Sham Valley Trek - A Baby Trek of Ladakh
This is a quick itinerary and guide to the sham valley trek in Ladakh, India. Sham valley trek also know as the " Baby trek " is the easiest one that goes through the sham region , the lower part of ladakh. It's the perfect short trek in indian. This guide includes all the details regarding the trip to sham valley.
The stark landscapes of Ladakh in northern India draw all kinds of travelers. Experience the beautiful blend of Indian, Tibetan and Ladakhi cultures that find a junction in the Sham Valley region of Ladakh. It's a short 3-day trek perfect for beginners, or those hoping to do a bit of warm-up before a more rigorous Leh Ladakh tour. Sham Valley is also known as the " Apricot Valley " as it is dotted throughout with an array of Apricot flowers. This trek takes you through some of the remotest villages and nooks of Ladakh and brings you a stunning portrayal of life in those rustic hamlets. The best part about the trek is that it may be done throughout the year, even during winters when several treks become inaccessible in Ladakh.
In August 2019 the Indian government changed the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, of which Ladakh was a part. Ladakh will now be a separate union territory. But Travel to Ladakh hasn’t been affected. So, getting to Ladakh via Kashmir will be difficult though, so make sure to plan ahead.
Brief Itinerary of Sham Valley Trek Tour
Day 1 - Arrive at Leh
Leh is the capital of Ladakh and a great place from where to plan your travels around Ladakh. Reach Leh and spend the rest of the day exploring around. Overnight stay in Leh. Leh has plenty of budget friendly accommodations from cheap to luxury hotels. Some are " Glacier Guest House, Siala Guest House and The Grand Dragon ".
Day 2 - Drive to Likir; Likir monastery
The trekking path begins at the edge of Likir village, heading down, over a stream, and back uphill before you’ll need to veer right and head out of the village. Likir monastery, it is an ancient monastery built in the year 1065 AD and is famous for a 25 feet gold-covered Buddha Statue. The location of both the villages and the monastery is quite scenic and it is worth a visit. This village is located about 9.5 kilometers from Srinagar Leh highway and to get here, you will have to take the diversion just about 10 kilometers before SaSaspul. There are plenty of reasonable accommodations, some of them are, " Noorbo Spoon Guest House, Sonam Guest House and Alchi Resort ".
Day 3 - Indus and Zanskar Rivers Confluence
Further ahead from Magnetic hill and a little before Nimmu village is the confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers, commonly known as Sangam Point. Indus river flows in from Tibet, originating in the vicinity of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, while Zanskar river originates in Zanskar valley before both of them merge together here. Zanskar River is known for its famous Chadar Trek. It presents a beautiful sight worthy enough for a quick photography break. There is also a place near the shores of the confluence where you can spend some time.
Best time to visit Sham Valley Trek
The best time to visit Sham Valley is anytime between May to October when both the highways leading to Ladakh are open for civilian traffic. This is one of the most easily accessible regions of Leh that remains open for all 12 months in fact. If you are planning for a trek though, it will be better to attempt it in June, July, and August. Some of the passes en route start to receive snow in September and the weather can turn unpredictable.
A day visit to Sham Valley from Leh will be a mixture of lovely religious experience and natural sightseeing for you, and if you are in Leh – Ladakh, then probably you do not want to miss a tour to Sham Valley. You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too.