Sham Valley Trek
TREK DIFFICULTY
Moderate
TREK DURATION
5 Days
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
3880 meters
GROUP SIZE
12
TREK DISTANCE
32 km
BASECAMP
Ladakh
BEST TIME
June to September
PICKUP POINT
Ladakh
Sham Valley Trek Overview:
The Sham Valley Trek, also commonly referred to as the Apricot Valley Trek, is the easiest trek in Ladakh with the highest cultural and natural diversity. The trek is situated along the lower part of the Indus River Valley, west of the Nubra Valley, and traverses through stunning views of the Himalayan Mountain Range and numerous traditional Ladakhi villages, with their associated terraced fields of sweet apricot trees. The Sham Valley Trek is a popular choice for those looking for short/easy treks due to its moderate altitude and good trails.
The Sham Valley Trek allows visitors to pass through numerous traditional Ladakhi settlements and gives an insight into the local community's daily life. Most of these communities are of Tibetan origin and adhere to the Tibetan form of Buddhism, which significantly shapes the architecture and cultural practices throughout the Sham Valley.
Visitors are able to visit ancient monasteries, chōrtēns (Buddhist stupas), mani walls, and see colourful prayer flags along the route of the Sham Valley Trek, providing a close connection to the culture of Ladakh.
Many of the major religions represented in Ladakh are represented in the three monasteries located on the Sham Valley Trek, namely, Likir Monastery, Rizong Monastery, and Basgo Monastery. While all three have great historical significance for the people of Ladakh, they're also some of the most beautiful examples of architecture to be found in the region and thus give the Sham Valley Trek a special spiritual aspect.
As a result, they provide an excellent opportunity for a trek in Ladakh and for people who wish to experience cultural trekking in Ladakh, village-based trekking, and/or slow trekking through the Indian Himalayas.
In addition to being a scenic trek with rich heritage and easy access, the Sham Valley Trek is also an ideal first-time trek in Ladakh. The Sham Valley Trek is an ideal short Himalayan trek option, a cultural trek option in Ladakh, or a soft adventure occurring in the Indian Himalayas for people interested in treks through the Indian Himalayas.
- Day 1: Arrive at Leh
- Day 2: Leh - Likir - Yangthang via Phobe La and Chagatse
- Day 3: Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan via Tsermangchan La
- Day 4: Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam via Mebtak La
- Day 5: Drive back to leh
Sham Valley Trek is a beautiful and easy trek. Plan this Ladakh trek with us. We offer the best trekking services in Ladakh. Let your Ladakh dream come true with us. Walk in the valley and enjoy the beautiful apricot blossom. Your every moment in the trek will be perfect. Explore the villages and monasteries, and we will take care of everything.
Himalaya Shelter (HS) offers customized trekking services for Sham Valley. Choose the dates and we will create a tailored itinerary for you. Our company is open for smaller packs. You can plan a trek with your family. We will create the itinerary according to the age group.
We can customize the dates, stays, meals, and everything for you. Our company believes in eco-tourism, and we do our best to provide you with a full local experience. Book your Sham Valley Trek with us and enjoy the raw beauty of Ladakh.
The Sham Valley Trek has deep relations with the culture and traditions of Ladakh. The Sham Valley is near to Leh, is a perfect location to experience Ladakhi culture. This is a rain shadow region and usually remains dry. You barely see greenery in the Ladakh region. But Sham Valley is known for apricot plantations. You can also see barley fields. The apricot trees were introduced in the Sham Valley generations ago. Today, these apricot fields have become a great attraction.
You will see some villages like Likir, Shukpachan, etc. These villages were the halts for the ancient trade route. They used to exchange goods like wool, salt, etc. The Likiar Monastery has been serving as a center for Buddhist learning and meditation. You can talk to the locals and learn about the Ladakhi beliefs and culture. The Sham Valley is a crucial spot as it has a vital role in shaping the Ladakhi culture. Today, Sham Valley is popularly known as Baby Trek. This trek has a good hand in boosting the adventure tourism of Ladakh. The trek is simple and more accessible to the people.
Baby Trek Of Ladakh:
- The Sham Valley Trek is known as the Baby Trek of Ladakh. Unlike other Ladakh treks, the Sham Valley Trek is easy. The trails are simple but do not compromise the views. This trek has low altitude, and you can plan the trek with your friends and family.
