KHARNAK VALLEY

Kharnak Valley Trek

This trek provides an exceptional introduction to the rugged beauty of Ladakh, built on years of experience and a continuous effort to refine trekking routes. Our ‘Kharnak Valley Trek’ is truly unique, extending the classic Markha Valley trek into the remote and stunning landscape of Rupshu. This region, home to the Khampa—the original mountain nomads—offers the perfect setting for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The route follows established trails through whitewashed villages and ancient monasteries, leading to vast grazing pastures. Along the way, trekkers will immerse themselves in the region’s deep-rooted Buddhist culture, with fluttering prayer flags and ancient mani walls marking the spiritual landscape. The trek provides breathtaking views of the Zanskar Range, stretching all the way to the borderlands of the Tibetan Plateau, making it a memorable exploration of Ladakh’s heartland. However, this is a challenging trek, as it involves crossing high passes, over 5,000 meters above sea level. Therefore, trekkers must be well-prepared for the demands of the journey.

Day on the Trek

Each morning, you’ll be gently awakened around 6:30 am with a cup of tea brought to your tent, followed by a small bowl of warm water for washing. Before breakfast, you'll pack your gear into your kit bag, which will be taken by pack animals or porters, and you won’t have access to it until you reach camp later in the afternoon. After a hearty breakfast, we usually hit the trail between 7:30 and 8:00 am, depending on the day’s trek. We’ll typically walk for 3 to 4 hours before

breaking for a one-hour lunch, with some staff walking ahead to select a good spot for our rest. The afternoon walk is usually shorter, and we typically reach camp between 3:30 and 4:30 pm. Once camp is set up and the kitchen is ready, afternoon tea will be served. You’ll then have time to rest or explore the surrounding area until dinner, which is usually served between 6:00 and 7:00 pm. Be sure to bring your headlamp and water bottles to the dining tent so they can be filled with boiling water. Evenings on the trek offer some of the most memorable moments, whether it's chatting with fellow trekkers, playing cards, engaging with the local crew, or even joining in some singing and dancing. Much of the joy of an expedition lies in the journey itself.

Trip highlights

• Arrival in Leh & Acclimatization: Explore Shanti Stupa, Tsemo Monastery, and Leh Market while adjusting to the high altitude.
• Monastery Exploration: Visit the culturally rich Hemis, Thiksey, and Matho Monasteries, each representing different schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Gangleh Acclimatization Hike: A scenic 4–5 hour hike to 4,300m offering beautiful views of Leh’s upper valleys.
• Trek into Markha Valley: Begin the journey with a drive to Hamurja and trek to Markha, known for its ancient fort and traditional village life.
• Markha to Hankar Trek: Pass through villages and enjoy stunning mountain vistas, including the option to visit Techa Monastery.
• Hankar to Yakrupal Wilderness: Walk beneath the towering Kang Yatse peak and experience striking geological formations.
• Crossing Zalung Karpo Pass (5,197m): Conquer a high Himalayan pass with panoramic views of Zanskar Ranges, Valley, and the Changthang Plateau.
• Tsokra to Dat Remote Trek: Trek through dramatic landscapes, river crossings, and ancient shepherd dwellings before reaching Dat village.
• Cultural Immersion & Tso Kar Lake Visit: Explore Dat Gompa, interact with nomads, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Tso Kar before returning to Leh via Taglang La.
• Wildlife Opportunities: Encounter high-altitude wildlife such as blue sheep, marmots, Tibetan wild asses (kiang), foxes, and more in Ladakh’s pristine wilderness.