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Zanskar Valley – A Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary

Zanskar Valley is a place that is bound to leave its effect on you. There is just so much to see here, sights that you will not get anywhere else in the country, not even in Ladakh. From the majestic peaks’ stunning natural beauty to the people’s simplicity and charming cultures, Zanskar has it all.

So what do you see in Zanskar? Well, the list can be long. The lush green of the hills of Suru, the barren brown of a cold desert, the gracious white of mighty glaciers, the deep blue of the lakes, and the noisy flow of the rivers are just to name a few.

In the post below, I will provide complete information on how you can plan a trip to Zanskar Valley, including details on how to reach, where to stay, itinerary planning, and several other tips. If you have any other questions, you can contact me on Instagram and I will happily answer. You can also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and asking a question there.

To organize your trip to Ladakh, book a taxi, rent a bike, or get the best hotel rates, you can contact Kunal @ 9910402252 . From luxurious hotels to budget stays, he can help get you the best rates possible.

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How to reach Zanskar Valley?

Let us first talk about how you can reach Zanskar Valley. Depending on your mode of travel, time in hand, and overall itinerary, there are three different routes that you can take to get here.

How to reach Zanskar Valley from Kargil?

The oldest, most common and easiest way to reach Zanskar is via Kargil. It is a 230 kilometers long road that starts from Kargil and ends in Padum in Zanskar. The route will be as mentioned below.

Delhi – Jammu – Srinagar – Sonamarg – Dras – Kargil – Sankoo – Parkachik – Rangdum – Pensi La – Padum

Until a few years ago, this used to be the only way in and out of Zanskar Valley. It is still the most commonly used road that takes you through Suru Valley, crosses over the Pensi La Pass, and offers some stunning views that will remain in your memory for a long time.

The condition of the road on this route is a mix of average and bad, mostly bad. The travel time will be anywhere between 10 – 12 hours, depending on your speed and breaks.

This route is best suited for someone who is approaching Zanskar Valley from Srinagar or Leh. It remains open from May to October and is also the only route that has public transport available on it.

I have talked about this route in detail in another post, Kargil to Padum Travel Guide that you can take a look at. You can also check out the video below of this entire route for more information. You can also take a look at the video below.

How to reach Zanskar from Manali

Now let us take a look at the second route you can take to reach Zanskar. It is best suited for people who want to reach here from the Manali side or are returning from Leh via Manali Leh Highway . This route also remains open between May and September only.

Manali – Rohtang (Pass or Tunnel) – Jispa – Darcha – Shinku La – Gonbo Rangjon – Purne – Padum

Depending on whether you traveled via Rohtang Pass or Tunnel, the total distance by this route will be between 220 to 250 kilometers. It is a day-long journey that will easily take you anywhere between 10 to 12 hours.

The road is a mix of good, bad, and ugly. The ugly part is mostly between Shinku La Pass and Purne. Work to improve the condition of the road is in progress and it is expected to improve in the coming years.

This route was declared open only a few years ago. It provides direct connectivity between the valleys of Zanskar and Lahaul and offers a shorter and direct way to reach Padum from Manali, without having to go to Kargil first.

I have talked about this route in detail in another post, Manali to Padum via Jispa, Darcha, and Shinku La , which I will request you to take a look at.

How to reach Zanskar from Leh

The third route connects the town of Lamayuru to Padum via the passes of Singe La and Sirsir La. This is possibly the toughest of all three routes and passes through a highly remote region.

It is mostly an alternate route that you can opt for while you were on the Srinagar Leh road. Rather than going to Padum via Kargil, you can first go to Lamayuru and then approach Zanskar from there. Or you can reach Zanskar via Kargil and then circle back on Srinagar Leh road via Lingshed.

This route came into existence only a few years ago but has already been attracting a lot of adventure seekers. The distance between Padum and Lamayuru by this route is approximately 210 kilometers. Of this, only about 50 kilometers are tarred and the remaining is a dirt road.

The travel time can be anywhere between 8 to 10 hours depending on your speed and breaks. It took us almost 11 hours to cover this but with a lot of breaks in between. The route remains open from May to September.

Lamayuru – Wanla – Sirsir La – Photoksar – Singe La – Lingshed – Zangla – Padum

If you want to read more about this route, you can take a look at this post, Lamayuru to Padum via Lingshed . You can also take a look at the video below.

By Private Taxi

In order to get to Zanskar by a private cab you can either fly into Srinagar or Leh and rent a cab from there to get to Padum. You can also get to Manali first and then rent a cab to reach Zanskar via the Shinku La route.

A private taxi will cost you Rs. 10,000 from Leh to Kargil. The same cost will apply to traveling from the Srinagar side as well. You will then have to pay another Rs. 13000 for Kargil to Padum.

The cost will be around Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 from Manali, depending on the time of your travel and your negotiation skills.

By Shared Taxi

Now since private taxis cost so much money, an even better way to travel would be by shared taxis. I am not saying that it would be less troublesome but would at least save you some money.

There is really no set timings of these shared cabs and you will have to just arrive at the bus stand to board one. It will be easier to find a shared cab from Srinagar or Leh to Zanskar but finding one from Manali will be a little difficult.

Depending on whether you were traveling from Leh or Srinagar, you will first have to find a shared cab for Kargil. This will cost you about Rs. 500 to Rs. 600 per person.

From Kargil, if you were lucky enough, you may find a shared cab all the way to Padum which will cost you another Rs. 500 to Rs. 600. If not, then you will have to break the journey into several parts.

The good news is that it is not too hard to do but can be a bit time-consuming. From Kargil, you can first board a cab for any of the places in between like Sankoo, Panikar, Parkachik, or Rangdum.

From that town then, you will have to find a cab for your journey onward. There are no shared cabs for sightseeing in and around Padum and you will have to hire a private cab for that.

Yes, you can complete this journey by Bus as well which will cost you about the same as a shared cab. The problem however is that the frequency of the bus is not that great. There is in fact no bus available from Manali to Zanskar yet.

You can find a bus from either Srinagar or Leh to Kargil. These ply on daily buses and you can board one from either Srinagar Bus stand or Leh Bus stand.

The problem however arises between Kargil and Padum. There is just one weekly Bus on this route which comes from Leh and goes all the way to Padum. So when you are in Kargil, check at the Bus stand for the availability of a Bus for Padum.

If there is one indeed then you can board it. Otherwise, you will have to complete the journey by shared cabs as I explained above. For more information on buses on this route, please read Public Transport Services in Zanskar Valley .

Where to Stay in Zanskar

Hotels and guest houses in Zanskar Valley are available and not a costly affair at all. Padum is the largest town in the valley and has the best choices available but you can easily find accommodation at other places as well.

You will easily be able to find a place to stay in almost every town on the way, including Sankoo, Parkachik, Panikhar, Rangdum, etc. Within Zanskar, you will find accommodation in villages like Karsha, Zangla, Purne, etc.

Please take a look at Accommodation in Zanskar Valley: Hotels, Guest Houses & Camp Sites . In this article, I have covered in detail where you can stay in Zanskar and along the route with information on some recommended hotels.

What to see in Zanskar

Zanskar Valley has a long list of tourist attractions that can keep you busy for days. Right from the town of Kargil to Padum, you will continue coming across both natural and man-made wonders.

I have covered the topic of all these tourist places in detail in another article that you can read at Tourist Attractions in Zanskar Valley and its Vicinity . In this post, I will provide a list of all these places but if you want to know more in detail, please take a look at the other article.

Parkachik Glacier
Drang Drung Glacier
Nun-Kun Massif
Ta Tso and the Lang Tso lakes
Fort of Rangdum
Zangla Fort or Palace
Sani Monastery
Bardan Monastery
Dzongkhul Monastery
Rangdum Gompa
Karsha Monastery
Pibiting Monastery
Stongdey Monastery
Phuktal Monastery
Sheela Waterfall

Mentioned above are the names of all the places that are worth a visit. How many can you cover will entirely depend on the number of days you have in hand.

Things to do in Zanskar Valley

Apart from visiting all of the above-mentioned places, there is not really much else to do in Zanskar. If you arrive here in winter, you can try the famous Chadar trek. In the summer months, you can go rafting, bookings for which can be made in either Leh or Padum.

If you are up for a bit of walking, then you can trek to the beautiful Phugtal Monastery, also known as Cave Gompa. Please read Phugtal Monastery – A Complete Travel Guide for details on how to complete this trek.

Even if you weren’t up for either of the above-mentioned activities, then just spending a couple of days doing nothing will be an experience in itself.

Just enjoying the complete peace and tranquility of the mighty Himalayas is something that you can never go wrong with. Arrive in Zanskar, spend some time away from the rushed lives of cities, and trust me, you would want to stay here forever.

Weather in Zanskar Valley

Cold and unpredictable are the two words that describe the weather of Zanskar Valley the most. The place remains buried under snow from January till March, completely inaccessible by road.

The snow starts to melt in April and the road from Kargil to Padum gets declared open by either late April or early May. The routes from Lamayuru and Manali side open toward the end of May.

From May till September, the weather mostly remains on the pleasant side during the day and freezing cold by night. Winter arrives in October and by November, it can snow here anytime.

The weather in Zanskar will also change depending on where you were and at what time. The sun at this altitude is quite harsh and will give you some serious sunburns if you weren’t careful despite the cold climate. Days will be slightly warm in summer but temperature at night will drop drastically.

Best time to visit Zanskar Valley

Considering the fact that you can only travel to Zanskar by road from May till October, anytime during these months will be good enough. But the best time to visit Zanskar Valley will also depend on what you want to see, and there are a few things that you will have to consider.

If you want to see some snow on the ground, then try traveling early in the month of May. If you want to avoid monsoon on the way then do not plan in late July or August.

October is generally considered a bad month to visit due to the cold weather and the fact that it can snow anytime and block the road. But this is a good time if you want to catch a live snowfall.

On an overall basis, June and September are usually considered the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. The weather will be pleasant and you will enjoy your time here.

Monsoon would have passed but the scenery on the way around Sonamarg, Drass will be green still. The desert of Zanskar will be thriving with colors all around and you will fall in love with the place. If you were lucky, then you may even catch a light spell of snow towards the end of September.

I have actually covered this topic in detail in another article, When is the Best time to visit Zanskar Valley that you can also take a look at.

Clothes for Zanskar Valley

Like the best time to visit, this too will be different for everyone depending on what time you arrived here. From November to March, you cannot reach Zanskar Valley so I will leave these months out.

October and April are still the time of winter so a trip in these months means that you have to bring woolen clothes, gloves, woolen socks, a muffler, thermals, and a good quality heavy and windproof jacket. From May till September, your regular cotton clothes, some light woolens, and a heavy jacket will do.

The trick is to bring clothes that you can wear on top of one another and in layers. The weather in Zanskar really fluctuates depending on the time of the day and place you are at.

During the day, it will be quite warm and you can easily walk around in regular cotton clothes. At night, however, it will turn freezing cold again. Standing in the sun will make you feel warm but you will feel the chill the moment you step in the shade.

So while you are packing clothes, do not bring all heavy woolen clothes. Just bring the ones that are a bit loose enough and comfortable to be worn in layers. If you feel cold, then you can add another layer. If you feel warm, you can remove a layer.

For more information on clothes to pack, please read Clothes for Ladakh Trip – What to Pack . It says Ladakh in the name but the details are the same for both Ladakh and Zanskar.

Mobile Network in Zanskar Valley

The first thing to know is that only postpaid phones work in Zanskar. So if you were carrying a prepaid cell, it will be dead the moment you enter the valley.

Another important thing to remember is that mobile phones here work only between 6 am to 10 pm. There is usually no network available after 10 pm but sometimes it may remain connected.

BSNL has the widest coverage in this area. It works in all remote areas but while the call quality on a BSNL / MTNL phone is decent enough, the data speed is really slow.

The best mobile network in Zanskar is Jio. It offers good connectivity and 4G data speed in most parts of the valley and the on the road leading to the valley from Kargil, Lamayuru, and Manali sides.

Between Kargil and Padum, your Jio phone will remain connected for most of the route. There are stretches where you will be off the network but for most of the journey, especially when you are near a village, your phone will be back on the network.

