Sham Valley Trek

The Sham Valley trek is one of those treks that can be opted anytime throughout the year owing to its favorable weather conditions and perfect geographical locations. The trek intertwines the Indian, Tibetan and Ladakhian cultures together. Due to its suitable weather throughout the year the trek is accessible even during the times when other treks in those regions are closed. In winters and monsoons specially most of the treks shut off to safeguard trekkers’ health and safety. The sham Valley trek is also known as the baby trek of Ladakh. Some say it’s because of the short time span of this trek while others claim it’s because the trek is extremely easy to finish.You’ll witness Apricot flowers every now and then along the trail of the trek which is why this valley is also called Apricot Valley. There are numerous villages set in their cultural aroma along the trail and small water streams to add to the aesthetic. 

These villages let’s you witness the everyday life of people living in Ladakh and the various monasteries bring you an insight on their diversified cultures. Alchi monastery is one of the most prominent and largest monasteries of Ladakh and can be visited on your back from the trek.  The Alchi monastery ranges back to the 11th century and encompasses the essence of old times and cultures. It was created by Rinchen Zangpo in those times. Rooting to these places the trekkers will find a strange kind of calmness and uplift and the simplicity of the people living here will warm your hearts.  The height of Sham Valley trek is about 12,715 ft above the mean sea level.  The point where you reach this altitude, that is the highest point in the trek at 12,715 ft, is located at the Tsermangchan La Pass. Along the trail you’ll come across a village names Hemis Shukpachan which is considered to be the loveliest Ladakhi village in the state.