Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Leh & Ladakh
Ever heard of India's high-altitude desert region with Tibetan culture? Ladakh requires acclimatization in Leh before trekking. Routes include Markha Valley, Zanskar region, and Stok Kangri summit. You're walking through valleys with Buddhist monasteries like Hemis and Thiksey, crossing high passes, and camping under incredibly clear skies. The landscapes look Tibetan because culturally they are—Ladakh's distinct from rest of India.
10 best hiking & trekking Leh & Ladakh tours
Compiled by
MelissaLeh & Ladakh travel expert at TourRadar
Land of the Lamas
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Leh and Nubra Valley were the stars of the show. This trip is perfect for those looking for adventure and culture.”
Jakob, traveled in August
Buddhist architecture comes alive in Ladakh's premier monasteries - Thiksey, Hemis, and Likir. The path leads to Turtuk village near LOC, offering glimpses of Baltistan culture, while morning prayers echo with monks at Diskit Monastery in Nubra Valley.
Duration 10 days Destinations New Delhi, Leh, Stok, Shey, Thiksey, Hemis, Spituk, Likir, Alchi, Nubra ValleySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 1048 mi Operator Holidays At From $2,611
50% Off- US$1,306You save $1,306
Peaks of Ladakh Trek
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Great trip tough but enjoyable.”
James, traveled in July
Ladakh's finest peaks await, including Dzo Jongo East (19,685ft). The route winds from Stok village through remote valleys, ascending challenging passes like Gongmaru La (17,178ft) and settling at high-altitude Nimaling meadow (15,925ft).
Duration 16 days Destinations New Delhi, Leh, Stok Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Heart-pumping Distance 782 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $3,823
10% Off- US$3,450You save $373
The premier Markha Valley trek showcases ancient monasteries like Thiksey and Hemis Gompa. Challenging passes including Ganda La (4900m) and Kongmaru La test adventurers, while traditional village life in Rumbak and camping beneath Himalayan stars await.
Duration 14 days Destinations Delhi, Leh, Hemis National Park Age Range Ages 15+ Physical Rating Heart-pumping Distance 811 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From
10% Off- US$2,745
Leh Palace marks the starting point of this Ladakhi adventure to remote monasteries. High-altitude hiking at Khardung-La Pass (18,300ft) leads to Thiksey Monastery and Pangong Lake shores at 14,000ft, revealing hidden gems like Diskit Gompa.
Duration 7 days Destinations Leh, Zanskar, Nubra Valley, Diskit, Hunder, Pangong Tso Lake, Thiksey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 317 mi Operator Ramble Advisor From
10% Off- US$2,200
Hemis National Park reveals its wildlife treasures on the ascent from Zingchen to Rumbak Valley. Snow leopard tracking unfolds with expert guides while camping in prime locations within this high-altitude wilderness.
Duration 6 days Destinations Leh, Hemis National Park, Rumbak Age Range Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Moderate Distance 48 mi Operator Alkof Holidays From
10% Off- US$2,000
Search for Snow Leopards with Valerie Parkinson
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“As a result of this support, and encouraged by the revenue available from sustainable tourism, poaching in the park has been reduced to zero.”
Alan, traveled in March
Remote valleys of Ladakh welcome wildlife enthusiasts, with traditional homestays in Rumbak village. Paths from Jinchen through Rumbak Gorge at 12,470ft reveal snow leopards, blue sheep and golden eagles, while ancient Buddhist monasteries like Shey and Thikse provide cultural interludes.
Duration 14 days Destinations New Delhi, Leh, Shey, Hemis Shukpachan Age Range Ages 18+ Distance 946 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From
10% Off- US$5,220
Ancient routes connect Leh Palace through Khardung-La pass at 18,300ft. Sacred paths link Thiksey and Hemis monasteries, with challenging hikes around Pangong Lake and restful nights in mountain accommodations.
Duration 8 days Destinations Leh, Nubra Valley, Hunder, Diskit, Turtuk, Pangong Tso Lake, Hemis, Thiksey Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 310 mi Operator Alkof Holidays From
10% Off- US$1,800
Ladakh's Buddhist circuit leads from Thiksey to Hemis monasteries. The path reaches world's highest motorable pass Khardung-La at 18,300ft and extends to Pangong Lake's shores at 14,270ft. Nubra Valley's diverse landscapes unfold with expert guides.
