Internationale groepsreis Ladakh: The Markha Valley

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

A fantastic trek with stunning and changing scenery throughout. Although distances are not particularly long the altitude and temperature can make some of the climbs over passes fairly challenging. Leh was a busy and interesting town with a friendly small hotel.   Unfortunately the area was severely damaged by flooding a couple of days after we left.  Delhi was typically humid and smelly but interesting.  The hotel was excellent but a fairly long way from city centre or places of interest  Dilip organised an excellent city tour for our free day in Delhi

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The incredible scenery had to be the highlight. I expected it to be fairly uninspiring desert like but everywhere that you looked was awe inspiring.  Never a dull moment on the trek.  The road trip up to the  Khardung Pass (highest motorable road) was amazing and breathtaking in more ways than one

What did you think of your group leader?

Dilip and his team did a great job.  He was very knowledgeable and able to answer any question. The cook was excellent and never failed to surprise with what he could produce in difficult conditions. The entire team did everything they could to look after the group

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for a few discomforts. A bath in the snow melt rivers can be fairly refreshing and toilet facilities are not 5 star.   Go for it if you can.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Memorable Markha Valley

Stunning scenery and great camping adventure.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being able to enjoy spectacular landscape ranging from the different valleys, canyons, with a multitude of colour changing rock formations.

What did you think of your group leader?

The guide Rajeev was extremely organised and took great care of the group. Both him, his assistant Wangail and the team were also very social which is always nice.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Do prepare for any weather conditions as with this being the end of the season we did wake up to Snow one morning. Also with is being hot during the day do not pack too much in your day bag.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Beautiful Wilderness - Ladakh: The Markha Valley

An outstanding trek in a wonderful arid, mountainous environment where rocks gleam a wide variety iridescent colours, where lammergeiers and golden eagles circle above as marmots sit sunning themselves on the rocks below and where blue sheep have you gasping in amazement at their sure footedness on craggy rocky slopes. The isolation of the trek is special with just a few sparsely inhabited villages being passed. The range of temperatures from very warm during the day to very cold at night combined with the altitude of the passes and the rough stony ground of the riverbeds hemmed in by large rockfaces creates a wonderful feeling of challenge and exploration. The timelessness of the Buddhist monasteries encountered further enhances the experience. An amazing trip!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walk to Nimaling was special as the views really open up as you approach the plateau and the light on the snow topped slopes of Kang Yatse shifted to reveal huge cracks in its cornices. Cows and horses grazed at the camp and huge flocks of sheep and goats (including Kashmir goats) passed by the tents to gather in summer corals on the opposite side of the river. The crossing of the Gongmaru La Pass in perfect weather with vivid blue skies enabling us to see a perfect panorama of mountain tops including a 7000m+ peak belonging to the Karakorum range in Pakistan. It was very special seeing somewhere you would love to visit but are unlikely to be able to. The descent through the gorge was spectacular.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lakpa Lama was brilliant as a leader - kind, considerate, patient, good fun, competent. He had a great manner - at ease with everyone and quietly making sure that any problems were attended to and resolved as best as circumstances would permit.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

On our trip we had real extremes of temperature almost every day - 35 daytime, below freezing at night- so pack for both extremes. I regretted not bringing a very lightweight windproof long sleeved top - my summer base-layer was too warm. A flannel for the morning basin of water is useful. We found canoe shoes good for river crossing leaving sandals dry for the evening. The dry air can cause throat/chest issues so Strepsils, cough sweets etc useful. Unlike Nepal you can't just pick up things like that at a local teahouse though there are tea parachute tents en route where you can buy soft drinks and some local community handicrafts made from wool. The stuffed snow leopards are best at Rumbak village tent. Mobile phones are blocked in Ladakh though there is erratic wifi at Glacier View Hotel. Safe water shop in Leh is great- try the Apricot or Sea buckthorn juice though I found the latter too bitter.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Excellent acclimatisation schedule. The river does change course and you do sometimes end up on narrow cliff passes but the sand on these is 'sticky' and gives a good grip. The food is excellent and quality of tents - including toilet tent- is good. Easy to change money at the hotel in Delhi which has a swimming pool - great after the flight. Nearby Mughal Mahal restaurant good. We did the Golden Triangle Extension with Wellcome Travel and enjoyed it.

tTHE MARKHA VALLEY

GREAT TRIP, WOULD DO IT AGAIN,EXPERTLY LED BY VALERIE PARKINSON

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

CAMPING IN THE WILD AND THE STARS AT NIGHT

What did you think of your group leader?

