CHANGTHANG NOMADIC TREK

Changthang, located on the northern plains at 4,000 m, is a cold, dry region with rugged terrain, marshy and sandy tablelands, and surrounding mountains. Though uncultivable, it supports a rich variety of wildlife and medicinal plants.

The Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to unique species such as the Kiang (Tibetan wild ass), black-necked crane, and bar-headed geese. Kiangs live in herds on open plains, feeding on tough grasses, but face threats from increasing tourism.

Ladakh, rising to 4,600 m with peaks up to 7,600 m, is known for its stunning landscapes and rare wildlife. Visitors may spot shaggy yaks, nyans (Tibetan argali), Ladakh urial and bharal (blue sheep) in the region’s high-altitude wilderness.

Accommodation
In Delhi, we stay in a standard hotel with air-conditioned rooms. In Leh, accommodation is arranged in a standard hotel conveniently located near the local market and town centre, or in a comfortable family-run guesthouse. Wi-Fi is available in Leh; however, international mobile phones generally do not have network coverage in Ladakh.

Camping & Trek Support
The trek is operated on a full-service camping basis. Our experienced camp staff will handle all camp duties, including pitching and dismantling tents, cooking meals, and managing camp chores, allowing you to trek comfortably with only a day pack.

Most nights are spent wild camping in remote locations. Accommodation is in spacious two-person tents with enough room for kit bags. A separate dining tent is provided, complete with a table and folding chairs, along with at least one eco toilet tent (usually two) for evening use.

There is no running water at the campsites. Camps are set up near rivers or streams, and the camp staff will provide bowls of warm water for basic washing during the trek.

Worth Knowing
• In India, it is common for hotels to provide hot water only at certain times of the day to conserve energy. If your shower water is cold, please inform the reception so they can switch on the water heater.
• Toilet tents used during camping consist of a dug pit (prepared by our camp staff) inside a tent. Dirt or sand is provided beside the pit to cover waste after each use.
• Single rooms and single tents are available on request for an additional supplement, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

Day 1: Arrive in Leh. Guesthouse B & B. Free day

Day2: Leh. guesthouse B & B. Visit by car to nearby Shey Palace and walk to the buddhist Thiksey monastery

Day 3: Leh. Guesthouse B & B. Easy acclimatisation walk around Leh. Optional jeep drive to one of the highest passes, such as Khardung La

Day 4: Drive toward Rumtse village along the Indus River for about two hrs. After passing Upshi, we follow the Gya River to reach Rumtse. The rest of the day is reserved for acclimatisation at an altitude of 4,100 m. We will camp near the village and spend the night in tents

Day 5: Rumtse – Kyamar (4,000 m), trek 4 – 5 hrs

The first phase of the trek begins from Rumtse and leads to Kyamar (4,000 m). Along the way, you’ll pass through a pasture valley where nomadic herders, known as Changpas, bring their yaks and goats to graze. The trail follows an ancient salt lake route. Settle in for an overnight camp at Kyamar

Day 6: Kyamar – Kumur La – Tisaling (4,805 metres), trek 5–6 hrs

From Kyamar, begin your trek towards Tisaling. Along the way, you will cross Kumur La Pass (4,770 m). From the top of Kumur La, enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Ladakh, including Mt. Kangyatse. Upon reaching Tisaling, call it a day and camp overnight

Day 7: Tisaling – Pangunagu | Trek: 5–6 hrs

Begin your early morning trek toward Pangunagu. Along the way, stop at the Shibuk La Pass to take in the panoramic views of Tsokar Lake. This high-altitude lake attracts a variety of migratory birds, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. After crossing the lake, you’ll enter the remote Rupshu Valley. The day’s trek ends at Pangunagu, where you’ll set up camp near the salt lake and rest for the night

Day 8: Pangunagu – Nuruchan | Trek: 5 – 6 hrs

Enjoy some sightseeing and birdwatching around Tsokar Lake before continuing your trek. Toward the end of the trail, take a right turn to enter Nuruchan village, where you’ll conclude the day’s journey

Day 9: Nuruchan – Rajungkaru | Trek: 5 – 6 hrs

Trek over the Nuruchan La Pass, followed by a gentle walk through open landscapes. The day’s journey takes approximately 5 – 6 hrs, ending at Rajungkaru

Day 10: Rajungkaru to Gyamabarma (4,950 m) | Trek: 6 – 7 hrs
Today’s trek covers the highest altitudes of the entire journey. Along the way, you’ll cross two major passes —Horlam Kongka La and Kyamayuri La. After the challenging yet rewarding trek, you’ll reach Gyamabarma, where you’ll camp for the night

Day 11: Gyamabarma – Korzok (4,550 m) | Trek: 6 – 7 hrs
Begin the day’s trek from Gyamabarma, ascending Yalung Nyau La—the highest pass on the trail. From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of the western Tibetan peaks. The descent from the pass leads to Korzok, the only settlement on the banks of the stunning Tso Moriri Lake. Upon arrival, visit the Korzok Monastery before settling in for the night in tents

Day 12: Korzok – Leh | Drive: about 7 hrs

After breakfast, drive to Leh along the scenic Indus River, covering approximately 220 km from Korzok. En route, visit the Chumathang hot springs, famous for their reputed healing properties. Arrive in Leh by evening, check in at the guesthouse, and enjoy dinner followed by an overnight stay

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