The same applies to Padum – Lamayuru and Padum – Jispa roads as well. With a Jio phone, you will continue getting and losing connection but will not be off the network entirely.

None of the other networks work in Zanskar. For more details on this topic, you can also take a look at Mobile Phone and Data Connectivity in Zanskar Valley .

Zanskar in Winter

Reaching Zanskar Valley during the peak months of winter is not really an option. You can travel to the valley only as long as the road remains open.

From Srinagar, you can make this journey between the months of May till October while the Srinagar Leh highway remains open. Once Zojila gets snowed out, you cannot even reach Kargil from Srinagar and can only travel as far as Sonamarg.

The road between Leh and Kargil remains open throughout the year. But in winter, the Kargil Padum route gets blocked and can only be traveled from late April till early November.

If you were traveling from the Manali side, you can only do so between late May to early October. From Leh, the window widens a little bit and the journey can be made in late April and November as well.

Acute Mountain Sickness in Zanskar Valley

Acute Mountain Sickness will not really be a problem during a Zanskar trip. The only time you may experience altitude sickness is if you landed in Leh, and drove non-stop to Padum which I doubt anyone will do.

If you reached Ladakh by flight then yes, you will definitely be suffering from altitude sickness at least on Day 1. My advice, in this case, will be that you rest in Leh on Day 1 and allow your body to acclimatize better.

The next day, if you feel better, you can travel to Kargil and spend the second night there. This way, you will arrive in Padum on Day 3 and the effects of AMS would be long gone by then.

If you were driving from the Srinagar side, then the chances of getting hit by mountain sickness are much less Your gain in altitude will be gradual and you would already have acclimatized by the time you reach Zanskar.

For more information on what AMS is and what its symptoms are, please read How to Deal With Acute Mountain Sickness .

Zanskar Valley Itinerary

A trip to Zanskar Valley can either be planned to cover only Zanskar or incorporate it with Ladakh. An example of an itinerary in both these manners is mentioned below.

Leh to Zanskar Itinerary

Arrival in Leh – Day 1
Leh to Kargil via Lamayuru – Day 2
Kargil to Padum – Day 3
Sightseeing in Padum – Day 4
Sightseeing in Padum – Day 5
Padum to Kargil – Day 6
Kargil to Leh – Day 7

Srinagar to Zanskar Itinerary

Arrive in Srinagar – Day 1
Srinagar to Kargil – Day 2
Padum to Kargil – Day 5
Kargil to Srinagar – Day 6

Manali to Zanskar Itinerary

Arrive in Manali or Jispa – Day 1
Jispa to Padum via Shinku La – Day 2
Sightseeing in Padum – Day 3
Padum to Manali – Day 5

I have explained all these itineraries in detail in another article that you can take a look at. Zanskar Valley Itinerary – An Ideal Travel Plan talks about how you can plan this journey if you want to spend most of your time in Zanskar Valley.

Another article you can check out is Leh to Zanskar Itinerary – How to Plan your Journey which talks about how Zanskar can be best incorporated into your Leh Ladakh itinerary.

Best Vehicle for Zanskar

An SUV with good ground clearance will be the best car for Zanskar Valley. It does not necessarily have to be a 4×4 but good ground clearance is a must.

With that being said, I have a lot of people travel by Sedans and Hatchbacks as well. A lot of local drivers use Maruti Hatchbacks as taxis on the route. You too can do the same as long as you have good enough experience on the wheel and know how to handle your car on some really bad roads.

If you are traveling by a Sedan or a hatchback though, I will not recommend traveling on Manali – Padum road and I will definitely advise avoiding the Singe La and Sirsir La road, the Lamayuru route.

If you were traveling by motorcycle with a pillion, ensure that you are doing so on a motorcycle with a larger engine, like Royal Enfield 350 or 500 CC ones. The additional power will come in very handy when you have two people on the same motorcycle with all their luggage. =

It doesn’t mean though that you cannot ride on a smaller-engine motorcycle. You can in fact do this trip on a 125 CC bike as well. Just make sure that you are riding solo and as light as possible.

Petrol Pumps in Zanskar Valley

You do not really need to carry spare fuel for Zanskar Valley. A tankful at Kargil will be sufficient to get you to Padum and back. Even in Padum, you will easily be able to buy both Petrol and Diesel.

There are petrol pumps in Padum so fuel will not be a problem. Kargil to Padum is about 230 kilometers so a tankful in Kargil should actually be enough. Lamayuru to Padum and Manali to Padum is also a journey of only about 200 kilometers approximately.

If you were riding a bike to Zanskar, observe carefully the mileage of your motorcycle and then decide if you would have to carry spare fuel or not.

There are mechanics available in Padum but only for some minor fixes or flat tires only. For anything major, you would have to bring your vehicle back to either Kargil, Leh, Manali, or Srinagar.

Banks and ATMs

Finding an ATM will not really be a concern during this trip. There is an ATM in Padum itself where you can withdraw cash. The next available ATM then is near Sankoo and then in Kargil.

Traveling from Srinagar, you will find ATMs at almost all the towns en route. From the Leh side as well, you can withdraw cash in Leh City and then Kargil.

My advice would be to not rely on the ATM in Padum or Sankoo because these are remote areas and cash sometimes may not be available. Withdraw enough cash from either Leh, Srinagar, Manali, or Kargil that can last you for your stay in Zanskar Valley.

Zanskar Valley Road Condition

Starting from Srinagar, the road is mostly good all the way to Kargil with a few bad stretches, mostly around Zoji La. From Leh, the road is in excellent condition till Kargil.

Between Kargil and Padum, it is in good condition till Sankoo but then turns into a dirt trail entirely. There will be no tar on the road till Padum and the condition of the road continues to deteriorate as your journey progresses. That is why the 200 kilometers from Kargil to Padum can take you an entire day to complete.

The road from Padum to Lamayuru via Lingshed is extremely bad and mostly a dirt road. Only about 50 kilometers of this road is tarred near Lamayuru and between Padum and Zangla.

The road from Manali to Padum is very bad around Purne and Shinku La Pass. It is however a good road between Manali and Shinku La Pass.

Within Zanskar Valley though, the roads are butter smooth. You will find the roads from Padum to the nearby villages to be in even better condition than the city roads.

That pretty much covers all that there is to know in terms of planning a trip to Zanskar Valley. I hope the information provided above was of help. If you have any questions, you can contact me on Instagram and I will be happy to answer. You can also consider subscribing to my YouTube channel and asking a question there.

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Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 29 comments.

Hi, I am reading your posts with great interest! I have some questions: I am visiting Zanskar for two weeks in June this year. Will be using public transport, and perhaps some taxi. How easy is it to find transport from Padum to Kargil? My flight back to Delhi from Srinagar is on June 30, around 4pm. Should I leave Padum on 27 June already? (27 June: Taxi Padum to Kargil, 28 June: bus Kargil to Srinagar, 29 June: flight to Delhi). Or will I find a bus to Kargil on 27 June? I am kind of traveling on a budget, but not a very strict one 🙂

Buses are very hard to find in this region. You will have to travel mostly by shared taxis, hopping from one town/village to the next. If you can, book a private taxi. If you can’t, plan to leave Padum on 26th. That way, in case you aren’t able to reach all the way to Kargil on the same day, you will still have time to break the journey somewhere in between and continue the next day.

Thank you, I will do that.

I want to visit zanskar valley with my 11 years daughter. Already completed Ladakh. I am from west bengal, from where should I start and where to end for a budget friendly tour. I need rented car. How much does it cost?

Sinku La route will be open in June this year? By car it is accessible?

Yes to both your questions

By when the new route is schedule to open for cars in june’23 ?

It is open already but only 4×4 vehicles right now

I have read many blog about Zanskar, but you are the best IMO. My only question is what is the elevation of Zanskar road? As me and my wife is above 55 years. We covered Pangi as well. If the road elevation within 3000-3500 mtr we must try this road. Thanks in advance Mr.Vargis

Thank you very much for sharing this valuable information. I plan to visit Zanskar Velley this summer. I have Innova Crysta vehicle with me. Will this vehicle be able to cover this journey comfortably?

I will advise against it Narinder Bhai. The ground clearance of Innova is a little low. Even the local cab drivers do not bring their Innovas on this route

i am planning for 14 days to cover zanskar and ladakh. I will fly to srinagar or leh and fly back from leh or srinagar. Could you please suggest best itenary to cover zanskar and ladakh in 14 days. I appreciate your help.

Hello Vargis Sir,

This is sunil, we are planning to do zanskar valley in october 2020 (hope so, pandemic ll be over by then), we want to go via manali- jispa-darcha-sumdo-Shinku la pass-lakhang-kargyak-purne-fugtal monastery.. Is it possible to go by this route? One of the youtuber (Rohan thakur) have did this and also made a series on it.. please suggest

Pls advise if we can go to zanskar via shinkula pass in October 2020

No you cannot as of now.

May 15 Jammu to Kargil. 16th Kargil to Padam. 17th Padam sightseeing. 18th Padam to Kargil. May 19th Kargil to Kellong.. 20th Kellong to Manali. Is this schedule possible in 2020 ? Will Rotang pass open up by the time? Can we go to Manali via Sinkhu La directly from Padam by that time?

Great information. How to commute by public transport?

Hi Vargis , Is Kargil to Padum road still open now or it’s closed ? If closed, then when did it close this year ?

Hi Nilavra – It is open but it will close any day now.

Super information

Thanks Krishna

Can zanskar be done during last week of October?

Hi, just want to check, we are planning a trip to Zanskar Valley in month of Oct – Nov (30th Oct to 8th Nov)…. would it be a good time to travel along with kids ( 5 yrs & 2 yrs). or should we plan for ladakh region?

How are you traveling? That is a bit late in the season and I would recommend against traveling with such young kids at that time. Weather will be terribly cold and roads can close anytime. Better to plan it next year.

Information is just awesome. In the lat few days I have read most of the articles you have published.

Doing a great work

Thank you Navneet.

Thanks for information, it is really good . Would update the status of opening pensi la pass

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note.

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Zanskar Expedition

Pickup & drop, overview & highlights.

Get ready for an exciting journey as you leave the bustling city of Delhi at 6:30 P.M., and embark on an overnight adventure to the scenic town of Manali.

After checking in to your cozy hotel, take a refreshing break and unwind.

After a hearty breakfast and gear up for a fun-filled day exploring Manali's charming attractions(self-exploration).

Visit the famous Hadimba Temple, where the beautiful architecture will leave you awestruck.

Take a stroll to the Jogni Waterfall, where you can soak up the fresh air and the soothing sound of water.

Don't miss the picturesque Vashisht Temple and Mall Road, where you can shop for souvenirs or indulge in some local street food.

For the adventurous souls, an Old Manali Cafe Crawl is a must-do, where you can try different cuisines and beverages while enjoying the lively ambiance of the cafes.

Head back to the hotel in the evening.

End your day with a briefing of the upcoming itinerary, and get ready to sleep in the lap of nature.

Post breakfast, get ready to transfer to Jispa via the Atal Tunnel, World’s Highest Tunnel above 10,000 ft.

As you travel through the Atal Tunnel to the Lahaul Valley, you'll be mesmerized by the stunning Chandra River and the towering peaks that surround it.

Check into the camps and relax for the entire evening.

Enjoy a cozy evening and fall asleep under the sky filled with countless stars covering the Lahaul Valley, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated for the adventures that lie ahead.

Overnight stay in Jispa

Today, we take the offbeat road to enter the Zankar Valley.

Starting from Jispa, cross the Shingo La Pass, at the height of 5,091m. It is also known as Shinku La and is one of the connecting pass between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.

On this journey, you also get to spot the Mt Gonbo Rangjom and Kargyak, a village situated and isolated at the height of 4200m!

Dinner and overnight stay in Purne

Post breakfast, we get ready to visit one of the most isolated and uniquely located monastery Of Phugtal .

Perched on a mountain, we trek for a minimum of an hour (per side) to reach this magnificent location.

From Purne, we depart for Padum.

Dinner and overnight stay in Padum

Our agenda for the day includes a beautiful waterfall hidden in the depths of Zanskar valley and the monasteries of Zanskar.

