Overview

The Sham Valley Trek, also known as the "Baby Trek" of Ladakh, is an excellent introduction to trekking in the Himalayas. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and moderate trekking challenges, making it suitable for beginners, families, and experienced trekkers looking for a serene adventure. The trek takes you through picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and lush green valleys, all set against the stunning backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.

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Diverse and Captivating Landscapes

The Sham Valley Trek is characterized by its diverse and captivating landscapes. The trek begins in the Indus Valley, where the terrain is a mix of arid mountains, fertile valleys, and traditional Ladakhi villages. As you progress, you'll traverse lush green meadows, rugged mountain paths, and small passes that offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

  • Village Pathways: The trek leads you through charming villages like Likir, Yangthang, and Hemis Shukpachan. These villages are surrounded by terraced fields, apricot orchards, and willow groves, providing a stark contrast to the barren, rocky mountains.
  • Rivers and Streams: The trek crosses several rivers and streams, offering refreshing breaks and scenic spots for rest.
  • Mountain Passes: You'll trek over gentle passes such as Chagatse La and Tsermangchan La, which are relatively easy compared to other Himalayan treks but still provide a sense of accomplishment and adventure.

Majestic Mountain Ranges and Peaks

The Sham Valley Trek is part of the larger Ladakh Range in the Himalayas. Although this trek doesn't take you to the high-altitude peaks like some of the more challenging treks, it still offers spectacular views of several prominent mountains and ranges.

  • Stok Kangri Range: One of the highlights of the trek is the view of the Stok Kangri range, which includes the famous Stok Kangri peak (6,153m). On clear days, trekkers can enjoy breathtaking views of this majestic peak from various points along the trail.
  • Zanskar Range: Another significant range visible during the trek is the Zanskar Range. Known for its rugged and imposing mountains, the Zanskar Range adds to the dramatic scenery of the trek.

Rich Flora and Fauna of Sham Valley

The Sham Valley Trek is not only about stunning landscapes and cultural experiences; it also offers a chance to witness the rich biodiversity of the region. The flora of the Sham Valley is diverse and varies with altitude and terrain:

  • Apricot and Apple Orchards: The lower valleys and villages are adorned with apricot and apple orchards. The blooming apricot trees in spring add a splash of color to the landscape.
  • Willow and Poplar Trees: These trees are commonly found along the rivers and streams, providing shade and a serene atmosphere.
  • Alpine Flowers and Grasses: As you ascend, you'll encounter alpine meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers and grasses. These meadows are particularly vibrant during the summer months.

The region is home to various species of wildlife, some of which you might spot during the trek:

  • Himalayan Marmot: These large, ground-dwelling squirrels are often seen in the higher meadows, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
  • Blue Sheep (Bharal): Agile and well-camouflaged, blue sheep can sometimes be spotted on the rocky slopes.
  • Birds: The area is rich in birdlife, including golden eagles, lammergeiers (bearded vultures), Himalayan griffon vultures, and various species of finches and buntings.

An Enriching Trekking Experience

The Sham Valley Trek offers a serene and enriching trekking experience through one of the most beautiful regions of Ladakh. With its combination of stunning landscapes, cultural immersion, and moderate trekking challenges, it is an ideal trek for those looking to explore the Himalayas without the extreme altitudes and difficulties of higher treks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trekker, the Sham Valley Trek promises an adventure filled with unforgettable memories, breathtaking views, and a deep connection to the natural and cultural beauty of Ladakh.

Experience the Majestic Chadar Trek

Ladakh is home to numerous natural wonders, but the most precious gift bestowed upon this magical land is the Chadar Trek. The trek is all about persistence and survival – learning to survive in the harsh terrains at sub-zero temperatures, interacting with the locals, and understanding their way of living, especially in one of the most inhabitable regions in the world. Trek across a dramatic gorge with frozen waterfalls on the frozen trail of Zanskar, spanned out like a "Chadar" acting as a mirror for the sky.

Explore the Enchanting Town of Leh

Leh is located in the northernmost parts of the country. It is traveler-friendly, enchanting, and a hassle-free fun town lapped in the snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas. You can explore the bustling local bazaar and enjoy delicious food ranging from local cuisine to Mughlai, Tibetan, Chinese, and Italian. Narrow footpaths, sturdy walls, and views of snow-covered mountains make you fall in love with the place instantly. There are numerous interesting places and monasteries to visit in and around Leh, such as Shanti Stupa, The Leh Palace, the monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thiksey, and Lamayuru, the Armed Forces Hall of Fame, and much more!

