Markha Valley – Ladakh’s Gem

Introduction

The barren but enchanting landscapes of Ladakh have many enthralling places to trek but arguably the best of them is the Markha Valley situated on the river of the same name. The Markha River is a tributary of the Zanskar river, who is the first major tributary of the great Indus River. It lies within the Hemis National Park just on the outskirts of the capital, Leh and the valley is the largest in the Union Territory. The River starts at the junction of Langtang and Nimaling with the villages along the river valley including Skyu, Hangkar, Rumbak, Yurutse and Markha.

The Route

Markha Valley is one of the most popular trekking routes in Ladakh. Leh is the starting point of this trek. The valley is accessible near Spituk in the west which is generally the starting point of the trek and Gongmaru La pass near Hemis, where the trek ends. There are many tiny hamlets present throughout the valley. The villages in the valley have preserved monasteries, temples and ruined forts. The Tacha Gompa is the most important Buddhist monastery in Markha Valley.

Views of the Heights

As the trail goes through Hemis National Park, all it’s cherished fauna, mountain sheep, rabbits and even snow leopards can be spotted. The majestic K2 Peak, Stok Kangri and the Kang Yatze peaks are visible from the valley. Even the region of Tibet is visible on a clear day.

https://www.trekthehimalayas.com/Markha-Valley-Trek/

https://wikitravel.org/en/Markha_Valley_Trek