The Classic Markha Valley Trek

This is your chance to explore the high mountains of Northern India and experience the Buddhist and Hindu culture of this ancient civilization.

Our trip begins in the Ladakh Region, a land of high passes on the border of India and Tibet. It is the highest, most remote and least populated region in India. Ladakh is often described as a mountain desert with its chaotic ridges, twisted and exposed geological strata, snow shrouded peaks, dark gorges and wide valleys.

Our route follows the Markha Valley and is one of Ladakh's most beautiful and popular treks. Its length, accessibility and variations of landscape have ensured its classic status. Stunning scenery and interesting culture are the highlights of this trek.

Before trekking we acclimatize in Leh, the capital of Ladakh, which lies nestled among low hills on the north side of the Indus Valley, between the Stok Mountains to the south and the Ladakh Range to the north. We spend the first three days at an altitude of 11,500ft, acclimatizing and exploring the fascinating villages and Monasteries.

The trek travels through high passes, one of them being Kongmaru-La 16,730ft (5100m), which provides excellent views of the Eastern Karakoram and China to the north; the southern panorama is dominated by Kang Yatze 20, 992ft (6400m). Trekking in Ladakh is normally in the form of a traditional caravan, where ponies and donkeys carry most of the load. Trekkers will carry a daypack that contains extra layers, camera, water, snacks, etc.

Length:

The duration of the trip is 16 days, from New Delhi to New Delhi.

Trekking difficulty:

Moderate to Strenuous. Maximum elevation gained is 5100m [16730ft]

Package Includes:

• Hotel in Delhi (2 nights)

• Airport transfers

• Domestic flight (Delhi to Leh/return)

• Good Guest House in Leh, with attached bathrooms, breakfast and dinners

• Ground transport to trek point

• Full trek service which includes: tents, mattresses, kitchen tent, dinning tent, toilet tent, all meals on trek and kitchen staff

• Ponies to carry the loads

• Two sherpas

• Guides service

Package does not include:

• International flights

• Personal equipment

• Visa fee

• Trip insurance (highly recommended)

• Airport taxes

• Alcohol, bottled water, soft drinks and any gratuities

• Any extra hotel nights and dinners in Delhi


Cost: $3500 USD/person

Dates: TBA

Guides:

Cook:

Maximum number of participants: 8

Remaining spots: 8

Deposit: Upon booking I will need a deposit of $1750.00 USD.

Once the deposit is secured, I will send out an Information package that includes the Itinerary, equipment checklist and any last minute logistics.

Fitness level:

We will be trekking and climbing at high altitude. This is very demanding and a reasonable level of fitness is imperative for a successful trip. A training program starting about one month before you embark on this adventure will enhance your enjoyment and experience. If you have any questions about your fitness, feel free to contact me at any time.

New Delhi:

New Delhi, India is the starting and ending point for this trip. We will stay here the first and last night of this trip.

Visas:

People of all nationalities require a valid passport and visa. Visas are issued at Indian Embassies. They are generally valid for 120 days, and must be obtained no more than 6 months before your arrival in India.

Travel insurance:

I recommend travel insurance.

Photocopy all documents:

Be certain to make copies of your passport, airline tickets, credit cards, traveler's cheques etc. This can be very helpful in the event anything is lost or stolen.

Credit card:

Visa and Master cards are accepted in large cities like New Delhi. Credit cards are also accepted in most places in Leh, which is the capital city of Ladakh. However, is advisable to bring an adequate amount of traveler’s cheques as it is expensive to get a cash advance. Remember to bring your PIN number for your credit card(s). Some cards, for example American Express, are not widely accepted. It is best to exchange currency in New Delhi for all expenses in Leh and beyond.

Currency:

The Indian Currency is in Rupees

Immunization:

I recommend that you check with your travel doctor for the most current immunization information. If you have received immunizations, either in the past or for this trip, be certain to bring your immunization book/card.

Cancellation policies:

The deposit less 10% is refundable up to 90 days prior to trip commencement. From 60 to 90 days the deposit is refundable less 15%. For cancellations within 60 days of trip commencement, there is no refund unless you can find a replacement. If Great Divide Mountaineering cancels the trip, you will receive a 100% refund.

If the balance is less than $500.00, I will need the full amount to reserve your spot. The refund is the same as the above.