To the junction of the trek
Marka trek 9: The walk from Markha to Skyu is difficult not only because of its length and dusty sections, but mainly because of the high temperatures that are present here in the main trekking season. It is also a little less picturesque than the previous stage of the trek due to the many bushes. But even so, you will enjoy here beautiful views of the jagged ridges and nice oases around the river.
Jagged ridges
Set out for the trekking stage from Markha to Skyu as soon as possible, because there is very hot already from 10 am. After about two kilometers awaits you wading of the river again. Another tens minutes of the walk will be pleasant due to the view of the beautiful jagged ridges.
Ascent to chortens
Roughly after about an hour's walk from the ford you reach the place where the valley leading directly below Stok Kangri connects from the south. But no one walks this way to the mountain. From there awaits you a short ascent to the promontory above the river, where chortens are built.
By the chorten
By the chorten (3 660 m asl) is also a nice mani wall. It is an ideal place for the first longer break.
The mountains across the river Zanskar
From the chorten you will first see far on the horizon mountains towering over the river Zanskar. This view will accompany you for the rest of the trek.
Mountains above the river
In some places disappear the boxes, the valley narrows and there are vertical rock walls directly above the river.
Journey through the desert
After less than three hours walk from Markha you get to places where it looks almost like a desert. You will walk over the arid plain relatively high above the river. You will slowly approach the tea patent, so the lunch is already quite close.
Idyll at the tea tent
Tea tent halfway between Markha and Skyu is situated at very pleasant place. Around is the green meadow, shade from the trees. It is really an ideal place to gather strength for the rest of today's stage.
Wild canyon
Below the tea tent is the canyon a little wilder again and there is more bushy vegetation, so the valley is somewhat less picturesque than the above.
Interesting bridge
A little bit farther is very interesting bridge leaning right against the rock wall, in which the path is carved out. Fording would be quite annoying here in the lower parts of the river.
Massive rock walls
Just behind the bridge is another great view of the massive rock walls.
Chortens at the confluence of valleys
You will walk for roughly an hour in less interesting passage before you reach another chortens by the large side valley. From there it is only around five kilometers to Skyu.
Valley of the river before Skyu
The valley before Skyu widens in several places. Green passages are replaced by the path covered with a layer of river silt.
Just before Skyu
The fact that you're at the destination, will indicate you the large fields of barley. Today's stage of the trek is one of the most difficult, mainly due to the tiring heat rather than due to the route profile.
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