Chilling- Skiu (3-4 hrs): We leave Leh to Chilling by  jeep in the morning on the rugged barren field of Taru. En route we see the  confluence of Indus and Zanskar River, where we cross the bridge on the Indus  River and follow the Zanskar River on rough road for 2-3 hrs. Crossing the  mighty Zanskar River is full of thrill and excitement in a cable trolley. On  the other side of the river, we will meet our pony man with the horses. After  crossing the small pass, it is an easy walk until Skiu.

Skiu to Markha (7-8 hours): Following the Markha River, we  will hike through a lovely valley on a fairly level path. The trail crosses the  river at various points, and passes winter settlements that contain Lhatos  (religious shrines for local deities) and Mani walls (stones inscribed with  Buddhist prayers). During peak season, a number of tented teahouses will be  open for refreshment. Once we cross the river for the final time, we will  arrive in Markha, the largest village in the valley (consisting of around 20  houses, an old monastery and a ruined fort). Note: Water and sunscreen are  essential, since the valley is quite exposed.

Markha to Thachungtse (5-6 hours): The Markha valley trail  continues past old stone-mills, a ruined castle and the auspicious monastery of  Techa, which proudly perches upon a towering cliff that looms above Markha. It  is well worth visiting, if we have the energy! The path then intersects the  river several times before cutting through the last hamlets in the valley.  After leaving the village of Umlung, we will be afforded our first view of  mighty Kang Yatse (6400m), which will stay in sight until we cross Kongmaru La.  After we break for lunch in the village of Hangkar (the last in the valley), we  will press onward to the lovely green pasture of Thachungste, where we will  make camp.

Thachungtse to Nimaling (4 hours) Today the trail will lead  us up to the beautiful plateau of Nimaling, where the people of the Markha  Valley bring their herds to graze during the summer months. At 4700m, Nimaling  is the highest camp on the trek, giving us spectacular views of Kang Yatse to  the right, the Zangskar Range and the Markha Valley below.

Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La (7 hours) After a hearty breakfast, we  will cross Kongmaru La (5200m), the highest pass on the trek and from here we  have a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The 2-hour  descent is quite steep, but will gradually level as we enter Shang Gorge, with  its strange and otherworldly rock formations. More river crossings bar our way  before we arrive at the sour-spring of Chuskurmo (used in traditional medicine  by the Amchi doctors). After a break, we will cut through a couple of villages  before reaching Shang Sumdo, where we will meet our taxi, and drive to Leh..