Duration 7 days Destinations Leh, Nubra Valley, Hunder, Diskit, Thiksey, Pangong Tso Lake, Hemis Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 228 mi Operator GoBook India Tours From
10% Off- US$1,600
Stunning terrain of Ladakh unfolds from Khardung-La Pass (18,360ft) to Pangong Lake (14,270ft). Mountain paths connect Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Gompa, and Diskit Monastery. Nights are spent at Ladakh Imperial Hotel and luxury camps between adventures.
Duration 7 days Destinations New Delhi, Leh, Nubra Valley, Hunder, Diskit, Shey, Thiksey, Pangong Tso Lake, Hemis Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 996 mi Operator GoBook India Tours From
10% Off- US$2,000
The dramatic terrain of Ladakh unfolds from the world's highest Khardung La pass to pristine Pangong Lake. The millennium-old Alchi paintings and Hemis Monastery complex showcase authentic mountain culture in remote villages.
Duration 7 days Destinations Leh, Alchi, Nubra Valley, Hunder, Diskit, Pangong Tso Lake Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Dutch, Russian Physical Rating Easy Distance 298 mi Operator Golden Triangle India Tours From $2,145
65% Off- US$751You save $1,394
What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in Leh & Ladakh
- Land of the Lamas
Leh and Nubra Valley were on a whole other level. The guides were informative and made every moment special by sharing detailed stories about the area’s history and local customs. The hotels were adequate and served their purpose, though the one in Leh could use some improvements. The driver was excellent. Khardung La was a highlight, and Turtuk Village was such a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path destination. I left this trip with a deeper appreciation for India’s diverse cultures and landscapes.
What our customers ask about Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Leh & Ladakh
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Leh & Ladakh?
Leh & Ladakh's hiking season peaks from June to September when mountain conditions are optimal for trekking. The mountain passes become accessible as snow melts with daytime temperatures reaching 20-30°C at lower elevations near Leh (3500m). TourRadar travelers note that July and August provide the most reliable weather while September brings colorful autumn landscapes. Popular routes like the Markha Valley and Nubra Valley are in their prime during these months. Accommodation options like Wonderland Cottage near Pangong Lake and Hotel Ladakh Imperial in Leh serve as convenient starting points for treks.
How physically demanding are the treks in Leh & Ladakh?
The terrain and altitude in Leh & Ladakh create moderate to challenging hiking conditions. Trekkers regularly cross passes between 13000-17700 feet including the steep Lasermo La pass. World Expeditions travelers report that even moderate routes like the Markha Valley need good fitness as daily hikes last 5-7 hours on rocky paths with river crossings. The Hanker village route involves 4-5 hours of daily walking at 12000-14000 feet while the Nubra Valley trek requires 6-7 hour days at higher elevations.
What type of accommodation can I expect during multi-day treks?
Multi-day treks combine camping and homestay experiences. Tour operators provide two-person alpine tents sleeping bags insulated mats dining tents and toilet facilities for camping nights. Local stays include monastery guesthouses and family homes like those in Hemis Shukpachan village. In Leh hotels like Hotel Omasila or Glacier View Hotel offer modern comforts. A TourRadar traveler on the Markha Valley trek noted: "The camp facilities were excellent with spacious tents and surprisingly good meals considering the remote location."
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in Ladakh?
The mountains of Ladakh especially Hemis National Park are home to distinct high-altitude wildlife. Visitors often spot blue sheep (bharal) Himalayan marmots and birds including lammergeiers and golden eagles. Snow leopards appear in Rumbak Valley during winter months. The Changthang region near Tso Moriri lake houses kiang (wild asses) and black-necked cranes. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Watching herds of blue sheep navigate the steep slopes near Nimaling was a highlight of our journey."
How experienced are the trekking guides in Ladakh?
Ladakh's licensed guides bring extensive knowledge of local trails altitude management and cultural heritage. Companies like Exodus and World Expeditions work with guides who have 10+ years of experience and wilderness first aid training. Notable guides include Valerie Parkinson who leads the Peaks of Ladakh trek and has received top guiding awards. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our guide's deep knowledge of Buddhist culture and expert ability to pace the group at altitude made the trek both safe and enlightening."
What cultural experiences are included in Ladakh trekking tours?
The treks weave together hiking with authentic cultural encounters. Visits to key Buddhist monasteries like Thikse Hemis and Alchi let travelers observe morning prayers and traditional ceremonies. Many tours align with local festivals. A TourRadar traveler described the Matho Festival: "after a day of golden sunshine and intense blue skies joyous crowds and masked dancers we watched the state oracles appear." Programs often include stays in traditional Ladakhi homes and visits to remote villages like Rumbak where travelers can learn about local customs and food.