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Remote Ladakh – Snia Valley and Lasermo La-15 Days

  • Destination

    India

  • Region

    India

  • Trip Grade

    Grade 3: Hard/challenging

  • Accommodation

    Hotel

  • Total Distance

    90 km/ 55 miles

  • Start / End Point

    Delhi/Delhi

  • Durations

    15 days

  • Max. Altitude

    5,440 m (17,617 ft)

  • Meals Included

    Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

  • Group Size

    above 1 pax

  • Best Season

    All season

  • Activity per day

    8 hr

  • Transportation

    Hiking/Drive/flight


Remote Ladakh – Snia Valley and Lasermo La-15 Days
An unsurpassed journey: a unique trek combined with the vibrant Phyang Masked Dance Festival

The “Remote Ladakh – Snia Valley and Lasermo La” trip is a high-altitude trek in India’s Ladakh region, connecting the Nubra and Indus valleys via the high Lasermo La pass (around 5400m). This trek offers a blend of remote camping, ancient monastery visits, and wildlife viewing, suitable for those seeking cultural immersion and challenging, high-altitude adventure during the June-October season.
Key Aspects of the Trek
High-Altitude Pass Crossing:
The trek involves crossing the Lasermo La pass, a challenging but exhilarating experience at an altitude of over 5,400 meters.
Remote Landscapes:
You’ll explore remote trails, experience high-altitude camping, and traverse through serene valleys, gorges, and meadows.
Cultural Immersion:
The trip includes visits to ancient monasteries, offering a deep insight into the region’s rich Tibetan culture and traditions.
Wildlife Encounters:
The route provides opportunities to spot local wildlife such as marmots, wild urials, red foxes, and potentially wild Kiangs.
Best Time to Visit:
The optimal period for this trek is from June to October.
Moderate Challenge:
The trek is considered a moderate challenge, requiring good fitness and acclimatization for the high altitudes.
Highlights
Ancient Silk Route Path:
The trek follows an ancient path, offering a connection to the historical Silk Route.
Transition to Nubra Valley:
The journey concludes by reaching the Nubra Valley, a stunning and somewhat secluded region.
Camping and Views:
You’ll spend nights at magnificent campsites surrounded by the towering peaks of the Ladakh Range.
Practical Information
Guided Trek:
The treks are typically led by expert guides with wilderness first aid training and include necessary group medical kits.
Logistics:
Depending on the tour operator, trips often include accommodation, meals, airport transfers, and mules to carry gear.

Highlights

  • The highlight of the Remote Ladakh trek via Sniu Valley and Lasermo La is the journey across the remote, high-altitude pass (Lasermo La) to reach the Nubra Valley, offering stunning panoramic views of the Karakoram, Zanskar, and Ladakh ranges, along with a unique opportunity to visit isolated communities and experience pristine high-altitude landscapes with diverse flora and wildlife, including marmots. The trek also features challenging ascents, a strong connection to ancient Silk Route trails, and the serene beauty of the Sniu Valley with its glacial lakes and meadows, culminating in a descent to the Phyang Monastery area.
  • The "Remote Ladakh - Snia Valley and Lasermo La" trip is a high-altitude trek in India's Ladakh region, connecting the Nubra and Indus valleys via the high Lasermo La pass (around 5400m). This trek offers a blend of remote camping, ancient monastery visits, and wildlife viewing, suitable for those seeking cultural immersion and challenging, high-altitude adventure during the June-October season.
  • Lasermo La Pass: The exhilarating high-altitude crossing of Lasermo La (5,400-5,440 meters) provides exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.
  • Sniu Valley: A beautiful and remote side valley with glacial lakes, impressive peaks, and high-altitude meadows, perfect for acclimatization walks and exploring local flora and fauna.
  • Ancient Trails: The route follows ancient Silk Road paths, offering a sense of connection to historical trade routes that linked the Indus Valley to the remote Nubra Valley.
  • High-Altitude Scenery: Expect breathtaking high-altitude landscapes, including rugged terrain, towering peaks, crystal-clear streams, and vibrant wildflowers in the meadows.
  • Diverse Wildlife: A chance to spot Ladakh's wildlife, such as marmots, wild urials (red fox), and potentially even wolves or kiangs.
  • Connection to Local Culture: The trek passes through traditional grazing areas where shepherds live with their animals, providing opportunities for interaction and to experience local life.
  • Descent into Nubra Valley: Arriving in the Nubra Valley after the pass crossing is described as an oasis, a welcoming and fertile region with traditional villages and unique sand dunes.
  • Phyang Monastery: The trek concludes near the ancient Phyang Monastery, offering a cultural experience and a chance to learn about Tibetan culture.
  • Challenging Trek: The high altitude and pass crossings provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment, making it a rewarding moderate-difficulty trek.
  • Attend the two-day Phyang masked dance festival at Phyang Monastery
  • Visit six ancient monasteries reflecting deep seated Tibetan culture

