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Holidays

The Markha Valley Trek

India
1 review
Available Departures: Jun, Jul, Aug

14 days from

US$2,455

without flights
View Dates & Prices
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

A superb two-week trekking holiday in Ladakh, India, through the spectacular Markha Valley, with time to sightsee in Leh.

Trip Code: MAR
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

The Markha Valley Trek

Highlights
  • Witness the traditional way of life in the Markha Valley on an 8-day trek 
  • Enjoy spectacular views from the Kongmaru La (5290m) of nearby Kang Yatze (6400m)
  • Explore Ladakh, a stronghold of Tibetan Buddhism often referred to as 'Little Tibet'
  • Visit several Indus Valley monasteries including Thikse and Hemis
At a Glance
  • Group Size 4 to 16
  • 8 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 5290 metres
  • Join In Delhi
Accommodation & Meals
  • All meals included
  • 6 nights Hotel
  • 7 nights Camping
Overview

In the remote north-western corner of India, the Himalayan region of Ladakh is a truly inspirational destination for a trekking holiday. Following a beautiful high valley, this superb trek leads through a spectacular mountain world, coloured by green irrigated fields and the red of the monks' robes at the villages and monasteries en route.

After acclimatising and sightseeing at the monasteries around the ancient regional capital of Leh and taking a jeep ride up to the Khardung La, we set off on our trek into the Markha Valley. Crossing the Ganda La to reach Skiu in the Markha Valley, we enter a region where the way of life has changed little for centuries. Gradually gaining height on a riverside trail, our highest camp is at 4860 metres on the Nimaling Plain, in the realm of the snow leopard and impressive lammergeier or bearded vulture. Returning to the Indus Valley via the Kongmaru La (5290m), we have excellent views of nearby Kang Yatze (6400m) and northwards to the peaks of the Tibetan border. This popular holiday offers a real taste of the magical landscapes of Ladakh.

Is this holiday for you?

For almost all of this trekking holiday we follow good trails, which are the main routes between the villages. Crossing the 2 high passes on the trek, we will encounter zig-zag paths on scree. This is not a long or sustained trek and we have allowed 3 days and nights in Leh to help us get used to the altitude, before setting off. The holiday is made relatively challenging on account of 8 days of t …

For almost all of this trekking holiday we follow good trails, which are the main routes between the villages. Crossing the 2 high passes on the trek, we will encounter zig-zag paths on scree. This is not a long or sustained trek and we have allowed 3 days and nights in Leh to help us get used to the altitude, before setting off. The holiday is made relatively challenging on account of 8 days of trekking at generally quite high altitude, including 2 high pass crossings at close to 5000 metres.    

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Why KE?

Much like our travellers, we can't get enough of this stunning part of the world and have run this irresistible trekking holiday in Ladakh every year since 1998; we know exactly how to get the most out of this breathtaking area rich in culture and adventure. 

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Itinerary

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Your holiday starts at the hotel in Delhi. Transfers from Delhi Airport are provided. Lunch and an afternoon at leisure at the hotel. Your guide will take dinner with you and will provide an informal briefing about the days ahead.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

