Ladakh, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful trekking destinations in the Himalayas, is well known as a 'Little Tibet'. Thousands of Tibetans took refuge here after the invasion of their homeland by China in the late 1950s, and so when you visit Ladakh you will find a vibrant Buddhist Tibetan culture in a magical setting. Ladakh is located between Himalayan ranges, with the bustling town of Leh acting as a starting point for treks to the Markha Valley and Stok Kangri.

The people of Leh endure enormous hardships during the long Ladakh winter, yet they welcome tourists in the most friendly manner. Most visitors come in the summer season between June and October.

Leh, the capital, is little bigger than a provincial town. It is buzzing with activity and life. Shops, bazaars, and markets are enticing; and Buddhist monasteries, temples, and mani walls are to be seen in great number and often in great splendour. We recommend spending a few days in this beautiful town before you start your trek, if only to begin acclimatising to the altitude. It's also a good place to unwind afterwards.

The trekking season is the Ladakh summer from late June to early September.

"For me this first visit to the Himalayas is a cornucopia. Little Tibet and its culture is fascinating at every turn, there are picturesque and ancient monsateries, delightful people, and there is Leh town buzzing with actiivity like a hippie centre of the Sixties. Finally the Markha Valley trail, the beautiful approach to Stok Kangri - my first and most wonderful Himalayan peak." Jeremy Gane, Trek Notes