In the morning, we visit Stongdey Gompa before heading towards Sheela Village.

After visiting the falls, post lunch, we visit the Karsha Gompa, Zanskar’s most significant monastery.

We drive through the varied landscape of Zanskar in awe of its beauty.

Dinner and overnight stay in Padum.

Today, we will cross the Pensi La to reach our destination Kargil. We will pass by Drang-Drung Glacier

Enroute, we visit Sani Village, which is believed to be oldest religious site of not only Zanskar but Ladakh in general.

We also visit Rangdum monastery in the heart of Suru Valley

Reach Kargil by evening, check in to your hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, it's time to set off on the next leg of your journey, toward the charming city of Srinagar.

As you journey towards Srinagar, get ready to be awed by the stunning natural beauty of the region.

Next, it's time to tackle the Zoji La Pass, one of the most challenging and breathtaking mountain passes in India.

As you make your way over the rugged terrain, the scenic beauty of Sonmarg will unfold before your eyes, leaving you spellbound with its majestic snow-capped mountains and pristine landscapes.

Finally, as you reach Srinagar by evening, it's time to relax and checkin into hotel. Dinner & sleep overnight.

Wake up & post breakfast check out and fly back home with amazing trip memories.

As you board your flight back home, take a moment to reflect on the amazing journey you've had, and feel grateful for the memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Volvo transfer from Delhi to Manali & back.

Entire travel from Manali to Manali by tempo traveler/cab

Stay for 9 nights – 1 night in a hotel at Manali, 1 night in camps at Jispa, 1 night in Purne, 2 nights in a hotel at Padum 2 nights in a hotel at Leh, 1 night in camps at Sarchu on triple/quad sharing basis.

A total of 18 meals – 1 meal Day 1 (B) + 2 meals Day 2 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 3 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 4 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 5 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 6 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 7 (B+D) + 2 meals Day 8 (B+D) + 1 meal Day 9 (B+D), 1 meal Day (B)

All inner line permits for the trip if required.

Driver Night Charges, Toll Tax, Parking Charges, etc.

Team Captain throughout the trip

An Oxygen Cylinder 24x7 in the car in case of emergency

GST (5%) is applicable extra.

Any kind of food or beverage that is not included in the package like alcoholic drinks, mineral water, meals/refreshments/lunches on the highway.

Any personal expenses like a tip to the drivers, entry to monuments/monasteries, camera/video camera charges, camel safari, river rafting, laundry, telephone bills, tips, etc

Any cost arising due to natural calamities like landslides, roadblocks etc. (to be borne directly by the customer on the spot)

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Authentic Government ID Card
Comfortable warm clothing like woolen socks, cap, fleece jackets or warmers, down jacket, toiletries.
Sunscreen & lip balm, Good U/V protection sunglasses
Personal Medicines (if any)
a rucksack bag and a day pack
3-litre water bladder or water bottle
a sun cap and a woolen cap
UV protected sunglasses
One cotton long sleeves and 2 short sleeve t-shirt
1 fleece jacket
1 heavy Thick jacket/down jacket
1 pair of gloves
At least 2 long pants (trek pants and cargo pants are favourable)
4 sets of undergarments
2 pair of socks
a small towel
A rain jacket or a poncho
Above-the-ankle waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good grip
Flip flops/sandals
Glucose powder
Medicines for headaches, diarrhoea, motion sickness
toothpaste, toothbrush
Paper soap, or sanitizer
Sunscreen minimum of spf40 , lip balm, cold creams
LED torch light

Starting from

₹37,999/- per person

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Pure Motorcycling: Off Road Zanskar

Leh – padum – pukhtal – shinku la – jispa – umling la – leh, zanskar expedition (11 days).

It is a path less taken. Limited facilities, the roads are bumpy, the climate is rough, & Network is not reliable. So, why would someone visit Zanskar? One reason - It is offroading heaven. Long uninhabited stretches and nature's unsuspecting tantrums make the ride adventurous. The views and sceneries, ancient cave monasteries, adventurous ride terrains, and unique social practices clubbed with the highest motorable road in the world. The ride to this place simply means a test of your physical and mental endurance. Let's ride to the top of the world through the mysterious Zanskar valley.

Riding Skill Required

Royal enfield himalayan, motorcycles, leh, india (ixl), tour highlights.

Get your physical endurance and mental strength tested on one of the toughest rides in India

Ride through the newly opened less travelled route to pass Sirsir La & Singe La Pass, struggle hard at the Murgum La

Adventure Camping at picturesque Purne with 3 houses in the No men’s land

Ride to the most challenging route to Shinku La & witness the Spiritual Mountain of Zanskar – Gonbo Rangjon

Trek to the most secluded monastery at Phuktal village and absorb the mystical powers

Ride to the highest motorable road Umling La at 19300 Ft

Visit the 2nd highest astronomical observatory at the Hanle

Embrace the Ladakh lifestyle while staying at Hanle Homestay

Check Availability Before You Book.

Indian nationals, foriegn nationals.

• Royal Enfield 411 CC Himalayan motorcycle for the tour • Quality twin-sharing accommodation (Semi Deluxe/ Deluxe Hotel and tent) • Homestay at Purne and Hanle on multiple sharing • Breakfast from Day 2nd to Day 11th and Dinner from Day 1st to Day 10th • Experienced Road Captain • Experienced Mechanic • One Spare Rider for emergency • Helmets for Rider and Pillion • Bonfire Activity Once during the tour • Oxygen Cylinder and Basic Medical amenities • Support vehicle for carrying luggage and other essentials • Group pickup from and drop to Leh Airport (IXL) • All Inner Line Permits for Restricted Areas and all Tolls • Activities and Visits to make the experience truly Memorable *Note: The helmets provided are of standard size so there can be some discrepancies regarding the sizes. For comfort and safety reasons, we recommend you carry your own helmet for the ride.

• Applicable GST • Your two-way travel to Leh • Lunches on all days • Fuel for the ride • Personal travel insurance • Personal Expenses (Snacks, bottled water, Juice, Porter etc.) • Any spares consume during the ride • Monument Entry Charges and Camel Ride / Horse Ride. • INR 10,000 refundable security deposit for the motorcycle • Single Occupancy add-on: INR 25,000 • Optional rental for the riding gears • Anything not mentioned in Tour Inclusions • Any Hotel, subsistence or other cost incurred before the tour's official start date and after the tour's official end date. • Cost incurred to transfer or tow the motorbike in case it is dropped on the way

Day-wise itinerary as you witness the route

Motorcycle tour route details, leh alt. - 11500ft julley traveller say hello to the best adventure with a flight to leh. our representative /driver will pick you up from the airport (in groups) and later take you to the hotel. after checking in at the hotel, take the day to acclimatise - minimum movement, 3.5 ltr water, and complete rest are the principles to avoid ams. we will meet in the evening for an orientation followed by bike allocation. take a spin on the bike and notify the issue that needs a fix. overnight stay at the leh city. transfers – group pick up from airport to hotel stay – deluxe hotel included meals – dinner, leh altitude - 11500 ft lamayuru alt. - 11520 ft you will start the day with a sumptuous breakfast. verify if your luggage has been placed well in the backup vehicle. we will leave the lush green valley riding on the beautiful nh1. we will visit magnetic hill, the zanskar-indus river confluence and gurudawara patthar sahib. don't miss the scenic moonland of ladakh. you can see the monastery after you have reached lamayuru. overnight at lamayuru. stay – deluxe hotel included meals – breakfast, dinner, lamayuru alt. - 11520 ft padum alt. - 12037 ft this riding day is super exciting and adventurous. after a short ride on the paved roads to wanla, it will change to earthen roads. enjoy the dust. while you ride to sirsir la (15700 ft), enjoy cruising on the kankar and gravel roads. take a snap at the top and move on to photoksar for lunch. you will be delighted to see the dirt road to singe la (16590 ft) with continuous downhill (use your brakes wisely). after you cross murgum la (15490 ft), the ride will get to the next level of adventure riding on the extreme edge of the mountain along the zanskar river. the route is full of surprises and river crossings (not water-crossing). the offroading is close to god's level. after you cross the checkpoint at zangla, you will enjoy the smooth road to padum. stay – deluxe hotel included meals – breakfast, dinner, padum alt. - 12037 ft purne alt. - 12150 ft you will explore the signature places of padum. visit the beautiful sani lake and the monastery (find the hidden monastery in the mountain). we will leave the beautiful town with some paved roads to reru and later continue with our dirt trail ride. we will ride on a narrow mountain ledge. we will continue on the gravel roads with steep inclines and declines. the best part will meet you just before you reach purne. enjoy the knee-deep sand, rubble and stones. overnight at a homestay with minimal amenities by the tsarap river. stay – home stay included meals – breakfast, dinner, phuktal alt. - 12631 ft after breakfast, we will leave for phuktal gompa, the largest gompa in zanskar. it is your turn to visit the most isolated monasteries. the 4 km trek takes a full day to explore (if you are not in a trekker-level fitness, please stay and relax at the homestay). follow the footprints on the edge of the mountain, cross a river bridge and get captivated by the beauty of the river. after reaching there, read scriptures and meditate with the monks. don't forget to see the mythological tree. we will make a return journey before sunset. overnight stay at purne homestay. stay – home stay included meals – breakfast, dinner, purne alt. - 12150 ft jispa alt. - 10500 ft after a relaxing day, we will move ahead to this tour’s most extreme riding day. the deadliest road has no paved section till you enter himachal. there are many river crossings, mud, slush and stones. ride on the gravel road to khargiak to encounter first among the many river crossings. get photographed at the holy gombo rongjon. beyond this, keep counting river crossings on the offroad trail ascending to the shinku la pass (16580 ft). the lake at the top makes the ride worth the pain. we will ride smoothly to the jispa in himachal pradesh. overnight stay in the valley. stay – deluxe hotel included meals – breakfast, dinner, jispa alt. - 10500 ft tso kar alt. – 14860 ft we will ride to a beautiful destination on the tibetan plateau. you will ride to the multiple high-altitude passes - naki la (15,547 ft) and lachalung la (16,616 ft). we will ride over these passes to pang for a warm meal. we will then take a photo break at morey plains, the most picturesque road stretch and only part of the tibetan plateau in india. shortly afterwards we will reach the tso kar. with white sand, the lake is a biodiversity hotspot of ladakh hosting unique flora and fauna including the black-necked crane. our stay is next to this tso (lake) in the tibetan plateau. stay – homestay included meals – breakfast, dinner, tso kar alt. – 14860 ft hanle alt. – 14100 ft we will leave the multi-coloured kar lake and head to the changthang plateau. we will cross pologongka la to reach sumdo on the half-baked roads. we will take a left to changthang for lunch. we will ride to loma. you will cross the indus river to reach the signature and hypnotising single-lane road to hanle. enjoy the evening in one of the remotest villages. overnight stay in homestay. stay – homestay included meals – breakfast, dinner, hanle alt. – 14100 ft umling la alt. – 19300 ft you will ride on the highest motorable road in the world. among the multiple routes available to reach umling la, we will take the route in the best condition or the open one. all of these will get you to the chisumle bridge. beyond the bridge, ride along the kingdul river, ascending higher on the chismule-demchok road. unlike other high mountain passes, you will not find a deep valley. take a proud photo at the top of the world at 19300 ft. later, have a hot tea at oxygen cafe. we will head back to the homestay stay – homestay included meals – breakfast, dinner, hanle alt. 14100 ft leh alt. – 11500 ft this shall be our last day of riding our machines. we will ride on the seductive road of the barren lands. to see a herd of kiang along the road is not uncommon in this part of ladakh. you will certainly enjoy the scenic panorama. until loma, the road turns broken when you start riding along the indus river. we will have lunch at chumathang. shortly after, the roads are in fantastic condition. you will reach leh in no time. overnight at leh hotel. stay: deluxe hotel included meals: breakfast and dinner, leh alt. – 11500 ft it is time to bid adieu to the amazing gang and the beautiful city. our team will help you arrange the transfer to the airport as per your flight timings. see you on your next adventure. included transfer: group drop off hotel to the leh airport, upcoming fixed departures, group of 6 or more & dates don't suites you, custom zanskar tour, other tours, pangi valley.

