What makes our yak trek so unique ?

You’ll have the opportunity to visit a remote village where skilled artisans turn pashmina wool into a fascinating handicraft. You’ll witness the nomadic lifestyle of the Changpas, who wander the high plains with their flocks of pashmina goats. You will be trekking alongside Yaks and the Changpa shepherds.

This isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience. You will live with the nomadic tribe and engage in experiences like churning milk to make butter.

Yak Trek – An Immersive Experience

Changthang: A Unique Ladakh Landscape

The landscape you’ll encounter on this trek is unlike any other in Ladakh. Changthang is not characterized by sharp, craggy mountains, but by vast sloping plateaus that stretch into the horizon. The terrain is open, undisturbed, and remote — a stark contrast to the busy trekking trails of central Ladakh.

This sense of isolation is part of what makes the experience so special. With no large groups or permanent settlements en route, you’ll be walking through pristine wilderness. Picture yourself alongside a Changpa shepherd, guiding his caravan with pride, sharing stories, and smiling as he shows you a way of life few outsiders ever witness. By joining this trek, you’re not just creating memories for yourself — you’re also contributing to the recognition and dignity of the nomadic lifestyle, affirming that it holds value in a rapidly modernizing world.

The Changpa Nomads

In the far reaches of Ladakh, at altitudes well above 10,000 feet, where roads fade into tracks and communication is as scarce as shade, the Changpa nomads have carved out a life for over a thousand years. On the harsh and windswept Changthang plateau, they herd yaks, sheep, and goats, living with only the barest infrastructure — simple solar panels, yak wool tents, and an unshakable connection to the land.

Despite their isolation and the challenges of high-altitude life, the Changpa have preserved their customs, their language, and their deep respect for the environment. On this trek, you’ll have the rare opportunity to accompany a nomadic family, walking their routes, sharing their camp, and witnessing firsthand their daily routines — from herding animals to preparing yak milk into butter and cheese.

The Yak Trek offers more than just scenic beauty; it’s an invitation into a world where resilience, adaptation, and community are the pillars of survival. This is not just about seeing Ladakh — it’s about understanding it, through the lives of those who know it best.

The Yak : Icon of the Changthang Plateau

No animal is more emblematic of high-altitude life than the yak. Strong, sure-footed, and incredibly well adapted to the harsh conditions of the Changthang, yaks are essential to the survival of the nomadic communities here. They are not just beasts of burden — they are companions, providers, and a central part of the Changpa way of life.

During your trek, you’ll walk alongside these majestic animals as they carry the team’s equipment across remote passes and valleys. Unlike horses or mules, which have become scarce due to road expansion and shifting livelihoods, yaks remain integral in this region. Their role goes far beyond transport: their milk is processed into butter, cheese, and lassi; their dense wool is woven into tents and garments; and their calm, hardy nature makes them the perfect partners for life in this extreme environment.

You might even get the chance to ride a yak for a short while — not as a mode of transport, but as a fun cultural experience your hosts will happily share. Observing how the Changpa care for and rely on their yaks offers deeper insight into the symbiosis between people, animals, and land on the Changthang plateau.

Ladakh Yak Trek features

What to carry for the Yak Trek

• Day Pack
• Cash
• Waterproof Jacket & Trousers
• Warm Gloves
• Wool hat [must cover ears]
• Warm Socks
• Water bottle
• Water Purification Tablets

• Waterproof Boots
• Towel
• Power bank
• Change of clothes
• Thermal underwear
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and a good moisturizer
• Sleeping bag liner

How to handle Mountain Sickness

Mountain Sickness Prevention Tips :

• Acclimatize : Spend at least a day in Leh before exploring further
• Stay Hydrated : Drink 3 – 4 litres of water daily. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Eat Light : Opt for easily digestible foods
• Medication : Consult your doctor prior to the visit to high altitude region

During the Pashmina Trip :

• Monitor symptoms : Reach out to your guide if you face any health issue
• Take breaks : Stop frequently to rest and hydrate
• Avoid Exertion : Limit physical activity, especially in the first few days
• Stay Warm : Ensure proper layering to keep warm

Emergency Situations :

• Immediate Descent : Incase of severe symptoms and health issues
• Medical Help : Get medical assistance if symptoms persist

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