A TRUE PROFESSIONAL . SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WAS A REAL TRAVELLER WITH LOTS OF STORIES AND ADVICE WHEN IT WAS NEEDED

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

BE PREPARED FOR LOTS OF RIVER CROSSINGS IF IT HAS BEEN RAINING, SOME WITH A ROPE!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

JUST GET FIT AT HOME, IN THE LAKE DISTRICT OR SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS, AND GO FOR IT. THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

TGR Ladakh: The Markha Valley

An outstanding trip offering a wide range of experiences and inspirational moments. As always, the trip was well led, well organised and offered excellent value for money. Some of the trekking was quite strenuous and tricky under foot but overall it more than lived up to our expectations as all the effort was rewarded with spectacular views.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Arriving at the top of the first high pass (GandaLa Pass - 4960m) and seeing the jaw-dropping view the other side: mountains upon mountains stretching away into the distance. Also being able to watch the monks chanting their prayers at the Thikse Monastery was pretty special. We were treated to a huge herd of blue sheep not far away above us on the mountainside too!

What did you think of your group leader?

Ngima was an exceptionally good leader. Absolutely nothing was too much trouble for him. He was upbeat, cheerful and good humoured throughout the trip and dealt with all our (minor) aliments and illnesses efficiently. The local guides were also fantastic, particularly Ongel, and together the whole team made us feel safe, relaxed and able to fully enjoy the whole experience.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Days 2 and 6 of the trekking (when you cross the high passes and descend) are particularly long and tiring. Although the notes say 7-8 hours it took our group 10-11 hours on both these days. There is LOTS of jumping from rock to rock over streams and wading through rivers so be prepared for this with sandals and a towel in your daypack. Follow the advice of the guides in terms of keeping hydrated (4 litres a day) to combat the altitude. Nigma carried excellent medicines for all sorts of ailments ~ you don't need much from home.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were blown away by the beauty, serenity and diversity of this region. This is not the Himalayas you would expect if you only think of the Everest region. It is green and lush, rocky and arid with ever changing colours and vistas. We would highly recommend it but respect its grading (5 - challenging): it is not to be underestimated!

Simon Barber's Markha Valley review

A trip of a lifetime! My first time in Asia - a difficult place to get around in. I was attracted by the terrain and the altitude: I'd done over 4000 m last year in Morocco (Mt. Toubkal), this year I fancied a go at 5000 m. I made it, but not with much breath to spare. An excellently organised trip but not for the faint-hearted or those with any vertigo/balance problems. The Markha valley trail is up a flash-flood prone canyon that several times a year wipes out all vestige of the old trail, and the locals valiantly hack a new one out of the loose, crumbling cliffs above the gorge. In places the track is a foot wide and the drop a hundred feet and more. Not pleasant.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Getting over the 2 high cols. The first one I managed on zero sleep - although the schedule tries hard to acclimatise the trekkers, it doesn't always work on schedule. The second high camp I was unable to sleep at all - rather like a night of being waterboarded by all accounts, But I still made it over the col the next day, feeling like death. The second, high col (5200 m) I was a bit better acclimatised for, managed 2 hours sleep. Makes all the difference!

What did you think of your group leader?

Ngima was the one who really kept us going; I can't speak too highly of him. Whether organising the first and last nights meal in Delhi or keeping us on the trail, his leadership skills were superb.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be sure you don't get vertigo or any balance problems, if you want to take this trip. There's a lot of rock-hopping and stream crossing. Equipment; I wore a pair of almost knee-length Meindl boots, and recommend them or similar.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food and camp organisation was excellent. The porters and horsemen deserve every rupee of what they got, and more!

