Sham Valley Trek

Sham Valley Trek

Ladakh
EasyDifficulty
3–4 DaysDuration
3874 mMax Altitude
32 kmLength
Likir VillageStarting

Sham Valley Trek: The Baby Trek of Ladakh

The Sham Valley Trek, often called the “Baby Trek,” is one of the easiest and most rewarding treks in Ladakh. At an altitude of 12,710 ft, this short trek passes through charming Ladakhi villages, ancient monasteries, barley fields, and apricot orchards. Perfect for beginners and cultural explorers, the trek offers a gentle introduction to high-altitude trekking while showcasing the authentic lifestyle of Ladakh.

Why Sham Valley is Called the Baby Trek

With short trekking distances, gradual ascents, and homestay accommodations, Sham Valley is ideal for those new to trekking in Ladakh. It combines natural beauty with cultural immersion, giving trekkers a taste of both landscapes and traditions.

Scenic & Cultural Attractions

- Visits to historic monasteries like Likir and Alchi
- Trails through barley fields, streams, and apricot orchards
- Authentic Ladakhi homestay experiences
- Stunning views of the Indus Valley and surrounding mountains

Who Should Do This Trek?

This trek is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone short on time who still wants to experience the magic of trekking in Ladakh without strenuous climbs or extreme altitude challenges.

Packing List

Comfortable trekking shoes
Buy on Amazon
Warm clothes (light woolens, fleece, jacket)
Buy on Amazon
Daypack with rain cover
Buy on Amazon
Sunscreen, sunglasses, cap
Buy on Amazon
Water bottles and purification tablets
Buy on Amazon
Energy snacks and dry fruits
Buy on Amazon
Basic medical kit with altitude medicines
Buy on Amazon
Headlamp/torch
Buy on Amazon
Trekking poles (optional)
Buy on Amazon

Itinerary

Day 1: Leh to Likir, trek to Yangthang | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 4-5 hours | Altitude: 11,480 ft
  • Drive from Leh to Likir Monastery.
  • Trek through barley fields and small passes.
  • Overnight stay in homestay at Yangthang.
Day 2: Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan | Distance: 8 km | Duration: 4 hours | Altitude: 12,000 ft
  • Cross small passes like Sermanchan La.
  • Trek through apricot orchards and villages.
  • Stay with locals at Hemis Shukpachan village.
Day 3: Hemis Shukpachan to Ang via Mebtak La | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5-6 hours | Altitude: 12,710 ft
  • Climb gradually to Mebtak La Pass.
  • Descend through barley fields and streams.
  • Stay at Ang village homestay.
Day 4: Ang to Temisgam, drive to Leh | Distance: 4 km trek + drive | Duration: 2 hours trek | Altitude: 11,000 ft
  • Short trek to Temisgam village.
  • Drive back to Leh.
  • End of trek.
Marker
Leaflet

Best Month to Visit

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Nearest AirportKushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh
Nearest Railway StationSrinagar Railway Station

Weather Forecast

Low: 9°High: 15°
15°
Clear
Clear
06:09
18:19
23%

Pricing

Thrillophilia logo

Thrillophilia

₹8500
BROZA ADVENTURES logo

BROZA ADVENTURES

₹9999
Universal Adventures logo

Universal Adventures

₹10000
Cliffhangers India logo

Cliffhangers India

₹11000
Advenchar logo

Advenchar

₹13999
Himalayan Daredevils logo

Himalayan Daredevils

₹17800
Adventure Nation logo

Adventure Nation

₹25700
Bon Travel India logo

Bon Travel India

₹30000

You will be redirected to the operator's website

Reviews

0 reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review

Top Stays Nearby

Hotel Alchi Zimskhang

Hotel Alchi Zimskhang

star4.5 (153)📍 6.1 km away from Starting
Ule Ethnic Resort

Ule Ethnic Resort

star4.5 (139)📍 9.9 km away from Starting
Denmo Home stay, Saspol, Leh, UT Ladakh

Denmo Home stay, Saspol, Leh, UT Ladakh

star4.4 (43)📍 4.2 km away from Starting
Likir View Homestay

Likir View Homestay

star5 (40)📍 2.9 km away from Starting
Likir Pottery & Farmstay

Likir Pottery & Farmstay

star4.9 (35)📍 2.1 km away from Starting
Malchang Home Stay Liker

Malchang Home Stay Liker

star5 (16)📍 0.2 km away from Starting
Norboo Spon Guesthouse

Norboo Spon Guesthouse

star4.3 (15)📍 0.5 km away from Starting
Alchi Resort

Alchi Resort

star4.7 (15)📍 5.5 km away from Starting
chhuma homestay

chhuma homestay

star5 (11)📍 2.8 km away from Starting
Dolker Kyalupa Homestay

Dolker Kyalupa Homestay

star5 (7)📍 0.2 km away from Starting

FAQs

Why is Sham Valley Trek called the Baby Trek?

