Trekking in Ladakh is unique as many routes climb above 5000 meters. Leh, the divisional headquarters, is accessible from Srinagar, Delhi and Chandigarh by air and bus. Ladakh is the land of insurmountable mountains and fascinating monasteries. It lies on the trijunction of the historic ‘Silk Route’ from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. Treks are possible throughout the summer, but independent trekking is risky as trails are unmarked, and food and water can be hard to find. Therefore, it is advised to play safe and join an organised trek. Trekking agencies in Leh offer treks with a guide, pack horses, food and supplies, all inclusive for around Rs. 3200/- per person a day. Food supplies should be carried from Leh, as there are few places to stay or eat on trekking routes. For the purpose of trekking, the region can be divided into three – The area around Kargil, the Indus Valley and Zanskar.
Chemrey Valley: This valley is situated a little away from Karu, where a side road branches north towards Chang La (5,289 meters), the third highest motorable pass in the world. It E9 takes about one hour to reach this valley from Leh. A permit is required to cross the pass and visit the serene lake at Pangong Tso. The Chemrey village is dominated by the beautiful, but little visited, Thekchhok Gompa. The main prayer hall of this 17th century building contains murals of 1000 Buddhas and a chamber on the 4th floor has a 3 meter high statue of Padmasambhava. Nubra Valley: The Khardung La pass (18,640 feet) forms the divide between the Nubra Valley and Leh. After crossing the Khardung La, one descends to a place called ‘Khalsar,’ situated on the left bank of the Shyok River. After crossing the bridge over the Shyok River at Koyak, the wide and beautiful Nubrba Valley starts. High barren mountains on both sides flank the wide open valley. Dotted around the valley are ancient gompas, ruined palaces and villages close together to make this a magnificent walking country. The area is rugged and barren with steep cliffs, but down the valley there is greenery with some forests at riverbed level. It is to be noted that only a group of four will be allowed to enter the valley.