Ladakh Trekking: A Beginner’s Guide

Ladakh is one of the most interesting places for travellers. Situated in between the Himalayas and Karakoram, the province in Jammu and Kashmir has picturesque locales. With a high desert region full of plateaus and barren cliffs, this area is a favourite for sightseers and adventurers likewise. 

Indeed, you can read about many locations to see in Ladakh in Thrillophilia reviews. There are several fun things to try here, like white-water river rafting, skiing, paragliding, and mountaineering. 

If you are interested in trekking through the landscape of Ladakh and have never tried it before, there are particular things you should keep in mind. Here are some of them.  

Best treks for beginners in Ladakh

The following are some of the most popular trekking options available for travellers in Ladakh. 

Markha Valley Trek

• Duration: 6-7 days

For many travellers, a trek through the Markha Valley is a common choice. It would give you the opportunity to stay with the locals in homestays in villages. Plus, the landscape is appealing for hiking enthusiasts and sightseers alike. 

When you reach Ladakh and want to take part in this trekking option without too many people, choose other months except July and August. This is generally the high season which means the larger crowds would appear during this period. 

Lamayuru-Alchi Trek

• Duration: 5 days

You can take part in this popular trekking option at a height of 5,300 meters. For beginners, the short trek is an appealing choice and the route is not very complex. 

You can visit many notable spots on the way, like the Alchi monastery, Lamayuru monastery, Sham Valley, and the Indus River. Plus, you can see remote villages and interact with the people there. 

The best time for this trek is the May to November period. 

Hidden Valleys, Zanskar Range

• Duration: 9-10 days

Take a trekking trip to the Zanskar Range and view the many interesting local villages along the way. You can stay with the local families in these villages and get a first-hand experience of the Ladakhi culture. 

Carry your camping gear for the trek, too, for a safe passage through the high ranges. 

Kharnak Trek

• Duration: 15 days

For this trip, you would take the same trip as the Markha Valley trekking tour. However, it extends more towards the southern direction, which adds another week to the whole trek. 

Read Thrillophilia reviews of Kharnak Trek  to know more about this adventure and book a package with us to collect some everlasting memories. 

Nubra Valley

• Duration: 5-6 days

For beginners, this is a fun starter option for their trekking experience. If you are completely green in trekking, you can finish the trek in 2-3 days, too. 

However, in the extended tour, you can opt for overnight stays amidst the beautiful surroundings in campsites and even go camel riding. 

Padum-Darcha Trek

• Duration: 12 days

This trekking route is filled with gorgeous scenery to see and exciting topography. From Padum in Zanskar Valley, you would go to Tokpa, then Chalang, Lakong, and Ramjak until reaching the Darcha region. 

The big draws of this trail are the opportunities like reaching Kargil, going to Mulbek, and seeing the serene Manali area. The best time for a visit is between June and September for travellers.

Tips to remember for Ladakh trekking

When you are trekking through Ladakh, especially with no prior experience, keep the following points in mind.

• You should stay aware of the weather in the region. In case you hear about any imminent blizzard or storm, it is best to put a stop to your trekking plan immediately.
• Wearing many layers of warm clothing and thermals is important. The temperatures can drop very low at this altitude, so pack accordingly.
• Take the help of tour guides to navigate through the region during the trek.
• Carry high-quality equipment, trekking and camping gear with you. Also, avoid packing too much for the trek.
• Take small amounts of snacks and at least two water bottles. You may not always find somewhere to stop and dine during the trek.
• While walking through the muddy paths and icy terrain, move very carefully. Do not rush.

How to choose your guide?

You would find many guide options and tourist companies offering these services for the Ladakh trekking tour. To select the best one for you, follow these pointers. 

• Select a Ladakhi local

Ladakhi tour guides have more local experience with the terrains of Ladakh and know the language and culture. So, they would properly help you communicate with the locals and navigate through the trails. 

• Meet the guide

Since the journey would last a long time, it is best to travel alongside someone you are comfortable with. Therefore, meet them once before choosing their service. 

• Explain your needs

If you have particular health considerations, you should discuss them with the guide first. For example, if you have breathing issues or back pain, they would adjust the speed accordingly and help you carry your bags, respectively. 

Conclusion

For a safe trekking experience, you should take the help of certified professionals and follow instructions correctly. Thereafter, choose the trekking option you are interested in and travel through Ladakh.