Manali - Sach Pass - Keylong

Spiti Valley

Manali - Chitkul - Kaza

Assam - Nagaland - Arunachal

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Complete guide to an ultimate trip to Zanskar Valley in Ladakh

Some places are about lifetime experiences, they are hard to reach but once you reach them they never come out of your mind. If you are also searching for one such place, Zanskar Valley hits the target.

Just 4-5 years ago, most of the places in Zanskar Valley were reachable only by foot as there were hardly any roads.

Though the roads are still not in good shape and the travel is long and bumpy, what you see, experience and feel are worth any struggle.

We have created this guide to help you plan a smooth trip to Zanskar Valley. All our budget details, itinerary, tips, and local contacts are included in this article.

But before you go through this guide, we want to tell you that Zanskar is an area with harsh weather conditions and a delicate environment. These areas are not sightseeing places. Travel here only if you love traveling and enjoy being out of your comfort zone with bare minimum facilities.

Also, read our Andaman Post to plan an epic trip to one of the most beautiful places in India.

Table of Contents

How to reach Zanskar Valley in Ladakh

By flight – We took a flight from Delhi to Leh. It takes less than an hour to reach Leh from Delhi by flight. After acclimatizing to Leh for a day, we reached Padum (Zanskar Valley) via Kargil by taking a taxi from Leh.

By road – Another way to reach Padum (Zanskar Valley) is by road from Manali. You can either drive your car (only if you have an SUV and you are an expert in driving in rough mountainous terrains) or rent a taxi to reach Padum (Zanskar Valley) directly from Manali.

Acclimatization in Leh

Leh is at a height of 11000 ft above sea level and due to the lack of oxygen, it is recommended to rest for a day especially if you are reaching by flight. Otherwise, mountain sickness can hit you hard. Sleep, hydration, and no physical activity are a must on your first day in Leh. You can also have a Diamox tablet daily for your first few days in Ladakh.

Itinerary to a trip to Zanskar valley

Day 1: Reach Leh and Acclimatize

Day 2: After breakfast, leave for Sham Valley Tour and Reach Kargil

Day 3 – 4: Explore Kargil and nearby Places.

Day 5: Leave for Zanskar Valley Tour, Explore places on the way like Suru Valley, Rangdum, etc., and reach Padum

Day 6: Explore Padum

Day 7: Leave for Phugtal Monastery and stay in Purne Village

Day 8: Leave for Sarchu and stay in a Camp at Sarchu Village

Day 9: Leave for Leh and Stay overnight

Day 10: Flight back home

Best time to visit

June to September is considered the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. Most of the roads are open during this time.

We went on this trip in the first week of August. The sun was harsh in the afternoons. Mornings and evenings were cold.

Do check the weather forecast before planning this trip. Avoid Monsoon season as the roads might be closed during that time.

Mobile connectivity in Zanskar

Only Postpaid connections work in Ladakh. In the Zanskar region, mostly BSNL and Jio networks work, and that too in particular areas.

Budget for a 9 Nights 10 Days trip to Zanskar

Accommodation – We stayed for 2 days in Kesaar Palace, 3 days in Hotel the Kargil, 2 days in Omasila Hotel in Padum, one day in Himalayan Homestay in Purne Village, and one day in Dorje camps in Sarchu.

Kesaar Palace Leh range between INR 5500 – 7500 per room (with breakfast), Hotel the Kargil range between INR 6500 – 12000 per room (with breakfast), Omasila Hotel Padum cost around INR 3500 per room (with breakfast and Dinner), Himalayan Homestay Purne cost around INR 1500 per person (Breakfast and Dinner) and Dorje Camps stay cost around INR 2500 per day (with breakfast, snacks, and Dinner).

So, for 9 night 10 days trip, expect to spend around INR 21000-28500 (for two people) on accommodation if you choose your stay in a similar range.

If you are on a budget, you can book your stays online in the range of INR 2000 – INR 3000 per day or even less. For a decent price of a property, prebook your stay at least 2 months in advance.

Transport – You can hire a taxi, take your car (if you have an SUV and experience in driving on tough mountainous terrains), or bike for this road trip. We rented a taxi from Leh for our 9-night 10 days trip. As we were traveling in a group of four, renting a taxi was not only comfortable but also saved us a few bucks.

Also for sightseeing in Leh, we spent around INR 3000. Airport pick-up and drop cost us around INR 3000 in total.

Expect to spend around INR 70,000 – 80,000 per taxi for 9 nights 10 days if you rent a taxi as we did.

Food – We carried Haldiram’s ready-to-eat food packets because there are very less or negligible eating options while you commute in Ladakh.

In Leh, there are many cafes and a variety of food. You can easily get a meal for INR 500-800 (two people).

In Kargil, we mostly ate in our hotel The Kargil.

In Padum, there are a few cafes/ local food joints where one can easily get a meal for INR 300-500 (two people)

In Purne and Sarchu, there are no options to eat outside. Your place of stay is the only option to eat.

Others – There is a ticket price for visiting a few locations like War Memorial and Monastery Museums that range between INR 50 – 100 per person.

How to Book a taxi for Zanskar Trip

As per Ladakh Taxi Union Rules, for sightseeing in Leh, you need a Leh number Taxi and for sightseeing in Kargil and Zanskar Valley, you need a Kargil number taxi. For Leh Tour, we booked a taxi with a local Mr. Otsal. You can contact him at +91-9622951297.

For the rest of the trip, we booked a Kargil number taxi from Ayub Bhai, a local in Kargil. His smooth driving and knowledge of the routes took this trip to another level for us. If you also want to book your taxi with him, contact him at +91-8899942881, 9541254816 (his uncle Javed Bhai).

Daywise breakup of our trip to Leh, Kargil, and Zanskar Valley

Day 1 Reached Leh

We reached Leh early in the morning (around 6 am). Took a taxi from Airport to our hotel.
Check-in at the hotel. We stayed in hotel Kesaar Palace in Leh. Built in Ladakhi-style with rooms having a view of Stok Kangri, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Palace, hotel Kesaar Palace is a comfortable stay equipped with all the modern facilities. For booking your stay with Kesaar Palace Leh, contact them at +91-9953157209.
To acclimatize better and avoid mountain sickness, hydrate yourself well and rest as much as possible on your first day in Leh.
We rested till evening. We were feeling fine, so we went for a walk up to Leh market which is around 5 minute walk from Hotel Kesaar Palace. We had Coffee and Sandwiches at Brazil Café in Leh Market.
After coming back to our hotel, we hired a taxi (with the help of our hotel staff) to visit Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa. At Shanti Stupa, avoid taking the stairs on your first day in Leh. Vehicles can go up to the parking from where Shanti Stupa is a short and easy walk. The restaurant at Shanti Stupa serves ultimate momos.
Dinner at our hotel.

Day 2 Reached Kargil

After Breakfast at our hotel, we left for Kargil in the taxi we had booked for this entire trip.
If you are leaving early you can visit Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Sangam, Basgo palace, Likir Monastery, and Alchi Monastery along the way. This tour is known as Sham Valley Tour. If you are starting late from Leh, it is better to skip some of these locations else it might delay you for the journey ahead.
Visit Lamayuru Monastery along the way which is one of the oldest Monasteries of Ladakh. The landscape at the village of Lamayuru is similar to the moon’s surface and famously known as Moonscape/ Moonland.
Visit Heniskot/ Zbayul Village along the way which is also known as the hidden village. It requires walking for 10-15 minutes up on a hill to get a glimpse of the hidden village. As it went already dark before we reached the village, we could not go to the village but we visited a Museum which looked no less than a haunted house and had a collection of utensils, instruments, and other things of the old times. One can also visit this village from Kargil.
Visit Mulbekh Monastery along the way. Here a 30 feet statue of Buddha is carved on an enormous slab of stone.
Reached Kargil around 11:00 PM and checked in at Hotel The Kargil. Equipped with all the modern amenities, hotel The Kargil is one of the best hotels in Kargil. For booking your stay with hotel The Kargil, contact them at +91-9811995752.
Dinner at Hotel the Kargil.

Day 3 Explore Kargil

After Breakfast at Hotel the Kargil, we left for Drass which is around 60 km from Kargil. It is the 2nd coldest inhabited place on earth. The journey up to Drass is smooth and beautiful.
Visit Kargil War Memorial along the way.
Drive up to Mushko Valley from Drass for its wildflowers and beautiful views. Spend some time near Drass River in Mushko Valley.
After coming back to Kargil, visit the LoC viewpoint in the evening. From the LoC viewpoint, one can see Indian and Pakistani bunkers. Do not forget to have Kashmiri Kahwa from a tea stall here.
Further 2 km from the LoC viewpoint, visit Hunderman Village, the last village in India. We visited a 200-300-year-old house in the village. The way it was built gave a deep insight into the lives of the local people of the area. The Museum inside this house has a collection of ornaments, utensils, clothes, games, coins, money, and letters from the people of this area. If you have a guide or a local with you here, you will be mesmerized by the stories they tell. We were lucky to get accompanied by our host Zaheer from Hotel the Kargil.
Dinner at Hotel The Kargil.

Day 4 Trekking in Kargil

We were having breakfast in our hotel when its owner Zaheer joined us and while he was telling us about all the things Kargil has to offer, he mentioned a trek to a Monastery that passes through narrow gauges with water streams flowing through it. He then offered to accompany us on the trek so that he could also live some of his childhood moments again. How could we not hop on this opportunity of going deep in Kargil and that too with a local!!! And the next moment we were on to this adventure. Urgen Dzong Trek is around 5-6 km (to and fro) and it takes around 5-6 hours to complete this trek and come back. At the top, there is a small cave Monastery and multiple other caves where lamas are said to mediate for years. We went inside one of these caves and it was really hard to get inside and come out of it.
After the trek, we came back to our hotel around 5:30 PM.

Day 5 Journey to Zanskar Valley

We got our breakfast packed from our hotel and left early morning (5:30 AM) for Zanskar Valley.
We stopped by Suru Valley and enjoyed the views of the largest peaks of the region, Nun and Kun.
We visited Rangdum Monastery along the way. And ate our ready-to-eat Haldiram Lunch in the kitchen of Rangdum Monastery.
We got to see one of the largest glaciers of Ladakh, the Drang Drung Glacier. It was a sight to behold.
We visited Sani Gompa in Sani Village, just 6 km before Padum.
We stayed in Hotel Omasila in Padum. Padum is the district headquarters of Zanskar and the base of the tourists visiting Zanskar Valley. Hotel Omasila is one of the best stays in Padum. For booking your stay with hotel Omasila, contact Norbu Bhaiya at +91-7889857547.
Dinner at Hotel Omasila.

Day 6 Explore Padum in Zanskar Valley

Sunrise at Guru Gompa which is just 10 minutes easy hike from Hotel Omasila. The views of the Zanskar valley from Guru Gompa are breathtaking.
We visited Pibiting village after sunrise which is right there in between Guru Gompa and Hotel Omasila. It felt nice seeing the houses in the village made of stones and mud and people starting their day by taking their cattle for grazing.
After breakfast at Hotel Omasila, we left for Karsha Monastery. Karsha is the largest monastery of Zanskar.
Thereafter, we visited Chuchik Jal Nunnery which is the abode of nuns from Karsha Monastery. It was such a nice experience interacting with the nuns and kids out there.
Visit Stackrimo Monastery, which is at the backside of Padum. The view from the Monastery is the widest one can have of the entire region.
Lunch at Changthang Café in Padum Market. We had Palak Paneer Skew (Zanskari Dish), Mushroom Soup, Thupka, Veg Pizza, and Momos. The food has never tasted this good before.
After lunch, we visited Stongdey Monastery which is built on a rocky hill to give panoramic views of the valley. Stongdey is famous for its festival which is held around the month of June-July every year. Monks wear their traditional big face masks and perform in the festival.
Visited Zangla Palace, which is in ruins today but used to be the home of the king of the region. The palace is a 10 minutes hike from Zangla Village. The views of the Zanskar range from the Zangla Palace are sure to make you sit for hours.
Visited Sheela Waterfall. We never thought Zanskar would have Waterfalls. It was nice visiting one.

