The Kanji–Zanskar Trek with Mini Markha Valley is an adventurous and culturally rich journey through some of Ladakh’s most remote and stunning landscapes. This trek combines the scenic beauty of the Markha Valley with the rugged wilderness of Zanskar, crossing high mountain passes above 5,000 meters and passing through traditional villages, monasteries, and river valleys. Ideal for experienced trekkers, it offers breathtaking views, unique homestay experiences, and an authentic glimpse into Himalayan life, making it a truly unforgettable trekking expedition in Ladakh.
Duration
17 Days (10–11 Days Trek + Acclimatization & Travel)
Difficulty Level
Challenging
Distance
135 km
Max Elevation
5,240 meters (Kanji La Pass)
Elevation Gain/Loss
+5,800 meters / -5,600 meters
Overview
Included/Excluded
- Airport pickup and drop in Leh
- Accommodation during trek (Camping + Homestay as per itinerary)
- All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Experienced trekking guide (English-speaking)
- Support staff (cook, helpers, porters/pack animals for luggage)
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, internet, etc.)
- Meals in Leh (unless specified)
- Personal trekking gear (shoes, jackets, sleeping bags, etc.)
- Any additional costs due to weather, roadblocks, or unforeseen circumstances
- Emergency evacuation charges (helicopter, medical, etc.)
Day-wise Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Leh (3,500 m)
Arrive at Leh airport and transfer to your guest house. The day is reserved for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. In the evening, you may explore the local market. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 02: Acclimatization & Monastery Visits
Visit some of Ladakh’s most famous monasteries including Hemis, Thiksey, and Stakna. This helps with gradual acclimatization while experiencing the region’s rich culture. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 03: Leh to Rumbak – Trek to Yurutse (4,200 m)
Drive for about 1 hour to Rumbak (3,900 m). Begin your trek towards Yurutse, gaining approximately 300 meters in elevation. Enjoy beautiful valley views. Overnight stay in a homestay with meals included.
Day 04: Yurutse to Shingo (4,400 m) via Kandala Pass (4,900 m)
Trek over Kandala Pass, offering stunning panoramic views. Descend gradually to Shingo village. Elevation Gain/Loss: +700 m / -500 m Overnight homestay with meals.
Day 05: Shingo to Skiu (3,520 m) – Drive to Leh
Descend towards Skiu with a significant elevation loss. After reaching Skiu, drive back to Leh along the scenic Zanskar River. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 06: Leh to Kanji (3,890 m) via Lamayuru & Alchi
Drive towards Kanji village (4–5 hours), visiting Alchi and Lamayuru monasteries en route. Set up camp in Kanji village. Overnight camping.
Day 07: Kanji to Kanji La Base Camp (4,300 m)
Trek through the beautiful Kanji Valley towards the base of Kanji La Pass.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Overnight camping.
Day 08: Kanji La Base – Cross Kanji La (5,240 m) – Base Sumdo
Cross the high-altitude Kanji La Pass, one of the highlights of the trek. Descend to Base Sumdo.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Overnight camping.
Day 09: Sumdo to Dipling via Pigdong La (5,020 m)
Follow the valley before ascending to Pigdong La. Enjoy dramatic landscapes before descending to Dipling Dok.
Trek Duration: 7–8 hours Overnight camping.
Day 10: Dipling Dok to Lingshet Sumdo (3,700 m)
A scenic trek with multiple river crossings. Walk along remote trails leading to Lingshet Sumdo.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Overnight camping.
Day 11: Lingshet Sumdo to Lingshet (3,990 m) via Barmi La (4,680 m)
Ascend to Barmi La and continue towards Lingshet village. Visit local highlights, including traditional wolf traps used by villagers.
Trek Duration: 6–7 hours Overnight camping.
Day 12: Lingshet to Lanang
Visit Lingshet Monastery in the morning before continuing on an easy trail to Lanang village. Explore the surroundings. Overnight camping.
Day 13: Lanang to Jingchen Camp (3,550 m)
A challenging day involving steep ascents and descents across high passes. Enjoy spectacular mountain views before reaching camp near Oma Tokpo.
Trek Duration: ~8 hours Overnight camping.
Day 14: Jingchen to Pidmo via Parfila Pass (3,990 m)
Cross Parfila Pass with chances to spot wildlife such as blue sheep, ibex, and urial. Descend to Pidmo village. Overnight homestay.
Day 15: Pidmo to Padum (Drive)
Drive to Padum, the capital of Zanskar. Visit Stongdey and Karsha monasteries en route. Overnight stay in a guest house or homestay.
Day 16: Excursion to Phuktal Monastery
Drive to Purne and trek to the spectacular Phuktal Monastery, dramatically built into a cliff. Return to Padum the same day. Overnight stay in Padum.
Day 17: Padum to Leh (Drive via Chadar Route)
Drive back to Leh via the scenic Chadar route. Evening free to explore Leh market. Overnight stay in Leh.
Not sure before planning your adventure?