Beautiful Apricot Orchards
- Sham Valley is covered with Apricot blossoms during spring. Most Ladakh areas are dry, but Sham Valley is fertile. You will see apricot and apple orchards. The barley fields and willow trees fill the colors in the big, brown, cold desert. The apricot Orchids of Sham Valley give a picture-perfect view in spring.
Easy to Moderate Trek
- Most Ladakh treks are difficult and long. But the Sham Valley Trek is different. Its altitude is very low from other high-altitude treks of Ladakh. You can complete your Sham Valley Trek in just 5 days. The barren mountains, streams, and orchards make the trek very memorable.
Traditional Villages
- The Sham Valley is a great trek to experience the real Ladakhi Culture. You will walk through villages like Likir, Yangthand, etc. These villages still hold the real Ladakhi beauty. The stone houses and temples look very charming
Sham Valley Trek is likely to be an easy trek compared to other Ladakh treks. This is an easy-to-moderate level trek. The Sham Valley trek is called Baby Trek and is suitable for trek beginners.
Trek Difficulty
The Sham Valley has a simple terrain. The valley has a moderate altitude and an easy trail. There are no steep ascents and descents on the trek. You will walk for 4-6 hours daily on the trek. The trek is not very difficult, and you can complete it without any difficulty.
Trek Altitude
Ladakh is a high-altitude zone, but Sham Valley has a moderate altitude of 3500 m. This altitude is average for any Himalayan Trek. The altitude is not very low, and you can still get AMS symptoms. Trekkers should rest for a day in Leh for Acclimatization.
Weather Conditions
The weather conditions are also pretty good in Sham Valley. The daytime is warm, but nights can be freezing. It is a rain shadow zone, which means low chances of rain. If you are trekking in late Autumn or early Spring, then the temperature can be low even in the daytime.
Remoteness
The Sham Valley is located in a remote location. But you can find local shops and all the daily essentials. The villages have lots of homestays, and you can see locals and tourists around you all the time. The Sham Valley is very lively, but you can’t find modern facilities there.
Summer is a good time to plan your Sham Valley Trek. The trails are accessible, and the weather is also pleasant. Sham Valley is an easy trek, but you should plan it in the favorable season for the best views.
Sham Valley Trek In May and June
- Spring is the best time to plan your trek to Sham Valley. Everything around you will look beautiful. The apricot and apple blossom fill the color in the barren land of Ladakh. The barley fields turn green, and everywhere seems great.
Sham Valley In July and August
- Summer is a good time for the Sham Valley Trek. You will see clear skies and nice weather. The day temperature feels warm, and nights are also good. You don’t have to worry about rain, and Ladakh lies in the rain shadow region.
Sham Valley Trek In September
- September is the last month for Sham Valley Trekking. The valley becomes golden due to barley fields. The weather becomes crisp but pleasant. You will see fewer crowds and the trek will become more peaceful. The temperature will start dropping, and nights can be very cold.
Sham Valley Trek From October To April
- Winter is not a good time to plan your Sham Valley Trek. This area receives a good amount of snow, and the trails may be lost somewhere. The weather conditions are very harsh. You should only plan the Sham Valley Trek in winter if you are a seasoned trekker
You will start your trek to Sham Valley from Likir Village. This village is about 55km from Leh. Reach Leh and spend one day there for acclimatization.
Leh Via Road
- Leh is a beautiful city, and you can reach Leh from Manali and Srinagar. Reach Manali and take the Manali-Leh Highway. The distance is 437 km. You will see some of the beautiful passes like Tanglang La. This route is open from June to September. Or, you can reach Srinagar and take the Srinagar-Leh Highway. The distance is 434 km, and you will drive via Keylong, Jispa, or Kargil. This route is open from May to October.
Leh Via Railways
- Leh doesn’t have a railway station, and the nearest station is Updampur Railway Station (650 km). This railway station does not have good connectivity. Railway is not a good option to reach Leh.
Leh Via Air
- The best means of transport for Leh is air. You can take a flight to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh). Many direct flights are available from Delhi and other cities. Reach Leh and then take a shared taxi to Likir Village.
Mandatory Backpacking List for Aancha Top Trek
Clothing and Backpack
Get a good backpack (50 L) with a rain cover. Look for a bag that can provide you good back support. Pack 4 quick-dry t-shirts and 2 trekking pants. Get a pair of thermals (upper and lower) for night. Pack a fleece jacket or woolen sweater as a mid-layer. Get a waterproof wind breaker for sudden rain and chilly winds. For winter trekking, get a good down jacket. Now pack a woolen beanie and a balaclava. Get two pairs of gloves (woolen and waterproof). You should also pack a suncap for the daytime.
