Ladakh: The Markha Valley

18 Reviews

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  Anonymous
  Written on September 22, 2013

  3.0 - Average

  This was a fantastic holiday. The mixture of culture; walking in stunning scenery with views of China & Tibet  and visits to the amazing Buddhist  monastries was fantastic. Our leader Valerie Parkinson was extremely knowledgeable about the local culture, religion and walking at altitude. It was a priviledge to have her as a Guide. Subkam our Nepalese guide was very helpful and always smiling. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?I slept under the stars one night. The stars were incredible including the Milky Way as was the sound of the river.  Amazing. What did you think of your group leader?Valerie Parkinson was inspirational and it was a priviledge to have trekked with her. Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Yes just do as the Trip Notes tell you to do (they have been written by Valerie who has extensive experience in that area and of climbing at altitude) and bring what it says in the equipment list ie at least a 3-4 season sleeping bag and a thick sleeping mat to sleep on (not the thin ones you c an buy). A flannel for washing in the morning although I had one of those lightweight quick dry towels which were good. Dry your feet after the river crossings to avoid blisters. Take a high factor sun cream - at altitude you are closer to the sun. Bring a high factor suncream for your lips. Bring a wide brimmed sun hat. Avoid drinking tap water in Delhi or eating icecream and salad. I didn't have any altitude sickness or Delhi Belly. I did exactly as Valerie instructed and followed the trip notes. I also wasn't cold at night as I brought everything it said in  the trip notes including a down jacket which was very handy at night as the temperture did drop.  I would really have liked the trek to be longer so I might consider the Grand Traverse next. Is there anything else you would like to add?I also did the Golden Triangle  extension which was very good.  The Taj Mahal was mind blowing and Jaipur was very interesting. It was all a real contrast to Ladakh.  We had a fantastic driver called Raj.  I know it can be hard sleeping at altitude however if you   know that back at home  that you are a snorer and that you are a light sleeper and need to go to the loo a lot then please be considerate and pay  the single supplement so that you don't disrupt someone else's sleep and potentially spoil their holiday.    
• 

  Anonymous
  Written on September 8, 2013

  5.0 - Excellent

  Stunning scenery in a very interesting part of India. Our group leader, Valerie, was fantastic and really helped make the holiday as good as it was.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Reaching 5,286 meters - very challenging, but very rewarding and exhilarating.What did you think of your group leader?Valerie was fantastic - she knew the area and people so well.  She met all our needs, including our numerous ailments.  She even arranged for a pony for me to finish the trek when I could not walk too well due to blisters!  She also told some great stories and kept us entertained.  Even under pressure (missing passport incident at Leh airport), she was still smiling.Our guide was also good fun - he was even still smiling when I pulled him into a river during crossing.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?I had never been at altitude before and found it and the heat (35 degrees) pretty challenging - there is very little you can do to prepare yourself for this, but, despite all of that, I still had a great time.  I think I would just be a little more aware of the length of time distance takes next time I hike at altitude (now that I have done it).  Take plenty blister preventative treatment if you are prone to blisters - the heat really made my feet swell. Is there anything else you would like to add?The was my first visit to India and I am hooked.  Himalayas are stunning. Leh is a fantastic place to shop and generally just to hang around.
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  Anonymous
  Written on August 24, 2013

  5.0 - Excellent

  What a trip this is! Pure adventure and exhilaration each and every day. Mountain peaks, glacier rivers, hilltop monasteries. This was a very fortunate experience to be in a small part of the world where time simply does not matter. No internet, no mobile phones, no facebook or twitter. Some might say its heaven. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?The final push up to the Gongmaru La pass (5,286m). The views over the Stok Mountain Range with Kang Yangtse behind us were incredible and well worth the effort.What did you think of your group leader?Shailesh was fantastic. Wonderful fun and had some great trekking stories. His expertise was greatly appreciated during some difficult passes and river crossings. Jigmet was our local guide on the trek was also very helpful and knew the Marka Valley like the back of his hand.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?This is no ordinary holiday. Patience and a good sense of humour are mandatory. The altitude might prove difficult for some (as it was for me!) straightaway as Leh is already at 3,500 meters above sea level. Keep drinking water and rehydration supplements are very much reccommended.  Take the walk slowly. Take lots of pictures and if you spot a blue sheep, please do let me know.Is there anything else you would like to add?Ladakh is a mind blowing part of Northern India. China to the East, Pakistan to the West. A wonderful retreat from the humidity and hustle and bustle of the Golden Triangle. A real hub for trekkers and adrenalin seekers. I have been to no where that competes for sheer excitement and contrasting cultures. It will take some time to get over it.  
• 