6 Nights 7 Days 25 Apr, 02 May, 09 May, and more Leh
Dates and Rates
Group Departures
date & duration availability price
Itinerary

​Short Itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Leh - Transfer to Hotel
  • Day 2: Acclimatisation Hike to Shanti Stupa and Leh Market (3,500m)
  • Day 3: Drive from Leh to Likir; Trek to Yangthang (3,700m)
  • Day 4: Trek from Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan (3,600m)
  • Day 5: Trek from Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam and Drive to Leh
  • Day 6: Leisure Day
  • Day 7: Departure - Fly Back

Detailed Itinerary of Sham Valley Trek:

Day 1: Arrival in Leh - Transfer to Hotel

Altitude: 3,500 meters
Accommodation: Hotel in Leh

  • Arrival at Leh: Upon arriving at Leh, the capital of Ladakh, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Leh lies at an altitude of 3,500 meters, so it’s crucial to take it easy to allow your body to acclimatise.

  • Rest & Relax: Spend the rest of the day resting and adjusting to the high-altitude environment. Drink plenty of water and avoid any strenuous activity.

  • Optional Exploration: If you’re feeling well, take a short walk around the town or explore the Leh Market, which is a great place to shop for local handicrafts and Tibetan artefacts.

  • Highlight: Relax in the peaceful surroundings of Leh and enjoy the calming atmosphere after your journey.

Day 2: Acclimatisation Hike to Shanti Stupa and Leh Market

Altitude: 3,500 meters
Trek Distance: 5-6 km
Trek Duration: 3-4 hours

  • Morning Hike to Shanti Stupa: After a relaxing breakfast, set out for a short acclimatisation hike to the Shanti Stupa. This Buddhist stupa sits on a hilltop at 3,600 meters and offers panoramic views of Leh, the Indus Valley, and the surrounding mountains.

  • Visit Leh Market: After your hike, visit Leh Market to experience the vibrant local culture and shop for traditional Ladakhi handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. It’s also a great place to try some local Ladakhi cuisine.

  • Highlight: The stunning views from the Shanti Stupa and the bustling atmosphere of Leh Market provide a perfect balance of nature and culture.

Day 3: Drive from Leh to Likir; Trek to Yangthang

Altitude: 3,700 meters (Yangthang)
Travel Distance: 50 km (Leh to Likir)
Travel Duration: 2 hours
Trek Distance: 10 km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours

  • Drive to Likir: After an early breakfast, depart from Leh and drive to Likir (50 km, approximately 2 hours). Likir is a scenic village known for its Likir Monastery, perched on a hill offering breathtaking views.

  • Trek to Yangthang: From Likir, begin your trek towards Yangthang (3,700 meters), a beautiful village set amidst lush green fields and surrounded by towering mountains. The trail is a gentle ascent through scenic valleys and villages, providing excellent views of the Zanskar Range.

  • Highlight: The serene village of Yangthang offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of surrounding peaks and valleys, providing a truly authentic Ladakhi experience.

Day 4: Trek from Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan

Altitude: 3,600 meters (Hemis Shukpachan)
Trek Distance: 13 km
Trek Duration: 5-6 hours

  • Trek to Hemis Shukpachan: After breakfast, begin your trek towards Hemis Shukpachan (3,600 meters). The trail passes through charming Ladakhi villages and agricultural lands, offering a glimpse of daily life in this remote region. As you walk, enjoy panoramic views of the Indus River Valley.

  • Scenic Beauty: The trail meanders through barren landscapes, past streams, cliffs, and terraced fields. The village of Hemis Shukpachan is known for its picturesque location, nestled between high mountains.

  • Highlight: The trek offers views of villages that have remained largely untouched by modern developments, offering an authentic look into traditional Ladakhi life.

Day 5: Trek from Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam and Drive to Leh

Altitude: 3,400 meters (Temisgam)
Trek Distance: 12 km
Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
Travel Distance: 70 km (Temisgam to Leh)
Travel Duration: 2 hours

  • Morning Trek to Temisgam: Begin the trek from Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam (3,400 meters). The path takes you through rocky terrains, past streams, and through the beautiful landscape of the Indus Valley. Temisgam is a small village known for its old palace and monastery.