L D
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After an early breakfast, we return to the airport (this time to the Domestic Terminal) for the early morning internal flight to Leh. The hour long flight is simply spectacular and provides close-up views of the 7000 metre massifs of Nun and Kun. Arriving at Leh (3500m), we drive by jeep to our hotel. The rest of the day is free to either rest in the shade of the hotel courtyard, or, for those not phased by their long air journey, there is the option to take a lazy walk into Leh’s colourful bazaar to check out the roadside stalls selling Tibetan artefacts. Flying straight into the high altitude of Leh can take your breath away and it is best to concentrate on acclimatising for the first few days.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D
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A full day’s sightseeing tour. Today we will visit the impressive monasteries at Shey and Thikse and have the opportunity to meet the monks who live there. These monasteries occupy elevated sites and offer remarkable views across the Indus Valley. Visiting Leh’s monasteries always involves climbing up and down long flights of stairs which is all good for our acclimatisation.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D
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Today, we further our acclimatisation with a jeep drive up to the 5380 metre Khardung La, one of the world’s highest road passes. This high pass in the mountains to the north of Leh leads into the Nubra Valley, which has, until recently, been closed to foreign visitors. The 2000 metre climb to the pass provides panoramic views of the Zanskar Range beyond the Indus Valley, with Stok Kangri standing out prominently as one of the higher peaks in the range. At the pass, we can look across to the Eastern Karakoram peaks. After taking tea at the pass, gasping in the thin atmosphere, we return to our hotel in Leh.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D
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We set off on the drive to the start of our trek. After just 15 minutes, we arrive at Spituk Monastery and take the opportunity for a quick look around. We then continue our drive to Lato, which takes a further hour or so. Here, we begin trekking. A fairly easy 3 to 4-hour walk takes us away from the Indus and through the Jingchan Gorge to our overnight camp near Rumbak (3880m). The trek crew will have made an early start and our camp will be ready for us. This area is also famous for blue sheep, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, wild dogs and red fox. The evening can be spent visiting the village.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

200 M

Time

3 hrs trekking

Distance

7 KM
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Our trek continues easily to the lovely little settlement of Yurutse. We then follow a well defined path along the mountainside to a small valley and one of 2 possible camping places at the base of the Ganda La. Taking care not to gain height too quickly, today’s walk is short and we arrive at camp by lunchtime. The altitude at camp is 4380 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

100 M

Time

4 hrs trekking

Distance

6 KM
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We follow the path up the mountainside to the top of Ganda La (4974m). This prayer-flagged summit affords excellent views of the Stok range of mountains. A long but easy descent then leads to Shingo and we can look out for marmots as we go. Beyond the hamlet of Shingo, the walk passes through a wonderful gorge with quite luxuriant stands of willow on the stream-bed and some sections of trail that require care. Reaching the Markha River at the village of Skiu (3380m) after a long day's walk, we set up camp amongst irrigated fields and poplar trees. There is a small monastery in Skiu and a derelict fortress-monastery on the cliff above our riverside camp.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

1500 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs trekking

Distance

17 KM
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We have another long (and potentially hot) day of walking beside the Markha stream without too much up and down. A jeep road runs up the valley as far as Markha, but there is very little (if any) traffic and the trekking trail avoids the jeep road for much of its course. Close to the river there are stands of willow and poplar trees, whilst the upper valley-slopes are much drier. We pass several more derelict monasteries, which are often quite difficult to pick out, high on the valley sides. There are also a number of well maintained chortens and prayer walls and a couple of impressive wolf traps. We will also pass a couple of isolated houses, one of which was traditionally occupied by old lady who continues to wear the old-style Ladakhi headdress known as a peraq. Markha consists of 30 or 40 houses and on a hill to the north there is a small gompa whose resident monk will be happy to show you its ancient wall paintings and festival masks. This is reputedly one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. We camp at Markha at an altitude of 3770 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

750 M

Descent

350 M

Time

8 hrs trekking

Distance

21 KM
Hide Details

We continue above Markha Village, trekking eastwards, deeper into the Markha Valley, to a good camping place at Thachungste. During today’s walk we pass more impressive monasteries, some ruined and some intact, a testament to the fact that this valley was once more populous than it is today. In this high valley we are likely to see small herds of blue sheep (bharal) which often come right down to the river to graze. After 2 hours of trekking we pass through Hangkar village, where high on a rocky spur is another remarkable ruined monastery. There are glimpses ahead of us of the summit of Kang Yatze (6400m), the biggest peak in this immediate area. A further 2 to 3 hours brings us to our overnight stop at Thachungste (4250m).