Makrha Valley

This was a great experience the Markha Valley is truly unique part of the world. We arrived a in Leh a week after heavy rains and closed the track due to flooding and some land slides. The Exodus team worked extremely hard to plan an alternate route if we could not do the Markha trek. Luckily the Markha valley track was reopened and we were able to do the planned walk. The views the landscape the local people all well and truly exceeded my expectations.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing at the top of Gongmaru Pass with fantastic views in all directions was truly inspiring.

What did you think of your group leader?

The Group leader Ngima could not have been better nothing was too hard for him he was committed tot he group 24/7. his commitment an happy smiling face help to make the trek the wonderful experienced that it was.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The river crossing can be a bit tough on two days we spent several hours following the river bed crossing and recrossing the river jumping from stone to stone, I personally found this a bit challenging due to problems with a dodgy ankle.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Markha Valley

A great trek to remote locations.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Crossing the Gongmaru La pass-stunning views in every direction, and worth all the effort. Seeing the Dalai Lama in Leh.

What did you think of your group leader?

Lakpa was a great leader. Always on the ball, checking everybody was OK, and making sure everything worked like clockwork-great job! Wongel, the assistant guide was also a star.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take big memory cards-the scenery is breathtaking. It can be very hot and dusty, so be prepared.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Worth the cost, the overnight flights, not showering, being caked in dust, and generally feeling privileged to have been there.

Spectacular Scenery!

A great trek through an amazingly beautiful area with an enormous array of colours and landscapes. Great acclimatization time in Leh before the trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking in relatively isolation through the amazing landscapes. Crossing the two passes were an achievement.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both the group leader and the trekking guide were excellent, friendly and competent. Very well organized and no issues with communication.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for cool or cold night temperatures. Some of the parts of the trail are on narrow (sometimes crumbling) ledges above the river so people with vertigo issues or unsteady feet may want to come prepared. There are also some sections where you are walking along rocky riverbeds so you may want to ensure you have boots with adequate ankle support. Definitely bring a wide brim hat, sunscreen and lip balm with sunscreen as well as the sun was particularly strong during the day and there was often little shaded areas. Bring extra camera batteries and memory cards if you like taking photos as this trek is full of photo opportunities!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great trip and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in beautiful scenery and relatively isolated environments.

Stay vegetarian

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me it was the independent part of our holiday after the trek where we travelled by train around North India. My husband rated the trek, inspired by the high desert scenery.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was excellent. in terms of his organisational skills, good humour and the support he instinctively offered when anyone appeared to be finding the going tough. Fluent in English and willing to share information and anecdotes with us which made the trip even more interesting.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Stick to vegetarian meals in Leh - my Ginger Chicken ruined the trek for me!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotel used in Leh was disliked by the whole group. We were not looking forward to returning to it which is saying something after the confines of camping. Rooms were dark, cheerless and nothing looked clean. Many of the group used their sleeping bags for this reason. Surely for the cost of the trek you could book the group into somewhere more appealing? Perhaps with a view of the mountains?

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

This is a tough trek, due partly to the altitude, but we also had incredibly hot weather which sapped the energy.  The nature of the rocks in Ladakh changes constantly, creating an ever-changing landscape, the like of which I've never seen before.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Going over two high passes was really something.  I found it hard, but very worthwhile.  The sense of achievement, as well as new views into the next valley made all the huffing and puffing worthwhile.

What did you think of your group leader?

Sanjay was superb.  His organisational skills were good, and he dealt with any minor problems that arose very competently and with humour.  He motivated us when the going got tough, and amused us at the dinner table!  His presence meant that we really didn't have to worry about any aspects of the holiday.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take an umbrella to protect you from the sun.  Some of the walking is in very exposed areas, and it was worth taking the ridicule of others to have the benefit of my little pink umbrella! Whilst the Hotel City Park in Delhi was very nice, staff seemed to make an absolute meal of sorting out bills for anything.  Watch you don't pay for stuff, and then get charged a second time when you check out.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Don't expect too much from the toilets whilst camping! 