  Anonymous
  Written on August 21, 2012

  5.0 - Excellent

  This trek was through the most jaw dropping scenery! It was hard to take in the magnitude of the mountains, I felt privalaged to be able to do it.The trek itself was not too difficult but it was made tougher by the altitude and the heat at the start of the trek. The leader was superb as were all the staff, nothing was too much trouble and Ngima is possibly the most patient man on the planet! Amazing food on the trek including three birthday cakes baked at altitude.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Probably when we climbed up the first pass, I was feeling the altitude but the view when I finally made it was awesome. Everyone on our trek was very supportive of each other.What did you think of your group leader?What more can I say, a true professional and a real 'people' person. I felt very safe with him.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?This is not a walk in the park, you definitely need a good level of fitness and expect some long days trekking. Also you can't know how you will cope at altitude but we all made it in our own time coaxed along  by our leader.Is there anything else you would like to add?Go for it, you will be rewarded by incredible scenery, meet lots of lovely people and there is a good chance you will lose weight for your efforts, what more can  a girl ask for?
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  Anonymous
  Written on August 8, 2012

  5.0 - Excellent

  Great trek combining awesome high-altitude mountain scenery (a must for any geology nuts!) with beautiful valleys and fascinating remote Ladakhi villages in green oases round the water courses. Camping at high altitudes (4500m+) looking out over mountain ranges with marmots, blue sheep & dzos nearby was unforgettable.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Camping on the high plain (4800m) at Nimalung with Kang Yangste towering on one side and the Gongmaru La pass on the other. Having tea in the traditional Ladakhi home of one of our guide's family in Rumbak.What did you think of your group leader?Valerie Parkinson is simply the best: a superb combination of enthusiasm, expert knowledge, understanding, tact & diplomacy & fun, too! She is so much more than just a guide.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Make sure you really are fit for 8-10 hour days of challenging climbing/walking over a variety of terrain! You'll need it!Is there anything else you would like to add?A great group of fellow trekkers meant there was always someone to talk to; we felt really lucky to be part of such a nice bunch.
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  Anonymous
  Written on August 7, 2012

  5.0 - Excellent

  Awesome landscape, fantatsic leader, great group - Loved every minute!What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Gettin up the first pass, climbing a little further (optional) and then the long descent under bright blue skies into another world of craggy gorgesWhat did you think of your group leader?Valerie was great - knowledgable, patient, positive and inspiring. And we laughed a lot.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Make sure your sleeping bag is warm enough! It's possible to hire one if not thoughIs there anything else you would like to add?Not much to say other than I had a very brilliant time. Staff were great and food was really excellent. I lived it!
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  Anonymous
  Written on August 5, 2012

  5.0 - Excellent

  A great trek into a remote and beautiful area. Comfortable camping, with good and varied food. A marvellous leader and helpful and obliging staff.  I feel so fortunate that I have had the opportunity to go.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?The incredible gorge between Shingo and Skiu with the beautiful, coloured rocks;  the amazing night skies;  the friendly and unfailingly helpful local people.  Almost every moment was inspirational.What did you think of your group leader?Valerie was inspirational.  She quite obviously had a great love for the area, together with a great knowledge.  She was always happy to share information, answer questions.  She was a caring, considerate leader, aware of how each member of the group was feeling and progressing.  I felt confident and safe under her leadership.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?  Be aware that this trek is at altitude and the days can be hot.  That aside, just do it, it's not to be missed!Is there anything else you would like to add?I am so glad that I went.  I think that the trip was well thought out and planned and it was, as always, excellent value for money. This can also be said of the Golden Triangle Extension, another bit not to be missed!
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  Anonymous
  Written on September 13, 2011

