Matho La Trek

Day 1: Arrive in Leh (Acclimatization & local sightseeing)
Day 2: Drive to Matho Village – trek to Mankarmo Camp
Day 3: Trek from Mankarmo to Matho La Base Camp
Day 4: Cross Matho La Pass (approx. 4900 m) – descend to Stok Village
Day 5: Drive back to Leh – rest & departure

In Himalaya Shelter, we provide you with the option to customize your Matho La trek experience. Whether you're an avid mountaineer, an adventure seeker or a group of friends, you can opt for our personalized tailor-made expedition program. 

This customized program will be exclusively designed for you, taking into account your specific requirements for transportation, accommodation, meals, technical equipment and any other premium facilities you may need during the climb. 

Starting from Leh (Ladakh), Matho La trek passes through beautiful landscapes and cultural villages.

Himalaya Shelter ensures your journey is safe and memorable with experienced local guides, technical support and all necessary permits. You can even request offbeat routes or sunrise hikes for a more immersive Himalayan experience.

Moreover, no other participants will be added to your group. Choosing a customized program will enable you to enjoy your journey without any hesitation.

• Matho Village: Matho is a serene village in Ladakh surrounded by winding paths. It is famous for its ancient Matho Monastery. You can witness the rich traditional Ladakhi culture here. Trekkers usually spend a night here for acclimatization before starting the trek.
• Gya Village: Gya is another village that offers beautiful views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The quaint houses here are enough to fascinate you. Locals are warm-hearted and hospitable. An Ideal place to experience Ladakhi culture.
• Matho La Pass: Matho La Pass is the major highlight of this trek that is full of thrills and adventure. Trekkers usually capture sunrise or sunset here while crossing. Icy streams and snow patches can be challenging but rewarding.
• Wildlife Encounters: Matho La region is home to rare Himalayan wildlife like ibex, Himalayan marmots, snow leopards (rarely spotted) and many migratory birds. Famous Hemis National Park lies nearby.
• Stok Village: It is the last village of trek. A gradual descent takes you here where the lush green meadows welcome you after a long barren icy terrain. It’s an ideal place to relax and unwind, reflecting on the journey and moving ahead.

Matho La trek is considered a moderate to difficult level trek. Though not technical, high-altitude and remote trails add challenges to your journey.

• Altitude: Matho La Pass sits around 4,930 m (16,170 ft). It starts from Matho Village near Leh. Altitude sickness is common and can be overcome by proper acclimatization.
• Duration: It usually takes 5 to 6 days, depending on pace and acclimatization days.
• Terrain: Trek passes through barren lands, barren mountains, river ridges, river crossings, loose scree slopes typical of Ladakh. No dense forest lies here. Campsites are mostly quaint villages and alpine meadows. 
• Walking Hours: Trekkers have to walk 5 to 7 hours daily including gradual ascents and descents.
• Solo Trekking: Possible but not advisable if you’re not a seasoned trekker. 
• Safety: Mostly safe if done with a guide or group. Rescue support is limited.
• Navigation: Trail is remote and not clearly marked. GPS or map knowledge is required. Local guides are helpful.
• Weather: Weather can change quickly. The air is thin and crisp. Days are mostly sunny but nights are usually freezing cold. Sudden rain or snow is possible near the pass.
• Experience: Matho La trek is best suitable for trekkers with some prior high-altitude experience. Fit beginners can still attempt.

The best time for the Matho La trek is from late June to September. During this time, Ladakh weather is mostly pleasant. Temperature is stable around 10°C to 20°C. Sky is clear and trails are snow free. Snow can be present on high passes but paths are accessible.

Monsoon doesn't affect the Ladakh region but mid rainfall near the pass can happen. Trekkers need to carry all warm essentials. Months like May, June get snowfall and October onwards temperatures get down. So July-August are the best months to visit Matho La and view panoramic Zanskar and Stok ranges.

For trekking Matho La, first reach Leh which is capital of Indian Union Territory Ladakh. You can reach Leh via road or air from Delhi, Srinagar and Manali.

Arriving at Leh Airport, you can take a taxi or local vehicle for Matho Village. Matho Village is the starting point or base camp for Matho La trek.

Start your trek from Matho Village. You can hire a local guide from here. The trek passes through beautiful mountains, rivers and Hemis National Park.

• Trek through changing landscapes: Experience the beautiful landscapes of Ladakh and wilderness of Himalayas.
• Visit Matho Monastery: Spiritual seekers can visit the ancient monastery (16th century) famous for its Thangka paintings and Oracles. 
• Cross Matho La Pass: Enjoy the panoramic views of the Zanskar and Stok Kangri ranges while crossing the pass.
• Camp under starry sky: Take overnight stays in serene meadows and peaceful villages.
• View sunrise and sunset: View the dreamy sunrise and sunset above the snow-clad peaks.
• Visit Hemis National Park: Spot migratory birds and rare Himalayan wildlife in Hemis National Park.
• Interact with locals: Observe and learn about authentic mountain life and Ladakhi culture.

