Phyang Hunder Trek

On a trek through Ladakh's most scenic wilderness on the legendary Phyang to Hunder Trek, following an ancient Silk Road trade route connecting the Indus and Nubra valleys. This challenging 5-day expedition crosses the magnificent Lasermo La Pass (5,450m/17,880 ft), featuring a thrilling glacier traverse rewarding with breathtaking panoramic views of the Karakoram and Ladakh mountain ranges. Begin in the charming village of Phyang with its stunning 16th-century monastery, then ascend through high-altitude pasturelands where shepherds still graze traditional yaks and pashmina goats. Experience alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, interact with nomadic communities, and descend into the pristine Nubra Valley's verdant landscape. Witness towering peaks including Stok Kangri and Saser Kangri. This thrilling expedition offers wilderness solitude, cultural encounters, and unparalleled mountain aesthetics for experienced trekkers seeking the ultimate Himalayan adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Leh (3,500m/11,500 ft)
Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport and transfer to your hotel in Leh for check-in. Spend the entire day resting and acclimatizing to the high altitude—this is crucial for preventing altitude sickness and ensuring trek success. Stay well-hydrated, drink at least 4-5 liters of water, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Take a leisurely evening walk around the hotel area or explore nearby Leh Market at a slow pace. Enjoy dinner at your hotel and rest early. Overnight stay in Leh hotel (double/triple sharing basis).

Day 2: Leh Acclimatization & Sightseeing (50 km total)
Second acclimatization day with guided sightseeing around Leh and nearby monasteries. After breakfast, visit the magnificent Shanti Stupa, offering panoramic views of Leh town and surrounding mountains. Explore the historic Leh Palace (Lhachen Palkhar), a 17th-century royal residence showcasing Ladakh's royal heritage. Visit the sacred Spituk Monastery (6.6 km from Leh), one of Ladakh's oldest gompas featuring intricate architecture and housing priceless Buddhist artifacts. Visit the spiritual Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site. Browse Leh Market for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay, ensuring complete acclimatization before trekking begins.

Day 3: Leh to Phyang & Trek to Phyang Phu (21 km drive, 2-3 hours trek, 4,570m elevation)
After breakfast, drive from Leh to Phyang Monastery (approximately 30 minutes, 21 km) through scenic Ladakh landscape. Visit the stunning 16th-century Phyang Gompa, a spiritual landmark perched on a hillside offering magnificent views of the Indus Valley. Experience the monastery's peaceful atmosphere and learn about Buddhist traditions from resident monks. Begin your trek from Phyang to Phyang Phu (4,570m/15,010 ft), an expansive high-altitude pastured area used by local villagers for grazing yaks, cows, sheep, and goats. Trek 2-3 hours through lush vegetation and pastoral landscape. Encounter local shepherds and nomadic communities maintaining traditional lifestyle with their animals. Arrive at Phyang Phu camp surrounded by spectacular mountain vistas. Overnight stay in camp with dinner prepared by trekking team.

Day 4: Phyang Phu to South Base Camp of Lasermo La (10 km, 3 hours trek, 4,820m elevation)
Short but significant acclimatization day. Trek 10 km from Phyang Phu to South Basecamp of Lasermo La (4,820m/15,810 ft), gaining only 250 meters elevation. The gradual ascent through stunning mountain terrain allows your body to adjust to increasing altitude. Trek through high-altitude alpine meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers blooming in summer season. Witness views of the Stok Kangri Range dominating the landscape. Enjoy serene surroundings with towering peaks creating a dramatic amphitheater effect. Rest well at the basecamp, located in a tranquil location surrounded by pristine alpine beauty. Evening acclimatization walks recommended. Overnight stay at South Basecamp camp with hearty dinner.

