Parang La Trek, Brammah Valley Trek & Sham Valley Trek – Complete Trekking Guide
Introduction
The Indian Himalayas are a paradise for trekkers, offering diverse terrains, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural richness. Among the many trekking routes, Parang La Trek, Brammah Valley Trek, and Sham Valley Trek stand out for their unique beauty and challenges.
- Parang La Trek is a high-altitude and difficult trek, connecting Spiti Valley in Himachal to Ladakh with stunning glacier crossings and river walks.
- Brammah Valley Trek is an offbeat and less-explored trek in Jammu & Kashmir, offering views of the majestic Brammah peaks and lush alpine valleys.
- Sham Valley Trek, also known as the "Baby Trek" of Ladakh, is easy yet scenic, making it ideal for beginners and cultural enthusiasts.
This guide covers detailed itineraries, best seasons, difficulty levels, and expert trekking tips to help you plan your next Himalayan adventure.
1. Parang La Trek – A High-Altitude Cross-Country Trek
The Parang La Trek is an epic trans-Himalayan journey, starting from the cold desert of Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh and ending in the high-altitude terrain of Ladakh. This trek features glacier crossings, riverbeds, and vast plateaus, making it one of the most thrilling treks in India.
Location: Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Best Time to Visit: July to September
Duration: 10-12 Days
Maximum Altitude: 18,300 ft (5,578 m)
Trekking Route & Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Manali to Kaza (Spiti Valley)
- Day 2: Acclimatization in Kaza
- Day 3: Trek from Kibber to Dumla
- Day 4: Dumla to Thaltak Meadow
- Day 5: Thaltak Meadow to Bongrogen (Base of Parang La)
- Day 6: Cross Parang La Pass (18,300 ft) – Trek to Pare Chu Riverbed
- Day 7: Trek along Pare Chu River
- Day 8: Trek to Norbu Sumdo
- Day 9: Enter Ladakh and trek to Kiangdom (Tso Moriri)
- Day 10: Trek to Karzok – Trek ends
Highlights of the Trek
✅ Crossing the mighty Parang La Pass (18,300 ft)
✅ Walking along the frozen Pare Chu River
✅ Stunning views of Tso Moriri – the high-altitude lake of Ladakh
✅ Witnessing wildlife like Tibetan wild asses (Kiangs) and blue sheep
Essential Tips
✔ This trek is physically demanding – prepare with endurance training
✔ Acclimatization is crucial – spend time in Kaza before trekking
✔ Pack warm clothing, waterproof gear, and high-altitude trekking essentials
2. Brammah Valley Trek – A Hidden Gem in Jammu & Kashmir
The Brammah Valley Trek is an offbeat trekking route in the Kishtwar region of Jammu & Kashmir. It takes you through lush green valleys, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Brammah peaks.
Location: Jammu & Kashmir
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
Best Time to Visit: June to September
Duration: 7-9 Days
Maximum Altitude: 16,000 ft (4,877 m)
Trekking Route & Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Jammu to Kishtwar
- Day 2: Kishtwar to Atholi by road – Trek to Galhar Village
- Day 3: Galhar to Umasi La Base Camp
- Day 4: Cross Umasi La (16,000 ft) – Trek to Brammah Glacier
- Day 5: Explore Brammah Valley and return to base camp
- Day 6: Trek back to Galhar
- Day 7: Return to Kishtwar – Trek ends
Highlights of the Trek
✅ Unspoiled landscapes of the Kishtwar Himalayas
✅ Crossing Umasi La – a thrilling high-altitude pass
✅ Close-up views of Brammah I & Brammah II peaks
✅ Exploring remote Himalayan villages
Essential Tips
✔ This is an offbeat and challenging trek – prior trekking experience is recommended
✔ Hire a local guide – the trails are not well-marked
✔ Be prepared for changing weather conditions
3. Sham Valley Trek – The Best Easy Trek in Ladakh
The Sham Valley Trek is one of the easiest and most scenic treks in Ladakh, also known as the “Baby Trek.” It is perfect for beginners, as it takes you through ancient monasteries, traditional Ladakhi villages, and beautiful landscapes.
Location: Ladakh, India
Difficulty Level: Easy
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Duration: 3-4 Days
Maximum Altitude: 13,100 ft (3,993 m)
Trekking Route & Itinerary
- Day 1: Drive from Leh to Likir – Trek to Yangthang
- Day 2: Yangthang to Hemis Shukpachan
- Day 3: Hemis Shukpachan to Temisgam – Trek ends
Highlights of the Trek
✅ Visiting ancient Ladakhi monasteries (Likir, Rizong, and Alchi)
✅ Walking through traditional Ladakhi villages
✅ Mild ascents and descents, making it perfect for beginners
✅ Breathtaking views of the Indus Valley and Zanskar Range
Essential Tips
✔ Great for first-time trekkers – no prior experience needed
✔ Stay hydrated and wear sun protection – Ladakh’s sun is intense
✔ Visit local homestays for an authentic cultural experience
Conclusion
Each of these treks offers a unique Himalayan experience. Whether you seek adventure, solitude, or cultural immersion, there is a trek for you.