Day 7 Trek to Phugtal Monastery

After breakfast at Omasila Hotel Padum, we left for Phugtal Monastery.
Visited Gyalwa Ringna along the way which is an ancient rock carving site in Padum. Five Dhyani Buddhas are engraved here on a rock.
Visited Bardan Monastery along the way which is at a picturesque location.
On the way to Phugtal, visited Ichar Village and Maitreya Buddha Statue safeguarding the Ichar village.
Reached Cha Village and started the trek to Phughtal Monastery. There are two ways to reach Phugtal Monastery. One from Cha Village and the other from Purne Village. They run parallel to each other, separated by the Tsarap River in between. We went via Cha Village and came back via Purne Village. Our driver dropped us at Cha Village and waited for us at Purne Village. It takes around 3 hours to reach Phugtal Monastery from either side. The trek from Cha village is narrower and more difficult comparatively, so if you are not an experienced trekker, do take the other route. Orange hills stand in contrast to the turquoise-blue Tsarap River and the entire landscape is sure to give you Goosebumps.
We had lunch at Hotel Gonpa in Phugtal Monastery. Hotel Gonpa is run by local monks and also provides stay facilities to tourists.
Around 2500 years ago, Phugtal Monastery used to be only a cave where monks would visit and meditate for years. Gradually a monastery was built using mud and wood. Around 1200 years ago, Phugtal Monastery was rebuilt the way it is today.
We went back to Purne Village and stayed in Himalayan Homestay.
Watched the Milkyway galaxy and millions of stars at night in Purne.

Day 8 Camps at Sarchu Village

After breakfast, we left Purne Village.
Reached Sarchu by noon and stayed in Swiss camps. Sarchu, located at 14,500 feet height marks the border of Himachal and Ladakh. A wide open area surrounded by rugged mountains from all sides, Sarchu is a nice place to spend a day at. We stayed in Dorjee Camps. The camps were clean and cozy with attached bathrooms. The facilities at Dorjee camps and the food they serve are impressive. For booking your stay with Dorjee Camps, contact them at +91-9418356382.

Day 9 Back to Leh

After breakfast, we left for Leh.
Checked in at Hotel Kesaar Palace in Leh.
We roamed around Leh market and stuffed ourselves with loads of food.

Day 10 Back home

Early morning flight back home

Virtual Tour to Leh, Kargil and Zanskar Valley

We have a YouTube Channel where we post our travel videos. We have posted videos from Leh, Kargil, and Zanskar Valley on our channel to help you plan your trip better.

Do watch these videos and let us know what you think of them. Also, if you like our videos, do subscribe to our channel. It really motivates us to create more such content.

Ultimate things to do in Leh

Things to do in Kargil

The journey from Kargil to Padum

Things to do in Padum

Trek to Phugtal Monastery

Staying in camps at Sarchu

Hope this guide helped you in making an amazing trip to Leh, Kargil, and Zanskar Valley. If you have any questions for us, do ask them in the comments.

Best Zanskar Itinerary – How to Visit Zanskar Valley in 8 days

Ladakh , Featured , Zanskar

Last Updated on: Jun 5, 2024

About this blog: Zanskar Valley is fast becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for adventure seekers. Nestled in one of the remote corners of the Himalayas, Zanskar valley is one of the most difficult places to reach. After our trip to Zanskar Valley , we have been asked to create a Zanskar Itinerary by our readers. So here I am, sharing the most common Zanskar Valley Itinerary with you.

Zanskar Valley was a fairly difficult place to reach even a few years back. There was only one way to reach the valley and that was from Kargil. So either you had to start from Leh or Srinagar, drive to Kargil and then carry forward to Padum, the main town of Zanskar. The total distance of the journey was almost 450 km and it would take at least two days to reach Padum from Kargil.

Furthermore, the roads were pretty bad and remained open only during the summer season, that is, practically only for 5-6 months. The difficulty of reaching Zanskar and the lack of knowledge about the area made Zanskar quite untouched by Indian tourists.

The roads are still in bad condition. In 2020, a couple of new roads were constructed – one from Leh to Zanskar and the other from Manali to Zanskar. These newly constructed roads made reaching Zanskar a tad bit easier. However, these roads are not yet fully constructed and you are going to have quite an adrenaline rushing off-roading experience on these routes.

Table of Contents

Most Common Zanskar Itinerary

As mentioned before, new roads to Zanskar Valley have been constructed and now you can reach Zanskar from both Leh and Manali. So here, I will share a few Zanskar itineraries, considering the starting point of your journey. You can choose one depending on the number of days you have in hand and what you want to experience. You can also always change the number of days you spend in Padum or any particular place as per your convenience.

Please note that these Zanskar Valley Itineraries are tentative and you can always tweak them as per your choice.

Zanskar Itinerary 1: Zanskar from Leh

Zanskar offroading trip-Leh to Zanskar Valley

In this Zanskar Valley Itinerary, you start from Leh and end at Kargil. From Kargil, you can head either towards Leh or Srinagar as per your convenience. This trip will take you at least 6 days from Leh to Kargil.

Leh to Zanskar Itinerary (Short)

Day 6 | Padum – Rangdum

Day 7 | Rangdum – Kargil

Day 8 | Kargil – Leh/ Srinagar

Detailed Itinerary

You will most probably be flying into Leh. Spend the day for acclimatization. There will be a lot of travelling the next few days so give yourself ample rest.

You might visit Leh Palace, Leh Market or Shanti Stupa after you are well rested. However, we suggest not to overexert yourself.

Night Stay: Leh

114 km, 3 hrs

Start from Leh and drive to Lamayuru.
Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill and Sangam Point will fall on the way. You can stop there.
You can explore Lamayuru Monastery once you are at Lamayuru.

Night Stay: Lamayuru

201 km, 9 – 10 hrs

This is going to be a long day of driving, so you have to start quite early from Lamayuru or Khaltse. It is better if you start by 6 AM. Then you will reach Padum on time and will also be able to stop at the various points on the route for photography breaks.
The road from Lamayuru to Wanla is pretty good. But a few kilometers beyond Wanla, the real journey starts. Be ready for rough driving and horrible road conditions.
It will take about 2 hours to reach Sir Sir La, the second highest pass on this route.
From Sir Sir La, drive to Photoksar and then to Singe La, the highest Pass on this route.
After Singe La, comes Lingshed. If you want to visit the Lingshed Monastery, you have to take a diversion uphill. Visit the monastery only if you have adequate time in hand, Because, the journey from Lingshed to Padum will take another 4 hours, minimum.
After Lingshed, comes a number of loops. These bends are pretty steep, but thankfully, you have to drive downhill. If you are taking the opposite route, that is, from Padum to Leh, then driving in these bends is quite difficult. Your 4-wheeler is going to suffer.
So, a pro-tip: if you are taking this route via Lingshed, travel from Leh to Zanskar and not the other way round.
After the loops, you will come across the Lingshed stream, which you have to cross over.
After another 3 -4 hours of drive, depending on the number of breaks you take, you will reach Padum.
You can also visit Zangla Palace if you have time.
Stay the night at Padum. You can also stay at a homestay at any of the villages near Padum.

Night Stay: Padum

Padum is basically a small town and is the current administrative headquarters of Zanskar Valley. Most of the attractions in Zanskar Valley are located in and around Padum, mostly within a distance of 40-45 km. Being a Buddhist region, Zanskar Valley has its fair share of Monasteries.
Visit Sani Gompa , Dzongkhul Gompa and Karsha Gompa. Karsha Monastery is the largest monastery in the Zanskar region.
Visit Padum local market in the afternoon.

56 km, 2.5 – 3 hrs

Start early and explore some monasteries near Padum.
You can visit Stongdey Gompa, Stakrimo and Pibiting Monastery.
After that drive towards Purne or Cha village. The drive from Padum to both Purne and Cha village takes about 2.5 hours. The roads are pretty rough. So definitely start by noon.

Night Stay: Purne/ Cha

Trek – 5 km approx, 2-3 hrs, Drive – 56 km, 2.5 – 3 hrs

Purne and Cha are two villages located on either side of the Tsarap River. There is a trek route to Phugtal Gompa from both the villages. The route from Cha village is a bit easier.
Trek to Phugtal Monastery . The trek will take about 2-3 hours depending on your fitness and the number of breaks you take.
Explore Phugtal Monastery. It is one of the remotest monasteries in Zanskar Valley. Also known as the cave monastery, visiting Phugtal monastery is an experience in itself.
Trek back to Purne/Cha and then drive back to Padum.

105 km, 5 hrs

It is time to bid farewell to Zanskar Valley. Start from Padum in the morning and drive towards Rangdum.
On the way, stop to admire the beauty of Drang Drung Glacier, Pensi La Pass and the twin Lakes. The landscape is stunning and you will feel like taking many photography breaks.
Also visit Rangdum Monastery, just a few kilometers ahead of the village.
Stay the night at Rangdum. There is one guest house and a couple of homestays in the village.

Night Stay: Rangdum

Start in the morning and drive through the beautiful Suru Valley.
On the way, you will come across Parkachik Glacier. You have to take a detour if you want to visit Parkachik village.
Panikhar is another beautiful village on the way.
You will also get the views of the massive Nun and Kun peaks.
Finally driving through Sankoo, reach Kargil for a night stay.

Night Stay: Kargil

On the way towards Rangdum _ Zanskar Itinerary

That is the end of your Zanskar Valley trip. You can head towards either Leh or Srinagar from Kargil for further travel.

Things to Consider:
If you have a day extra, then you can stay another day in Padum and explore Shela village and Shela waterfall.
For an extra day, you can also stay the night at Lingshed village.
You can also decrease a day in Padum and use it elsewhere. And if you have less time, then simply stay at Padum for 2 nights.
On day 6, you can stay at Parkachik or Panikhar instead of Rangdum.
You can skip Phuktal Monastery trek, if you are not up for trekking. But I highly recommend you do it.
You can do the trip in reverse as well, that is, start from Kargil and end in Leh. But I would not recommend this route.

Zanskar Valley Itinerary 2: Manali to Zanskar Valley

Zanskar off-roading trip-Manali to Padum

In this Zanskar Valley itinerary, you will start from Manali and will end at Kargil. From there, you can either head towards Leh or Srinagar, as per your convenience.

Manali to Zanskar Itinerary (Short)

You will probably arrive at Manali on this day. Spend the day exploring Manali, but do not overexert yourself.

102 km, 4 hrs

Start from Manali and drive through the Atal Tunnel to enter the Lahaul Valley.
You will cross Sissu and Tandi on the way. Please note that Tandi is the last place where you will get a petrol pump before reaching Padum.

Night Stay: Darcha

112 km, 6 – 7 hrs

Gombo Ranjan - sacred mountain of Zanskar Valley

Start early in the morning as it is a long day of driving.
Main attractions of the Day are Shinku La Pass (16580 feet), Gombo Rangan range and Kurgiakh village.
There are a few river crossings on the way.
Reach Purne by late afternoon and stay for the night.

Night Stay: Purne

Another long day, so start early.
Trek to Phugtal Monastery. It will take around 2.5 to 3 hours depending upon your fitness and breaks. Explore Phugtal Gompa and trek back to Purne.
Start from Purne and drive to Padum. It will take about 3 hours to reach Padum. The roads are not good.
Go for sightseeing in Padum.
Visit Zangla Palace, Stongdey Gompa, Stakrimo Gompa and Pibiting Gompa.
Another day of monastery hopping.
Visit Sani Gompa, Dzongkhul Gompa and Karsha Gompa. Karsha is the largest monastery in the Zanskar region.

Day 6 | Padum – Rangdum

The main attractions of this route are the Drang Drung Glacier, Pensi La Pass and the twin Lakes. You will also get ample opportunities to take photography breaks.

Drang Drung Glacier - Leh to Padum via Kargil - how to reach Zanskar Valley

130 km, 5 hrs

The main attractions are Parkachik Glacier, Parkachik village, Panikhar, views of Nun-Kun peaks and Sankoo.
Reach Kargil for a night stay.
For an extra day, you can also stay the night at Kurgiakh village.
You can also decrease a day in Padum and use it elsewhere. And if you have less time, then simply stay at Padum for 2 nights instead of 3.
You can do the trip in reverse as well, that is, start from Kargil and end in Manali.