Outline Itinerary

  • Day1: Join Delhi.
  • Day2: Fly Leh (3,500m)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day3: In Leh (3,500m)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day4: Drive to the Nubra Valley (3,170m) (approx. 6 hours drive)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day5: Drive to Wachan (1 hr drive) & commence trek to Dok Gongma (4,200m) (walk approx. 3 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day6: At Dok Gongma (4,200m) (walk approx. 3 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day7: Day7-8Trek to base of Lasermo La (4,500m) (walk approx. 4 hrs - per stage)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day9: Cross Lasermo La (5,440m) (walk approx. 7 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day10: Trek to settlement above Phyang (4,040m) (walk approx. 4 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day11: Attend Phyang festival (4,040m) (1 hour drive)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day12: Drive to Alchi (3,100m) (approx. 2 hours drive)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day13: In Alchi visit Lamayuru monastery (approx. 4 hrs return drive)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day14: Return to Leh (3,500m) (approx. 2 hrs drive)(Meals-B,L,D).
  • Day15: Fly to Delhi, trip concludes(B).

Cost Includes

  • 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 13 dinners
  • Airport transfer on Day 1
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Group medical kit
  • Good quality accommodation in Delhi, Leh and Alchi
  • Private transportation
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Mules to carry all personal and group equipment

Cost does not Include

  • International flights
  • Flights Delhi/Leh/Delhi
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Airport transfer on final day

Why Book With Good Karma Trekking.

Well paced trek with proper acclimatisation days led by expert wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with group medical kit. Good Karma have been pioneering active adventures to all corners of the globe since 2010. All trips now are 100% carbon offset. Receive three hearty freshly prepared meals on trek and save money by using our trek packing including quality down jacket, sleeping bag and more.

Remote Ladakh - Snia Valley and Lasermo La

Whether this is your first trek in Ladakh or a follow-up adventure, the Nubra Valley to Indus Valley trek offers a perfect balance of cultural immersion and high-altitude adventure. This itinerary reflects our decades of experience operating in India and takes you through some of Ladakh’s most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites.

Your journey begins in Leh at 3,500m (11,483ft), where we explore the ancient monasteries of Shey, Tikse, and Matho, gaining insight into Ladakh’s deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. From here, we drive over the Khardung La at 5,602m (18,379ft), the highest motorable road in the world, into the stunning Nubra Valley, where we visit Diskit Monastery before beginning our trek.

Over six days, we follow ancient trails through summer settlements and remote side valleys, encountering traditional ways of life while gradually ascending to the base of the Lasermo La. The highlight of the trek is the exhilarating crossing of Lasermo La Pass at 5,440m (17,847ft), offering spectacular views of the East Karakoram and the Stok Range. Descending into the Indus Valley, we reach Phyang, where we experience the vibrant two-day masked festival at Phyang Monastery, a true celebration of Ladakh’s living Buddhist culture.

Beyond the trek, we explore Ladakh’s most historic and remote monasteries, including Alchi, Lamayuru, and Likir, where ancient murals and monastic traditions provide a deeper understanding of this fascinating region. Returning to Leh, there is time to soak in the atmosphere of this unique mountain city, where Tibetan and Indian influences blend seamlessly.

With carefully planned acclimatisation, expert guides, and seamless logistics, this trek offers a rewarding mix of adventure and cultural discovery. The gradual approach to higher altitudes ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience. As part of our commitment to responsible travel, we support local communities, employ experienced Ladakhi staff, and ensure fair wages for porters and crew.

For those looking for a well-rounded Himalayan experience, the Nubra to Indus Valley trek combines the thrill of a spectacular pass crossing with the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh.


