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 from Markha to Hankar (4,000m) / Duration: about 4 hrs

Today we begin our journey deeper into the Markha Valley, following the river upstream as we leave Markha village behind. The trail gradually ascends through scattered willows, small chortens, and mani walls carved with Tibetan prayers. After a pleasant of about 4-hour walk, we reach Hankar, a picturesque settlement set against a backdrop of peaks.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 6: Hike to Twin Tigu Lakes (4,700m) & Back to Hankar / Duration: 6–7 hrs

Today we take an acclimatization hike from Hankar to the beautiful and lesser-known Twin Tigu Lakes. The trail climbs steadily along a remote side valley, surrounded by multicolored rock formations and distant snow-capped peaks. After several hours of trekking, we reach the serene lakes nestled in a high basin reflecting the blue sky and surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for rest and acclimatization. After spending some time at the lakes, we descend back to Hankar, retracing our route. This round-trip hike helps us prepare physically and mentally for the high pass ahead.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 7: Trek to Langthang Chen (4,350m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

We begin our trekking to Hankar following a steadily rising trail toward the upper Markha region. The vegetation thins, and we walk through a high-altitude landscape of scattered shrubs, colorful rocks, and grazing grounds. The views open up to towering cliffs and snow-dusted peaks. After 4–5 hours of peaceful walking, we reach the beautiful grazing meadow of Langthang Chen. This area is used by nomadic herders in summer and offers spectacular views and open skies. It’s a peaceful, remote location, perfect for camping before our approach to the Zalung Karpo La.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 8: Trek to Zalung Karpo La Base (4,750m) / Duration: 4–5 hrs

After breakfast, we leave Langthang Chen and make our way toward the foot of the pass. The trail climbs gradually through a wide, high-altitude valley, surrounded by jagged cliffs and colorful rock walls. The sense of remoteness increases as we move away from the last signs of civilization. The ascent is gentle but steady, helping our bodies adjust further. After 4–5 hours, we reach the rocky meadows of Zalung Karpo La Base Camp (4,750m). The air is crisp and the landscape stark and dramatic. We camp here for the night, with the mighty Zalung Karpo La rising above us, ready for tomorrow’s crossing.

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 9: Cross Zalung Karpo La (5,200m) and descent to Sorra (4,600m) / Duration: 5–6 hrs

Today is a major highlight of the trek. We begin early and climb steadily toward the summit of Zalung Karpo La (5,200m). The trail is steep in sections, passing over loose rocks and possibly snowfields depending on the season. As we reach the top, prayer flags flutter in the wind and we are rewarded with panoramic views of the Zanskar, Stok, and Rupshu ranges. After enjoying the views, we begin a long descent into a wide and beautiful valley, following a stream that leads us down to Sorra (4,600m).

Overnight at Tent (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 10: Trek to Dat (4,350m) & Drive to Leh / Duration: 4–5 hrs trek + 5 hrs drive

Our last day on the trail begins with a pleasant walk from Sorra to Dat, a remote and culturally rich settlement of the Changthang region. The trail is mostly downhill and follows a broad, open valley lined with colorful rock walls and traditional grazing fields. As we approach, we may encounter local herders with flocks of goats and sheep. After reaching the village, we meet our vehicle and begin the long drive back to Leh, crossing high mountain passes and spectacular Ladakhi landscapes along the way. We arrive in Leh by evening, returning to modern comforts after our wild mountain journey.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 11: Fly from Leh to Delhi / Duration: Flight – about 1 hr 15 mins

After breakfast, we transfer to Leh Airport for your flight to Delhi. As the plane lifts off, enjoy your last aerial views of the majestic Ladakh Himalayas—a final glimpse of the rugged beauty you've explored on foot. On arrival in Delhi, your journey officially comes to an end. You may connect to your onward flight or extend your stay in India. We hope you leave with deep memories of high passes, peaceful valleys, and warm Himalayan hospitality.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 12: Full Day Sightseeing in Delhi

After a restful night, we set out to explore the fascinating city of Delhi, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Our day begins with a visit to the grand Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the splendor of Mughal architecture. Next, we head to Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest and most beautiful mosques, where the atmosphere is vibrant and spiritual. We then wander through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of old Delhi’s lively markets. In the afternoon, we visit India Gate, a war memorial set in a beautiful park, followed by a drive past important government buildings like the Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan (President’s House). We’ll also explore Connaught Place, the heart of New Delhi, where you can enjoy some shopping or relax at a café. The day offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and urban life, giving us a rich and memorable finale to our journey before departure.

Overnight at Hotel (Including Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 13: 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.