Zanskar Valley Itinerary 3

Zanskar offroading Trip-Leh to Manali via Zanskar Valley

This is another itinerary where you start from Leh and end up in Manali. This itinerary will give you a lot of thrill and off-roading experience. However, you are going to miss the lush beauty of Suru Valley.

Leh to Manali Itinerary via Zanskar Valley (Short)

Day 0 | arrive at leh, day 4 | padum sightseeing, day 5 | padum – purne – phugtal monastery trek – purne.

Day 6 | Purne – Kurgiakh – Gombo Ranjan – Shinku La – Darcha

Day 7 | Darcha – Manali

Explore Lamayuru Monastery once you are at Lamayuru.
Main attractions on this route are SirSir La, Photoksar, Singe La and Lingshed. You might stop at Zangla Palace if you can reach on time.

Dramatic landscape near Singe La Pass - Leh to Padum via Lingshed

Visit Stongdey Gompa, Stakrimo Gompa and Pibiting Gompa.
Visit Sani Gompa, Dzongkhul Gompa and Karsha Gompa.
Start early from Padum.
The drive from Padum to Purne takes about 2.5 hours. The roads are pretty rough.
After reaching Purne, trek to Phugtal Monastery. The trek will take about 2-3 hours depending on your fitness and the number of breaks you take.
Trek back to Purne and stay there for the night.

Day 6 | Purne – Kurgiakh – Gombo Ranjan – Shinku La – Darcha

This is also going to be a long day. So start early.
Main points of attraction on this route are Kurgiakh, Gombo Ranjan and Shinku La Pass.

102 km, 3 hrs

Start from Darcha and drive to Manali after crossing Tandi, Sissu and Atal Tunnel.
For an extra day, you can also stay the night at Lingshed or Kurgiakh village.
You can do the trip in reverse as well, that is, start from Manali and end in Leh.

Help in Planning Zanskar Trip

This article only covers a basic Zanskar itinerary. If you need to know more about Zanskar Valley, places to visit in Zanskar and other important informantion, then these articles on Zanskar might help you. I am sure you will get most of your answers through these blogs. If not, we are just an email away!

How to plan a Trip to Zanskar?
How to reach Zanskar Valley – Leh to Padum & Manali to Padum
Phugtal Monastery Trek – Guide to the Cave Monastery of Zanskar
Suru Valley – Where, How and When? A Complete Travel Guide
Sightseeing in Padum (Travel Guide) & Places to visit in Zanskar Valley

Final Words

You can follow either of these Zanskar itineraries for your Zanskar trip. Whichever itinerary you follow, I am sure the trip will be an experience of a lifetime.

The routes from Manali to Zanskar Valley and Leh to Padum via Lingshed will give you an ultimate off-roading experience. It will give you quite an adrenaline high.

The route from Suru Valley will give you a different experience altogether. Suru Valley is quite the opposite to the start barrenness of Zanskar Valley. You will get to see the gradual change in landscape from barren and brown to lush green. It is an experience in itself.

Also, choose the number of days you spend in Padum as per your convenience. There are a number of monasteries around Padum town. You might not want to visit all of them. However, I would recommend you not to miss Zangla Palace and Karsha Monastery. The rest are up to you.

So, when are you planning to visit Zanskar Valley?

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Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

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I recently used Travel Blogs to plan my trip to the beautiful Zanskar Valley in India. Their 8-day itinerary was well-thought out and covered all the must-see places. I had an amazing time, thanks to their detailed information on how to get around and what activities are best for each day. Highly recommend if you’re looking for an efficient way of planning your next adventure!

Travelling is a wonderful way to experience new cultures, meet new people, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, hiking through scenic landscapes, or trying new foods, there is always something exciting and fulfilling about travel.

Quite aptly said. Thank you for the comment.

Hi, Thanks for the detailed info.

In the 1st itinerary, you said, You can do the trip in reverse as well, that is, start from Kargil and end in Leh. But I would not recommend this route.

Why wouldn’t you recommend this route? In fact, I was planning to take this route with my parents and sister coz I thought going from Srinagar will lead to a gradual ascend in height.

Looking forward to an early response as I have to book my tickets.

You can do it if you want. I usually do not recommend this route because there is steep ascent from the Padum to Leh route via Lingshed. Driving uphill on these steep bends sometimes proves difficult for the cars. You can do it if you want. No issues.

I am planning for Zanskar valley in coming May June with my 11 yrs daughter and wife. I am not sure from where should I start and where to end.I want to avoid excessive challenging path. I am from West Bengal. I want a budget trip. I need rented car. How the tour can be comparatively cheap. Where to rent car. And what kind of car is recommended. I have just completed Srinager Leh Nubra Pangong Tsomoriri Manali circuit in June 2023. 🙏

Hello, Since you have already traveled in Ladakh, you must be aware that transportation is a bit costly there. As for Zanskar, it is an extremely remote area. New roads are being built by BRO and the road conditions are not at all good. If you have read my blogs, you would know. The route will be challenging no matter which one you take. Leh to Padum via Kargil is comparatively better than the other two. Majority of the expenses will be taken up by transportation. You will need a 4-WD for travelling to Zanskar. While the roads in and around Padum are good, but reaching there is tough. Hope this helps.

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ZANSKAR VALLEY

One of the least explored places in the country and must be included in your Le Ladakh tour packages , Zanskar Valley is a hidden gem located near Leh, Ladakh which offers sublime scenic views of the snow-laced Himalayan range with sparkling blue river flowing at their foothill. It even provides an exotic experience of trekking, ‘Chadar Trek’, on a thick sheet of Ice on a river during the winter season.

Also known locally by the name of Zahar, Zanskar is a small district in Kargil, located in the eastern section of Ladakh. For the ardent traveller, Zanskar Valley is one of the most enchanting places to visit in the Himalayan region. Plan your visit to Zanskar Valley well in advance to ensure that you do not have trouble arranging basic amenities at the last minute. This valley is a semi desert, with a known affinity for Buddhist beliefs.

Zanskar Valley is eternally famous for its high snow capped mountains and surrounding landscape, featuring geographical attributes that are unique to this region. Reaching this place will introduce you to sparkling clean river waters and a pleasant climate that makes it worth exploring. Located 105 km from Leh, Zanskar Valley has earned fame among adventure enthusiasts. With a host of activities that can be tried out at the valley, it has become one of the most popular holiday hotspots for those travelling to the Himalayas.

Most visitors to Zanskar Valley plan a trip for 2 - 3 days. Surprisingly, it isn’t difficult to find accomodation in this remote region of the Himalayas all round the year.

Click here to Book: A Trip to Leh Ladakh from Mumbai

• Located at an average height of 6000 meters above the sea level, Zanskar valley is surrounded by the unmatched beauty of the serene mountains. • In winters the Zanskar river freezes to form a blanket of thick ice, allowing the thrill seekers to go on a trek on this frozen river, popularly known as the ‘Chadar’ trek. • One can enjoy white water rafting at the Zanskar river along with camping at night surrounded by the beautiful mountains. • The treacherous terrain of Zanskar is perfect for adventure lovers to embark on challenging treks such as the Lugnak Trail Trek, Padum-Darcha Trek and Zanskar-Sham Valley Trek among others.

How To Reach

By Air: Reach the Kushok Bakula airport which is the closest airport to Leh. Opt for a hired vehicle to get to Zanskar Valley afterwards.

By Train: Reach the Jammu Tawi railway station and then, take a taxi or hired vehicle to take you to Leh and later to Zanskar Valley.

By Road: In order to reach Zanskar Valley, one must travel first to Kargil, which can be accessed via Srinagar or Leh. The distance between Leh and Zanskar Valley is 462 km, which can be covered under 11 hours if one travels via NH 1 and NH 301. Once you reach Leh, you can opt for a hired vehicle to take you via the road route to Zanskar, via Kargil. The best way to get to Leh is through Srinagar, which offers well connected roads and a safe route for tourists to reach their travel destination.

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Best Time To Visit

Summer: The best time to visit Zanskar Valley is between the months of June to September. During this time, the weather is most decent for travellers who visit the valley. Before June, the early season is characterised by bad roads, which are not in a good condition for travel purposes.

Beyond this time, you can plan a visit maximum up to October month, which might pose slight difficulties but is still traversable.

A detailed travel guide of Manali to Leh Ladakh Highway .

Winter: If you plan to visit during the months of December to January or February, the only way for you to reach the valley will be by walking over the Chadar trek since roads are not operational during this time. This season must be picked only if you are prepared to undertake that level of physical exertion.

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Other Essential Information

Best routes to zanskar valley.

Via Srinagar and Kargil: This is the fastest route to reach the Zanskar Valley. You can either reach Leh via the Manali – Leh highway and then reach Kargil, or reach Leh directly via air or rail. From here, you can take the road to Padum. Speaking in terms of the shortest route, you will reach safely via the Srinagar – Kargil – Padum route.

About Zanskar Frozen River Trek

Also known as Chadar trek, this is one of its kind of trek that you will find all over the world. The word depicts a blanket, which resonates with the ice that forms over the Zanskar river during the extreme winters. This trek is a walking route over the Zanskar river, which is often frequented by the locals for trade purposes.

If you are planning to dare this adventure, then you better arrive here in the months of January and February when the sheet of ice is thickest. You will need to pass a medical fitness assessment at the local hospital in Leh, without which, you cannot undertake this trek.

Also Checkout & Book: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

Things to Carry at Zanskar Valley

Here is a list of the most important things that you must not forget to carry along with you, to Zanskar Valley:

1. Appropriate clothing. Depending on the season during which you visit, you must be equipped with the right set of clothes for your comfort.

2. Medicines. Availability of medicines is sparse as you continue to head down the route to the valley.

3. Sun protection since chances of sun burns only increases at the high altitude.

5. Torches and emergency kit

6. Knick Knacks and ready to eat food items

7. Packaged water, maps and route information

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Traveller Tips for Visiting Zanskar Valley

Given the difficulty level of reaching Zanskar Valley, tourists are prompted to make arrangements in advance and take note of the following tips to ensure that they do not have any trouble during their travel to Zanskar Valley:

1. Fuel pumps are fairly easy to find on the Srinagar – Kargil road but beyond that none can be found till Padum, where fuel is often in shortage. Make sure that you top up your vehicle in Kargil and refill whenever you get the chance.

2. You will find a single ATM in Padum market when visiting the Zanskar Valley. Needless to say, you must carry enough cash with you to meet the expenses of the trip since the machine can run out of cash or break down unexpectedly.

3. You will find a big government hospital in Padum and Kargil, if needed.

4. After crossing Sankoo, mobile connectivity is pretty dead.

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Glimpse of leh ladakh | private adventure, wonders of ladakh | free inner line permits, tourism board alliances, zanskar valley faqs, is zanskar valley safe.

Yes. Zanskar Valley is blooming to become a tourist hot spot, which is why adequate assistance and help is available after every few stops during the journey to Zanskar Valley. However, you must observe the bare minimum precautions and stay aware of your surroundings when you visit an isolated place such as this one.

Also Read: Srinagar to Leh Ladakh Road Trip Guide

How to reach Zanskar Valley from Delhi?

When visiting the Zanskar Valley from Delhi, head to the Manali – Leh highway, which will take you through the Himalayan region and then to Kargil, which further leads to Padum through a well connected system of roads. Visitors can also opt to fly to Leh or take the rail route up to Jammu, to reach Leh and then Zanskar Valley. Local buses regularly ply between Leh and Zanskar Valley as well.

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How far is Zanskar from leh?

The distance between Leh and Zanskar is no less than 460 km, which can be completed via road routes under 11 hours, when running non stop. The best route to take while crossing this road is NH 1 and NH 301.

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Which is the highest peak of the Zanskar Range?

Geographically, a part of the Tethys in the Himalayas, the Zanskar range spans over an area of 7000 square kilometres and lies at an elevation of 11,500 feet to 23,000 feet. Within this range, Kamet is the highest peak, standing at 25,446 feet or 7,756 metres.