Clothing

2-3 quick-dry T-shirts (full sleeves preferred)

2 trek pants (water-resistant if possible)

1-2 fleece jacket or woollen sweater

1 down jacket or heavy padded jacket

1-2 thermal inner set (top + bottom)

Waterproof & windproof jacket

Poncho or raincoat

Woolen cap + Sun cap

Neck gaiter or scarf

2–3 pairs of synthetic/woolen socks + 1 pair of woolen gloves

Innerwear (quick-dry), towel

Footwear

Trekking shoes (ankle-high, good grip)

Floaters/sandals (for campsites)

Gaiters (recommended due to snow/rock)

Trekking Gear

50–60L backpack with rain cover

20–30L daypack (for summit day & side hikes)

Trekking poles (highly recommended)

Headlamp with spare batteries

Sleeping bag (–10°C to –20°C comfort rating, if not provided)

Dry bags or ziplocks (to keep items dry)

Toiletries & Hygiene

Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap

UV-protection sunglasses

Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm (SPF)

Wet wipes, hand sanitizer

Toilet paper, sanitary pads/tampons (carry back used items)

Small quick-dry towel

Personal Medical Kit

Diamox (for altitude)

Crocin/Dolo, Combiflam, Digene

ORS sachets, antiseptic cream

Band-aids, gauze, crepe bandage

Personal meds (if any)

Betadine/Savlon

Documents

Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)

Medical certificate (fitness)

Disclaimer form (from your trek operator)

Others

• Power bank
• Extra camera batteries (cold drains battery fast)
• Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose
• Notebook + pen (optional for journaling)
• Some cash (no ATM in region)

Travel Tips & Safety Guidelines

• Fitness & Preparation: Matho La trek can be a challenging one if you’re not physically fit. You can do leg exercises, cardio and running for 1 or 2 months before trekking.
• Altitude & Weather: Pass reaches the elevation around 4,900 m. Ascend gradually and don't rush. Weather can change quickly, so keep waterproof and windproof clothes.
• Navigation: The route is remote and less traveled. It is recommended to take help of a local guide. Keep track of GPS.
• Water & Food: Drink filter or boiled water. Keep light but instant energy food like dry fruits, chocolates, energy bars etc.
• Emergency: Always notify your family or friends before trekking. Must carry first aid and basic medicines. 
• No Trace Policy: Don't leave any garbage or plastic on trails. Carry a trash bag so you can dump all the waste in it. Check things you should carry for the Matho La trek section for more details.

Inclusion

Our treks are specially designed by the experienced team at Himalaya Shelter, taking you on an adventure of a lifetime all while making you connect not only with the bountiful nature but also with yourself and with others on the trek with you creating wonderful memories which will last you a lifetime. All Himalaya Shelter treks are guided by experienced Trekkers having vast knowledge and experience of the region, providing with insightful information and stories pertaining to the region’s flora and fauna and the history of the region whilst the trek. It is safe to say that on successfully completing the trek, one will gain tremendous insight and experience along with lifetime memories.

• Accommodation – At Base Camp, stay at a local homestay or guest house for one night each, which will give you an insight into the authentic lifestyle of the locals.( INR 5000 per person extra for single sharing throughout the trek )
  On Trek stay in a 2-person Vango Halo Pro/A-Shape tent, which is to be shared by two trekkers, built to withstand extreme weather conditions and at the same time making you comfortable after a hard day’s trek.
• Camping Equipment – specially designed sleeping bags that can withstand harsh weather conditions, foam mattresses. Other safety gear like microspikes, gaiters, an ice axe, and helmets will be provided.
• Medical Kit – our team will be equipped with an extensive medical kit, which our team is trained and experienced to use. Oxygen cylinders are used after they are thoroughly inspected throughout the Trek. Even campsites have large oxygen cylinders as backups.
  Permission  -  Forest entry charges for Indian nationals (Additional charges will be applicable for international tourists)
• Meals – Breakfast, packed lunch (on trek days), evening snacks, and dinner will be served. A hearty, delicious, and nutrition-filled Veg meals with egg preparation will be provided throughout the trek. (Jain and Vegan Food can also be arranged on prior notification.)There will be a dedicated Kitchen Tent along with a dining tent, which will have a dining table too.
• Our Team – A highly experienced and AMC-certified Trek Leader who will help ensure that the entire trek goes smoothly and safely while navigating the challenging conditions during the trek, and is skilled enough to navigate any medical emergency that can arise during the trek. Local and route Guides who are well-versed with the region and provide an in-depth insight into the local customs and knowledge of the flora and fauna endemic to the region. A dedicated Kitchen staff, which includes a Cook, a helper, and other support staff. There will also be porters and mules to carry common equipment.
• Cloakroom - We have a cloakroom facility available for extra luggage. Every trekker is permitted to leave their luggage behind at no charge.

Exclusion

• Personal expenses like tips, personal medicines, phone calls etc.
• Travel Expenses -  Travel expenses from your hometown to the mentioned Pick-Up Point are not included in the trek fee.
  From the scheduled pick-up spot to the base camp, we have our own fleet of vehicles like Bolero, Innova, Dezire, or Tempo Traveler (12-seater). This is be shared by trekkers for a pre-decided amount. All vehicles are non-AC.
• Personal Equipment - Any personal gear like jackets, shoes, cutlery, or backpacks are not included in the trek fee. We recommend renting them from our Rental Store for an affordable fee. This can be pre-arranged to avoid last-minute hang-ups. 
• Offloading - We encourage carrying your backpack to get into the true spirit of trekking. However, if needed, you can opt to offload your personal luggage of up to 12 kgs for an additional cost of INR 800 per bag per day.
• Trek Insurance - A mandatory trek insurance fee is charged in addition to your trek fee. Since most medical insurance doesn’t cover adventure activities, trek insurance offers essential coverage, enhancing your safety without a significant financial burden.
• Buffer day on the trek - We have kept a buffer day on the trek to account for any weather-related delay. If this is utilized, you will need to pay an extra amount to your trek leader. 
  Anything apart from inclusions
• Please carry a lunch box for a packed lunch/breakfast to avoid using polythene and Aluminium foil.

Keeping the Himalayas clean is our own responsibility. Reduce the use of Plastic when you are in the abode of the Sacred Himalaya.