Sham Valley Trek

Time: 3-4 hrs Distance: 10.1 km Elevation gain / loss: +431m / -274m - Visit Likir monastery before the trek - Follow the trail that leads to the Phobe La, beyond the pass lies Sumdo village - The trail goes steadily upward to the Chagatse La and then down to the village of Yangthang - Homestay possibility in Yangthang

Time: 3-4 hrs Distance: 10.4 km Elevation gain / loss: +238m / -283m - Cross the Tsermangchen La which can be seen right from the village of Yangthang - Enjoy the panoramic landscape from the pass - Descend towards the charming village of Hemis Shukpachen - Homestay possibility in Hemis Shukpachen

Time: 4 hrs Distance: 11.3 km Elevation gain / loss: +312m / -714m - Cross the Mebtak La and walk down to the village of Ang - Follow the trail to Temisgam, visit the palace and monastery built on a hillock - Homestay possibility in Temisgam

It takes 2 hours and a half to drive from Temisgam to Leh (90 km) - On the way back to Leh you can also Famous Lamayuru, Alchi and Rizong monastery. The medieval village of Lamayuru, dotted with stupas and mud-brick houses, is dominated by the photogenic Lamayuru monastery also known as Yungdrung monastery. Lamayuru is also known for its “moonland”, a lunar landscape with extraordinarily odd geological formations. Alchi gompa, built in the 11th century, is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. It is famous for its interior murals and ancient wood sculptures, which are some of the best examples of Ladakh’s Indo-Tibetan art.