Rumbak Valley is situated in the Hemis High Altitude National Park (HNP) in Ladakh. Markha Valley Trek also starts from one of the two ends of this Mini Markha Valley Trek route, i.e. either from Jingchen or Chilling. In the winter months, this route is popular of spotting wildlife of Ladakh, specially the Snow leopard quests. Great scenic views from Gandala Pass and experience of One-Home village or hamlet at Yurutstey a lifetime experience of Himalayan Homestay and Short Trek. This is also a good short trek for acclimatization before a longer and high altitude trek. Those who wish to combine this trek with Rafting on Zangskar can do so with addition of one more day from Chilling.
Itinerary
Day 01: Leh – Jingchen (Drive) – Trek to Rumbak (3-4 hrs)
After Breakfast drive to Jinghen ( 3600 m) via Spituk. Earlier Spituk to Jingchen used to a day trek route. Now due to construction of a metal road, this route is tread by car. Trek from Jingchen to Rumbak (4100 malong the narrow gorge of Rumbak Valley, passing Tarbung, Husing and Lhato Valley. On a Homestay trek, stay at one of the Homestays of the the8-9 families of Rumbak Village. Homestays cannot be chosen as the villagers and a rotation of homestays for guest on daily basis.
Day 02: Trek to Yurutsey Homestay ( 4300 m) / Gandala Base Camp (4500 m) (2-3 hrs)
After breakfast trek slowly towards Yurutsey (one home hamlet/ village at the base of Gandala Pass. This is a easy day for those doing Homestay trek as the distance of the trek is minimum. One could also trek upto Gandala Base for better acclimatization for the next day trek. Those doing the camping trek (3-4 hrs) camp at the Base of Ganda la above Yurutsey.
Day 03: Trek to Shingo (4100 m) across Ganda La Pass ( 4950 m) 5-6 hrs
After breakfast negotiate the Ganda La pass slowly. This region is popular for some of the wildlife of Ladakh like Tibetan Partrige, Himalayan Snowcock, Eurasian Lynx, Tibetan Argali, Tibetan Wolf, Red Fox and snow leopard. On reaching the top, great view of Markha Valley and Indus Valley ranges to the south and north respectively. Camp or Homestay at Shingo
Day 04: Trek to Chilling via Skyu and Kaya villages (5 hrs)
After Breakfast trek to Chilling. All downhill trek through the beautiful Valley touching Markha Stream at Skyu/Kaya. On reaching Zangskar River cross the River by Trolley (rope-pulled-hanging-ferry- box). Indeed this river crossing itself is an experience and adventure in itself. Car waits on the other side of the Zangskar i.e. Chilling. Drive to Leh via Sangam – the confluence of Zangskar river and Indus River. Reach Leh well in time to refresh and visit Market for last day shopping for sovenirs, etc.
Inclusion
HOMES STAY TREK
Homestays with all meals
English Speaking Experience Guide
Additional fruite and water and non veg food
Transportation till Jingchen and back from Chilling
Packed Lunch on Day 1
CAMPING TREK
All camping gears - tents, mattresses, kitchen utensils, etc
All camping fees
Ponies, pony man,
English/Hindi Speaking Guide, Cook, helper (for more than 2 pax)
Food all along the trek
Transportation to and from
Exclusion
Insurance of any sort ( medical, travel or any other)
Personal medicine and drinks like alcohol etc
riding horse/ponie
anything not mentioned in the INCLUSIONS