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

750 M

Descent

250 M

Time

7 - 8 hrs trekking

Distance

17 KM
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This morning we cross the Markha stream on the last bridge that we will see and start a steeper climb up towards the high plains known as Nimaling. Today we will climb from around 4250 metres to our camp at 4860 metres. The scenery opens out as we traverse around to the north side of Kang Yatze and we can see ahead of us the location of the pass that we must cross to return us to the Indus Valley. The Kongmaru La is not immediately apparent from our camp beside the frozen upper reaches of the Markha stream. As well as herds of blue sheep, huge golden marmots and large hares, the other impressive wildlife species hereabouts are immense birds of prey, including lammergeiers (bearded vultures - the biggest of the Himalayan raptors) and golden eagles. The sight of a lammergeier drifting towards you on motionless wings, passing just overhead, unconcerned by your presence, is simply unforgettable.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

10 M

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

7 KM
Hide Details

We trek up to the Kongmaru La (5290m) on a well marked trail which zig-zags across scree for the final 250 metres to the pass, overall a 2-hour ascent. From the pass there are views north to the hills of the eastern Karakoram and into Tibet, whilst the southern panorama is dominated by the shapely Kang Yatze. Descending, we enter a narrow gorge, which presents wonderfully contorted rock formations, pillars and buttresses, some of them remarkable colours, reds through to green and greys. The best trail crosses from one side of the valley to the other time and time again - and we are obliged to cross the growing stream many times. Except for a small level area just beyond the pass, the first reasonable camping place is at Chuskyurmo at 4150 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

1200 M

Time

7 hrs trekking

Distance

11 KM
Hide Details

From Chuskyurmo, we make an easy descent of 3 hours to reach the road at Shang Sumdo. Meeting our vehicles, we now drive to the monastery at Hemis. This is the most powerful of the monasteries in the vicinity of Leh, and belongs to the Kagyupa Buddhist sect. Large areas of the surrounding farmland are controlled by the monastery. After looking around the monastery, we continue our drive back to Leh where we check into our hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

15 M

Descent

450 M

Time

3 hrs trekking

Distance

8 KM
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We have a usually early start and go to the airport to catch our flight to Delhi. Arriving in Delhi, we transfer to our airport-accessible hotel. Depending on the timing of the flight from Leh, it may be possible to include a short sightseeing tour. This will included the Qutab Minar and other Delhi sights which may include Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Lutyens Delhi and Raj Ghat. Alternatively, you may choose to take it easy at the hotel.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D
Hide Details

Your holiday ends after breakfast. Transfers to Delhi Airport are provided. To extend your holiday in India, why not pre-book a visit to Dharamsala (home of the Dalai Lama), to the Taj Mahal or a longer excursion taking in the whole of India's classic Golden Triangle. Contact our office for details.

Meals

B
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The Route
Airport Airport
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Direction Direction
Pass Pass
Transfer
Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional English-speaking local leader
  • Delhi Airport transfers (on group arrival and departure days only)
  • Internal flights
  • All land transport involved in the itinerary
  • All accommodation as described
  • All meals throughout the holiday
  • Full trekking service including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)

  • Travel insurance
  • Delhi Airport transfers (other than on group arrival and departure days)
  • Indian Visa
  • Tips for trek staff
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.

The group will meet at the hotel in Delhi.

Transfers are provided from/to Delhi Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals are included in the holiday price from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 14.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

The food served during the trek is a mixture of local and Western, mostly purchased locally and cooked for us by highly trained trek cooks. The emphasis is on providing a high-carbohydrate and largely vegetarian diet, which we have found to be easily digestible at high altitude. In Delhi, we take our meals in the group hotel or in nearby restaurants. All meals while on trek and while staying in hotels are included in the trip price.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

On arrival in Delhi and for one night after the trek, we stay at a hotel close to the airport which provides convenient and comfortable accommodation. Being near the airport makes the whole travel experience more relaxing, whilst still allowing us to include a sightseeing city tour. In Leh, we have 4 nights in a good standard of hotel. Whilst on trek there are 7 nights camping. All accommodation is allocated on a twin sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek. Depending on availability it may be possible to book single rooms. For hotel prices and single supplement costs please refer to the dates and prices page of the trip on our website.

Deposits for internal flights

The cost of the internal flights between Delhi and Leh are included in the trip price. To allow us to pay for these flights as soon as the trip is guaranteed, a higher than normal deposit is required for this trip which includes the internal flight payment. Once these flights have been booked the deposit cannot be refunded if subsequently you cancel your booking. In the unlikely event that KE have to cancel the holiday for any reason, this deposit will be refunded in full.

