Markha Valley Trek/Climb of Stok Kangri-6135 m/20122 ft

This is your chance to explore the high mountains of northern India and to experience the local Buddhist and Hindu culture, which belongs to this ancient civilization.

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

Our route follows the Markha Valley, one of Ladakh's most beautiful and popular treks. It’s classic status is well earned, due to this trek’s length, accessibility, and the variations of landscape it contains. The stunning scenery combined with an interesting culture are the highlights.

Before trekking we will acclimatize in the city of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Leh is very scenic, being nicely nestled among low hills on the north side of the Indus Valley. The Stok Mountains lie to its south, the Ladakh Range lies to its north. We will spend the first three days here at an altitude of 11,500 feet, acclimatizing and exploring the surrounding fascinating villages and monasteries.

During the trek we travel through several high passes, one of them being Kongmaru-La at 16,730ft (5100m). This pass provides excellent views of the eastern Karakoram and China to the north. Kang Yatze at 20,992 feet (6400m) dominates the southern panorama.

Unlike the regular Markha Valley Trek, we will finish ours with a climb of an easy trekking peak, Stok Kangri. At an elevation of 20,122 feet/6135m Stok Kangri is a non-technical and very attainable peak for the person who is looking for a bit more of a challenge than the normal Markha Valley Trek. At the village of Chokdo we will leave the main valley and head north along another beautiful valley, one which is rarely visited by foreigners.

Length:

The duration of the trip is 21 days, from New Delhi to New Delhi.

Trekking difficulty:

Moderate to Strenuous. Maximum elevation gained is 6135m [20,122ft]

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: $4080 USD/person

Dates: TBA

Guides:

Cook:

Maximum number of participants: 6

Remaining spots: 6

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

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.