Trekking and Climbing in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh

Kashmir

For centuries, the valley of Kashmir was renowned for its beauty. In fact, it was bestowed with the epithet of ‘paradise on earth’. Caravans passed through it and in recent times, trekkers and campers have flocked to it. Early mountaineers attempted to climb peaks such as Kolahoi (5,425m) and Haramukh (5,143m) in the south. Since many British climbers visited the mountains around Sonamarg, the Himalayan Club published The Clim-bers’ Guide to Sonamarg. Sadly, the valley has been ravaged by political conflict and turmoil for the past few decades; it is advisable to ascertain the prevailing conditions and take safety measures before venturing on treks.

Zanskar

The barren valleys of Zanskar, south of Ladakh, were once inaccessible. But now a road runs through Zanskar’s centre, from Kargil to Padam. Hundreds of trekkers cross over to Padam in central Zanskar from Darcha in Lahaul. This is rapidly becoming one of the region’s most popular trails. It is easily approachable from Kargil in the west.

The majestic Zanskar Gorge

For experienced climbers, there are high peaks such as Nun (7,135m) and Kun (7,135m). Others can attempt climbings peaks like Zanskar 1 (6,181m) and Zanskar 2 (6,175m).

Ladakh

Ladakh is sometimes called ‘Little Tibet’. Caravans used to pass through Leh on the way to and from Central Asia. Almost all the valleys of Ladakh are now open to foreigners. The lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri are known for their ethereal beauty.

There are peaks as high as 6,600m around Tso Moriri in the Rupshu Valley in southeast Ladakh. The highest amongst them are Lungser Kangri (6,666m) and the neighbouring Chhamser Kangri (6,622m). There are many trekking routes here and mules, horses and donkeys (khotas) are easily available to carry luggage and equipment.

Bikers taking a break at Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes

East Karakoram

The eastern Karakoram ranges span along the northernmost parts of Ladakh. These form a sub-group in the Great Karakoram Range. It has very high peaks, some of which have been scaled only in recent years. Towards the west is the Nubra Valley, drained by the river of the same name. It originates from the Siachen Glacier. Opposite Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, is the Arganglas Valley. You can undertake long treks to various glaciers and passes along the Shyok river. Due to the region’s proximity to the Chinese frontier, you need special clearances and permits from various authorities to trek here. So carefully plan your trip and apply for permissions well in advance to avoid disappointment.