Day 5: South Base Camp to North Base Camp via Lasermo La Pass (16 km, 6-7 hours, 5,450m highest point)
The most challenging and rewarding day of your trek—crossing the spectacular Lasermo La Pass (5,450m/17,880 ft), one of India's most impressive high-altitude pass crossings featuring glacier terrain. Early morning departure (4:00-5:00 AM) is essential for safe glacier crossing before afternoon melt. Ascend through alpine meadows for the first 2-3 km before reaching the glacier. Trek across the glacier terrain (crampons optional, guide will advise) for approximately 1.5-2 hours, requiring careful navigation to avoid crevasses while your guide ensures safety. Reach the pass summit (5,450m) where breathtaking panoramic views extend across the Karakoram Range, Ladakh Range, Stok Range, and vast Indus and Nubra valleys below. Spend time photographing and acclimating to the thin air at the pass. Begin the challenging descent of 700 meters through rough moraine and loose scree terrain for 2-3 hours to North Basecamp (4,780m/15,682 ft). Overnight stay at North Basecamp under stars, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Day 6: North Base Camp to Hunder Dok (18 km, 8+ hours, 4,400m elevation)
Longest walking day of the trek but with the reward of descending into pristine Nubra Valley. Commence early after breakfast. Trek 18 km through gradually descending alpine meadows, pastures, and seasonal tarns. Follow the Hundar Stream for much of the day, maintaining a southward course into the valley. Pass through shepherds' huts and settlements where residents from Hunder Dok village spend summers with their yaks, cows, goats, and sheep—observe traditional dairy operations producing milk, cheese, and butter (tsampa, the Ladakhi staple, available for tasting). Gradually witness landscape transformation from barren alpine terrain to verdant valley vegetation with flowering alpine meadows. Descend through stunning Hundar Gorge with increasingly green surroundings. Arrive at Hunder Dok Campsite (4,400m/14,435 ft), perched above Hunder Dok village. Evening offers spectacular sunset views over the valley. Overnight stay in Hunder Dok camp.

Day 7: Hunder Dok to Hunder Village & Nubra Valley Exploration (6 km trek, 15 km drive)
Final trekking day is an easy 6 km descent from Hunder Dok camp to Hunder Dok Village (3,800m/12,470 ft) through beautiful scenery. Before the final descent, enjoy magnificent views of Saser Kangri (7,672m), one of Ladakh's highest mountains. Descend through Hundar Gorge which opens dramatically before reaching Hundar Bridge. Arrive in Hunder village (3,050m/10,000 ft), the trek's endpoint, famous for golden sand dunes and double-humped Bactrian camels. Visit Diskit Monastery, Nubra Valley's oldest gompa featuring a 106-foot Maitreya Buddha statue and offering stunning valley views. Enjoy optional camel safari on Bactrian camels found exclusively here. Explore sandy dunes and interact with local communities. Evening relaxation in this beautiful valley. Overnight stay in Hunder hotel or camp.

Day 8: Hunder to Leh via Khardung La (120 km, 5-6 hours)
Final morning enjoying Hunder Valley before departure. After breakfast, drive from Hunder to Leh (approximately 5-6 hours, 120 km) crossing the spectacular Khardung La Pass (18,380 ft/5,602m), one of the world's highest motorable roads. Experience dramatic hairpin bends, breathtaking views at the pass, and scenic descent through alpine terrain. Stop at viewpoints for photographs and reflection on your trekking achievement. Arrive in Leh by late afternoon. Check into your hotel. Evening celebration dinner to commemorate your incredible journey. Overnight stay in Leh hotel.

Day 9: Departure from Leh
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for your return flight. Carry unforgettable memories of glacier crossings, ancient trade routes, nomadic encounters, and the majesty of Ladakh's highest wilderness adventure.