  4.0 - Good

  Great trip if you like fantastic and imposing landscapes of never ending mountains. Amazing views of Stok Kangri and Kang Yaze mountains full of snow and glaciers during the trek - changing scenery and colours as you walk through the gorges - from blue to green, amazing monasteries, some very high up, kept by a single monk sometimes.  Fascinating glimpse into life in Ladakh as you acclimatise in Leh for 3 days and later walk through tiny villages through the Markah Valley.  And a must if you into buddhism - especially if your guide is Valerie Parkinson.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Constant views over the mountain range - emptiness - apart from a few yaks, sheep, goats, and tea tent people.  Great museum in Hemis monastery - with very interesting pieces about history of the place and old photos of frozen rivers. Loved Leh for all the local tiny side streets and general life there.  Made me really wonder what it's like when all is blocked off in winter.  Must admit to loving the colourful clothes and stone jewellery - everything is simply beautiful - if you like the tibetan nepalese type things.  And it is an opportunity to share a chat and a tea in several places.  Very interesting to hear about how Ladakhi people are living now, learning to make the most out of visitors and seemingly retaining their identity - hopefully will stay this way.What did you think of your group leader?Oh - where to start???  This lady is the most professional, knowledgeable, patient and dedicated guide I ever came across.  Her knowledge of buddhism is encyclopedic - and she keeps all information really lively and interesting. Her knowledge of the area is amazing, so is her dedication to the Ladakhi people, and clients alike.  She is working relentlessly to improve life for the Ladakhi, which is an enormous plus point in my book - and am very glad Exodus is supporting this.  She makes sure that drinking water is available in all tea tents, works with others to train people how to use solar power, UV water filters etc.  Every day she made sure all of us were ok in terms of coping with altitude, giving all the necessary advice at all times.  Some of us did struggle a little with altitude - but thanks to her recommendations it was a great experience.  And she keeps her sense of humour at all times.  I think she is a solar powered green modern buddhist deity ;-)  Better add her name - Valerie Parkinson.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Having read other reviews, I did not think it was that hot - but yes - a wide brimmed hat is crucial - and 50+ sun cream and lip salve.  Absolutely follow the advice to drink lots of water - 4-5 litres a day a must.  If you are concerned about the altitude - you can consider taking Diamox 2-3 days before the trip.  But not a must - I took some on day 2 after arriving and was fine after that - but everyone is different.  Do take all the things on the packing list.  The level of fitness required was less than I expected - but maybe because the pace was always slow enough to cope with the altitude.  Expect a lot of temperature changes - you will need warm trousers or leggings and thick fleece - as well as thin T-shirt. There are some steep-ish ascents - but short ones - and 1-2 slightly slippery but again brief descents - but mainly the paths are really easy.  A walking stick comes in handy when crossing rivers.  Take 2 big 1 litre bottles with you that can cope with hot water.  Camel back water bag also handy.Is there anything else you would like to add?If you have never been to India before, might be good to stay a few more days in Delhi - I missed not having more time there to see more places and to buy more presents.  Clothes wise - make sure you have clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to enter the monasteries.  Not much to ask - out of respect for the monks.  Lastly and very important:  do take any unwanted clothes with you which you can donate to people in Ladakh or the local guides and staff.  Or also other trekking items.  Childrens clothes too.  It is very expensive to send stuff over - but if you can travel light and take lots of clothes in your travel bag, it would help a lot.  Staff everywhere extremely helpful and kind.  Accompanying staff fantastic: cook Manilal did great stuff, speedily assisted by the ever smiling Pemptuk.  Lotus was always helpful and funny and is slowly slowly improving his english.  Tashi always a pleasure to walk with and always willing to explain things.  Tashi the horseman also great - but did not talk to him much - sorry!  Thanks all for great trip.
• 

