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About Zalung Karpo La Trek

7 Days
17,480 FT
Challenging

The Zalung Karpo La Trek is a remote high-altitude crossover in Hemis National Park connecting the Markha Valley with the Kharnak region. Crossing the isolated Zalung Karpo La at approximately 17,050 ft, the expedition explores Ladakh's rugged cold-desert landscapes far beyond the region's popular trekking routes.

Trek Highlights

Zalung Karpo La Pass

Standing at 17,050 ft, looking back at the snow-capped Kang Yatse peak and the endless brown folds of the Zanskar range.

Kharnak Gorge

A dramatic, narrow river canyon flanked by towering, sheer rock walls.

Dat Nomadic Settlement

A sprawling, high-altitude plain filled with the traditional black yak-hair tents of the Changpa nomads.

View Complete Trek Guide

Common Questions

How is this different from the Markha Valley Trek?
You share the first two days with the Markha Valley trail. At Hankar village, instead of turning left towards Nimaling (the commercial route), you turn right into the completely isolated Langthang valley to cross Zalung Karpo La.
Do I need to acclimatize in Leh?
Absolutely mandatory. You must spend a minimum of 3 days in Leh (11,500 ft) before starting the trek. Altitude sickness is the number one reason expeditions fail here.
Are there river crossings?
Yes, multiple. The Markha river and the streams in the Kharnak gorge must be crossed on foot. The water is freezing glacial melt. Dedicated river crossing shoes are mandatory.
Will I stay in homestays?
Only for the first two nights (Markha and Hankar). Once you deviate towards Zalung Karpo La, there are no villages. You will be wild camping in tents for the rest of the expedition.
How difficult is the pass?
Zalung Karpo La is 17,050 ft. The climb is a steep, relentless slog up loose scree and gravel. It requires excellent cardiovascular fitness and mental endurance.
What happens in a medical emergency?
Evacuation is very slow. Once you cross the pass, you are days away from any road. A satellite phone with the expedition leader is highly recommended to call for military/helicopter rescue in extreme cases.
Will my phone work?
BSNL/Jio works in Leh and you may get a faint signal at Skiu on Day 1. The rest of the trek is a total communication blackout.
Is there snow on the trek?
In July and August, the pass is generally free of deep snow, consisting mostly of dry rocks. In June and September, you may encounter significant snow patches requiring microspikes.
How is this different from the Markha Valley Trek?
You share the first two days with the Markha Valley trail. At Hankar village, instead of turning left towards Nimaling (the commercial route), you turn right into the completely isolated Langthang valley to cross Zalung Karpo La.
Do I need to acclimatize in Leh?
Absolutely mandatory. You must spend a minimum of 3 days in Leh (11,500 ft) before starting the trek. Altitude sickness is the number one reason expeditions fail here.
Are there river crossings?
Yes, multiple. The Markha river and the streams in the Kharnak gorge must be crossed on foot. The water is freezing glacial melt. Dedicated river crossing shoes are mandatory.
Will I stay in homestays?
Only for the first two nights (Markha and Hankar). Once you deviate towards Zalung Karpo La, there are no villages. You will be wild camping in tents for the rest of the expedition.
How difficult is the pass?
Zalung Karpo La is 17,050 ft. The climb is a steep, relentless slog up loose scree and gravel. It requires excellent cardiovascular fitness and mental endurance.
What happens in a medical emergency?
Evacuation is very slow. Once you cross the pass, you are days away from any road. A satellite phone with the expedition leader is highly recommended to call for military/helicopter rescue in extreme cases.
Will my phone work?
BSNL/Jio works in Leh and you may get a faint signal at Skiu on Day 1. The rest of the trek is a total communication blackout.
Is there snow on the trek?
In July and August, the pass is generally free of deep snow, consisting mostly of dry rocks. In June and September, you may encounter significant snow patches requiring microspikes.

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