  • Drive Back to Leh: After reaching Temisgam, you will drive back to Leh (approximately 2 hours, 70 km). On the way, enjoy the scenic vistas of Ladakh’s unique desert landscapes and mountain views.

  • Highlight: The village of Temisgam offers a peaceful stop with a chance to explore its historical sites, including the Temisgam Palace.

Day 6: Leisure Day in Leh

Altitude: 3,500 meters
Accommodation: Hotel in Leh

  • Relax and Explore Leh: Spend the day at leisure in Leh. After the previous days of trekking, this is a great opportunity to rest, recuperate, and explore more of Leh’s cultural heritage.

  • Optional Activities: You can visit the Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, or Shey Palace for a cultural immersion. If you’re up for it, you can also visit Pangong Tso or Nubra Valley for a day trip. Please note that these activities are not a part of the inclusion.

  • Highlight: Leh has a variety of cultural and natural attractions to explore. Enjoy a peaceful day and take in the beauty of the town.

Day 7: Departure from Leh

Altitude: 3,500 meters

  • Departure: After an incredible 7-day trek through Ladakh, it’s time to bid farewell to this mesmerising region. Depending on your flight time, you can enjoy a final stroll around Leh or relax before heading to the airport for your flight back home.

Risk and Liability 

We will endeavour to make your program smooth and as pleasant as possible. However, the entire course of trekking depends on the ranges of the mighty mountains, physical health, and environmental conditions. Therefore, TrekNomads shall not be responsible for any changes in the itineraries due to unavoidable circumstances and natural disasters such as landslides, road blockages, floods, snowing, cancellations of flights and delays, or any type of sickness including altitude sickness.

Do’s and Don’ts:

  • We believe in leaving the mountains in a better condition, which is why we follow a no-litter policy on our treks. Each trekker will have to bring back the waste that is created during the trek.
  • Trekking is best enjoyed when you’ve worn comfortable clothes. Try and avoid wearing Jeans, bright colours and heavy apparel as much as possible.
  • A lighter backpack always helps you have a better trek, try and carry just as much as needed.
  • Always be in sight of your trek lead, if you feel the need to stop for any reason at all, please keep the trek lead informed.
  • If you do come across any reptiles, animals or even insects during the trek, please keep your calm and let it patiently pass by. Any kind of noise and panic will scare them as well.
  • Do not venture out into the forest/waterfalls on your own as it may be dangerous.
  • Trekking is a good adventure, having said that, it is our primary responsibility to take good care of ourselves and be compassionate towards fellow trekkers
  • If, at any point, during the trek, you feel uneasy or unwell, please inform the trek lead immediately
  • Tune in to the sounds of nature while on a trek and avoid carrying speakers or playing music during the course of the trek
  • To help you enjoy the trek to the fullest, we avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol, and other intoxicants during the course of the trek
Highlights
Highlights of the Trek
  • Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for first-time trekkers or families with children due to its moderate difficulty level.
  • Likir Monastery: A beautiful monastery with sweeping views of the Zanskar Range.
  • Yangthang Village: A quiet, scenic village surrounded by high mountains and green fields.
  • Hemis Shukpachan: A tranquil village offering views of Ladakhi life and Indus Valley.
  • Temisgam Village: A historic village known for its palace and monastery.
  • Diverse Flora: Traverse landscapes dotted with unique high-altitude flora and traditional agricultural practices.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys typical of the Ladakh region.
  • Rich Biodiversity: Opportunity to observe local wildlife and bird species in their natural habitat.
  • Culinary Experience: Taste traditional Ladakhi cuisine and learn about local food practices in the village homestays.
  • Village Life: Engage directly with the life of rural Ladakh through overnight stays in village guesthouses.
Inclusions
Inclusions & Exclusions

What is included in the tour

  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • 04 nights accommodation at a Deluxe Hotel in Leh on a double or triple sharing basis with dinner and breakfast 
  • 02 nights of homestay accommodation
  • Meals: Breakfast and Dinner at Leh and during trekking days, breakfast, packed lunch and dinner at homestay
  • Standard vegetarian food (plus eggs) for breakfast, lunch and dinner during the trek 
  • Drinking water facility during the trekking days
  • Transportation as per the itinerary by NAC Vehicle, Leh to Likir (Day 3) & Hemis Shukpachan to Leh (Day 6)
  • 1 Experienced, qualified & professional local trek guide
  • Basic First Aid Kit 
  • LHADC permit, Inner Line Permit
  • Trekking route permits
  • All government, local taxes and service charges
  • TrekNomads Fee, support and expertise
  • 15% discount coupon on Gokyo Trek Apparel and Gear
  • ~15% discount on Fast&Up products
  • 15% discount on BMore products 
  • Personalised Dri-Fit T-shirt and Cap
  • TrekNomads goodies