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

This was a fantastic holiday. The mixture of culture; walking in stunning scenery with views of China & Tibet  and visits to the amazing Buddhist  monastries was fantastic. Our leader Valerie Parkinson was extremely knowledgeable about the local culture, religion and walking at altitude. It was a priviledge to have her as a Guide. Subkam our Nepalese guide was very helpful and always smiling. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I slept under the stars one night. The stars were incredible including the Milky Way as was the sound of the river.  Amazing. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Valerie Parkinson was inspirational and it was a priviledge to have trekked with her. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Yes just do as the Trip Notes tell you to do (they have been written by Valerie who has extensive experience in that area and of climbing at altitude) and bring what it says in the equipment list ie at least a 3-4 season sleeping bag and a thick sleeping mat to sleep on (not the thin ones you c an buy). A flannel for washing in the morning although I had one of those lightweight quick dry towels which were good. Dry your feet after the river crossings to avoid blisters. Take a high factor sun cream - at altitude you are closer to the sun. Bring a high factor suncream for your lips. Bring a wide brimmed sun hat. Avoid drinking tap water in Delhi or eating icecream and salad. I didn't have any altitude sickness or Delhi Belly. I did exactly as Valerie instructed and followed the trip notes. I also wasn't cold at night as I brought everything it said in  the trip notes including a down jacket which was very handy at night as the temperture did drop.  I would really have liked the trek to be longer so I might consider the Grand Traverse next. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I also did the Golden Triangle  extension which was very good.  The Taj Mahal was mind blowing and Jaipur was very interesting. It was all a real contrast to Ladakh.  We had a fantastic driver called Raj.   I know it can be hard sleeping at altitude however if you   know that back at home  that you are a snorer and that you are a light sleeper and need to go to the loo a lot then please be considerate and pay  the single supplement so that you don't disrupt someone else's sleep and potentially spoil their holiday.     

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

This was a great trek, a good length both in distance and number of days, changing scenery every day, outstanding views. Being able to expereince some of the local culture was also a real treat.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

When we reached the top of the highest pass, the Gongmaru La, a huge eagle flew over us. It was magic. That, combined with the amazing scenery made the hard climb worth it!

What did you think of your group leader?

Dilip was an excellent group leader, attentive to the needs of the group and individuals, knowledgable and always sharing insights and information. Going with him to a family home and trying local beverages was also a trip highlight and was something we were able to experience due to his local connections.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for some long days walking, make sure your shoes are well broken in. Sandals or some other light shoes for river crossings are essential. A broad brimmed hat and sunglasses are good because it gets very hot and glary. I wished I had packed a small facecloth which would have made washing in the tent a bit easier. In saying that the only way to get a good wash is in the mountian streams - very cold but refreshing! Take it easy and don't try and charge around like you would at home - you will have a much more enjoyable experience!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you are feeling up to it I reccommend the optional trip to the worlds second highest motorable road, again, the views are incredible.

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

A fantastic area and great walking with views changing all the time . The colours have to be seen to be believed . Be prepared to wade across rivers ( with plenty of support )Great support staff nothing too much trouble .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I loved the view of Kang Yangtse from above Nimerling . Well worth the effort of the optional walk from camp . There were amazing views from the top of both high passes .

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was great and gave us so much information about the area and the people and lots of information about Buddism . She always made sure everyone was well first thing in the morning and looked after us all throughout the day .

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you want to walk in a little populated area then do this trip . You will be at altitude so take it easy in Leh and drink lots of water .

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I had never heard of Ladakh until last year but glad someone recommended this trip to me .

