Can Beginners Do the GHT Ladakh Trek?

Unfortunately not. The GHT Ladakh Trek is not appropriate for beginners because they will not have the experience required for high-altitude trekking or expeditions.

Is the GHT Ladakh Trek Safe?

It is a high-risk expedition due to its remoteness; however, travelling with an experienced guide and with an appropriate acclimatisation plan and safety protocols, it can be undertaken safely.

What is the Best Time to Do the GHT Ladakh Trek?

The best months to do the GHT Ladakh Trek are July through September because it has the best chance for the passes to be open and also has the most stable weather conditions.

How Cold Does It Get on the GHT Ladakh Trek?

The lowest temperatures at night often drop to below -10 degrees Celsius, even in the peak trekking season.

Is Mobile Network Available on the GHT Ladakh Trek?

Yes, there is only a limited amount of mobile signal after getting to Padum; therefore, most of the route does not have a mobile signal.

Are There Villages on the GHT Ladakh Trek?

Yes, but most of the villages are located within the Zanskar Region and are quite spaced out, meaning that the rest of the trek is very remote with no access to villages.

Why Choose Himalaya Shelter for the GHT Ladakh Trek?

Himalaya Shelter provides the best-qualified expedition leaders, has designed their acclimatisation structure, has put a strong focus on safety when planning the trek, and is able to provide all logistical support services for your trek.

GHT Ladakh Trek

Name: GHT Ladakh Trek
Brand: Himalaya Shelter
Price: 699999 INR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (1245 reviews)

TREK DIFFICULTY

Difficult

TREK DURATION

28 Days

HIGHEST ALTITUDE

5000 Meters

GROUP SIZE

2 - 5

TREK DISTANCE

110

BASECAMP

Leh

BEST TIME

June to September

PICKUP POINT

Leh

GHT Ladakh Trek: A Grand Trans-Himalayan Traverse Across Zanskar & Changthang

The GHT in Ladakh represents one of the most remote, yet one of the most accessible, sections along the GHT. It provides a unique opportunity to walk through the central region of the trans-Himalayan landscape of Ladakh.

Located between the Tibetan Plateau to the east, the Kashmir Valley to the west, and the Karakoram Range to the north, Ladakh is characterised by dry, towering mountains, ancient monasteries, and vast, cold deserts. Due to the extreme altitudes and arid climate, the landscape is dramatically different from the green mountains of the Himalayas, making it a truly expedition-style adventure.

The trek itself commences at Padum, Zanskar Valley's administrative centre, which is located on the banks of the Tsarap River. The trek follows a series of ancient trade routes and river gorges through this remote and very isolated portion of the Indian Himalayas.

As you travel further into this remote area, you will come across many villages, high mountain passes, and narrow valleys carved out by glacial rivers. Therefore, on the GHT Ladakh Trek, you will witness first-hand the traditional ways of life of the Ladakhis.

The GHT Ladakh is an incredible journey, steeped in culture and tradition, and offers great diversity in terms of both experience and scenery. As trekkers pass through this area, they will experience everything from the spiritual heritage of a Buddhist monastery (Phugtal), which has been built into a cliff face, to the unHampta Pass is an excellent choice if you are trekking in the Himalayas for the first time, are looking for a snow trekking experience close to Manali, or want to enjoy the stunning views along the way. unique nomadic culture of the Tibetan Plateau and the vast expanses of the Changthang region.

Although the change in altitude can be significant, these changes are all part of the experience of the trek, which concludes in the village of Korzok, close to the stunning Tso Moriri Lake. The GHT Ladakh is also extremely remote.

Most trekkers will spend many days hiking (on the GHT Ladakh route) with little to no contact with other people, other than their guides, which makes this trek particularly suitable for those looking for a truly adventurous and physically challenging experience.

The journey is not just one of crossing mountains but of crossing cultures, landscapes, and some of the most pristine and untouched areas of the Indian Himalayas.

Major Attractions of the GHT Ladakh Trek

Ladakh's trans-Himalayan landscapes

The trek travels through the desert-type terrain and dry mountainous area that is found in Ladakh; both of these elements combine to make the Himalayan region feel unique and dramatic due to the extreme altitude and lack of plant life.

Valley of Zanskar and Tsarap River

The trek leaves Padum, following a large gorge of the Tsarap River that runs through many isolated valleys with many gorgeous views of huge cliff faces and glacial river systems along the way.

Phugtal Monastery Trek

One of the most amazing parts of this trek, Phugtal Monastery is a monastery built into the side of a mountain along a steep cliff face and is accessible only by foot, thus providing a beautiful mix of trekking and cultural discovery.

High-Altitude Passes and Isolated Plateaus

The trek travels through many high-altitude mountain passes and runs over large areas of very high-altitude plateaus, which allows for panoramic views and creates a feeling of being completely isolated.

Morey Plain of Changthang

The way into the Morey Plain of Changthang provides trekkers with large, wide open spaces, small nomadic people's homes, and the fantastic beauty of this region.

Ending at Korzok and Tso Moriri

The trek ends at Korzok village close to Tso Moriri Lake, which is one of the most magnificent and beautiful high-altitude lakes in Ladakh and is an excellent, peaceful way to complete your crossing of the mighty Himalaya!

The GHT Ladakh Trek is ideal for seasoned trekkers and expedition enthusiasts who are looking to experience the rawest form of Himalayan trekking, combining extreme landscapes, ancient culture, and true wilderness in one of the most remote regions of India.

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

Inclusion

Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
Permission - Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Exclusion

Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls, etc.
Travel Expenses - Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups.
Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 600 per bag per day.
Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader.
Anything apart from inclusions
Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.