What is NOT included in the tour

  • The cost to reach Leh and back
  • Single room occupancy at Leh
  • Personal accident and travel/adventure insurance
  • Medical, Emergency Rescue and Evacuation cost
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Tips for guide, chef, porter, etc
  • Local sightseeing and monastery/monument fee, entrance fee, camera fee, etc
  • Transportation is not on a disposal basis. It is strictly as per the program, any extra running will be charged extra. 
  • Any other expenses incurred apart from inclusions
  • All personal and medical expenses, emergency expenses like extra day stay or vehicle charges due to early arrival, delays, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/cancellations, any accidents / medical evacuations, riots/strikes & etc. 
Type of Trek
Himalayan Treks
Trek Gradient
Easy
Treknical Details
  • Trek Gradient: Easy
  • Trek Duration: 6 Nights/7 Days
  • Trek Distance: 32 Km
  • Max Elevation: 3,847 m
    • FAQ's

    Sham Valley Trek FAQs

    1. What is the Sham Valley Trek?
      The Sham Valley Trek, also known as the "Baby Trek" of Ladakh, is a moderate trek through picturesque villages, lush valleys, and ancient monasteries in the Sham region of Ladakh.

    2. Who is the Sham Valley Trek suitable for?
      This trek is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Ladakh without the extreme altitudes and challenges of more demanding treks.

    3. What is the best time to do the Sham Valley Trek?
      The best time to undertake the Sham Valley Trek is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the trails are accessible.

    4. How long is the Sham Valley Trek?
      The Sham Valley Trek typically spans 7 days, including acclimatization and sightseeing days in Leh.

    5. What is the altitude range of the Sham Valley Trek?
      The trek ranges from 3,300 meters to 3,700 meters above sea level.

    6. What are the main highlights of the Sham Valley Trek?
      The trek includes visits to picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, beautiful meadows, and panoramic views of the Stok Kangri and Zanskar ranges.

    7. What kind of physical fitness is required for the Sham Valley Trek?
      Moderate physical fitness is required. The trek involves daily walks of 4-6 hours, with some gradual ascents and descents.

    8. What should I pack for the Sham Valley Trek?
      Essential items include sturdy trekking shoes, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and personal medication.

    9. Are there any altitude sickness concerns on the Sham Valley Trek?
      Altitude sickness is a possibility. Proper acclimatization is essential, which is why the itinerary includes rest days in Leh.

    10. What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?
      Accommodation includes hotels in Leh and homestays or guesthouses in the villages along the trekking route.

    11. Are meals provided during the trek?
      Yes, all meals are provided during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

    12. What kind of food is available during the trek?
      The food includes a mix of local Ladakhi cuisine and common Indian dishes, with options for vegetarians.

    13. Do I need any permits for the Sham Valley Trek?
      Yes, trekking permits are required and will be arranged by TrekNomads.

    14. Is there mobile network coverage during the trek?
      Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable during the trek. It's best to inform family and friends about limited connectivity.

    15. What is the group size for the Sham Valley Trek?
      Group sizes are typically between 6 to 12 trekkers to ensure a personalized experience and adequate support.

    16. What should I do in case of a medical emergency during the trek?
      Our trek leaders are trained in first aid and carry a medical kit. In case of serious medical issues, evacuation plans are in place.

    17. Can I join the trek solo or do I need to be part of a group?
      Solo trekkers are welcome and will be part of a group organized by TrekNomads.

    18. What is the cancellation policy for the trek?
      The cancellation policy can be checked here.

    19. How do I book the Sham Valley Trek?
      You can book the trek through our website by clicking the "Book Now" button and following the instructions. For any queries, contact our support team.

    20. What makes the Sham Valley Trek unique with TrekNomads?
      TrekNomads offers expertly curated itineraries, experienced guides, comprehensive safety measures, and a commitment to providing a memorable and enriching trekking experience.