Trekking in Ladakh: Ladakh Travel Guide

Trekking in Ladakh

Leh Ladakh is counted among those few destinations which offer an ideal setting for mountaineering and trekking. With its uneven terrains and picturesque locales, Ladakh offers an exciting mishmash of scenic charm and challenging heights to adventure enthusiasts. But such virulent conditions have not shaken the determination of a traveler to avoid challenges posed by nature. Also it is very easy to find overnight accommodation in villages.

Maps

One of the major problems in this region is finding a good map. However, you can get a good quality foreign map (Olizane Map sections) from Ladakh Book Shop above the SBI ATM in Leh. It will cost you around INR 1000 to 1200. However, there are a number of locally published trekking maps available in Leh, which can be purchased for Rs. 200.

Prerequisites for Ladakh Trekking

If you are trekking in the areas around Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri, you’ll have to get an interline permit. It can be obtained from any travel agent in Leh and costs around INR 100-200. In order to climb Stok Kagri, you require a permit from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF). It can be obtained at a price of INR 2000 and the office of the IMF is near Chanspa Road in Leh. In order to trek in the Hemis National Park, you’ll have to get issued a permit from the Dhaba below the Rumbak village. The cost of permits is Rs. 20 for Indian and Rs. 100 for foreigner. Technically speaking, the permit and approval is required all the peaks but Stok Kangri is the only one where you’ll get checked.

Seasons for Trekking

The best time for trekking in Ladakh is July and August. Since early September, there is a possibility for storms and snowfall. In February, you can attempt the demanding Chadar ice-trek. Much of its route is next to the frozen Zanskar River, crossing side tributaries on shaky snow bridges and camping in rock caves en-route. Also, trekkers require winter equipments and an experienced local guide.

Preparations for Ladakh Trekking

Since most trekking routes in Ladakh starts around 3500 meters, proper acclimatization is necessary to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The best way to acclimatize is a 2 days rest. Other than that, you can acclimatize with baby treks or more tenure to the hardcore treks such as beginning from Lamayuru, Spituk or Martselang rather than Hinju, Photoksar or Zingchen.

Horse Treks

At high altitudes, carrying heavy stuff is very much exhausting much more than what people expect. Therefore, it is advisable to consider using pack horses as the accompanying horseman can play a double role ( including a guide). You can contact travel agents who’ll happily arrange packaged tours all inclusive of tent, guide, horses and food at a price of $ 35.

Homestay Treks

There are several popular trekking routes where several rural homestays and parachute cafes are located. They counteract the need of carrying significant supplies and camping gear. Available at a price of INR.400 on the basis of single and double sharing, these Homestays offer a sneak peek into the local culture.

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