The Heritage Trail – Changthang Trek India
The Heritage Trail Changthang Trek India is a high-altitude Himalayan expedition across Ladakh’s remote southeastern plateau, following ancient nomadic trails through one of the most isolated regions in the Himalayas. This 19-day adventure crosses dramatic landscapes, sacred salt lakes, and high passes such as Kumar La, Shibuk La, and Yalung Nyau La, reaching altitudes of more than 5,300 m.
Trekkers camp beneath wide open skies, explore centuries-old monasteries, and encounter the Changpa nomads who still practice traditional pastoral life. From surreal desert horizons to rare Himalayan wildlife sightings, this trek blends wilderness, culture, and extreme adventure. The journey concludes in Leh after a scenic drive via Pang.
HIGHLIGHTS:
⭐ Highest campsite around 4,700 m
⭐ Best trekking season: End of June to mid-September
⭐ Explore Ladakh’s remote Changthang Plateau
⭐ Visit ancient monasteries & mountain villages
⭐ Cross high passes with sweeping Trans-Himalayan views
⭐ Drive over the world’s second-highest motorable pass
⭐ Witness salt lakes, nomadic camps & vast mountain horizons
🏔️Max Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
Arrive in India’s vibrant capital; enjoy a comfortable hotel stay after airport pickup and settle in for the adventure ahead.
🗻Max Altitude: 3,500 meters (11,482 ft)
📈Altitude Gain: 3,284 meters (10,773 feet)
Take a scenic mountain flight to Leh, then explore Shanti Stupa, a local monastery, and the historic Leh Fort.
🚗Total Driving Distance: 75 km (47 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,040 meters (13,254 feet)
📈Total Altitude Gain: 540 meters (1,772 feet)
Drive from Leh to Rumtse, stopping at Shey, Thiksey, and Hemis monasteries; camp overnight in a scenic high-altitude valley.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 7–8 km (4.3–5 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,380 meters (14,360 feet)
📈Total Altitude Gain: 330 meters (1082 feet)
Start your trek with a gentle walk to Kyamar, ending at a serene campsite beside a spring amidst vast Ladakhi landscapes.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 12–14 km (7.5–8.7 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
📈Total Altitude Gain: 850 meters (2,789 feet)
Cross two high passes—Kumar La and Mandachand La—with sweeping views of Changthang, ending at the lush pastures of Tisaling.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 14–16 km (8.7–10 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,980 meters (16,338 feet)
📈Total Altitude Gain: 353 meters (1,158 feet)
Ascend to Shibuk La, spot playful marmots en route to Tukje, then explore the lakeside village and its charming monastery.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 8–10 km (5–6.2 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,300 meters (14,107 feet)
📉 Total Altitude Loss: 327 meters (1,073 feet)
Trek along the shores of Tsokar Lake across a wide plateau; spot wild Kyang before camping near the remote village of Nuruchan.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 12–14 km (7.5–8.7 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,900 meters (16,076 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 600 meters (1,968 feet)
Ascend Horlamkongka La for sweeping views, then descend through rolling terrain to a peaceful riverside campsite near Rachungkaru.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 10–12 km (6.2–7.5 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 800 meters (2,625 feet)
Climb steadily to Kyamayuri La with panoramic views, then descend to gentle pastures and set camp in the serene Gyama Burma valley.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 16–18 km (10–11.2 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 5,440 meters (17,847 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 1,190 meters (3,904 feet)
Cross the trek’s highest pass, Yalung Nyau La, and descend to the stunning Tso Moriri Lake—home to Karzok village, Changpa nomads, and the lakeside Gompa.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 18–20 km (11–12.4 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,350 meters (14,271 feet)
📉 Total Altitude Loss: 223 meters (732 feet)
Enjoy a peaceful lakeside trek along Tso Moriri, ending at the scenic confluence of the Phertsephu River—perfect for a tranquil campsite.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 10–12 km (6.2–7.5 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,580 meters (15,026 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 230 meters (755 feet)
Follow the river east through a vivid rocky valley that opens into green meadows; camp amidst serene Himalayan wilderness.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 10–11 km (6.2–6.8 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,650 meters (15,255 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 70 meters (229 feet)
Stroll through expansive alpine meadows, possibly meeting Changpa nomads en route to the tranquil riverside campsite at Lato.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 9–10 km (5.6–6.2 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,700 meters (15,419 feet)
📈 Total Altitude Gain: 50 meters (164 feet)
Trek to Zozang at the foot of Telacon La; camp in solitude with sweeping mountain views, far from any nomadic settlements.