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

Great trip if you like fantastic and imposing landscapes of never ending mountains. Amazing views of Stok Kangri and Kang Yaze mountains full of snow and glaciers during the trek - changing scenery and colours as you walk through the gorges - from blue to green, amazing monasteries, some very high up, kept by a single monk sometimes.  Fascinating glimpse into life in Ladakh as you acclimatise in Leh for 3 days and later walk through tiny villages through the Markah Valley.  And a must if you into buddhism - especially if your guide is Valerie Parkinson.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Constant views over the mountain range - emptiness - apart from a few yaks, sheep, goats, and tea tent people.  Great museum in Hemis monastery - with very interesting pieces about history of the place and old photos of frozen rivers. Loved Leh for all the local tiny side streets and general life there.  Made me really wonder what it's like when all is blocked off in winter.  Must admit to loving the colourful clothes and stone jewellery - everything is simply beautiful - if you like the tibetan nepalese type things.  And it is an opportunity to share a chat and a tea in several places.  Very interesting to hear about how Ladakhi people are living now, learning to make the most out of visitors and seemingly retaining their identity - hopefully will stay this way.

What did you think of your group leader?

Oh - where to start???  This lady is the most professional, knowledgeable, patient and dedicated guide I ever came across.  Her knowledge of buddhism is encyclopedic - and she keeps all information really lively and interesting. Her knowledge of the area is amazing, so is her dedication to the Ladakhi people, and clients alike.  She is working relentlessly to improve life for the Ladakhi, which is an enormous plus point in my book - and am very glad Exodus is supporting this.  She makes sure that drinking water is available in all tea tents, works with others to train people how to use solar power, UV water filters etc.  Every day she made sure all of us were ok in terms of coping with altitude, giving all the necessary advice at all times.  Some of us did struggle a little with altitude - but thanks to her recommendations it was a great experience.  And she keeps her sense of humour at all times.  I think she is a solar powered green modern buddhist deity ;-)  Better add her name - Valerie Parkinson.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Having read other reviews, I did not think it was that hot - but yes - a wide brimmed hat is crucial - and 50+ sun cream and lip salve.  Absolutely follow the advice to drink lots of water - 4-5 litres a day a must.  If you are concerned about the altitude - you can consider taking Diamox 2-3 days before the trip.  But not a must - I took some on day 2 after arriving and was fine after that - but everyone is different.  Do take all the things on the packing list.  The level of fitness required was less than I expected - but maybe because the pace was always slow enough to cope with the altitude.  Expect a lot of temperature changes - you will need warm trousers or leggings and thick fleece - as well as thin T-shirt. There are some steep-ish ascents - but short ones - and 1-2 slightly slippery but again brief descents - but mainly the paths are really easy.  A walking stick comes in handy when crossing rivers.  Take 2 big 1 litre bottles with you that can cope with hot water.  Camel back water bag also handy.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

If you have never been to India before, might be good to stay a few more days in Delhi - I missed not having more time there to see more places and to buy more presents.  Clothes wise - make sure you have clothes that cover your shoulders and knees to enter the monasteries.  Not much to ask - out of respect for the monks.  Lastly and very important:  do take any unwanted clothes with you which you can donate to people in Ladakh or the local guides and staff.  Or also other trekking items.  Childrens clothes too.  It is very expensive to send stuff over - but if you can travel light and take lots of clothes in your travel bag, it would help a lot.  Staff everywhere extremely helpful and kind.  Accompanying staff fantastic: cook Manilal did great stuff, speedily assisted by the ever smiling Pemptuk.  Lotus was always helpful and funny and is slowly slowly improving his english.  Tashi always a pleasure to walk with and always willing to explain things.  Tashi the horseman also great - but did not talk to him much - sorry!  Thanks all for great trip.

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

A great trek into a remote and beautiful area. Comfortable camping, with good and varied food. A marvellous leader and helpful and obliging staff.  I feel so fortunate that I have had the opportunity to go.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The incredible gorge between Shingo and Skiu with the beautiful, coloured rocks;  the amazing night skies;  the friendly and unfailingly helpful local people.  Almost every moment was inspirational.

What did you think of your group leader?