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Which is the best season to visit Zanskar Valley?

Ideally, the best season to visit the Zanskar Valley is between the months of June to September. The temperature in the valley is quite pleasant during this time and quite convenient for the travellers. During this time, the roads are also in good condition and safe for tourists. At other times of the year, the absence of heavy tourist footfall in the region makes it susceptible to risks.

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Winter treks, mountaineering in ladakh, cultural tours in ladakh, adventures in ladakh, fixed departure treks - join a group, ladakh information, mountaineering, cultural tours, join a group, zanskar valley - cultural tour, tour highlights, zangla palace & monastery, stongde monastery, karsha monastery, sani monastery, zongkhul monastery, pensi la & drang drung glacier, rangdum monastery, suru valley, parkachik glacier & nun-kun mountains, shargole monastery, mulbek rock carving, indus valley from leh to lamayuru.

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Zanskar Valley – Most Common Itinerary

Zanskar Valley , nestled in a remote corner of Ladakh, is a hot topic this season among the adventure lovers who embark on the adrenaline rushing journeys in trans-Himalayas every year.

Looking for a detailed day by day Zanskar Valley Itinerary?

Since I am getting loads of queries related to Zanskar Valley this year, and of course, we had our DoW Mega Meet 2015 in Zanskar Valley only, I thought why not share the most common itinerary for Zanskar Valley and help everyone make an amazing journey filled with full of adventure to this wonderland.

The alternate itinerary also covers Srinagar – Leh Highway and if you have more time on hand, feel free to leave a comment below so that I can help you with a plan to exit Ladakh over Manali – Leh Highway .

Reflections in Twin lakes of Penzi La Pass in Zanskar Valley

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Why travel to Zanskar Valley from Srinagar – Kargil side?

I have started from Srinagar side because it gives at least two benefits, if not more. Firstly, the body acclimatizes better due to gradual ascent by the time you reach Padum in Zanskar Valley. Hence, fewer chances of getting stuck with Acute Mountain Sickness or shortly called as AMS .

Secondly, you can travel back to Leh and further over Manali – Leh Highway through Tso Moriri in case you have missed Tso Moriri in your last trip to Ladakh , which most commonly is the case.

For now, these two reasons are good enough to start your road trip to Zanskar Valley from Srinagar side 🙂

Trip to Zanskar Valley in 8 Days – Common Itinerary

The road to Zanskar Valley runs through Suru Valley . Hence, you will be able to cover the Suru Valley, too, while following this itinerary. In case you have already visited Ladakh, I will strongly advise that you do not distract yourself and focus just on Suru Valley and Zanskar Valley over these 8-9 days.

Dheeraj Sharma

Zanskar is one of the most enchanting and scenic valleys with landscape and culture identical to the rest of Ladakh, at times more beautiful than the Changthang region. The fall or autumn colors are just majestic to witness as those beautiful orangish colors make it no less than a wonderland.

What Zanskar Attractions does it cover?

Besides regular sightseeing of Srinagar – Kargil Highway , you will be witnessing a breathtaking glacier in touch distance, named Drang Drung Glacier while passing over the Penzi La Pass that connects Suru Valley with Zanskar Valley.

Apart from that, you will be visiting the Rangdum Gompa, Zongkhul Monastery, and Zang La Fort near Padum. However, the most amazing thing that you can do apart from these eight days is to explore the unexplored trek of Phugtal Monastery (read more on Phugtal Monastery – Zanskar Valley) which is uniquely located into the cliffside like a honeycomb and considered as one of the remarkable sites in whole Zanskar Valley.

What about Phuktal Monastery?

I will write a detailed travel guide on Phugtal Monastery trek (also called Phuktal Monastery) with all the required details but as of now, you can keep it like if you are beginner it will take about 5 days of the trek at easy pace else you can do it in 4 days if you are intermediate trekker.

In the last, you may give a shot at a road less traveled in Ladakh, the Umba La Pass route that directly connects Sankoo to Drass. Finally, you can end the trip at Srinagar from where you can fly back home after spending a relaxing night in Shikara over Dal Lake 🙂

Sounds Interesting???

So, now where is the plan:

Day by Day Plan – Zanskar in 8 Days

Let’s look at this detailed day by day plan of the Zanskar Valley trip in 8-9 days. You will travel from Srinagar Leh Highway and come back home via the same route.

Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar and then Srinagar – Sonamarg (79 KMs) – Zozi La (107 KMs) – Drass (144 KMs) – Kargil (202 KMs)

Early morning flight to Srinagar (reach 7 AM) and then by road to Kargil via Zojila pass
Kargil War Memorial at Drass
Tiger Hill view from a roadside Dhabha while having lunch
Arrange permits/bookings for PWD Rest Houses at Rangdum/Parkachik (if possible else be on your own)
Will take about 8-9 Hrs
Overnight stay at Kargil

Day 2 | Kargil – Sankoo (42 KMs) – Panikhar (67 KMs) – Parkachik (98 KMs) – Rangdum (138 KMs) – Penzi La (165 KMs) – Padum (255 KMs)

Have breakfast either at Kargil, preferably packed breakfast from the hotel
It is going to be a long day, hence, leave for sure by 7 AM
Have lunch at Rangdum, specifically not letting you stay at Rangdum as it a much harsh place than Padum with the least facilities. So, better break journey while coming back
Beautiful Stod River join you after descending from Penzi La
Will take about 9-11 Hrs
Overnight stay at Padum

Day 3 | Rest day at Padum and Zongkhul Monastery

Rest at Padum and enjoy the stay to acclimatize better
After lunch, you can do Padum – Tungri (17 KMs) – Zongkhul (37 KMs)
Will take about 2-3 Hrs

Day 4 | Padum – Stongde (15 KMs) – Zang La Fort (32 KMs) – Karsha (62 KMs) – Padum (74 KMs)

Explore local sightseeing in Padum including Sani, Stongdey, and Karsha monasteries, Zang La Fort
An old monastery situated in the nearby village of Tsa-zar, midway between Stongde and Zangla
Sheela Village Waterfall : You can spend some time at the waterfall at Sheela village while coming back to Padum from Stongde
Karsha monastery : Evening visit for a nice view of Padum village
Stongde monastery : Morning visit for better views
Zang La Fort : Ahead of Stongde and offers some scenic wide views
Will take about 3-4 Hrs

Day 5 | Padum – Penzi La Pass (90 KMs) – Rangdum (117 KMs)

On the way see and click some lovely pictures of Drang Drung Glacier
Spot some wildlife including Marmots as well on the way to Penzi La
Stop by at Statso – Langtso Twin Lakes on the way to Penzi La
Some time at Penzi La with pictures
Rangdum Gompa is a MUST DO which is about 2-3 KMs from Rangdum
Enjoy any leftovers while going towards Padum earlier
Will take about 5 Hrs
Overnight stay at Rangdum, avoid JKTDC Rest House at Rangdum and prefer a homestay

Day 6 | Rangdum – Parkachik (40 KMs) – Sankoo (96 KMs) – Umba La – Drass (160 KMs)

Spend some time at beautiful Panikhar village and enjoy the scenic beauty around
Excellent views of Nun – Kun from Purikutchey
Trek down to the river and relax for a while on the way
The rock-carved Maitreya at Kartse Khar
Have lunch at Sankoo
Give a shot at the unexplored Umba La route on the way back
Will take about 7-8 Hrs
Overnight stay at Drass

Travel Tip : If you are driving yourself to Zanskar, you must check 40 must-have things to carry on a self-drive road trip to Zanskar Valley .

Day 7 | Drass – Zozi La (37 KMs) – Sonamarg (65 KMs) – Srinagar (144 KMs)

Enjoy the ride in Dal Lake and sleepover in Shikara
Will take about 5-6 Hrs
Overnight stay at Srinagar

Day 8 | Srinagar – Delhi By Morning Flight

Back to Sweet Home

Itinerary for Srinagar – Zanskar – Leh Trip

In case you want to include Leh local sightseeing as well to complete the journey of Srinagar – Leh Highway, you follow the below plan. Traveling on this route you can fly to Srinagar, cover Zanskar Valley and then fly out of Leh.

Day 7 | Drass – Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh

Cover Mulbekh Maitreya, Lamayuru Monastery, Lunar Landscapes
On the way, you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
Overnight at Leh
About 9-10 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 8 | Leh – Delhi By Morning Flight

Itinerary for srinagar – zanskar – tso moriri – manali – leh highway.

Finally, in this travel plan option, you can cover Tso Moriri and Manali Leh Highway as well. It will only be possible if you have the luxury of more days in hand.

Many people on their first trip to Ladakh only cover Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley . Hence, the chances of leaving the Tso Moriri lake are very high. Now that you are making a trip to Zanskar Valley, you may want to cover Manali – Leh Highway and Tso Moriri lake too.

If that is the case, then you can follow this itinerary for Zanskar Valley trip:

On the way, you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills , Confluence at Nimmu in Sham Valley region

Day 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or move to Chumathang

Overnight at Leh/Chumathang

Day 9 | Leh/Chumathang – Tso Moriri via Chumathang

There are chances of AMS, hence it is better that you stay the previous night at Chumathang
Cover Karzok Monastery
Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
About 7-8 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Day 10 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu

Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
Overnight at Sarchu or Pang

Zanskar Travel Guide : If you want to deep dive into the detailed planning of your trip, you should refer my comprehensive travel guide of Kargil – Padum road trip .

Day 11 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali

On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the roadsides only
Overnight at Manali
About 11-12 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between and of course the mess at Rohtang Pass

Day 12 | Manali – Delhi

Return Home
About 13-14 Hrs drive, depending upon the breaks you take in between

Zanskar Valley via Darcha – Shingo La Route

As of 2019 September, only one car was able to reach Padum from Darcha – Shingo La route. In the coming years, I expect to see this route from Manali – Darcha – Padum getting more attraction from the tourists.

Once it is fully operational and safe for travel, I will share more details on this route itinerary as well.

Other Zanskar Itineraries : You can also refer a 9-day travel itinerary for Leh – Zanskar – Leh .

Zanskar Road Trip – FAQs

The best time to visit Zanskar Valley is from June – July and then September month when monsoon rains reside from Northern India. It is not recommended at all to plan a trip to Zanskar in August or monsoon season. Even though it lies in the rain-shadow region, you will have to traverse the lower hills to reach Padum. You can check out my detailed article on the best time to travel to Ladakh & Zanskar Valley .

Yes, you can make a trip to Zanskar using public transport. Kargil is well connected with JKSRTC buses with Srinagar as well as Leh. Once you reach Kargil, you can travel to Padum using infrequent buses or shared taxis running on Kargil – Padum road.

I hope this common of the itinerary for Zanskar Valley will be useful for travelers planning their journey at least for the first time to this hidden wonderland. Like I said before, you must give time to Zanskar Valley alone. Avoid mixing it up and cramping it in fewer days. You will not be able to appreciate the real beauty of this trans-Himalayan heaven.

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube ch annel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.

I will look forward to any queries or doubts or valuable suggestions and inputs you have and would love to discuss your custom plan as well in the comments section.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Hey Dheeraj, First of all, thank you for all the information on Zanskar. I keep coming back here every time i plan to go to the trans- Himalayan region. I like the Leh-Zanskar- Leh plan , i need to know if i can make the entire trip in a single taxi and how much will be the approx. cost ? Basically, need more input on the taxi part as it looks quite complicated. Also, i am planning for last week of september , will it be ok for zanskar? Regards

No Himadri, the entire trip is not possible in a single taxi as only Kargil taxis can go for a drop to Padum and then only Padum based taxis can do local sightseeing in Zanskar. So, you will need a Leh taxi to drop you at Kargil, then Kargil taxi to reach Padum and finally Padum taxi that can do sightseeing in Zanskar and drop you to Leh. Last week of September should be good.

Hi Dheeraj,

I am planning for Zanskar Valley trip this July’18. I just want to ask is this a good time to visit Zanskar Valley. Also we are planning for bike trip from Srinagar. Are bikes on rent avaialbe in Srinagar. Please suggest me the itinerary.

