Sham Valley

Sham Valley, the lower-altitude region west of Leh along the Srinagar highway, is the gentle gateway to Ladakh - a green valley of apricot orchards, mud-brick villages and historic gompas (Alchi, Likir, Rizong, Lamayuru). Because of its lower altitude (around 3,000m), Sham is the best region for first-time Ladakh visitors and the popular 'Sham Trek' or 'Baby Trek' (Likir to Tingmosgang, 3 days, max 4,000m) - one of the easiest and most rewarding treks in Ladakh, perfect for families and acclimatization. The famous moonland landscape of Lamayuru, the 11th-century murals of Alchi Monastery (Ladakh's artistic crown jewel), and the apricot blossoms of March-April are Sham Valley's hallmarks.