Part II- Best Trekking Spots of Ladakh Region

* Ripchar Valley

It is a noteworthy trek in Ladakh that offers panoramic views of three gorgeous ranges namely, the Great Himalayan Range, Zanskar Range and the Karakoram Range. Also, one has the opportunity to interact with the shepherds and nomads and learn about their simple lives. Thus, the trek to Ripchar Valley is worth giving a try in the Indian Himalaya. Ripchar Valley trek begins from the majestic Lamayuru Monastery and then passes through a trail that is replete with willow trees to Hinju. Further a steep ascent takes you to Prinkiti La; a gradual descent later leads the trail to Sumdo Chenmo.

* Darcha-Padum Trek

It is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh as it covers two states (Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh). Darcha-Padum trek is amongst the most beautiful treks that can be accomplished by crossing valleys, high mountain passes, quaint human settlements, Tibetan Monasteries and rivers. Apart from giving the opportunity to witness the beauty of landscape, this trek gives a offer an insight on the culture and lifestyle of the the nomadic tribes of Ladakh. The trek begins from Darcha, which is situated in Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh, and ends at Padum, which is tucked in the stunning Zanskar region of Ladakh. The trekking trail of Darcha-Padum trek leads past the boulder field, Rarick and Chikka (last villages of Lahaul Valley) to reach Palemo. After a gradual walk on a large boulder-strewn meadow area and crossing several small streams one reaches Zanskar Sumdo.

* Stok Kangri Trek

It is certainly one of the most enthralling trekking expeditions in the Indian Himalaya. Situated in Ladakh, Stok Kangri trek is every trekker’s delight! The highlight of this trek is that the entire summit is trekable, although it is not an easy climb. Stok Kangri trek leaves Ladakh unveiled in front of us; it is a unique trek that crosses high passes, offers views of snow capped mountains, gorges, arid landscape, and villages that are dotted with fields of mustard and barley. Meeting with the locals and taking a peek inside their lives is yet another highlight of this trek. Trekking for Stok Kangri begins from Lamayuru and via Prinkiti La; the trail further continues to Wanla Village. From Wanla follow the Yapola River to reach Hinju via Penjila. For crossing the Hinju Valley, one has to traverse through Konzke La and from there descend towards a large pasture area and then further to Sumda.

* Chadar Trek

A unique and exciting trek in Ladakh, Chadar trek surely brings the chill when spoken about! As soon as one says Chadar Trek, an exhilarating image conjures up of a place where time has stopped, where the waterfall has stopped cascading and the river has stopped flowing, the white sheet of snow covers the tallest mountains and as far as you see everything is under the spell of snow. It is a pretty picture isn’t it? But of course you can’t forget its challenging environs as well. The Chadar Trek is one of the most difficult treks in India and obviously the most exciting one also. This trek connects Zanskar Valley to Chilling village.

* Parang La

One of the most popular treks in Ladakh, the climb to Parang La is a memorable experience. Travelling from Kaza in Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh over the 18,300 ft Parang La pass and into Ladakh is a one of its kind experience. The trail follows the traditional trade route between Ladakh and Spiti and offers some fantastic views from a high mountain, through which the Pare River flows. From Spiti’s steep gorges and barren environs, the landscape opens to high Tibetan plateau which makes up Ladakh. After days of trekking over the jagged mountains, the journey ends at the magnificent Tsomoriri Lake. Tsomoriri is known for its fantastic panorama and the abundance of birds and wildlife. Parang La trek is surely one of the best treks in Ladakh! The trek begins from Kibber in Spiti and then further continues to Dumla, descending to Thaltak Meadows and gradually ascending Bongrojen via Jagtha.
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