Sham Valley Trek

‘Sham’ means west, so a Sham Valley Trek means you are trekking the west part of Ladakh. The Sham route including villages of Basgo, Likir, Yangthang, Ulley, Hemis Shukpachan, Ang, Temisgam, Tia and Skindiyang, where the locals maintain a traditional way of life. Since the villages are within a short walking distance, the Sham trek can be easily done as a homestay trek if you don’t like camping. The homestay offers a unique insight into the culture and daily life of Ladakhi family. Trekking in Sham Valley is like walking through the painting book of nature. In this trek, we will trek from Likir Village to Temisgam Village.

Day 1 – Leh to Likir, trek to Ulley (4-5 hrs)

We leave Leh to Likir Village in the morning. En route we drive along the Indus River for 2 hours. After arriving Likir Village, you will be able to see the Likir gompa situated atop the cliff overlooking the village. We will took shortcuts to avoid the initial concrete road. We will passed by Yangthang Village before arrive to Ulley. Once you see the pedestal rocks (mushroom rocks), Ulley Village is just right after the climb.

Day 2 – Ulley to Hemis Shukpachan (5-6 hours)

An early start is recommended for today as it gets warm when it is sunny. We will cross the Spangoo La (4125m) behind Ulley Village. From here, you are entering the Snow Leopard Territpry. Many wildlife enthusiasts traveled to Ladakh, and also Sham Valley in winter wishing to spot the snow leopards. Snow leopards usually stay in higher altitude and deep in the mountains. Take a look around you as there is a tracker set up by Snow Leopard Conservancy in the valley to track the snow leopards.

Day 3 – Hemis Schukpachan to Temisgam (6-7 hours)

From Hemis Shukpachan, we will go onto a flat ground alongside the stupas. Today you will get the most epic view of the trek. A steep descent will lead us to the right side of the mountains and climb steadily on the slope towards the Mebtak La at 3720 m. After taking short rest and enjoying the view from the pass, we head down to Ang village. From Ang village, we head towards the south on the dusty jeep road to the village of Tingmosgam. Tingmosgam is famouse for its monastery. It is also the most affluent village in the sham valley for its apricots, apples, nuts and beautiful houses. Overnight stay at Temisgam Village.

Day 4 – Temisgam to Leh (4 hours)

After breakfast at Temisgam, we will drive back to Leh en route visiting Alchi Monastery, one of the earliest monastery found in Ladakh. Alchi Monastery was built in 11 A.D. Alchi Monastery is famous for its historic wall paintings. After visiting the Alchi Monastery, we will drive to Leh.