Spectacular landscape, steep valleys and a natural gallery of Neolithic relics, ready to be explored in one single stretch. Sounds fascinating right?
The Indus Valley region in Ladakh paves the way for an exciting expedition on which the trekker inside you could rejoice and make memories for life. The Indus Valley Trek is one of the most sought-after and easiest treks in the Ladakh region, providing opportunities to beginners too. The Indus Valley region shares its boundaries with neighbouring countries of Pakistan, Afghanistan and China and renders you the chance to explore different geographical attractions, topographical diversions and unusual directions. The region also covers the Karakoram Range to the west that hosts glorious snow-clad mountains and the Zanskar range to the east, which is home to some of the most endangered mountain species.
Highest Point of the Trek - 3,750 meters
Difficulty Level - Easy-Moderate
Starting Point - Leh
The highlight of the Trek - Ancient Silk Route and Hidden Local Villages
Duration - 9-10 Days
Total Distance - 68 Km
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About Indus Valley
Indus Valley is the legendary site of the pre-historic era, where the Indian civilisation is believed to have found roots. It is located in the Leh region and keeps on evolving through the main channels of the Indus River. The Indus Valley comprises of ancient territories, secluded, scenic landscapes, snow-clad peaks, cattle farms and barren lands. The region showcases some of the most ancient Buddhist monasteries and remote villages. A vast gallery of rock arts reflecting the early lifestyle of our ancestors stands at display within the region. Shey, Thiksey, Temisgang, Phyang, Hemis, Lamayuru, Alchi, Spituk, Ridzong, and Likir monasteries are the major spiritual attractions in the region.
Indus Valley Trek
Trekking along the Indus Valley includes enthralling nomadic routes along the hills of Likir and Temisgang of the ancient era, hiking across the ancient traditional Gompas like Likir, Ridzong, Temisgang, Thiksey and Alchi and passing through numerous hidden villages where the locals still maintain their traditions, values and customs wonderfully intact. The trekking trail takes you through undulating land along the Indus River and the Old Caravan route. It passes through some of the famous mountain passes, and the entire stretch ranges between the altitude of 3000 meters and 3750 meters.
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The Indus Valley Trek begins at Leh and moves to Likir followed by Yangthang after crossing Phobe La and Charatse La, from where one can witness the majestic views of the valley. Furthermore, trek ascends to Temisgang passing through Ridzong Monastery in Hemis Shukpachan. The trail then culminates at Lamayuru and Alchi and finally winds down at Leh. The trek is one of the major spiritual attractions in Ladakh and attracts Buddhist pilgrims from various South - Asian countries as well.
Best Time to Visit Indus Valley
The best time to take up the Indus Valley trek is between June and mid-October. At this time, the weather in Ladakh remains pleasant, with average temperature ranging from 20-30°C during the daytime. During this time the two major routes to reach Ladakh- Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways also remain open for private vehicles.How to Reach Indus Valley?
By Air - You can take a flight to Leh Airport from Delhi or few other destinations that operate daily air services to Ladakh.By Road - Leh is connected to the rest of India by two major highways- NH 1D Srinagar-Leh Highway and Manali-Leh Highway. The Srinagar-Leh Highway passes through Kargil and Zoji-La pass whereas Leh-Manali Highway passes through Rohtang Pass and Tanglang La pass.
Things to Carry on the Indus Valley Trek
- It is recommended to carry warm base layers like thermal tops which can be worn underneath a T-shirt or shirt which will keep you warm and dry. Mid layers provide good insulation that is why you must carry a thick woollen jumper or a mid-weight fleece top.
- If you are among those who feel cold, then carry padded bomber jacket along. The outer layer is the final layer which can protect you from wind, rain and snow. A waterproof and windproof jacket can solve this purpose.
- A good sun hat is also essential as the sun is quite harsh in Ladakh.
- Sunglasses which offer 100% UV protection are also necessary to combat the strong daylight.
- Apart from these, do not forget to carry your essential medicines along as Ladakh is a remote region and you might not easily get your choice of medicines on time.
Ladakh is the land of dreams, blessed with incandescent beauty and rich heritage. It has been an amazing destination for travellers from far and wide who wish to explore its unique landscape and topography. Offering some of the most beautiful treks in the world, Ladakh attracts thousands of tourists every year both in months of summer and winter. Amid all other famous treks like Markha Valley trek, Tso Moriri trek, Stok Kangri trek and Chadar trek, Indus Valley trek is a quieter and simpler option that is the perfect choice for travellers looking for a beautiful Himalayan expedition which is not very strenuous. It is the must-visit destination for beginners too who wish to experience the thrill of trekking in life.