Detail Itinerary

Day1: Join Delhi.

On arrival in Delhi, you will be met by a Good Karma representative and transferred to your hotel. Settle in and take some time to unwind, allowing yourself to adjust to the pace of India. If you arrive earlier in the day and wish to explore, we can assist with optional sightseeing arrangements. As group members arrive at different times and there is an early departure to Leh the following morning, there is no formal group briefing in Delhi. Instead, you will receive a welcome letter at the hotel outlining key information including the departure time from the hotel the next day, flight details, any additional arrangements made, and the name and contact details of your group leader, who will meet you in Leh, with all remaining equipment provided during the main briefing in Leh including the distribution of sleeping bags, liners, insulated mattress and down jackets. Note: As an alternative to arriving in Delhi on a late night flight, you may wish to consider arriving the day before the trip commences. Please talk to your Good Karma reservations consultant . Overnight: Delhi
  • Altitude:216m/708ft
  • Duration:1 hr
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day2: Fly Leh (3,500m)(Meals-B,L,D).

We board the early morning flight from Delhi to Leh. If conditions are clear you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the Great Himalaya and Zanskar ranges before landing at the capital of Ladakh. On our first day in Leh at 3500m we need to rest and acclimatise and spend the day wandering the main market to gain initial impressions of Ladakh culture. Overnight:  Leh
  • Altitude:3560m/11680ft
  • Duration:2 hrs
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day3: In Leh (3,500m)(Meals-B,L,D).

We head to Shey Palace and Tikse monastery as well as the more remote Matho monastery. Shey Palace was the original residence of the Ladakh Royal family before the upper and lower kingdoms of Ladakh were united at Leh in the 17th century. The nearby Tikse monastery is perched on the summit of a sugarloaf mountain with commanding views across the Indus Valley. The monastery was first established by the Gelukpa (Yellow hat) order that migrated from Tibet in the 15th century. Our guides will show you around the monastery and offer insights as to how the monks conduct their life and day to day monastic routine. If time permits we also visit Matho monastery on the far side of the Indus Valley, a monastery steeped in ancient traditions that only receives a handful of visitors each day. Overnight:  Leh - 3500m Activity: Sightseeing

Day4: Drive to the Nubra Valley (3,170m) (approx. 6 hours drive)(Meals-B,L,D).

The drive to the Nubra valley crosses the Kardung La (5602m), the highest motorable road in the world. En route to the pass we savour panoramic views of Leh while on the far side of the pass there are unsurpassed views of the rugged ranges that stretch to the East Karakoram. Reaching the Nubra valley we visit Diskit monastery before continuing to the nearby village of Hunder (3170m) where we spend the night in modest but comfortable accommodation. Overnight: Nubra Valley
  • Altitude:31700m/10226f
  • Duration:6 hr
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day5: Drive to Wachan (1 hr drive) & commence trek to Dok Gongma (4,200m) (walk approx. 3 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).

Drive to Wachan (1 hour), commence trek to Dok Gongma (3 hours) From Hunder it is a short drive through an impressive gorge to the village of Wachan (3900m) where we commence our trek. The trail crosses a minor tributary before a gradual ascent through summer settlements to reach our camp at Dok Gongma (4200m). Overnight: Camping - 4200m
  • Altitude:4200m/13750ft
  • Duration:4 hr
  • Accommodation:Tented Camp

Day6: At Dok Gongma (4,200m) (walk approx. 3 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).

We spend two nights acclimatising at Dok Gongma before we continue to head up the main valley to the base of the Lasermo La. We explore the adjoining Snumao Valley, a remote alpine valley characterised by high peaks, hanging glaciers and verdant pastures that are frequented by local villagers during the summer. Overnight: Dok Gongma

Day7: Day7-8Trek to base of Lasermo La (4,500m) (walk approx. 4 hrs - per stage)(Meals-B,L,D).

We have reserved two days to gradually ascend to the base of the Lasermo La (4500m). The rich alpine valley affords no end of possibilities. Blue sheep are seen on the higher reaches which are renowned for the elusive snow leopard and the argali (Marco Polo sheep – the biggest sheep in the world). Golden eagles and lammergeier (barded vultures) glide the thermals above our camp. Overnight: Camping - 4500m (Lasermo La) Activity: ± 4 hours trekking
  • Altitude:4500m/14763ft
  • Duration:4 hr
  • Accommodation:Tente Camp

Day9: Cross Lasermo La (5,440m) (walk approx. 7 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).