🥾 Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 12–14 km (7.5–8.7 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 4,850 meters (15,912 feet)
📉 Total Altitude Loss: 100 meters (328 feet)
Cross Telakon La for sweeping views of Pang’s stark plateau, then descend along the Zara Chhu River to your final high-altitude campsite.
🚗Total Driving Distance: 150 km (93 miles)
🗻Max Altitude: 5,333 meters (17,495 feet)
📉 Total Altitude Loss: 833 meters (2,733 feet)
Travel back to Leh over the dramatic Tanglang La—world’s second-highest motorable pass—before checking into your hotel for a restful night.
🗻Max Altitude: 3,500 meters (11,482 feet)
📉 Altitude Loss: -1,833 m / -6,047 ft
Relax and explore Leh at your own pace—shop, visit cafés, or revisit cultural sites before spending another night in comfort.
🏔️ Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
📉 Altitude Loss: -3,284 m / -10,773 ft
Catch your return flight to Delhi; relax at your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to unwind or explore the city.
🏔️ Altitude: 216 m / 709 ft
Enjoy a full day at leisure with an optional tour of Old or New Delhi before your transfer to the airport for departure.
Arrival From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Departure From Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi)
Domestic Flights: Delhi to Leh and Leh to Delhi included in the package.
Certified Mountain Guide with mountaineering and first aid training
Support Helpers to assist with kitchen and camp duties
Pack Horses for carrying gear and supplies
All Trekking Equipment: tents, sleeping bags, mats, kitchen and toilet tents
All Meals: breakfast, lunch, tea/snacks, soup, and dinner
Accommodation: twin-sharing tents
Transportation: all local transfers as per itinerary
Emergency Kit: first aid and oxygen canister
Package price excludes anything not mentioned under “Inclusions,” including flights, insurance, tips, rentals, and emergency costs.
Rental gear available at: Into Wild Himalaya Shop
Trekking boots (well broken-in, ankle support)
Camp sandals or lightweight shoes (for evenings)
Backpack (40–50L with rain cover)
Small daypack or summit pack (20–30L)
Sleeping bag (rated -10°C to -20°C)
Sleeping mat (foam or inflatable, optional)
Trekking poles (adjustable)
Base layers (1–2 sets, moisture-wicking top & bottom)
Fleece or light down jacket
Waterproof jacket (with hood, breathable)
Waterproof pants (with side zips)
Trekking pants (quick-dry)
Thermal tights
T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
Thin liner gloves
Insulated gloves
Woollen cap or balaclava
Neck gaiter or Buff
Sunglasses (UV protected)
Sun cap or wide-brimmed hat
Wool or synthetic socks (3–4 pairs)
Headlamp (with spare batteries)
Water bottles (2L total, insulated preferred)
Thermos flask (for high-altitude regions)
Water purification tablets (optional)
Personal first aid kit (blister care, pain relief, altitude meds)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm (SPF 30+)
Toiletries (eco-friendly, biodegradable)
Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Quick-dry towel
Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, nuts, dry fruits)
Electrolyte tablets or ORS
Camera or GoPro (optional)
Passport, permits, and some cash (in waterproof pouch)
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained First Aid Responders and prepared for high-altitude situations. Every trek, expedition, and motorbike tour includes a comprehensive first aid kit tailored for remote and high-altitude environments.
Core Medical Supplies
Wound Care: Bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
Blisters & Burns: Moleskin, burn gel, petroleum jelly
Fractures & Sprains: SAM splint, triangular bandage, compression wraps
Medications: Painkillers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal, ORS, antacids, Diamox
Tools: Tweezers, scissors, gloves, CPR face shield, thermometer, pulse oximeter, whistle, mirror
Additional (for Remote/Extended Treks)
Tourniquet, emergency bandages, quick-clot gauze, sterile eye wash, foil blanket, water purification tablets
Optional Add-ons (As Needed)
Personal meds (inhalers, insulin, EpiPen)
Snake bite kit (in high-risk zones)
Tick remover (for forested routes)
High-Altitude Protocol
Above 4500 meters: A portable hypobaric chamber is always carried for emergency altitude management.
More than 30 days before your trip: 90% refund
15–30 days before: 50% refund
7–14 days before: 25% refund
Less than 7 days or no-show: No refund
Custom/private trips: Booking advance is non-refundable. Last-minute changes are subject to availability and costs.
For more details on our cancellation policy, please refer to the following link:
https://iwhexpeditions.com/cancellation_policy/