  Anonymous
  Written on September 13, 2011

  4.0 - Good

  Great trip if you like fantastic and imposing landscapes of never ending mountains. Amazing views of Stok Kangri and Kang Yaze mountains full of snow and glaciers during the trek - changing scenery and colours as you walk through the gorges - from blue to green, amazing monasteries, some very high up, kept by a single monk sometimes.  Fascinating glimpse into life in Ladakh as you acclimatise in Leh for 3 days and later walk through tiny villages through the Markah Valley.  And a must if you into buddhism - especially if your guide is Valerie Parkinson.What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?Constant views over the mountain range - emptiness - apart from a few yaks, sheep, goats, and tea tent people.  Great museum in Hemis monastery - with very interesting pieces about history of the place and old photos of frozen rivers. Loved Leh for all the local tiny side streets and general life there.  Made me really wonder what it's like when all is blocked off in winter.  Must admit to loving the colourful clothes and stone jewellery - everything is simply beautiful - if you like the tibetan nepalese type things.  And it is an opportunity to share a chat and a tea in several places.  Very interesting to hear about how Ladakhi people are living now, learning to make the most out of visitors and seemingly retaining their identity - hopefully will stay this way.What did you think of your group leader?Oh - where to start???  This lady is the most professional, knowledgeable, patient and dedicated guide I ever came across.  Her knowledge of buddhism is encyclopedic - and she keeps all information really lively and interesting. Her knowledge of the area is amazing, so is her dedication to the Ladakhi people, and clients alike.  She is working relentlessly to improve life for the Ladakhi, which is an enormous plus point in my book - and am very glad Exodus is supporting this.  She makes sure that drinking water is available in all tea tents, works with others to train people how to use solar power, UV water filters etc.  Every day she made sure all of us were ok in terms of coping with altitude, giving all the necessary advice at all times.  Some of us did struggle a little with altitude - but thanks to her recommendations it was a great experience.  And she keeps her sense of humour at all times.  I think she is a solar powered green modern buddhist deity ;-)  Better add her name - Valerie Parkinson.Do you have any advice for potential travellers?Having read other reviews, I did not think it was that hot - but yes - a wide brimmed hat is crucial - and 50+ sun cream and lip salve.  Absolutely follow the advice to drink lots of water - 4-5 litres a day a must.  If you are concerned about the altitude - you can consider taking Diamox 2-3 days before the trip.  But not a must - I took some on day 2 after arriving and was fine after that - but everyone is different.  Do take all the things on the packing list.  The level of fitness required was less than I expected - but maybe because the pace was always slow enough to cope with the altitude.  Expect a lot of temperature changes - you will need warm trousers or leggings and thick fleece - as well as thin T-shirt. There are some steep-ish ascents - but short ones - and 1-2 slightly slippery but again brief descents - but mainly the paths are really easy.  A walking stick comes in handy when crossing rivers.  Take 2 big 1 litre bottles with you that can cope with hot water.  Camel back water bag also handy.Is there anything else you would like to add?If you have never been to India before, might be good to stay a few more days in Delhi - I missed not having more time there to see more places and to buy more presents.  Clothes wise - make sure you have clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to enter the monasteries.  Not much to ask - out of respect for the monks.  Lastly and very important:  do take any unwanted clothes with you which you can donate to people in Ladakh or the local guides and staff.  Or also other trekking items.  Childrens clothes too.  It is very expensive to send stuff over - but if you can travel light and take lots of clothes in your travel bag, it would help a lot.  Staff everywhere extremely helpful and kind.  Accompanying staff fantastic: cook Manilal did great stuff, speedily assisted by the ever smiling Pemptuk.  Lotus was always helpful and funny and is slowly slowly improving his english.  Tashi always a pleasure to walk with and always willing to explain things.  Tashi the horseman also great - but did not talk to him much - sorry!  Thanks all for great trip.
• 

  Anonymous
  Written on September 12, 2011

  4.0 - Good

  A fantastic area and great walking with views changing all the time . The colours have to be seen to be believed . Be prepared to wade across rivers ( with plenty of support )Great support staff nothing too much trouble .What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?I loved the view of Kang Yangtse from above Nimerling . Well worth the effort of the optional walk from camp .There were amazing views from the top of both high passes .What did you think of your group leader?Our group leader was great and gave us so much information about the area and the people and lots of information about Buddism . She always made sure everyone was well first thing in the morning and looked after us all throughout the day .Do you have any advice for potential travellers?If you want to walk in a little populated area then do this trip . You will be at altitude so take it easy in Leh and drink lots of water .Is there anything else you would like to add?I had never heard of Ladakh until last year but glad someone recommended this trip to me .