From the base camp it takes around 3 to 4 hours to reach the pass. The initial ascent winds through extensive moraine field before heading up a broad glacier that leads to the Lasermo Pass (5,440m). The trail is well established and is crossed regularly by mule trains restocking supplies to the settlements above Wachan. From the pass there are spectacular views of the East Karakoram while shortly after crossing there are fine views of the Stok Range on the south side of the Indus Valley. The descent can be completed in 2 to 3 hours – the trail winding down across scree slopes – steep in places- before reaching a verdant valley where there no shortage of campsites (4,500m). Overnight: Camping - verdant valley4,500m. Activity: High pass crossing - ± 6 hour7
  • Altitude:4500m/14763ft
  • Duration:7 hr
  • Accommodation:Tented Camp

Day10: Trek to settlement above Phyang (4,040m) (walk approx. 4 hrs)(Meals-B,L,D).

A gradual descent across open meadows affording fine views of the peaks on the far side of the Indus Valley. After two hours we reach the main tributary and continue on down on down the true right bank to the tiny village of Murabak (4040m) located about five kms above the monastery of Phyang.Overnight: Phyang Activity: ± 4 hours trekking
  • Altitude:4030m/13221ft
  • Duration:5 hr
  • Accommodation:Tented Camp

Day11: Attend Phyang festival (4,040m) (1 hour drive)(Meals-B,L,D).

We drive to Phyang monastery that was established in the 16th century. An impressive temple built in the last decade is fitting testimony to the vibrant culture. Given its proximity to Leh many villages camping in the vicinity of the monastery during the festival. Like most monastic festivals, the masked dances follow a set pattern with the dancers and musicians offering a rousing celebration of Buddhist culture. That evening we return to Murabak and our last nights’ camping. Overnight: Phyang Camping - 4040m Activity: Phyang festival Transport: 1 hour drive

Day12: Drive to Alchi (3,100m) (approx. 2 hours drive)(Meals-B,L,D).

We plan to spend the morning at Phyang as the festival unfolds on the second day. we then drive to Alchi – a 11th century monastic complex located in a remote corner in the Indus Valley. Alchi is remarkable in so far as it is one of the few surviving examples of pre Tibetan style monasteries in Ladakh. It consists of four small temples with exquisite wall paintings that reflecting the artistic traditions from Kashmir and the rest of India. We stay in the heart of Alchi in a comfortable hotel run by a local family. Overnight:  Alchi- 3100m Activity: Phyang festival Transport: 2 hour drive
  • Altitude:3180m/10433ft
  • Duration:2 hrs
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day13: In Alchi visit Lamayuru monastery (approx. 4 hrs return drive)(Meals-B,L,D).

We drive alongside the Indus River to the village of Khalsi before ascending to Lamayuru. The monastery is set in a commanding position high above the Indus Valley. Established in the 11th century it is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Ladakh. It includes a cave inside the main Assembly hall where the Buddhist sage Naropa meditated. Later that afternoon we return to Alchi.

Day14: Return to Leh (3,500m) (approx. 2 hrs drive)(Meals-B,L,D).

From Alchi it is a short drive to the secluded monastery at Likir. The monastery was established in the 15th century at a time when Tibetan influence was fast gaining a hold across Ladakh. The monastery was rebuilt in the 18th century and, in comparison to many other monasteries in the upper Indus Valley rarely attracts more than a handful of visitors each day. From Likir it takes around two hours to complete the drive back to Leh. Rest of the day is free to catch up on local sightseeing and shopping. Overnight: Leh - 3500m Activity: Monastery visit Transport: ± 2 hour drive
  • Altitude:35oom/11482ft
  • Duration:3 hrs
  • Accommodation:Hotel

Day15: Fly to Delhi, trip concludes(B).

An early morning flight to Delhi will afford more impressive views across the mountain ranges you explored the previous week. Trip concludes in Delhi. However, we recommend booking your international flights the next day in case of inclement weather causing your flight from Leh to be cancelled. Please contact us for accommodation options in Delhi or other arrangements you may have. Transport: Airport transfer - Leh 1 hour, Flight (not included in trip price) - 1 hour 20 minutes