The best time to visit Markha Valley trek is from May to August. The trail starts attracting trekkers from across the world in mid-May. These months have pleasant weather and mild temperatures.
As summer arrives in the valley, the villages at lower altitudes adorn bright shades of green. The lush green paddy fields amidst the arid desert, surrounded by towering mountains, present a breathtaking sight during the Markha Valley trek in summer.
Summer colours fade from the trail by August, and autumn hues take over. If you prefer fewer people on the trail, trek to Markha Valley in September. The trekking season concludes as September ends.
Avoid the winter months of December to February, as heavy snowfall makes it challenging to navigate the trail.
Markha Valley Trek in Summer (May to August)
Ladakh witnesses summer from May to August. These months are considered the best time to visit Markha Valley trek in Ladakh. Weather remains clear, and you will have warm sunny days and moderate temperatures. Summer in Ladakh is the best time to explore the higher reaches where Markha Valley is located.
June to August is the peak season in Markha Valley. The trail receives a high number of trekkers during these months compared to other months.
Markha Valley Trek in May
Planning the Markha Valley trek in May saves you from biting cold and harsh winter temperatures. Clear and dry weather makes your trek comfortable.
During this season, the villages along the trail come to life. You witness contrasting landscapes in the villages. The traditional Ladakhi house, with a lush green field guarded by an arid mountain desert, is a sight to behold.
Markha Valley Trek in June
The clear and sunny days let you indulge in the stunning views of Stok Kangri and Kang Yatse peaks in June. The Kongmarula Pass at an altitude of 17,060ft. has remains of winter snow. The weather is usually cold and windy at the Pass.
Markha Valley Trek in July
Markha Valley experiences mild showers in the afternoon. July offers the raw beauty of Ladakhi villages as you traverse the highlands of Ladakh. Patches of green fields turn the brightest during this month.
Markha Valley Trek in August
August offers breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. It is also a perfect time to enjoy the rare flora and fauna on Markha Valley trail.
Markha Valley Trek in Autumn
Embarking on a trek to Markha Valley in Ladakh is ideal during autumn. Breathtaking landscapes and a suitable climate make autumn perfect for experiencing Markha Valley.
Markha Valley in August
Markha Valley trek remains dry, with low precipitation and little or no rain in August. August is the most suitable time to embark on this picturesque and culturally enriching trek. Warm and mild weather, clear blue skies, and stunning views of the mountain ranges make August the most favoured month to explore the valleys of the highlands in Ladakh.
Markha Valley in September
September is the perfect time to indulge in autumn hues. The paddy fields change the colour, and the mountain ranges appear crisp and clear. Markha Valley trek traverses the Hemis National Park, offering a rare opportunity to encounter the diverse Himalayan flora and fauna in September.
Trekking to Markha Valley between October and November is not the best option. However, weather conditions are unpredictable and the climate is not appropriate for trekking.
Markha Valley Trek Weather and Temperature
Markha Valley trek experiences pleasant weather in the summer months. May to September feature mild temperatures appropriate for trekking. While days are warm and sunny, the mercury level drops at night thereby increasing the cold.
Markha Valley Trek Weather in Summer
The Markha Valley temperature is mild and comfortable during the summer months of May to July. Markha Valley weather is dry and sunny in summer. Some days will be hot as the sun is stronger in the valley at lower altitudes. Night temperature is frigid and it further drops depending on the altitude.
Ladakh is a high-altitude desert. The region remains unhindered by the monsoon rains as high mountains restrict the rain clouds. However, the weather is unpredictable in the mountains, so expect mild and moderate showers. Come prepared with rain gear to deal with unpredictable mountain weather.
Markha Valley trek temperatures remain moderate, touching a maximum of 24°C. The nights and early mornings are chilly and drop to sub-zero as you gain altitude. Prepare for fluctuations in temperature and carry enough layers to keep yourself warm on the trek.
Markha Valley Trek Weather in Autumn
As you advance towards September, the temperature drops further. Weather conditions become extreme. As Ladakh is a cold desert, the temperature becomes unbearable, and exploring Markha Valley trek becomes challenging.
You can consider trekking to Markha Valley in September. However, be prepared to deal with freezing cold and unpredictable.
Markha Valley Trek Highlights
Markha Valley is one of the most popular treks in Ladakh that passes through picturesque villages to reach the summit at Kongmaru La. The trek in the cold desert of Ladakh is known among adventure lovers for its majestic view of Mt KangYatse, Stok Kangri peaks, Ladakh, and Zanskar ranges. Markha Valley trek surprises you with the exquisite beauty of its unique landscapes after every climb.
The Markha Valley Trek does not limit itself to a single experience but gives you glimpses of unique Ladakhi culture, the humble life of villagers, and exotic Himalayan wildlife. However, the highlight of the Markha Valley trek is witnessing the pristine Kang Yatse peak (6,400) atop the Kongmorula Pass at 17,000 ft.
The trek takes eight days to complete, including travel to and from the base camp, Leh. Although the trail is moderate, climbing to the high-altitude pass is taxing. You will cover 70km and need to be physically fit to embark on this thrilling trek.
