Spituk Stok Trek is the part of the Markha valley trek, a well known trek famous for wild animals.

Spituk Stok Trek is a perfect moderately difficult trek for the weekend traveler.

In fact a documentary made on Snow Leopards which eventually won a lot of appreciation and awards was shot in the same valley.

It has a Beautiful village which lies in the route of Stock Kangri. As one approaches to its fields, the valley suddenly opens up with snowcapped mountains in the background which is a great place to view Ladakh flora and fauna.

You may encounter with some of the exciting sights of Blue sheep, the Great Tibetan sheep or the Argali, and migratory birds. High altitude of flora and a Tibetan wolf or a snow leopard can be seen while trekking.

During this trek one also gets to tread through the Stokla pass (4900 M) which commands great views of the Indus valley. Enroute, one can visit the Stok Palace museum which houses rare collections of Ladakhi rulers.

Major Attractions

Stok Palace museum: Stok Palace museum was built in 18th century. It comprises of unusual collection of ornaments of the royal family. The exquisite Tangkhas are the major attractions of this palace.

Spituk monastery: Around 18 km from Leh, this monastery is set on the hill top near Indus.

Founded in 11th century, Spituk was belonged to Kadampa school. The festival called Spituk is celebrated every year in the 11th month.

How to get there

By Air: Indian Airlines and Jet Airways have regular flights to and fro Leh.

Leh airport is linked with important cities like Delhi, Srinagar and Chandigarh.

By Road: Regular state transport bus services run between Srinagar and Leh and Manali and Leh.

If you do not prefer traveling by bus, the alternative available is jeeps.

By Rail: Jammu is the closest railway station and is 734 km from Leh. From here Buses take two days to reach Leh.

Best time to visit: Mid June to October

Facts

  • Special permits are not required for trekking in the Indian Himalayas, with the exception of certain restricted areas.
  • Do not buy the antiques more than 100 years old and their sale and purchase is prohibited under the law.
  • Do not exert or walk fast, as this will not let you enjoy the trek.
  • This trek needs normal or average fitness.
  • While trekking in this area, keep in mind that you do not dirty the surrounding places.
  • All the pollutants should be disposed off away from the camping site.

Things to carry

  • Walking stick
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Sleeping bag
  • Hiking shoes
  • Woolen clothes
  • Water, juices, snacks
  • Electric torch
  • Medical kit
  • A good compass
  • An extra pair of clothes

Other Information

Chengespa: Shanti Stupa is set on hilltop at Changspa. It was built by Japanese Buddhist organization. This stupa has the magnificent shrine.

Thiksay Monastery: Built in 15th century, Thiksey Monastery is located 20 km from Leh. Its structure is the most striking and impressive in all of Ladakh. You can view many tiny villages from its top. A very lively monastery has ten temples inside its premises.