Accommodation & Meals

• Hotel accommodation in Leh (2 nights) on double/triple sharing basis with breakfast and dinner

• Camp accommodation during trekking (5 nights) with all meals

• Welcome and farewell dinners in Leh

• Daily tea/coffee and packed snacks during trekking

• Lunch arrangements at local restaurants on non-trekking days

Transportation & Transfers

• Airport to hotel transfers and return airport drop-off

• Private air-conditioned vehicle for non-trekking days (Toyota Innova or similar)

• Experienced driver familiar with mountain terrain and high-altitude roads

• Fuel for entire journey

• Parking fees, toll taxes, and all road permits

• Vehicle maintenance and backup support throughout trek

Permits & Documentation

• Inner Line Permits for Nubra Valley and restricted areas

• All trek permits and registrations

• Environmental and wildlife sanctuary fees

• Government-required documentation

• Emergency permit fees

Guides & Assistance

• Experienced trek leader with mountain safety and first aid certification

• Local guides familiar with terrain, culture, and Ladakhi language

• Highly experienced porters or local support staff

• 24-hour customer support during trek

• Basic first aid kit and emergency medical support

• Horse/pony support for luggage (optional—trekker's personal bags not mandatory)

Activities & Sightseeing

• All trekking as per detailed itinerary

• Glacier traverse training and safety briefing

• All monastery visits (Phyang, Spituk, Diskit)

• Cultural village interactions and shepherd encounters

• Sunrise and sunset viewing opportunities

• Optional Bactrian camel safari at Hunder (one ride included)

• Photography sessions at major landmarks

Equipment & Safety

• Basic camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)

• Emergency evacuation support fund

• First aid kits at all locations

• Weather-appropriate support

• Route maps and navigation aids

Personal Expenses

• Lunch meals during non-trekking days (available at local restaurants)

• Personal laundry, telephone calls, and miscellaneous charges

• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, and support staff

• Travel insurance (highly recommended for all trekkers)

• Visa fees for international travelers

Travel Arrangements

• Airfare or train tickets to and from Leh

• Transportation to airport from your home

• Expenses due to flight cancellations, delays, or weather disruptions

• Medical evacuation or specialized rescue operations

Equipment & Personal Gear

• Personal trekking gear (backpack, sleeping bag, trekking boots, warm clothing)

• Altitude sickness medication or specialized medical treatments

• Personal toiletries, cosmetics, and personal medications

• Camera equipment, lenses, and professional photography gear

• Crampons (provided by guide if necessary)

• Personal adventure equipment beyond standard gear

Optional Activities

• Additional camel rides beyond the included one at Hunder

• Professional photography or videography services

• Additional monastery visits or spiritual ceremonies

• Shopping and souvenir purchases

• Special meals or gala dinners at premium restaurants

• Any activities not explicitly mentioned in itinerary

Medical & Emergency

• Medical treatment, hospitalization, or specialist care

• Personal accident or health insurance

• Evacuation expenses beyond provided emergency fund

• Medications or treatment for pre-existing conditions

• Rescue operations beyond standard emergency support

Monument & Special Permissions

• Additional photography permits beyond standard allowances

• Private ceremonies at monasteries

• Premium access to restricted heritage sites

• Commercial filming or documentary permits

• Premium guide services

Natural Events & Force Majeure

• Expenses from natural calamities or roadblocks

• Weather-related delays, itinerary changes, or pass closures

• Political unrest or government travel restrictions

• Costs from unforeseen circumstances beyond operator control

• National holidays or festival-related surcharges

Food & Beverages

• Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks

• Special dietary meals beyond standard options (extra charges apply)

• Premium dining experiences outside included meals

Physical Fitness & Experience Requirements

• Minimum age: 16 years (with parental consent for minors)

• This is a moderate to difficult trek requiring good high-altitude trekking experience

• Not recommended for persons with critical heart, lung, or breathing conditions

• Medical fitness certificate essential for persons above 60 years

• Previous high-altitude trekking experience highly recommended (altitude up to 5,450m)

• Good cardiovascular fitness and mountain hiking endurance essential

Health & Acclimatization

• Spend minimum 2 days in Leh for proper acclimatization before trekking

• Minimum altitude: 3,500m (11,500 ft) in Leh

• Maximum altitude: 5,450m (17,880 ft) at Lasermo La Pass

• Total altitude gain: 2,170m over trek duration

• Total altitude loss: 1,840m over trek duration

• Drink 4-5 liters of water daily minimum

• Avoid smoking and alcohol during acclimatization phase

• Consult doctor about altitude sickness medications (Diamox commonly recommended)

