BABY TREK

Max. Elevation

4100m

Walking Per Day

3-5hrs

Accommodation

Homestay / Hotel

Best Season

Jan - Dec

Group Size

1- 9

+91 99069 79078

+91 60069 19812

info@ladakhtraverse.com

TRIP OVERVIEW

The Sham Valley Trek, also known as the “Apricot Valley,” is one of the easiest treks in the Ladakh region, making it a great option for beginners and families. The valley is renowned for its apricot blossoms in spring, offering a peaceful and picturesque trekking experience. The route takes trekkers through quaint villages like Yangthang, Hemis Shukpachan, and Temisgan, crossing small mountain passes, streams, shady willow trees, and expansive barley fields. The diverse landscape and pristine beauty present countless opportunities for memorable photos. Starting at Likir (3,500 meters), the trek gradually ascends to Hemis Shukpachen (3,700 meters), with several moderate highland passes along the way, including Phobe La (3,580 meters), Mebtak La (3,750 meters), and Tsermangchen La (3,750 meters). The trail's steady elevation gain makes it ideal for those new to trekking or families seeking adventure. While most of the trek is off-road, there is a paved section in some parts, but vehicle traffic remains minimal. On the final day, trekkers can visit a small meditation cave, requiring a 30-40 minute climb up stairs. This cave, once used by the king of Ladakh and other notable meditators, offers a serene spot with panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

Highlights of Trek

Beginner-Friendly Trek in Sham (Apricot) Valley
One of Ladakh’s easiest treks, perfect for beginners and families, featuring gentle ascents, short walking days, and gradual altitude gain.
Scenic Villages & Cultural Encounters
Walk through traditional Ladakhi villages such as Yangthang, Hemis Shukpachan, Temisgan, and Ang, with overnight stays in authentic village homestays.
Beautiful Landscapes & Seasonal Apricot Blossoms
Trek across barley fields, apricot orchards, willow-lined streams, and colorful highland passes, offering stunning photography opportunities throughout the journey.
Moderate Mountain Passes & Peaceful Trails
Cross scenic passes like Phobe La, Mebtak La, and Tsermangchen La, with mostly off-road trails and very minimal vehicle traffic.
Spiritual Sites & Historic Monasteries
Visit the ancient Dakmar meditation cave—once used by great Buddhist teachers and Ladakh’s kings—followed by a cultural drive to the iconic Alchi Monastery before returning to Leh.

ITINERARY

Leh - Likir Drive, Trek to Ynagthang

B/L/D

Hotel

Morning drive to Likir Monastery visit and start the trek to Yangthang, overnight stay at Homestay.

Trek Hemishukpachan 4hrs

B/L/D

Hotel

After breakfast, begin the trek to Hemis Shukpachan, walking through scenic barley fields and apricot groves. The trail gradually ascends to the Tsermangchan Pass before descending into the beautiful village of Hemis Shukpachan. Overnight stay in a traditional homestay.

Trek Ang via Dakmar Cave

B/L

Hotel

Hemis Shukpachan is one of the largest and most populated villages on this trail, home to more than 50 families. Today’s trek begins from Hemis Shukpachan and continues to Ang Village. Along the way, we will take an additional hike to visit the Dakmar Cave, an ancient meditation cave once used by great Buddhist teachers, scholars, and even the kings of Ladakh.
The trail is mostly gradual, with the only steep section being the ascent and descent to the cave. After reaching Ang Village, we will continue our journey to Leh, with a visit to the renowned Alchi Monastery en route.