Trekking & Hiking
Known as the "Baby Trek," this gentle 3-day, 32 km route crosses four low passes through the Sham region, Ladakh's lower Indus valley, linking the monastery villages of Likir, Yangthang, Hemis Shukpachen and Temisgam. Nights are spent in village homestays, it tops out at just 3,874m and can be walked almost year-round, making it ideal for beginners and families. Extend it to 4–5 days via Rizong monastery or onwards from Temisgam to Khaltse.
| Waypoint | Distance | Altitude |
|---|---|---|
| Likir | 0.0 km | 3,468 m |
| Phobe La (pass) | 3.4 km | 3,580 m |
| Sumdo | 5.6 km | 3,420 m |
| Chagatse La (pass) | 8.2 km | 3,630 m |
| Yangthang | 10.1 km | 3,625 m |
| Tsermangchen La (pass) | 14.2 km | 3,750 m |
| Hemis Shukpachen | 20.5 km | 3,580 m |
| Mebtak La (pass) | 24.6 km | 3,874 m |
| Ang | 28.2 km | 3,330 m |
| Temisgam | 31.8 km | 3,178 m |
10.1 km3–4 hrs+431 m / −274 m
Drive 60 km (about 1.5 hrs) from Leh to Likir and visit Likir monastery before setting off. The trail climbs to the Phobe La, drops to Sumdo village, then rises steadily to the Chagatse La before descending to Yangthang. Overnight in a village homestay.
10.4 km3–4 hrs+238 m / −283 m
Cross the Tsermangchen La, visible right from Yangthang, and take in the panoramic views from the top. Descend to the charming village of Hemis Shukpachen. Overnight in a village homestay.
11.3 km4 hrs+312 m / −714 m
Climb to the Mebtak La, the high point of the trek, and walk down to the village of Ang. Follow the trail on to Temisgam to visit its palace and monastery on a hillock, then drive 90 km (about 2.5 hrs) back to Leh, or stay a night in a Temisgam homestay.
More trekking & hiking
ChallengingOne of Ladakh's most beautiful treks: 98 km over 7 days across the Changthang plateau of Rupshu, following the old salt road past Tso Kar to the turquoise shores of Tso Moriri. The route crosses numerous passes above 5,000m, topping out at the 5,435m Yalung Nyau La, and passes the camps of Changpa nomads with their pashmina goats and yaks. Exceptional, but demanding.
ChallengingA 5-day, 63 km trek from the "Moonland" monastery of Lamayuru through rural villages of green barley fields and apricot trees to Chilling on the Zanskar river. It crosses three passes, topping out at the 4,948m Kongskil La, with sweeping views of the Stok and Karakoram ranges. Homestays in Wanla and Hinju, then camping in the high country.
ModerateLadakh's most popular trek, in a shorter and easier 6-day, 78 km version starting at Chilling. The trail follows the Markha river through villages tucked into a deep valley in Hemis National Park, home of the snow leopard, up to the high pastures of Nimaling and over the 5,260m Kongmaru La, with spectacular views of the Kang Yatse peaks. Homestays most nights.
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