Sumda Chey Winter Trek

Ladakh, located in the Indian Himalaya, is an unforgettable travel experience known for its majestic natural beauty, ancient villages, and deep spiritual significance. Perfect for trekking and sightseeing adventures alike, Ladakh provides numerous experiences for visitors. Immerse yourself in snow-capped peaks, challenging mountain passes, and unique landscapes adorned with prayer flags and ancient Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Discover its captivating city of Leh – home to Buddhist stupas, historic forts, vibrant marketplaces, thrilling experiences such as walking across a frozen Chadar riverbank or visiting Sumda Chun Monastery; plus experience Ladakh’s rich history while exploring Sumda Chey – one of its oldest villages.

Trek Itinerary of Sumda Chey Winter Trek

Day 1

 Arrive in Leh. Rest & Acclimatization.

Take some time out to visit Leh town while adjusting to the altitude. If conditions permit, visit local monasteries as well.

Day 2

 Acclimatization in Leh

Acclimatization is essential when travelling at high altitudes, such as Ladakh, where oxygen levels are significantly less than at sea level. On your second day in Ladakh, you will spend one or two nights at Leh (3,500 metres) to enable your body to adjust to altitude before undertaking physically strenuous treks or exercises.

Day 3

 Drive from Leh to Rongdo (near Chilling) and trek to Labarpa

As we head toward Rongdo, take time to admire the beautiful confluence of the frozen Zanskar and Indus rivers. From Rongdo, leave the main road and descend into picturesque Sumda Valley, where the terrain narrows significantly before crossing an icy river and following its frozen banks for approximately two hours before arriving at our initial campsite, Labarpa.

Day 4

 Labarpa to Lazgoo

Walking along the river for approximately four to five hours until we arrive at Lazgoo campground, we may spot Blue Sheep as well as many wonderful bird species along our journey.

Day 5

 Lazgoo to Sumda Chey

As was the case yesterday, our 3–4-hour trek will lead us to Sumda Chey village, where we’ll set up camp for three nights. Here we may catch sight of Blue Sheep as well as numerous fascinating bird species.

Day 6

 Sumda Chey village to Sumda waterfall and the ancient cave.

As soon as we leave with our day bags in hand, we head for Sumda Waterfall – this will be our initial experience of navigating a frozen river for an extended period. Although our walk itself won’t take too long, we plan on pausing frequently to take photos and relish the unique thrill of walking on frozen waters. Once at Sumda waterfall, we will visit an ancient cave before returning to the Sumda Chey Village campsite.

Day 7

 Sumda Chey to View Point 1 and back.

Starting our day right, our ascent begins with a tough 4-5 hour climb up to an altitude of 14,900 feet, offering stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains such as Kang Yatse and Stok Kangri. After enjoying this memorable sunrise experience, we will return to Sumda Chey village, where our campsite awaits us for the night.

Day 8

 Sumda Chey to Rangdo, Sumda Chun monastery, and back to Leh

Once back at Rangdo, we board our vehicles for a short 15-20-minute drive to Sumda Chun monastery – recently connected by road – before making our way back towards Leh. Once exploring Sumda Chun, we return home.

Day 9

 Departure from Leh

Trek Highlights of Sumda Chey Winter Trek

• Experience the magnificent Himalayan landscape awash in snow-laden treks and picturesque mountain gorges and valleys.
• Discover one of the remotest Ladakh communities at Sumda Chey – home to an old 12th-century Buddhist monastery as well as traditional Ladakhi houses.
• Zanskar Range and Stok Kangri offer breathtaking vistas over the snow-covered mountains of the Zanskar Range.
• Explore frozen riverbeds or frozen mule tracks used by locals for winter travel.
• Discover rare winter wildlife like blue sheep, Himalayan foxes, and maybe even snow leopards (if lucky).
• Experience authentic interactions with locals and Buddhist monks without crowds or formal arrangements – simply real connections.

How To Reach Sumda Chey Winter Trek

Base Location: Leh, Ladakh (IXL).

By Air: To travel by air to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport of Leh, which operates year-round (weather permitting). Direct flights departing from Delhi, Srinagar, and Chandigarh.

Best Time to Visit Sumda Chey Winter Trek

Mid-January through Late February, Experience frozen treks and snow-covered mountains while hiking during the winter hiking season! This area provides the ideal opportunity. Temperatures range from 10degC up to -25 °C.