Shang Eco Homestay

Shang Eco Homestay is located in Shang Village in the Shang Valley of Ladakh, approximately one hour from Leh. The village is one of the starting points of the Markha Valley Trek and lies within a landscape connected to Hemis National Park. Surrounded by agricultural fields, grazing lands and mountain slopes, Shang offers travellers an opportunity to experience village life while staying close to trekking routes and wildlife habitats.

The region is known for its population of blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, marmots and seasonal snow leopard sightings. Its location makes it a suitable base for trekkers, wildlife enthusiasts and travellers interested in local culture and rural life in Ladakh.

The space

The homestay is part of a traditional Ladakhi family home overlooking cultivated fields and the mountains of Shang Valley. Guests can experience everyday village life through interactions with the host family, farming activities and local traditions. The peaceful setting and proximity to trekking routes make it an ideal stop before or after the Markha Valley Trek.

Stay

The stay includes comfortable private guest rooms designed for travellers visiting the region. Rooms are equipped with basic amenities, hot water facilities and extra blankets for colder months. During winter, guests also experience the traditional Ladakhi dry compost toilet system. Solar water heating is used to support everyday household needs.

Meals

Meals are prepared by the host family using seasonal ingredients sourced from their farm and nearby villages. Guests can enjoy traditional Ladakhi dishes such as Skyu, Thukpa, Khambir, Timok and Butter Tea along with simple home-cooked meals prepared according to the season.

Visitors interested in local food traditions may also join cooking sessions and learn about Ladakhi recipes and preparation methods.

Experiences

The homestay offers experiences connected to village life, local crafts and the natural landscape of Shang Valley.

Guests can:

• Begin the Markha Valley Trek from Shang Village
• Join village walks and learn about local farming practices
• Spend time with shepherd families and learn about livestock rearing
• Participate in seasonal farming activities
• Learn traditional knitting techniques from the host
• Join a felted animal workshop inspired by Ladakh’s wildlife
• Observe local birdlife and mountain wildlife
• Experience daily life in a traditional Ladakhi village

Bathroom

The homestay provides western-style washrooms during summer along with hot water facilities. During winter, guests use a traditional dry compost toilet system commonly found in high-altitude Ladakhi villages.

Outdoor Area

The property overlooks agricultural fields, mountain slopes and village pathways. Guests can walk through the village, visit nearby grazing areas, spend time beside seasonal streams and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape throughout the year.

Host

Your host, Tsering Ladol, welcomes travellers into her family home while continuing her family’s farming traditions. She is skilled in traditional knitting and creates handmade felted animals inspired by Ladakh’s wildlife including snow leopards, ibex and blue sheep.

Together with her husband Kunfan, who has extensive experience in tourism and local trekking routes, they share insights into village life, local crafts and the traditions of Shang Valley.

Good to Know

This stay is ideal for trekkers undertaking the Markha Valley Trek, wildlife enthusiasts and travellers interested in experiencing village life in Ladakh.

Additional information:

– Located approximately 35 km from Leh (around 1 hour by road)
– Starting point for the Markha Valley Trek via Shang Sumdo
– Situated within a wildlife landscape connected to Hemis National Park
– Breakfast and dinner are included; lunch available on request
– Open during the travel season subject to weather conditions
– Mobile network connectivity may be limited

Guest Access

Guests have access to their private rooms, dining area and outdoor spaces around the property. They can also walk through the village, visit nearby fields and interact with the host family during their stay.