If you’re yearning for high-altitude challenge and wide-open wilderness, Ladakh is trekking paradise. Jaw-dropping mountain vistas, remote villages, and starry nights accompany you on trails that range from moderate valley walks to punishing high passes. Here are some top trekking routes for all levels:

1. Markha Valley Trek – A classic 6–7 day trek from Spituk (near Leh) into Nubra Valley. Markha Valley offers a gradual introduction: you pass traditional Ladakhi villages (Chilling, Skiu, Markha), lush riverside fields and chortens. The high point is Kongmaru La (5,200 m), a rewarding climb above the Likir monastery. From here you descend past alpine meadows where blue sheep graze and eventually end in the sand dunes of Hunder. The trail is well-trodden and often run with horses, making it accessible to moderately fit hikers. (Tip: Camping or guesthouses are available each night. Permit not required beyond the Hemis NP entry if you start at Spituk.)

   
   

2. Chadar Trek (Frozen Zanskar River) – Epic and extreme, this 8–10 day winter trek on the frozen Zanskar River runs through stupendous canyons. You hike over ice with peaks towering thousands of meters above. Nights are spent in campers’ tents or rock shelters, bundled in thick sleeping bags. This trek requires excellent fitness, gear for –20°C, and snow trekking experience. The usual route goes from Chilling village to Tibb cave, Phuktal monastery (rest day), and Lingshed. (Permits are needed from the Padum government, and guides are mandatory.) While this trek is for serious adventurers, it rewards with cosmic stillness and raw Himalayan beauty.

   
   

3. Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse – Technically mountaineering, these treks lead to summits over 6,000 m. The popular Stok Kangri (6,152 m) begins from Stok village and normally requires 2–3 days to camp at base (3,500 m) and acclimatize. On summit day you start around midnight to reach the top at sunrise, returning by evening. Kang Yatse (6,400 m) near Leh follows a similar approach via the Markha Valley trail. Note: Officially, these peaks are now closed to trekkers (permit requirements changed in 2019) due to safety and environmental reasons. If you have climbing experience, you might get a special climbing permit, but otherwise consider local guides’ advice. The views from above – of the entire Indus basin and beyond – are unforgettable.

   
   

4. Zanskar Circuit Trek (Darcha – Padum) – A newer opening, this ambitious 10–12 day trek goes from Darcha (on the Manali–Leh highway) over Penzila (4,800 m), descending into remote Zanskar. You skirt the Rupshu plateau, cross Shingo La, and finish in Padum. This trek is challenging (high passes, long days) and truly remote – few huts and minimal infrastructure. But the reward is crossing from Himalaya into Karakoram country, with villages like Shingo and Saraks dotted amid cold desert. (This trek usually requires mule support and a reliable guide.)

   
   

5. Tso Moriri and Hemis National Park – Explore Ladakh’s wildlife and legends on foot. From Korzok by Tso Moriri, day-treks can be done along the lake’s shore and up to Koyul villages. Hemis NP has multi-day routes around Gemur (see camp), where snow leopards are occasionally spotted. Even short hikes (1–2 days) around Hemis or Stok villages let you walk high passes (3,500+ m) and see bharal (blue sheep) and ibex on cliffs. Pro tip: Any trek requiring stays within Pangong or Moriri areas needs advance permits (Rupshu range is strictly protected). Check with Leh authorities or your operator beforehand.

Across all treks, respect the fragile ecology: carry out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and camp on durable ground (stony sites or snow, never trample meadows). Be mindful that altitudes above 5,000 m demand acclimatization – plan rest days if ascending high passes. Luckily, trails in Ladakh often have homestays or basic campsites where you can refill water (at rivers or springs). Always pack layers, rain gear, a strong sleeping bag, and plenty of snacks. When done right, trekking in Ladakh will leave you awestruck by the silent grandeur of the Great Himalaya – it truly is adventure on another level.