Sham valley
Rivers & Roads
Ladakh
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23rd-29th August 2026
The program is a mix of the classic Sham valley trek, a moderately easy and accessible route, and rafting on the mighty Zanskar, giving you a taste of adventure, culture via ancient sites and monasteries, and Ladakh’s stunning landscapes. Sham valley is renowned for its immersion into Ladakhi village life and scenic beauty, particularly the famed apricot orchards. Typically completed over 3 to 5 days, the trek avoids the extreme altitudes of other high-pass routes. The next part of your journey takes you on a thrilling rafting trip down the Zanskar.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
Upon landing at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, the thin air at 3,500m will be immediately noticeable. The first day is strictly dedicated to resting at your hotel to allow your body to adjust to the significant drop in oxygen levels. You should spend the day hydrating and avoiding any strenuous physical activity. In the evening, a gentle stroll to the local Main Bazaar can be undertaken to get a feel for the Ladakhi culture, but early sleep is essential to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Day 02
Today is an acclimatization day, along with active rest. You will visit the historic Leh Palace, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the Stok Kangri range, followed by the Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist monument perched on a hilltop. These short walks and climbs help prime your lungs for the trek ahead.
Day 03
The adventure begins with a scenic drive along the Indus River to Likir Monastery, where you can marvel at the giant outdoor Buddha statue. After visiting the monastery, you begin the trek. The trail is relatively easy but dusty, crossing the small pass of Phobe La. You will walk through a lunar-like landscape before descending into the village of Yangthang, where you will spend the night in a traditional Ladakhi homestay or camp near the stream.
Day 04
Today’s trek is a beautiful transition through the heart of the Sham Valley. You will cross the Tsermangchen La pass. The climb is steady but rewards you with vast views of the surrounding arid peaks. Descending from the pass, you enter Hemis Shukpachan, one of Ladakh's most beautiful villages, famous for its ancient juniper (shukpa) grove and lush barley fields that contrast sharply with the brown mountains.
Day 05
The final leg of the trek takes you over the Mebtak La, offering a slightly steeper challenge than previous days. You will descend into the historical village of Temisgam, once the capital of Western Ladakh. After a hot lunch and a visit to the local fort, a vehicle will pick you up for the drive to Basgo. Basgo is home to a stunning mud-brick monastery and ruins that appear to grow directly out of the jagged cliffs.
Day 06
You will head to the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers (Sangam) to begin your river expedition. The Zanskar is known for its "Grand Canyon" feel, featuring steep rock walls and Grade II to III rapids. You will spend the night at a riverside camp, falling asleep to the sound of the glacial water rushing past.
Day 07
The second day of rafting often includes more intense rapids as the canyon narrows. You will navigate through spectacular geological formations where the rock layers are twisted at 90-degree angles. After reaching the take-out point near Nimmu, you will enjoy a riverside lunch before being driven back to Leh. This final evening in Leh is perfect for a celebratory dinner.
Day 08
Your journey concludes with a final breakfast overlooking the Himalayas. You will be transferred back to the Leh airport for your flight home. It is common to see the mountain ranges you just trekked through from the window of the plane, providing a final, breathtaking perspective of the "Land of High Passes."
Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transport: Airport pick-up and drop in Leh. Transport for sightseeing as per program and for trekking point drop and pickup in comfortable vehicle.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Leh on double occupancy, and alpine tents/ campsite on trekking trails.
- Meals: All meals on the trek (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and breakfast and dinner for the remaining itinerary
- Permits & Fees: Trek permit and other local permits.
- Staff: English-speaking tour leader, experienced local mountain guides and camping staff.
- Offloading: Porter and mule charges for ferrying all luggage except personal day pack.
- Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance.
- Personal Gear: Personal equipment (thermal wear, hiking poles, etc).
- Meals: Any meals not mentioned in the program.
- Beverages: Any drinks including soft drinks, bottled water, or alcoholic beverages.
- Extra Tours: Any activities outside the planned itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
- Taxes: All applicable taxes and transactional fees.
- Contingency Fee: Any additional expenses arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, road blocks or unrest, that result in an extension or change in the program, or emergency evacuation for medical reasons.