Valerie was inspirational.  She quite obviously had a great love for the area, together with a great knowledge.  She was always happy to share information, answer questions.  She was a caring, considerate leader, aware of how each member of the group was feeling and progressing.  I felt confident and safe under her leadership.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

  Be aware that this trek is at altitude and the days can be hot.  That aside, just do it, it's not to be missed!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am so glad that I went.  I think that the trip was well thought out and planned and it was, as always, excellent value for money. This can also be said of the Golden Triangle Extension, another bit not to be missed!

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

Awesome landscape, fantatsic leader, great group - Loved every minute!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Gettin up the first pass, climbing a little further (optional) and then the long descent under bright blue skies into another world of craggy gorges

What did you think of your group leader?

Valerie was great - knowledgable, patient, positive and inspiring. And we laughed a lot.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure your sleeping bag is warm enough! It's possible to hire one if not though

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Not much to say other than I had a very brilliant time. Staff were great and food was really excellent. I lived it!

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

Great trek combining awesome high-altitude mountain scenery (a must for any geology nuts!) with beautiful valleys and fascinating remote Ladakhi villages in green oases round the water courses. Camping at high altitudes (4500m+) looking out over mountain ranges with marmots, blue sheep & dzos nearby was unforgettable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Camping on the high plain (4800m) at Nimalung with Kang Yangste towering on one side and the Gongmaru La pass on the other. Having tea in the traditional Ladakhi home of one of our guide's family in Rumbak.

What did you think of your group leader?

Valerie Parkinson is simply the best: a superb combination of enthusiasm, expert knowledge, understanding, tact & diplomacy & fun, too! She is so much more than just a guide.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure you really are fit for 8-10 hour days of challenging climbing/walking over a variety of terrain! You'll need it!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great group of fellow trekkers meant there was always someone to talk to; we felt really lucky to be part of such a nice bunch.

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

This trek was through the most jaw dropping scenery! It was hard to take in the magnitude of the mountains, I felt privalaged to be able to do it.The trek itself was not too difficult but it was made tougher by the altitude and the heat at the start of the trek. The leader was superb as were all the staff, nothing was too much trouble and Ngima is possibly the most patient man on the planet! Amazing food on the trek including three birthday cakes baked at altitude.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Probably when we climbed up the first pass, I was feeling the altitude but the view when I finally made it was awesome. Everyone on our trek was very supportive of each other.

What did you think of your group leader?

What more can I say, a true professional and a real 'people' person. I felt very safe with him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is not a walk in the park, you definitely need a good level of fitness and expect some long days trekking. Also you can't know how you will cope at altitude but we all made it in our own time coaxed along  by our leader.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go for it, you will be rewarded by incredible scenery, meet lots of lovely people and there is a good chance you will lose weight for your efforts, what more can  a girl ask for?

LADAKH: THE MARKHA VALLEY

What a trip this is! Pure adventure and exhilaration each and every day. Mountain peaks, glacier rivers, hilltop monasteries. This was a very fortunate experience to be in a small part of the world where time simply does not matter. No internet, no mobile phones, no facebook or twitter. Some might say its heaven.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The final push up to the Gongmaru La pass (5,286m). The views over the Stok Mountain Range with Kang Yangtse behind us were incredible and well worth the effort.

What did you think of your group leader?

Shailesh was fantastic. Wonderful fun and had some great trekking stories. His expertise was greatly appreciated during some difficult passes and river crossings. Jigmet was our local guide on the trek was also very helpful and knew the Marka Valley like the back of his hand.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

This is no ordinary holiday. Patience and a good sense of humour are mandatory. The altitude might prove difficult for some (as it was for me!) straightaway as Leh is already at 3,500 meters above sea level. Keep drinking water and rehydration supplements are very much reccommended.  Take the walk slowly. Take lots of pictures and if you spot a blue sheep, please do let me know.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ladakh is a mind blowing part of Northern India. China to the East, Pakistan to the West. A wonderful retreat from the humidity and hustle and bustle of the Golden Triangle. A real hub for trekkers and adrenalin seekers. I have been to no where that competes for sheer excitement and contrasting cultures. It will take some time to get over it.