The group will be accompanied by an experienced English-speaking local leader throughout the trip, and on trek will have the services of a full trek crew, including a local guide or sirdar and several Nepalese Sherpas employed by our Indian agent, as well as a team of pack-ponies and their handlers.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies.

Approximately £150 (or equivalent in Euros / US dollars etc.) changed into local currency, should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses, including porter and trek crew tips (allow approximately £60) and soft drinks, etc. (allow approximately £40). It is not necessary to purchase local currency (Indian Rupees) before you travel. We recommend taking your personal spending money in cash since you will be changing the majority of this into local currency on the day of arrival, and changing travellers’ cheques can prove time consuming. Sterling, US dollars and Euros are readily exchanged in Delhi. Credit cards can be used to purchase many goods in Delhi and are particularly useful for more expensive souvenirs. It is also possible to withdraw cash (rupees only) from cash machines in certain banks in Delhi using credit and debit cards.

Tips are the accepted way of saying ‘thank you’ to your local guides and porters. They do not form part of their wages. KE always pays local crews the best rates of pay, no matter what country they are in and any tips they receive are seen as a personal thank you from group members. For our part, we advise local teams that tips are not a duty or a prerequisite but are a bonus and entirely dependent on the service that was given. Most people will want to tip the people who work so hard to make the trip a success and we suggest that any tips are given at the end of your trip and by the group as a whole rather than from individuals. Although the level of tip is at your discretion, we understand that you will want some guidance on this. As a rough guide we suggest a contribution from each group member of approximately £60 (or equivalent in Euros / US dollars etc.) changed into Indian rupees, should provide good tips when distributed among the crew.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft and sturdy duffel bag and a daypack.  Your bag on trek will be carried by porters or pack animals. The packed weight of your trek bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15kg. Please note that the check-in baggage limit on all internal flights within India is now 15kg with a maximum cabin bagage limit of 7kg and you are responsible for any excess baggage fees that the airline may apply.  From time to time cabin baggage (other than laptops, cameras and valuables) is not allowed on the Leh flight for security reasons. In this event, the limit for check-in baggage may be increased to 20kg at the discretion of the check-in staff. It is possible to leave travel clothes and any other items not required on trek at the group hotel.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa India

Most nationalities, including travellers from the UK, the USA and many European countries can apply for their Indian Visa online through the E-Visa Application process. You must make your application at least four days prior to departure. Please download the detailed information document for details of how to apply for your visa: Visa India PDF

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk

 

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid.

Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

The currency of India is the Indian Rupee.

It makes a lot of sense to spend some time before coming on a trekking trip getting some additional exercise. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. For this trip you need to be aerobically fit and also comfortable with walking up to 7 hours on some days. We would suggest that you adopt a weekly exercise regime leading up to your trip. Regular hiking in hill country is the best training but jogging, squash and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina. Before departure, we suggest that you try to fit in a number of long walks in hilly country.

During July and August the temperature in Delhi will be hot (35°C) and humid. On the high plateau of Ladakh, the maximum daytime temperature low down on our trek (and at Leh) will be around 15°C, with night-time lows around 10°C. At our highest camps, the night-time temperature may fall as low as minus 10°C. At high altitude, the sun has a very strong effect and it will feel hotter than the indicated temperatures. Ladakh is not affected by the monsoon and we can usually expect stable, weather. However mountains do generate their own weather systems and some rain or snowfall cannot be ruled out.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates direct from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Leh and Trekking in Ladakh. Charlie Loram

  • Trekking in the Indian Himalaya. Lonely Planet

  • Ladakh, Crossroads of High Asia. Janet Rizvi

India - 150K Ladakh and Zanskar Tekking Maps Editions Olizane. Scale: 1:150,000

These are excellent topographic trekking maps of the Ladakh - Zanskar region from the Geneva based Editions Olizane. Printed on light, waterproof and tear-resistant plastic paper, each map is double-sided, covering a large area of 90km x 240km. The maps have exceptionally clear cartography with contours at 100m intervals, enhanced by relief shading, additional spot heights for peaks and passes. The legend is in English and French. For this trek you will need the following sheet:Ladakh and Zanskar Centre: Indus - Zanskar - Pangong

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. There is a baggage limit on the flight to Leh of 15kg for hold baggage and an additional 7kg for cabin baggage.  The packed weight of your bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15 kgs.

