THE HIGH PASSES AND BUDDHIST MONASTERIES OF LADAKH

• Ladakh’s beautiful Markha Valley
• Cross the Kongmaru La pass
• Optional hike of Dzo Jongo East
• Visit monasteries of the Indus Valley

Ladakh truly is a land like no other! Its remoteness and spectacular high-altitude landscapes are just a couple of the many attractions for adventure seekers. Ladakh’s Tibetan-style traditions and culture remain firmly entrenched in day-to-day life and remains largely untouched by the western world. For close to 900 years, Ladakh was an independent kingdom, its dynasties descendent from the king of old Tibet.

We begin our trip by way of the exciting flight into Leh (11,500 feet), and then spend several days taking it easy, acclimatizing and exploring some of the ancient monasteries of the Indus Valley. After this initial acclimatization period, we leave Leh and trek through the lesser-known and quiet Gya Valley with spectacular views across to the high Indian Himalayas. In the Gya Valley, there will be chances of seeing Blue Sheep, as this area is not regularly frequented by trekkers. Our trekking route crosses the high and wild pass of Kongmaru La (17,175 feet / 5,236 meters), the highest point on the trek.

The trek through the beautiful Markha Valley within the Hemis National Park enroute to Dzo Jongo East passes through picturesque farming villages with irrigated fields of barley and potatoes adding color to an otherwise barren environment. An optional objective of this exciting trek is to attempt the one-day climb of Dzo Jongo East (6240m), a worthy challenge for fit hikers looking for an introductory hike of a 6000-meter Himalayan peak.

The Markha Valley & Dzo Jongo East Trek (Camping Trip) is part of our Himalayan Classic Trek Series. Our Classic Treks are led by an experienced, English-speaking Sherpa Guide and full support crew. We are able to arrange this trek starting on any day of the week during the months of June through October for groups of 1 to 10 people. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a detailed day to day Trip Itinerary.

TRIP OUTLINE:
Day 1: Welcome to India! Met on arrival & transfer to our group hotel.
Day 2. Fly from Delhi to Leh, Ladakh. Hotel.
Day 3: Morning visit to Alchi Monastery. Evening visit to Shanti Stupa.
Day 4: Acclimatization walk in the outskirts of Leh to Gyamsta Village.
Day 5: Walk around Wari La Pass & spend the night at Lhato (13,400 feet).
Day 6: Trek to Shyol (aka Rigyul Sumdo). 6 hour hike.
Day 7: Rest & acclimatization day. Hike to gain more altitude & return to camp.
Day 8: Lalung Sumdo. 7 to 8 hour hike.
Day 9: To Nimaling. 5 hour hike.
Day 10: Dzo Jongo East Base Camp. 3 hour hike.
Day 11: Rest and preparation day.
Day 12: Optional climb of Dzo Jongo East (20,470 feet / 6240 meters). 8 to 9 hour day.
Day 13: Cross the Kongmaru La pass & return to Leh. Hotel.
Day 14: Fly to Delhi. Transfer to the hotel or late night departure.
Day 15: Transfer to Delhi Airport for our international departing flights.