Itinerary Summary
Fly Delhi-Leh and rest the first day to acclimatise, visit Shanti Stupa, transfer to the trailhead, then spend three days trekking the Markha Valley, return to Leh, and fly back via Delhi.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Delhi connection and the flight into Leh
09:00
2h
Delhi to Leh morning flight over the Himalaya
Fly from Delhi to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh; sit on the left for views of the high peaks. Flights are usually morning-only because of afternoon winds, so expect an early start.
📍 Delhi to Leh
15:00
2h
Rest and hydrate at the Leh guesthouse
Check in, drink water and stay horizontal for the rest of the day to let your body adjust to 3,500 m. Avoid hot showers, alcohol and stairs on the first evening; altitude symptoms usually fade within 24 hours.
📍 Leh
💡 Pro Tip: Leh sits at about 3,500 m, so the first 24 hours should be rest only: no exertion, no alcohol and plenty of water. Flights from Delhi to Leh take about 1.5 hours and are usually in the morning because of afternoon winds. Carry any prescription medicine in hand luggage, and check whether your insurance covers high-altitude trekking. India Standard Time is UTC+5:30.
Days 2-8 are member-only
Members get the complete day-by-day plan with timing, transport and on-the-ground tips.
Budget Breakdown
AccommodationUS$76035%
Leh guesthouses and mountain teahouses/tents, 7 nights
Food & DiningUS$43020%
Momo dumplings, butter tea and highland barley meals
Remaining cost categories are member-only
Members see the full breakdown for flights, hotels, food, tickets and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can you trek the Markha Valley in Ladakh?+
The trekking season runs roughly June to September, when the high passes are clear of snow and Delhi-Leh flights operate reliably. July and August bring some monsoon cloud and occasional rain, while June and September are drier and colder. Winter and spring are not viable for this route because passes close.
How serious is altitude sickness on a Leh and Markha Valley trip?+
Leh sits at about 3,500 m, so acclimatisation is the main risk. This itinerary builds in a rest day on arrival, which you should keep. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the first nights, and tell your guide about headaches or breathlessness. Check that your insurance covers trekking and helicopter evacuation.
Do I need a guide and permits for the Markha Valley trek?+
Yes, the Markha Valley is usually trekked with a local guide and mule support, and parts of the route fall within protected areas that require permits arranged locally. Book through a Leh-based operator that handles inner line permits and national park fees. Confirm what the fee covers: food, camping gear and staff.
What level of fitness does the Markha Valley trek require?+
It is rated hard: expect several days of five to seven hours walking at altitude, with river crossings and a high pass. You should be comfortable on uneven ground carrying a day pack. Train on hills and stairs beforehand. The Outdoor band here, roughly $1,640-2,690 per person excluding flights, covers guides and support.
Attractions in This Guide
Guide at a Glance
- Duration: 8 days
- Budget: Outdoor · approx. $1,640–2,690 (≈ €1,430–2,340), excl. int'l flights
- Difficulty: hard
- Best for: Outdoor Hiking
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