You must bring the following items:

  • A photocopy of your travel insurance policy (required by authorities in Leh)

  • Daypack 30 to 40 litres

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -15°C)*

  • Hiking boots

  • Trainers / sandals for river crossings and camp use

  • Walking socks (2 or 3 pairs)

  • Trekking trousers

  • Lightweight waterproof overtrousers

  • Thermal baselayer - leggings

  • Thermal baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)

  • Shirts or T-shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat

  • Warmer over gloves or mittens

  • Thermal gloves

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Headtorch and spare batteries

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets

  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Small towel

  • Basic First Aid Kit containing pain-killers, plasters, blister treatment and rehydration salts. We also recommend altitude medicine such as Diamox.

The following items are optional:

  • Thermarest (note that foam mattresses are provided)

  • Trekking poles

  • Gaiters

  • Insect repellant

  • Scarf or buff

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Travel clothes

  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Equipment hire / rental

Items marked * can be hired / rented through KE Adventure Travel. Please make requests at least 6 weeks prior to the trip departure.

Note all hire / rental equipment will be issued in Leh.

Cotswold Outdoor Red PantonMany of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 12.5% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers.
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Extensions

The incomparable Taj Mahal
One day tour of Agra and the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal needs little introduction. Built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. N...

1 days from

US$290 per person

Extension Details

One day tour of Agra and the Taj Mahal

1 Day

The Taj Mahal needs little introduction. Built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. Nearby is the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnificent complex of palaces and ancient forts. Traveling from Delhi on the express train and returning by private vehicle, our one-day extension to Agra is perfect for those with limited time who wish to complete their India experience with exploring one of the most admired and loved buildings on the planet.

 

Extension Code: IAT1
Sharing Price from
US$290
Single Traveller Price from
US$465
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick up at the hotel. You will then depart from Delhi on the early morning express train to Agra. Upon arrival, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. You can visit the ornate cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal; resting place of his beloved wife. Afterwards, you will visit the ethereally sublime Taj Mahal, an experience that will stay with you forever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After this incredible tour you will then be transferred by a private vehicle back to Delhi, to either your hotel or directly to the airport where services end. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

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Whats Included
  • Professional local guide at the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
  • Monument entrance fees to Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
  • Express train from Delhi to Agra
  • Private vehicle transport in Agra
  • Private vehicle transfer from Agra to Delhi
  • Transfers from Delhi hotel to railway station
What's Not Included
  • Indian visa if joining from another country
  • Any additional transfers
  • Tips for your guides and drivers
  • Accommodation in Delhi
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc.
Dharamsala
Dharamsala and the Dalai Lama

Dharamsala is a former British Raj hill-station in the Dhaula Dhar mountain range and currently home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. On this four day extension, you will be able...

4 days
Extension Details

Dharamsala and the Dalai Lama

4 Days
Dharamsala is a former British Raj hill-station in the Dhaula Dhar mountain range and currently home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in exile. On this four day extension, you will be able to sample a flavour of life in Tibet and enjoy visits to the Dalai Lama’s temple complex; the Norbulingka Institute; the Tibetan children’s village and visit a local Gaddi Tribal village to experience the life of the people who traditionally inhabit the lower reaches of the Dhaula Dhar.
Extension Code: IDS4

Extension Itinerary

Fly to Dharamsala Airport and transfer (14 kms - 20 minutes) to Dharamsala, an early nineteenth century British Raj hill station, now famous for being the home of the Tibetan Government in exile and home to the Dalai Lama. We check in at our hotel in upper Dharamsala, the village known as McLeodganj which exhibits a strong Tibetan influence with monasteries, Tibetan restaurants and shops. Free time.

