Article Published On - 02-12-2024
This captivating trek in Ladakh’s breathtaking landscape offers the ideal combination of adventure and cultural immersion, making it the ideal option for those seeking a shorter, less intense Himalayan experience. Beginning from Lamayuru Monastery – known for its otherworldly scenery – the trek winds its way through idyllic high-altitude villages, rugged mountain ridges, and ancient Buddhist monasteries before eventually arriving at Alchi – famed for its centuries-old monastery. Completion takes only four or five days, making this trek an excellent option for those wanting to ease into the higher altitude heritage of Ladakh without overexertion of physical exertion.
Day 1: Leh to Lamayuru (3 hrs drive)
Starting early from Leh, we journey toward Lamayuru, stopping for breakfast along the way. Along the way, we will visit some of Ladakh’s well-known and ancient monasteries like Lotsawa Ringchen and Lamayuru monasteries, which date back to the 14th century. Finally, we arrive in Lamayuru (3,420m), set up camp, explore the area, and visit its monasteries before concluding our trekking day here.
Day 2: Lamayuru to Wanla (4-5 hrs)
After breakfast at the tent, we will begin day four of our Lamayour Alchi Trek. Today’s trek should be more manageable compared to yesterday, as it begins with an easy ascent of Prinkt La Pass (3750 m), providing panoramic views of Ladakh Valley. After that, we will trek down towards Shilla before covering 3 kilometres to arrive at Wanla: an idyllic tourist town located at 3,250 meters with plenty of attractions waiting for us!
Day 3: Wanla to Base of Tar La Pass (4,200 m /13,776 ft) 8 hrs.
Today will be an extensive day on the Lamayuru Alchi Trekking schedule, so we aim to start early so we reach Tara La’s base early. En route we will pass through many traditional villages, monasteries and stupas in route.
Day 4: Base of Tar La to Tar Village crossing Tar La Pass (5,250 m /17,220 ft)
Day 4 of the Lamayuru Alchi Trek could prove to be one of the toughest. After traversing a series of gentle inclines and declines, we will reach Tara La Pass at 5,250 meters above sea level – not only an important landmark but also an amazing vantage point adorned with prayer flags offering stunning panoramic views across Ladakh valley from all directions. Once over it we’ll descend a rugged trek laden with boulders before eventually arriving at our campsite near quaint Tar village.
Day 5: Trek to Mang Gyu.
As we traverse a small mountain pass directly above Tar Village, we will arrive at Mang Gyu and experience its charming village culture before visiting its monastery, where we will have the chance to participate in an authentic puja ceremony.
Day 6: Mang Gyu to Alchi and end up at Leh.
Day 6 on our Lamayuru Alchi Trekking route will be one of the shortest and easiest. In addition to exploring Alchi and Likir, this will add two more destinations to our itinerary. Linkir and Alchi added an unexpected highlight to our Lamayuru Alchi Trek experience, allowing us to become immersed in history, culture, and ancient ways of living. After completing our two-hour trek, we concluded our trek and headed back toward Leh with our vehicle team.
Starting Location: Lamayuru, approximately 125 km outside Leh. By Road: Shared taxis or private cars from Leh can access Srinagar-Leh via the highway Srinagar-Leh. Starting Point: Alchi Village (approx. 65 kilometres west of Leh). Return from Alchi to Leh (1-1.5 hours).
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport of Leh (IXL). Frequent flights connect Hyderabad with Delhi as well as other Indian cities.
From mid-June through to late September. Clear skies, dry weather and mountains that are completely free. Perfect time to plan cultural excursions as well as mountain photos.
Mountain Expert
Adhish was born and brought up in the Pauri Garhwal region. Since childhood, he has had an inclination towards Mountains. To fulfil this dream, Adhish did his Basic mountaineering Courses from Nehru institute of mountaineering, Advance mountaineering courses from Himalayan mountaineering institute Darjeeling and Skiing courses from ABVIM Manali. He has done various expeditions in the Himalayan region. And his love for mountains and adventure is never-ending. Make sure to get detailed help related to the Himalayan trek from him.