Footwear
You should look for good quality trekking shoes. Your shoes must be waterproof and provide good ankle support. Do not wear a new pair of shoes on the trek. Your feet must be familiar with the shoes. Now pack 4 pairs of trekking socks and 2 pairs of woolen socks. Pack a pair of comfortable slippers or sandals for the campsite.
Personal Care
For personal care items, start packing with your toiletries. Get a small zipper pouch and pack all the toiletries. Now look for a quick-dry towel and a toilet roll. You should also pack hand sanitizer and moisturizer. Pack a sunscreen that can protect your face from sunburn. You can also pack some snacks for the trek.
Physical Fitness Preparation for Trek:
To overcome the difficulty level of trekking, it requires strong cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and overall physical fitness. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to increase strength, stability, and stamina, which will help you tackle difficult terrain sections of the trail at high altitudes.
Overview
Foundation
Strength Building
Power & Stamina
Endurance & Recovery
Day 1: Arrive at Leh
Arrive at Leh and acclimatisation.
Day 2: Leh - Likir - Yangthang via Phobe La and Chagatse -
Start your journey from Leh
Likir is approximately 52 kilometers away from Leh, and it usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach by road.
Begin your trek from Likir. The first pass you’ll encounter is Phobe La, Then Continue your trek to Chagatse La Continue your trek to Chagatse La
Reach campsite at the Yangthang Village and stay overnight there
- Drive Distance – 55 km
- Drive Duration – 2 to 3 hours
- Trek Distance – 10
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
- Altitude – (11,400 ft) to (11,545 ft, Drive) to (11,740 ft) to (12,176 ft) to (12,078 ft)
Day 3: Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan via Tsermangchan La -
Begin your trek early in the morning Ascend towards Tsermangchan After spending some time at the pass, begin your descent towards Hemis Shukpachan.La,
As you approach Hemis Shukpachan, you’ll notice the charming traditional Ladakhi houses and terraced fields.
Reach the campsite near water streem and stay overnight there
- Trek Distance – 10 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
- Altitude – (12,078 ft) to (12,710 ft) to (11,904 ft)
Day 4: Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam via Mebtak La
Start your trek towards Mebtak La The trail may lead you through rocky terrain, narrow paths, and possibly some streams.
As you ascend towards Mebtak La, Spend some time at the pass to rest Begin your descent from Mebtak La towards Temisgam
Reach the campsite at the Temisgam and stay overnight there
- Trek Distance -11 km
- Trek Duration – 5 to 6 hours
- Altitude – (11,904 ft) to (12,462 ft) to (10,592 ft)
Day 5: Drive back to leh
Start your journey to Leh
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.
Inclusions
- Transfers from Leh city to the base-camp and return drop to Leh city
- 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.
Exclusions
- 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 500 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.
Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya. 🌱
The Sham Valley Trek is known as the easiest trek in Ladakh, often called the “Baby Trek.” It is suitable for beginners and families, with moderate climbs and accessible trails. The terrain includes apricot orchards, villages, and gentle passes rather than extreme high‑altitude challenges.
The Sham Valley trek is best done between June and September, when the weather is stable, and passes are open. Some operators note it can be done year‑round, but winter brings snow and very cold conditions.
The Sham Valley trek reaches a maximum altitude of about 3,880–4,075 meters (12,300–12,715 feet) depending on the route.
The Sham Valley trek covers 22–32 km in total, depending on the itinerary chosen.
It usually takes 4–5 days to complete, with daily walks of 5–7 hours.
- Build basic cardio fitness with walking, jogging, or cycling.
- Practice short hikes with a backpack.
- Strengthen legs with squats and lunges.
- Acclimatize in Leh for at least a day before starting, as altitude can still affect beginners.
Himalaya Shelter offers experienced guides, safe logistics, and cultural immersion. They emphasize small groups, authentic homestay experiences, and responsible trekking practices. Their itineraries include acclimatization and local insights, making the trek smoother and more meaningful.
For Indian trekkers, no special permits are required for Sham Valley. Foreign nationals may need to register or obtain Inner Line Permits for Ladakh, depending on the exact route.
Read More on Sham Valley Trek
Photo Gallery
Treks by Categories
Treks By Month
Treks By Experience