Meals

L D
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Today we visit the Dalai Lama's temple to see some of the Tibetan monks performing a puja. After lunch we will visit the nearby Tibetan Children's Village which houses orphans and ensures they are provided with an education, clothes, food and healthcare. Later we will visit the Norbulingka Institute, a registered trust chaired by the Dalai Lama dedicated to the preservation of Tibetan culture.

Meals

B L D
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Transfer to the Gaddi village of Naddi (1900m) offering views of the Dhauladhar mountain range. Visit a local house and walk to the Buddhist stupa and Tibetan monks meditation huts. Take lunch on low Tibetan tables with sensational mountain views. Short walk to Bagsu Nag village for chai in a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.

Meals

B L D
Hide Details

After breakfast, you will be taken back to Dharamsala Airport to catch your return flight to Delhi. Services end on arrival in Delhi.

Meals

B
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Whats Included
  • Transfer to Delhi Airport on Day 1
  • Internal flights Delhi to Dharamsala return
  • Dharamsala Airport transfers
  • 3 nights accommodation in Dharamsala
  • Guided sightseeing on Days 2 and 3
  • Entrance fees at temples etc
  • All meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 4
What's Not Included
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses such as souvenirs and soft drinks
  • Tips for local staff
  • FAMILY / GROUP PRICES: Please contact KE for prices
Early morning light
Agra & the Taj Mahal two day tour

Our two-day extension is for those who wish to explore  Agra and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace. We start by exploring the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnifi...

2 days from

US$470 per person

Extension Details

Agra & the Taj Mahal two day tour

2 Days

Our two-day extension is for those who wish to explore  Agra and the surrounding area at a relaxed pace. We start by exploring the oft overlooked Agra Fort, itself an awe-inspiring and magnificent complex of palaces and ancient forts, before waking before the next day to see the sunrise break over the Taj Mahal. Needing little introduction, the Taj Mahal was built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz. It is widely considered to be the most beautiful building in the world. This tour also gives us an opportunity to explore the fascinating abandoned ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri.

Extension Code: IAT2
Sharing Price from
US$470
Single Traveller Price from
US$765
Single Room Supplement from
US$60
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick up at the hotel. We then depart from Delhi on the early morning express train to Agra. Upon arrival you will have an opportunity to check in to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. See the cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal; resting place of his beloved wife.

Hide Details

You will be taken, before the break of dawn, to the Taj Mahal. Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit the ethereally sublime Taj Mahal is an experience that will stay with you forever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After our guided tour, we carry on explore the abandoned ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, before driving back to Delhi to either your hotel or directly to the airport where services end. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

Meals

B
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Whats Included
  • Professional local guide in Agra
  • Monument entrance fees
  • 1 night at Agra hotel on bed and breakfast basis
  • Express train from Delhi to Agra
  • Private vehicle transfer from Agra to Delhi
  • Transfers from Delhi hotel to railway station
  • Transfers once at the Taj Mahal and Agra.
What's Not Included
  • Indian visa if joining from another country
  • Any additional transfers
  • Tips for your guides and drivers
  • Accommodation in Delhi
  • Meals other than breakfast
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc
  • NOTE: THE TAJ MAHAL IS CLOSED ON FRIDAYS
Early morning light on the Taj Mahal
Agra and Jaipur four day extension

The Golden Triangle needs little introduction and is rightly considered a classic trip in its own right. Easily accessible from Delhi, this excursion takes in the wonders of the magestic Agra Fort,...

4 days from

US$735 per person

Extension Details

Agra and Jaipur four day extension

4 Days

The Golden Triangle needs little introduction and is rightly considered a classic trip in its own right. Easily accessible from Delhi, this excursion takes in the wonders of the magestic Agra Fort, the incomparable Taj Mahal, the abandoned ghost-city of Fatehpur Sikri and the architectural jewels of Jaipur and Amber. This four day trip ensures you get the most out of these stunning attractions at a relaxed and unhurried pace.