What to Bring

• Warm woolen clothing, thermal innerwear, and multiple layered outfits

• Waterproof trekking jacket and rain gear

• Trekking boots (broken in), comfortable shoes, and warm socks

• Sun protection: high SPF sunscreen (50+), sunglasses, lip balm with SPF

• Head gear: beanies, mufflers, gloves, and caps (essential—temperatures drop to -15°C at pass)

• Waterproof bag covers for all luggage

• Personal medications and comprehensive first aid supplies

• Copies of important documents and travel insurance papers

• Power banks and electronic chargers with solar panels

• Reusable water bottle (minimum 2 liters capacity)

• Personal toiletries, hygiene items, and sanitary products

• Torch or headlamp with extra batteries

• Trekking poles (recommended for descent, reduces knee strain)

Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season: End of July to September (ONLY recommended window for this trek)

• Winter: December-February (Pass remains snow-covered, extremely risky, NOT recommended)

• Spring: March-May (Pass still has significant snowpack)

• Monsoon: June-early July (Rainfall, unstable conditions, glacier difficult to navigate)

Altitude Information

• Leh: 3,500m (11,500 ft)

• Phyang: 3,600m (11,810 ft)

• Phyang Phu: 4,570m (15,010 ft)

• South Base Camp Lasermo: 4,820m (15,810 ft)

• Lasermo La Pass: 5,450m (17,880 ft) — highest point, glacier terrain

• North Base Camp Lasermo: 4,780m (15,682 ft)

• Hunder Dok Camp: 4,400m (14,435 ft)

• Hunder Dok Village: 3,800m (12,470 ft)

• Hunder: 3,050m (10,000 ft)

Trek Difficulty & Pace

• Overall Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (60% stamina, 60% technical)

• Daily walking hours: 5-8 hours per day

• Terrain: High-altitude alpine passes, glacier, moraine, alpine meadows

• Fitness level: Good to excellent cardiovascular fitness required

• High-altitude experience essential

• Day 5 (Lasermo La Pass day) is the most technically demanding

Glacier Safety & Techniques

• Glacier crossing training provided by guides

• Crampons may be used depending on snow conditions (guide will determine)

• Careful crevasse navigation required—never venture alone on glacier

• Rope-team protocols may be employed for safety

• Early morning crossing ensures safer snow/ice conditions

• Descent through moraine requires careful footwork—watch for loose rocks

• Guide's instructions must be followed strictly

Cultural Sensitivity

• Respect Buddhist customs and monastery protocols

• Seek permission before photographing monks or sacred spaces

• Dress modestly, especially in village areas and monasteries

• Support local economy by purchasing from village artisans

• Taste traditional Ladakhi food and learn about local culture

• Don't disrupt prayer flags, mani stones, or sacred objects

• Learn basic Ladakhi greetings to connect with local communities

• Avoid discussing sensitive political or border-related topics

Safety & Emergency

• Follow guide's instructions regarding mountain safety strictly

• Never trek alone or leave the marked trail

• Carry emergency whistle and headlamp at all times

• Report health issues immediately to guide—don't push through pain

• Keep emergency contact numbers and information handy

• Recognize altitude sickness symptoms: severe headache, dizziness, nausea

• Weather can change rapidly—be prepared for sudden conditions

• Military checkpoints are common—carry all permits and documentation

Weather Conditions

• July-August daytime: 10-15°C (pleasantly warm with sun)

• July-August nighttime: -5 to 0°C (can drop further at altitude)

• September daytime: 5-10°C (cool with frequent winds)

• September nighttime: -10 to -5°C (extremely cold)

• At pass summit: Temperatures can plummet to -15 to -20°C

• Afternoon weather deterioration common—early starts essential

• Wind at pass can be fierce and dangerous