It is called the Baby Trek because of its short duration, easy gradient, and accessibility for beginners.

What is the altitude of the trek?

The maximum altitude reached is about 12,710 ft (3,874 meters).

What is the best time to do this trek?

May to September is ideal, with clear skies, warm days, and pleasant nights.

Is acclimatization required?

Yes, at least 1-2 days of acclimatization in Leh is necessary before starting the trek.

Can beginners do this trek?

Yes, it is one of the easiest treks in Ladakh and perfect for first-timers.

Do we stay in tents or homestays?

Accommodation is mostly in traditional Ladakhi homestays, offering cultural experiences.

Are monasteries included in the trek?

Yes, the trek passes near famous monasteries like Likir, Alchi, and Temisgam.

How physically demanding is the trek?

The trek involves 4-6 hours of walking daily on moderate terrain, manageable for most people with basic fitness.

What should I pack?

Comfortable trekking shoes, warm layers, water bottles, sunscreen, and basic medicines are essential.

How do I reach the starting point?

The trek starts from Likir village, which is accessible by a short drive from Leh.

Trek

BROWSE ALL TREKS

Browse all treks in one place and use filters or sorting options to find trails by region, difficulty, duration, or season for your perfect adventure.

Explore Treks

More Treks Nearby This

Nubra Valley Trek
90 kmModerate to Difficult

Ladakh

Nubra Valley Trek

8–10 Days • 90 km

33 km away
Stok Kangri Trek
40 kmDifficult

Ladakh

Stok Kangri Trek

8-9 Days • 40 km

45 km away
Chadar Trek
65 kmDifficult

Ladakh

Chadar Trek

9 Days • 65 km

50 km away
Kang Yatse II Summit Trek
110 kmDifficult

Ladakh

Kang Yatse II Summit Trek

12–13 days • 110 km

72 km away
Markha Valley Trek
75 kmModerate to Difficult

Ladakh

Markha Valley Trek

9 Days • 75 km

73 km away
Miyar Valley Trek
75 kmEasy to Moderate

Himachal Pradesh

Miyar Valley Trek

7-9 days • 75 km

161 km away
Chandratal Baralacha Trek
60 kmModerate to Difficult

Himachal Pradesh

Chandratal Baralacha Trek

7–8 Days • 60 km

174 km away
Tarsar Marsar Trek
47 kmModerate

Jammu & Kashmir

Tarsar Marsar Trek

7 Days • 47 km

186 km away
Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
75 kmModerate to Difficult

Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir Great Lakes Trek

7–9 Days • 75 km

190 km away
Beas Kund Trek
26 kmEasy to Moderate

Himachal Pradesh

Beas Kund Trek

3–4 Days • 26 km

215 km away

Essential Trekking Guidelines to Follow

Obtain Required Permits

Many trekking destinations in India and abroad require official permits from forest departments or local authorities. Failing to produce a permit can lead to fines or denial of entry. Always check if your trail lies in a protected or restricted area and apply in advance.

Respect Nature and Wildlife

Do not litter, pluck plants, or disturb animals. Follow the “Leave No Trace” principle. Avoid playing loud music, feeding animals, or venturing off-trail, as it can damage fragile ecosystems and disturb wildlife habitats.

Travel in Designated Groups or with a Guide

Some treks mandate a certified guide, especially in high-altitude, glacier, or border-sensitive regions. Trekking solo may not be allowed or could be risky. Groups ensure safety and make coordination with rescue teams easier in case of emergencies.

Camp Only at Authorized Sites

Setting up tents or bonfires in unauthorized zones can harm the environment and violate local rules. Use designated campsites, follow fire safety guidelines, and avoid open fires unless explicitly permitted.

Respect Local Communities and Culture

Trek through villages respectfully. Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, religious sites, or rituals. Dress modestly and avoid disrupting the local way of life. Learn a few local words if possible—it builds rapport.

Abide by Weather and Safety Advisories

If the forest department or tour operator cancels or postpones the trek due to bad weather or risk warnings (like landslides or avalanches), you must comply. Ignoring advisories can endanger your life and others'.

Don’t Venture Beyond Restricted Zones

Many trekking regions are close to international borders or army zones. Trekking beyond permitted zones can lead to interrogation, fines, or arrest. Always know the trail boundaries.

Adhere to Group Timings and Instructions

Whether you're trekking with a group or an agency, always stick to the trek leader’s instructions and timing. Straying behind or venturing ahead alone can lead to accidents or getting lost.