Extension Code: IAJ4
Sharing Price from
US$735
Single Traveller Price from
US$1,275
Single Room Supplement from
US$175
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

KE extension package services begin with a pick-up at the hotel at 0930 hrs. Your private vehicle will transfer you to Agra. Upon arrival you will have an opportunity to check in to your hotel and settle in. In the afternoon, you will have a guided tour of the magnificent Agra Fort. This red sandstone and white marble fort houses a number of palaces, steeped in lore and history. See the cell where Emperor Shah Jahan was interred, with its desperately sad view towards the Taj Mahal, resting place of his beloved wife. Note: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) are responsible for the conservation of many monuments in India (including the Taj Mahal). This organisation will occasionally undertake work to restore the various monuments, but often without notice, so it is difficult to forewarn our customers of this work. It is possible that, at any time, monuments on this trip could be having work done on them.

Meals

B
Hide Details

You will be taken before the break of dawn to the Taj Mahal. Seeing the first rays of sunlight hit the ethereally sublimeTaj Mahal is an experierence that will stay with you for ever. You will have time to wander through the beautiful gardens and buildings that surround the mausoleum complex. After our guided tour we carry on explore the ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri, former seat of the Mughal Empire, before continuing to Jaipur, the capital of Rajisthan.

Meals

B
Hide Details

Today you will have a full day of sight-seeing. You will visit the Hawa Mahal, otherwise known as the Palace of the Wind and the City Palace, full of incredible artifacts. Later you will drive out of Jaipur to visit the Amber Fort, perched high in the hills. The palace here is full of stunning rooms, including the Hall of Mirrors. After taking in the incredible views across the hills, you return to Jaipur.

Meals

B
Hide Details

After breakfast you will be set off in your private vehicle to Delhi, and delivered to either your hotel or the airport for your departure.

Meals

B
Hide Details
Whats Included
  • Hotels in Agra and Jaipur
  • Breakfast on each day
  • Monument entrance fees
  • English speaking guide at each monument
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
  • All taxes
What's Not Included
  • Lunches
  • dinners and drinks
  • Tips for your guide and driver

Reviews

5 out of 5 from 1 review

Wonderful Ladakh ★★★★★

This was my third trek in Ladakh and it didn't disappoint. It has narrow valleys, wide valleys and high passes with great views of the wonderful landscape. The Buddhist culture is everywhere and we also had a chance to visit several of the locals' houses and watch them herding their sheep and goats. The food was great and the leader, Rigzin, even better with his knowledge of the area. If you want to go to India I would recommend this wholeheartedly.

By Peter from Scunthorpe | 30 October 2017
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Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 1 review
Leave a Review
Wonderful Ladakh
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This was my third trek in Ladakh and it didn't disappoint. It has narrow valleys, wide valleys and high passes with great views of the wonderful landscape. The Buddhist culture is everywhere and we also had a chance to visit several of the locals' houses and watch them herding their sheep and goats. The food was great and the leader, Rigzin, even better with his knowledge of the area. If you want to go to India I would recommend this wholeheartedly.

By Peter from Scunthorpe | 30 October 2017
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DATES & PRICES

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2024

Dates

Adults from

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Status

More Information

  • The Markha Valley Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: MAR /02/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 21 Jul and ends on Sat 3 Aug
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$340 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Markha Valley Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: MAR /03/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 18 Aug and ends on Sat 31 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$340 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

2025

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • The Markha Valley Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: MAR /01/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 22 Jun and ends on Sat 5 Jul
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$340 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Markha Valley Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: MAR /02/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 27 Jul and ends on Sat 9 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$340 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Markha Valley Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: MAR /03/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 17 Aug and ends on Sat 30 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$825
  • Single Supplement Price: US$340 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary starting at the hotel in Delhi. Transfers are provided from/to Delhi Airport for all clients arriving on Day 1 of the Land Only itinerary and departing on the last day of the Land Only itinerary.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE

Changes to flights

Please be aware that the flight industry is experiencing a high level of service fluctuation and changes to your flights may occur. This may also require amends to the transfers and joining arrangements. Thank you all for continuing your patience and understanding.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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