golden Eagle.

Best Time For Snow Leopard Trek: November to May

Difficulty: Moderate

Altitude: 4000m

7. Ripchar Valley Trek

The Ripchar Valley Trek has a maximum altitude of 4300 meters, it's one of the most adventurous treks of Leh-Ladakh. The starting point of the trek starts with the surreal Lamayuru Monastery. The journey includes passages that go through Zanskar Valley, Ripchar Mountains and the Karakoram. You will also witness various remote villages, pasture lands, gompas and meadows on your way.

Best Time For Ripchar Valley Trek: July to September

Difficulty: Moderate

Altitude: 4000m

8. Parang La Trek

Paranga La trek takes you on the traditional Ladakh-Spiti Route which offers steep gorges, panoramic landscapes, and lakes all around. One has to drive from Kaza to Kibber village which is one of the highest inhabited settlement in India then starts the main journey to trekking. This trek has the fabulous perspective of the mountains and Pare Chu waterway. This is a picture takers heaven as it takes you through the profound crevasses and desert condition of Spiti valley to immense scenes of Ladakh and completion at Tso Moriri Lake. This lake is a standout amongst the most wonderful lakes on the planet. 

Best Time For Parang La Trek: July to September

Difficulty: Moderate To Challenging

Altitude: 5600m

Now that you have decided which trek to go for, don't forget to read our blog on Trekking Essentials -Your Backpack Is Incomplete Without These 12 Trekking Essentials

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FAQ

Q: Which are the most difficult treks in India?

A: Stok Kangri, Chadar Trek, Hamta Pass, Markha River

Q: Which are the easiest treks in India?

A: Dodital Trek, Dzongri Trek, Chopta, Valley Of Flowers

Q: Which are the most popular treks in the Himalayas?

A: Spiti Valley, Triund, Markha Trek, Frozen River Trek

Q: Is there any age restrictions for trekking?

A: There is no age limit for trekking in India. But, it's important for children to be at least older than 10 years to be a part for the same.