On this trek you will begin the trek in Rumtse and ending in Shang before proceeding to Leh then Delhi. It is a sustained trek with a max altitude of 5197 m (17,050 ft.) you will be able to explore Chang-Thang that is a vast plateau where the Changpa’s (Nomads) originate from. We will need to cross several passes, but will be able to experience scenic views of the huge saltwater lake at Tsokar as well as many tiny hamlets, as we proceed toward Kharnak Rupshu via Manali-Leh highway. Then we will eventually join the Markha Valley, which truly captivates rare beauty.
Day 1
Arrival in Delhi
Guests will be received at the airport followed by a transfer to a hotel, where you will be staying overnight.
Day 2
Domestic flight Delhi – Leh
Altitude: 3500 m / 11,482 ft.
Transferral to a domestic airport where you will fly to Leh. Once reached in Leh, you will then be transferred to your hotel. Afternoon visit to a monastery within the town and sightsee of the Shanti Stupa and Old Fort of Leh.
Day 3
Journey from Leh to Rumtse
Travelling Distance: 75 km
Altitude: 4040 m / 13,254 ft.
We will depart for Rumtse early, en route visiting the Shey, Thiskey and Hemis monasteries. Overnight camp at Rumtse.
Day 4
Trek 1 – Rumtse - Kyamar
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Altitude: 4050 m / 13,287 ft.
The first trek will begin with an easy trail which leads to a beautiful campsite close to a spring. Overnight stay.
Day 5
Trek 2 – Kyamar – Tisaling over Kumar La and Mandachand La
Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
Altitude: 4200 m / 13,779 ft. (Kummar La 4900 m / 16,076 ft.)
Due to the nature of this trek, an early start is advised. The trail will cross along a river until ascending to the Kumur La. Here you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Chang-Tang Range, before descending steadily to the river bank. We will then wade through the river and climb back up again to the next pass – Mandachand La. An easy descent will then bring us to our campsite; situated on the pastureland of Tisaling.
Day 6
Trek 3 – Tisaling – Tukje via Shibuk
Trekking Time: 6-7 hours
Altitude: 4627 m / 15,180 ft. (Over Shibuk La 4980 m /16,338 ft.)
We begin the day with a 2 hour trek to the Shibuk La pass, meanwhile enjoying the spectacular views. We will then begin to descend to Shibuk, where marmots play hide and seek. The track becomes easy and flat as it proceeds through the large valley to the nomad headquarters at Tukche, where we will then make camp for the night. Later in the day, we will visit the village and its small Gompa, whilst taking a stroll along the lake that provides splendid views of the sunset.
Day 7
Trek 4 – Tsokar – Spangchen
Trekking Time: 51/2 hours
Altitude: 4580 m / 15,026 ft.
The trek will begin with 11/2 hours along a dusty trail until we reach the Manali – Leh highway. We will spend half an hour on the main road, before taking a diversion for 2 hours to reach the valley of Kharanak Rupshu. Overnight camp near a spring.
Day 8
Trek 5 – Spangchen – Lungmotche
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Altitude: 4550 m / 14,927 ft.
It is an easy trail until we reach Kharanak Village of nomads. After a while we will make a diversion to Lungmotche toward Yarla. Overnight camp at the foot of Yarla.
Day 9
Trek 6 – Lungmotse – Datt
Trekking Time: 8 hours
Altitude: 4200 m / 13,779 ft.
Today will be the longest day of treks. As we cross Yar La, one can see the Kyang (wild donkeys. In Datt you will visit the old monastery and the village itself, before spending the night on a beautiful campsite.
Day 10
Trek 7 – Datt – Sora
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Altitude: 4600 m / 15,091 ft.
As we walk through the beautiful gorge, crossing the crystal clear water streams, on the right side of the trail, one can see the ruins of an old castle. We will camp in Sora which is surrounded by mountains and barley fields.
Day 11
Trek 8 – Sora – Langthang Chhu
Trekking Time: 51/2 hours
Altitude: 4500 m / 14,763 ft. (Over Zalung Karpo La 5197 m / 17,050 ft.)
The day will begin with a steady climb to the Zalung Karpo La, with amazing views of the mountain ranges. We will then descend through the rocky and dusty path until reaching the campsite.
Day 12
Trek 9 – Langthang Chhu – Nimaling (base of Kang Yatse)
Trekking Time: 51/2 hours
Altitude: 4900 m / 16,076 ft.
Today’s trek will start with a gradual ascent before a steep 4 hour climb to the pass. The trail then becomes easier when reaching the plateau at the base of the Kang Yatse (6200 m / 20,314 ft.). You will be able to see the herds of Yak, Sheep and Goat upon the plateau grazing here and there. Overnight stay in camp.
Day 13
Trek 10 – Nimaling to Shang
Trekking Time: 8 hours
Altitude: 3640 m / 11,942 ft. (Over Kongmaru La 5150 m / 16,896 ft.)
A zigzag ascent for around 2 hours will lead us to the panoramic Kongmaru La. We will then follow a steep descent until Chuskirmo and a beautiful riverbed. A vibrant rocky path will lead us to Shang; a pleasant campsite. We will also visit a small Gompa outside of the village and a monastery. Overnight camp in Shang.
Day 14
Journey from Shang-Hemis to Leh
Travelling Distance: 60 km
Altitude: 3400 m / 11,154 ft.
We will be picked up by an arranged vehicle where we will head back for Leh. Once reached in Leh, you will be dropped off at your hotel. En route you will be visiting the monasteries of Hemis – 48 km from Leh – situated on the opposite side of the Singee Tsanpo River (Indus). Thiskey, as well as the Shey Palace will also be visited. Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 15
Flight from Leh-Delhi
You will be transferred to the domestic airport for your flight to Delhi. Once reached in Delhi you will then be transported to your hotel where you will be staying overnight. The afternoon can be spent at your own leisure.
Day 16
Flight Departure: Visit Old/New Delhi (Optional)
You will be given the opportunity to visit Old or New Delhi as you will have a full day free, before being transferred to the Indira Gandhi International Airport where you will depart to your onward destination.
