Day 1: Arrival in Delhi and Fly to Leh (3,500m) / Duration: Flight-1-1.5 hrs

After arriving at Delhi International Airport, our team will assist you with the connecting flight to Leh, the gateway to Ladakh. The flight is incredibly scenic, offering amazing aerial views of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Leh (3,500m), you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Because of the high altitude, it’s very important to rest today and allow your body to begin acclimatizing.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

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Day 2: Acclimatisation day in Leh

Today is a full day dedicated to acclimatization in Leh. We recommend light walking. For gentle activity, we may explore nearby attractions such as Leh Market, Leh Palace, or walk up to Shanti Stupa, which offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley and Stok Kangri range. Our guide will also conduct a briefing session to go over the upcoming trek and check all your equipment.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 3: Sightseeing around Leh / Duration: Half day

After breakfast, we set out for a short sightseeing tour to explore some of Ladakh’s cultural treasures. We begin with a visit to Shey Palace and Monastery, once the royal residence of Ladakhi kings. It features a massive golden Buddha statue and overlooks the green fields of Shey village. Next, we visit the magnificent Thiksey Monastery, built in the 15th century, perched on a hilltop and resembling the Potala Palace in Lhasa. It is one of the most beautiful and active monasteries in Ladakh. After soaking in the spiritual energy and scenic views, we return to Leh for a relaxed afternoon and prepare for the start of the trek.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 4: Drive to Thinlespa & Trek to Markha (3,700m) / Duration: Drive – about 3 hrs, Trek – about 1 hr

After breakfast in Leh, we start our journey with a beautiful drive through the Indus Valley, passing by remote landscapes and small Ladakhi settlements. The road takes us alongside the Zanskar River, with occasional glimpses of snowcapped peaks and rugged canyons. After around 3 hours of drive, we reach Thinlespa, the starting point of our trek. From here, we begin a short and gentle walk along the Markha River, following a peaceful trail through open meadows and small stone structures. After about an hour, we reach the village of Markha, a traditional settlement known for its beautiful setting and rich culture. We set up camp near the riverbank, surrounded by mountain views and fluttering prayer flags.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 5: Trek to Upper Hankar (4,070m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

Today’s trail leads us deeper into the stunning Markha Valley. After leaving Markha village, we pass several mani walls and chortens that mark the spiritual importance of the trail. The route follows the Markha River, winding past willow trees, barley fields, and small settlements. We may stop for tea or lunch in a peaceful spot like Umlung or Tacha Gompa, a small monastery perched on a rocky hill. The scenery becomes more dramatic as we get closer to Upper Hankar, with views of rugged cliffs and high mountain peaks. The air becomes cooler as we gain elevation. After about 5 to 6 hours of trekking, we reach Upper Hankar.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 6: Trek to Thachungtse (4,150m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

We leave Upper Hankar after breakfast and continue toward Thachungtse, steadily gaining altitude. In the distance, we may start to catch first views of Kang Yatse, a towering snow-covered peak. Along the way, we pass ancient stone structures used by yak herders. After 4 to 5 hours of hiking, we reach Thachungtse, a grassy campsite surrounded by dramatic cliffs and distant peaks.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 7: Trek to Nimaling (4,720m) / Duration: 3–4 hrs

Today we continue our journey from Thachungtse to the beautiful grazing meadows of Nimaling. The trail climbs gradually and the air becomes thinner as we gain altitude. Along the way, we pass several stone huts used by local herders and see open grasslands filled with Himalayan sheep and yaks. The trail offers wonderful views of Kang Yatse rising sharply in the background. As we approach Nimaling, the terrain opens up into a wide green valley with streams running through it. After about 3-4 hours of trek we reach Nimalung.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 8: Trek to Dzo Jongo Base Camp (4,980m) / Duration: 3–4 hrs

After breakfast at Nimaling, we begin our gradual ascent toward Dzo Jongo Base Camp. The trail heads southeast, following a less-traveled path across grassy slopes and rocky ridges. Along the way, we get excellent views of Kang Yatse behind us and the rugged ridge of Dzo Jongo ahead. The climb is moderate but steady, allowing us to slowly adapt to the rising altitude. We reach Base Camp, nestled beneath the western face of Dzo Jongo, surrounded by dramatic rock and scree slopes.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 9: Trek to Dzo Jongo High Camp (5,500m) / Duration: 3–4 hrs

Today we move from Base Camp to High Camp. The climb is steeper and more rugged as we ascend over rocky ridges and moraines. The air is noticeably thinner now, so we move at a slow, steady pace. The high camp is set on a wide, level area with views of Dzo Jongo’s summit ridge and surrounding peaks. After reaching camp, we rest, hydrate, and do a gear check with our guides to ensure everything is ready for the summit push. The afternoon is spent relaxing and preparing mentally for tomorrow’s early start.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: Technical Training Day

Today is an important day for technical training and acclimatization at High Camp. After breakfast, our guides will introduce you to essential climbing equipment like crampons, ice axes, ascenders, and ropes. You’ll practice walking techniques on ice and snow, how to use fixed lines, and safety procedures for the summit attempt. The rest of the day is kept light—plenty of water, rest, and warm meals help the body continue adapting to high altitude. The mountain environment here is spectacular, and the sense of adventure builds as summit day approaches.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 11: Climb Dzo Jongo West (6,300m) & Descend to Base Camp (5,500m) / Duration: 9–10 hrs

We begin the summit push very early around 1 to 2 a.m. Wearing headlamps and full gear, we start the ascent from High Camp. The trail is a mix of snow and ice, gradually getting steeper as we gain height. We follow a glacial route, roped up for safety. The use of crampons and ascenders becomes necessary as we approach the summit ridge. After 6–7 hours of steady climbing, we reach the summit of Dzo Jongo West (6,300m). From the top, we’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Zanskar, Ladakh, and Karakoram ranges. After spending some time there, we begin a careful descent back to Base Camp, which takes around 3–4 hours.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 12: Reserve Day

This day is kept as a buffer in case of bad weather, delays, or the need for a second summit attempt. Weather in the high Himalayas can change quickly, and having this extra day allows us to be flexible and improve the chance of a safe, successful climb. If we’ve already completed the summit, this is a well-earned rest day at Base Camp. You can enjoy the remote mountain views, spend time with your team, and reflect on your achievement. Our crew will also begin packing and organizing the camp for the return journey.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 13: Trek to Chogdo & Drive to Leh / Duration: 4–5 hrs trek & 2–3 hrs drive

After breakfast, we begin our acent to Kongmaru la pass and then descent down to Chogdo, a beautiful valley route with dramatic gorges and colorful rock formations. The trail is mostly downhill and easy to follow, allowing us to enjoy the changing scenery. We may stop for tea along the way and take in the last views of the mountains. After about 4–5 hours of trekking, we reach the trailhead at Chogdo, where our vehicles will be waiting. From there, we drive back to Leh, arriving by late afternoon.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 14: Fly from Leh to Delhi / Duration: Flight – about 1 hr 15 mins

After an early breakfast, we transfer to Leh Airport for your flight back to Delhi. The short flight offers one last chance to witness the majestic Himalayan peaks from the air. On arrival in Delhi, you may choose to connect to your international flight or spend more time exploring India. We hope you leave with lifelong memories of your Dzo Jongo West.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Bed/Breakfast)

Day 15: Final Departure (250m) / Duration: Airport transfer

Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes of Ladakh. After breakfast, our Travel Footsteps staff will assist with your transfer to the international airport for your final departure. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of the mountains, culture, and people you encountered along the way. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you again for another adventure in the Himalayas.