The 12 Best Trekking Spots in Ladakh- A Comprehensive Guide

So, now, if this gets you excited, we’re going to talk about the best treks in Ladakh, so scroll through and start your Ladakhi adventure.

1. Chadar Trek

Best Time: January and February

Duration: 9 days

Difficulty: Level 3

Max Altitude: 11,123 ft.

2. Markha Valley Trek

This well-known trekking in Ladakh is in the Hemis National Park’s Markha valley. Situated between the snow-covered Stok Kangri peak to the north and the Zanskar range to the south, the Markha valley parallels the Indus valley.

Best Time: End of April to the beginning of October

Duration: 6 to 8 days

Difficulty: Level 3

Max Altitude: 5260m

3. Stok Kangri Trek

Whether beginning a climbing expedition in the Himalayas or attempting to climb above 6,000 meters, the Stok Kangri peak is one of the best treks In Ladakh. Although the peak is relatively easy, climbers must utilise all the necessary mountaineering equipment, including crampons, an axe, a rope, etc.

Best Time: Mid-June to the end of September

Duration: 4 to 6 days

Difficulty: Level 5

Max altitude: 6153m

4. Sham Valley Trek

Best Time: All year round

Duration: 3 days

Difficulty: Level 1

Max Altitude: 3874m

5. Snow Leopard Trek

The endangered wild cat in the world, the beautiful Snow Leopard, can be found only in Ladakh. The Hemis National Park hosts the Snow Leopard Trek throughout February and March. Apart from that, during this trek in Ladakh, trekkers can also have a look at the Hemis Monastery, one of the best monasteries in Ladakh.

Best Time: March

Duration: 8 days

Difficulty: Level 2

Max Altitude: 3956m

6. Lamayuru to Alchi Trek

The trek offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh. Two difficult passes, Kongskil La (4948m) and Stakspi La (5153m) are scattered throughout this five-day trek and will test your endurance to the very limit.

Best Time: Mid-June to mid-October

Duration: 5 days

Difficulty: Level 5

Max Altitude: 5153m

7. Nubra Valley Trek

The route that connects the Indus Valley and the Nubra Valley is from Phyang to Hunder. It follows a historic trade route that the old Silk Road once connected from Central Asia to India.

Best Time: Mid-July to the end of September

Duration: 5 days

Difficulty: Level 3

Max Altitude: 5438m

8. Spituk to Stok Trek

After spending the night at Rumbak, climb to the summit of Stok La Pass, one of the highest motorable road and pass for a breathtaking view of the multi-coloured mountains covered in snow. You will have some enduring recollections of the winding route down to Stok.

Best Time: The beginning of June to the end of October

Duration: 3 days

Difficulty: Level 2

Max Altitude: 4855m

9. Zanskar Valley Trek

The charm of Zanskar rests in its isolation, which makes it one of Ladakh’s most secluded regions. The most fabulous trek in Zanskar, which takes ten days to complete, it passes through small villages, historic monasteries, and stunning scenery throughout the Zanskar range on this route from Padum to Lamayuru. Zanskar Valley Trek is indeed one of the best treks in Ladakh.

Best Time: Mid-June to the beginning of October

Duration: 10 days

Difficulty: Level 4

Max Altitude: 5009m

10. Rumtse to Tso Moriri trek

Best Time: Mid-June to mid-October

Duration: 7 days

Difficulty: Level 4

Max Altitude: 5435m

11. Ripchar Valley Trek

Best Time: June-September

Duration: 9 days

Difficulty: Level 3

Max Altitude: 17,060 ft.

12. Jhunglam Hemis to Padum Trek

Best Time: August-October

Duration: 12 days

Difficulty: Level 4

Max Altitude: 11,100 ft.

Tips for Trekking in Ladakh

1. Acclimatisation is Key: Ladakh is located at a very high altitude, and the air is thin. It means there is less oxygen in the air, making breathing difficult for some people. It is essential to acclimatise to the altitude before starting your trek. It would help if you spent a few days in Leh or another town in Ladakh to get used to the altitude, and for more information, you should also read about acute mountain sickness and how you should deal with it.

2. Pack Wisely: When trekking in Ladakh, it is important to pack wisely. You should bring warm clothes, a good sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket and trousers, a hat, gloves, and a sun hat. It would help if you also got a comfortable backpack with enough space for all your gear. It is important to pack light and only bring the essentials.

3. Stay Hydrated: It is essential to stay hydrated when trekking in Ladakh. You should always drink plenty of water and carry a water bottle with you. You should also drink water before going to bed to prevent dehydration.

4. Respect the Environment: Treks in Ladakh are done in a pristine and fragile environment, and it is important to respect them, and one should be following the essential Ladakh travel tips.

5. Hire a Guide: It is highly recommended to hire a guide when trekking in Ladakh. A guide can help you navigate the trails, provide information about the local culture and history, and help you in an emergency. A guide can also help you acclimate to the altitude and ensure you are always safe.

6. Be Prepared for Weather Changes: The weather in Ladakh can be unpredictable, and it is essential to be prepared for weather changes. You should bring warm clothes and a waterproof jacket and trousers. You should also check the weather forecast before starting your Ladakh Trekking.

7. Start Early: It is recommended to begin your trekking in Ladakh early in the morning. It will help you avoid the midday heat and reach your destination before dark.

Ladakh is a trekker’s paradise, and the region offers many trekking opportunities for all levels of trekkers. The 12 trekking spots mentioned above are some of the best options for Trekking in Ladakh. They certainly provide you avenues for stunning views of the Himalayan range, the Zanskar range, the Changthang plateau, etc.