The Yak Trek

Duration

8 Days / 7 Nights

Location

Kargyam to Liktse, Ladakh

Community

Changpa Community & Local Villages

Your Journey

A carefully curated experience immersing you in the authentic lifestyle of Changpa shepherds

Arrival & Acclimatization

Essential acclimatization day to adjust to high altitude before the yak trek

Leh (3,524m)5 km from airport

Arrive at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport

Transfer to accommodation and complete rest

Focus on hydration and light meals

Trek briefing and yak trekking introduction

Overnight: Leh accommodation

Cultural Exploration

Explore Leh's rich heritage while continuing acclimatization process

Leh Sightseeing30 km local sightseeing

Visit ancient monasteries and traditional palaces

Explore vibrant local markets and crafts

Learn about Changpa culture and yak herding traditions

Customizable sightseeing based on interests

Overnight: Leh accommodation

Journey to Kargyam

Scenic drive through mountain passes to reach the trek starting point

Leh to Kargyam (4,206m)150 km drive (5-6 hours)

Drive through breathtaking mountain landscapes

Cross high-altitude passes with stunning views

Arrive in remote Kargyam village

Meet locals and learn about yak herding culture

Overnight: Kargyam village stay

Yak Trek Begins

Start the unique experience of trekking alongside yaks

Chibra to Balmik4 hours yak trekking

Meet your yak companions for the trek

Learn basic yak handling and trekking techniques

Begin trek from Chibra towards Balmik

Experience the rhythm of yak-paced trekking

Overnight: Balmik camping

High-Altitude Yak Trekking

Continue trekking through rugged terrain with spectacular landscapes

Balmik to Liktse La Camp5 hours yak trekking

Trek through challenging high-altitude terrain

Experience the endurance and strength of yaks

Enjoy breathtaking mountain landscapes

Camp at Liktse La with panoramic views

Overnight: Liktse La camping

Village Life & Traditional Practices

Descend to Liktse village for deep cultural immersion experiences

Liktse La to Liktse Village (3,300m)4 hours trek to village

Trek from high camp down to Liktse Village

Participate in traditional pashmina and wool combing

Learn milk churning and butter making techniques

Engage deeply with local community life

Overnight: Liktse village homestay

Return to Civilization

Journey back to Leh with memories of the yak trekking adventure

Liktse to Leh3 hours drive back

Final morning with village families

Farewell to yak companions and local guides

Scenic drive back to Leh

Rest and celebration dinner in Leh

Overnight: Leh accommodation

Departure

End of the unique yak trekking adventure

Leh Departure5 km to airport

Final breakfast in Leh

Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport

Departure with unforgettable yak trekking memories

End of transformative Ladakh experience

Overnight: Journey home

What's Included

Everything you need for an authentic and comfortable experience

Yak Trekking

Unique experience trekking alongside trained yaks

Camping & Homestay

Mix of camping and authentic village homestays

All Permits

Inner line permits and trekking permissions

Traditional Meals

Local cuisine and village-prepared meals

Expert Guides

Local yak herders and cultural guides

Community Tourism

Direct support to Changpa and village communities

Ready for Your Adventure?

Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Changpa culture