July is good time to visit Zanskar Valley. Yes, there are couple of rental agencies in Srinagar and you can take rented bikes to Zanskar Valley

Hi Dheeraj, We are planning to visit Zanskar in the 1st week of June. I wish if u can help me on several things. We are planning to cover Zanskar, Leh, and one lake out of Pangong and Moriri. Going via Srinagar and back via Manali on my XuV500. What r stay options in Kargil, Padum, Rangdum and Tso Moriri? Do we need to make advanced reservations? Do we need any permit to visit any of these places?

Thanks in advance 🙂

I will suggest you complete itinerary of Ladakh and Zanskar and you can pick and choose the places in Ladakh from it

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop — Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop

Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar — Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well — If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden. — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 3 | Srinagar – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil — Overnight at Kargil

Day 4 | Kargil – Padum (Zanskar Valley) — Head straight to Padum

Day 5 | Padum Local Sightseeing — Enjoy Zangla, Stongde, Karsha

Day 6 | Padum – Zongkhul Monastery – Penzi La Pass – Rangdum — Start back and stay at Rangdum

Day 7 | Rangdum – Panikhar – Sankoo – Kargil — Checkout rock carved statue at Khartse Khar

Day 8 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here — Overnight at Leh

Day 10 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder – Turtuk — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Turtuk — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La — enjoy the culture in the Turtuk Village — do mention Turtuk on the permits

Day 11 | Turtuk – Hunder — Spend whole day at Turtuk and reach Hunder by evening — Overnight at Hunder

Day 12 | Hunder – Deskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur — Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari — Enjoy drive upto Panamik, visit Yarab Tso Lake and back to overnight stay at Kyagar or Tiger or Sumur — Enjoy walks in Hunder, Deskit, Sumur villages for the last 3 days

Day 13 | Sumur/Kyagar – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 14 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Overnight at Leh

Day 15 | Leh – Sham Valley – Leh — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 16 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik)

Day 17 | Pangong Tso Lake – Shey – Thicksey – Leh — Mention all the places of this route as mentioned above on the permits and Nyoma as well — Overnight at Hanle

Day 18 | Leh – Chumathang – Mahe – Nyoma – Loma – Hanle — Overnight at Hanle

Day 19 | Hanle – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Korzok / Tso Moriri Lake OR Hanle – Salsal La – Tso Moriri Lake — Overnight at Tso Moriri lake

Day 20 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu — Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang — Overnight at Sarchu or Pang

Day 21 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Jispa

Day 22 | Jispa – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Manali

Day 23 | Manali – Delhi — Return home

Day 24 | As buffer day that can be used at will wherever required by you

You will need inner line permits on reaching Ladakh to visit Nubra, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri

Thank u very much. This will be really helpful in planning. What about stay options??

You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Few readers/members of DoW have suggested below options for Kargil though I mostly stay with Hotel Greenland in Kargil:

Aaman Guest House (just 3-4 kms after entering Kargil check post), it was a homestay and stay and food was awesome. Daspa Guest House (confused it with other) near bypass bridge. Name: Mr. Gulam Mohammed; Mob: 09469730240. Paradise Guest House in Kargil is a decent place to stay

For Padum: Go with Omasila Hotel/Guest House and at Rangdum, La Himalaya Homestay/Guest House.

I just want to ask for the update is there any road now from Lamayuru to Zanskar ? if yes , is public transport go through it ? I only know that the road to Zanskar is via Kargil

No Rio, there is no road from Lamayuru to Zanskar made through yet. It will take couple of years and that road is from Nimmu, near Leh going through Chilling to Zanskar. Hopefully this year end, the road from Darcha, Manali – Leh Highway to Padum, Zanskar will be made through.

Will the road from Kargil to Padum be opened on Mid June normally ? I am planning to visit Zanskar that time

Kargil to Padum road opens up by mid June in general. Yes Penzi La will be open, so you can make the trip to Zanskar during that time.

Has Darcha – Padum road opened for traffic?

No, the road from Darcha – Padum is not yet open.

Have planned to visit Zanskar valley in 2018. My travel route plan is as mentioned below.

Reach Srinagar by flight – Drass – Kargil – Padum / Zanskar Sight seeing – back to Kargil – visit Batalik [Dah & Hanu Village] – visit Mulbech Buddha – Leh hotel drop – Take flight from Leh.

For this I need to know:

1. Will it be possible for a single cab driver to make us travel through the entire route? If answer is NO, please tell us as per respective taxi union norms, how many cab driver needs to be arranged and what will be there operating route.

2. Is there any separate list of cab drivers for Kargil-Zanskar area in your blog? If YES, please give us the link.

3. Is there any direct road to reach Mulbech from Daah village or do I need to go back to Kargil again for starting my journey towards Mulbech?

Hey Bhaskar,

You will need a driver from Kargil who will be able to take care of the entire trip. Nowadays even in Zanskar, outside taxis run but that might change or not change in next season. So, I will suggest that you hire Kargil based driver taxi and go for the entire trip up to drop to Leh. You can call the local drivers directly to connect with them and check the more comprehensive List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali with recommendations/reviews for DoW community members.

You should take Batalik route to Dah Hanu and can come down Chitkan village form Dah and go back towards Mulbekh. If that route is closed, I will suggest to skip Mulbekh and head to Lamayuru only as it is not worth to track back for the buddha statue that can be covered later on. Also, there is a similar statue at KhartcheKhar village near Sankoo. So, you can visit that instead.

Regards Dheeraj

Dear Dheeraj,

Thanks a ton for your reply.

Below is a first cut plan for our Zanskar Tour.

4th Aug Sat – Reach Srinagar by Flight. Stay at Srinagar

5th Aug Sun – Travel up to Kargil. En route sight seeing. Stay at Kargil

6th Aug Mon – Travel up to Padum. Stay at Padum.

7th Aug Tues – Padum sight seeing [day 1]

8th Aug Wed – Padum sight seeing [day 2]

9th Aug Thurs – Travel up to Kargil, all en route sight seeing including Rangdum etc.

10th Aug Fri – Go to Batalik for visiting Aryans village, then go to Mulbech Buddha. Same day travel up to Leh. Stay at Leh.

11th Aug Sat – Rest day at Leh

12th Aug Sun – Return from Leh by flight.

Please check this plan and let me know:

1. If the plan is weather wise OK or not. Possibilities of tour getting spoiled for rainfall etc.

2. We want to hire a car with local driver. Which car will be better – innova / xylo / scorpio? We are a group of 2-3 persons.

3. We are Indian citizen. Please let me know, how many permits we need to collect for this tour and from where the same could be collected. [During our Ladakh tour all permits were arranged by our hotel manager].

4. As of now, if there is any certain regulation about the road or not. [Example: Rohtang Pass stay closed for cars on every Tuesday].

5. If there is any choice of hotels for this region available in your blog. Last time while traveling Ladakh, we had stayed at hotels as suggested in your blog, and the experience was very satisfactory 🙂

Hello Bhaskar,

1. The plan looks fine but I will again suggest skipping Mulbekh as it will add unnecessarily travel but still I think there is rest day in Leh, so manageable but your choice on it.

2. Go for Xylo or Innova in that preference only.

3. No permit is required to visit Zanskar Valley but as you will be going through Batalik route, you may need permit from Kargil DC office just for that day.

4. The time you are visiting, there will be no road issues. All the passes including Zojila Pass and Penzila Pass will be open all the time unless of course there is no landslide.

5. Hmm, for Padum check with Nobu Omasila at +919469369109, he runs Hotel Omasila. Moderate budget with decent comfort and hospitality. I always stay with Hotel Greenland, They have both economic and deluxe blocks available with them. Very decent place to stay. Else, few readers/members of DoW have suggested below options:

Planning to fly from/to Leh and then go to Zanskar valley. Itinerary as below:

7 Sep : Delhi – Leh and go to Lamayuru for night stay (about 115 km – but rather acclimatize at Lamayuru) or stay at Leh and acclimatize?

8 Sep : Reach Kargil by evening from Lamayuru or Leh by shared taxi

9 Sep: Reach Rangdum or Padum ( depending on shared taxi availability)

10 -11 Sep Padum and around (monasteries and passes) – local taxi

12 Sep: Reach Kargil / Mulbekh ( shared taxi)

13 Sep: Reach Leh (enroute see all monasteries like Likir, Alchi, etc) (private taxi)

14 Sep: Fly from Leh

Alternatively, I can travel from Srinagar ( not sure about peace status there) and do the Kargil – Dah – Lamayuru circuit instead of Alchi, Leh, etc)

Pl suggest..

Depending on the situation in Kashmir, which seems normal at tourist spots as of now as per updates from most DwD Community forum members, I will prefer to go from Srinagar and come back from Leh.

7 Sep : Delhi – Srinagar early morning flight and move to Kargil 8 Sep : Kargil – Padum 9 Sep: Padum rest, local sightseeing 10 Sep: Padum rest and local sightseeing 11 Sep: Padum – Rangdum 12 Sep: Rangdum – Lamayuru 13 Sep: Lamayuru – Leh 14 Sep: Fly from Leh

Thanks Dheeraj. Will share an account of the trip on the forums.

Great, will be looking forward to it bro

am travelling to leh ladakh from pune .. patni top.. kargil .. padum.. kargil.. leh .. nubra valley complete.. pangong lake.. tso moriri lake .. sarchu/jispa… manali ..an back to pune… no shortage of time … so wanted to know how many days in zanskar is good … thanx

Rakesh, Zanskar valley needs about 4-5 days at minimum from Kargil to at least make some sense out of the trip

Hello Dheeraj,

Always grateful for your posts. 🙂

We have planned Delhi to Leh trip from 16th June to 1st Jul(16 day) , with 2nd july as buffer.

My first question, is it worth to visit padum village keeping 2 days in plan.

Day 1: Kargil to Padum, via Sankoo, Panikhar, Rangdum Day2: Back via same route to Kargil and next day continue to Leh journey..

We are confused because we won’t be able to explore places around Zanskar in 2 days..

Please suggest, we want to see as mush places as we can.

Thank You, Paramvir Singh

It is not at all worth visiting Padum in just two days. Have at least 4 days at hand.

Hey Dheeraj,

We did some brainstorming and tried to accommodate Padum by Riding Sri Nagar to Panikhar directly (instead of kargil) and then utilize 2 days for zanskar valley. Please check below itinerary and suggest:

Date Day From and to Places to visit 6/16/2017 Day 1 Delhi to Jammu 6/17/2017 Day 2 Jammu to Srinagar/Sonamarg 6/18/2017 Day 3 Srinagar/Sonamarg to Panikhar via kargil Kargil war memorial, Suru River 6/19/2017 Day 4 Panikhar to padum Sight of nun-kun hills ( after Panikhar) Parkachik La & prakachik Glacier Rangdum Gompa (5km from Rangdum) Two small lakes called Ta Tso and the Lang Tso lakes and the massive Drang Drung glacier at Pensi La Sani Gompa at padum 12km from padum, bardan Gompa Pibting Gompa Khursha Gompa(11km from Padum) 6/20/2017 Day 5 Padum to Kargil Stongde Gompa(18km) Zangla Fort (35km from padum) 6/21/2017 Day 6 Kargil to Leh Mulbekh Monastery Fotu la Lamayuru Monastery Alchi monastery Likir monastery basgo palace Nimmoo Pathar Sahib Magnetic Hills

6/22/2017 Day 7 Leh sightseeing & Permit applied online 6/23/2017 Day 8 Leh to Nubra via khardung la Diksit Monastery(old & new) hunder monastery turtuk village

6/24/2017 Day 9 Nubra to Leh camel ride at hunder (If it is available in morning) sumur monastery panamik(hot springs)

6/25/2017 Day 10 Leh to pangong Tso Shey Palace Thiksey Monastery Hemis Monstery Pangong Tso 6/26/2017 Day 11 Pangong Tso to Hanle via Man, Merak, Chushul, Loma Chusul War memorial Tsaga/Chagga La Hanle 6/27/2017 Day 12 Hanle to Tso Moriri via Loma, Nyoma, Mane,Sumdo Namashang la Tso Moriri Korzok Monastery 6/28/2017 Day 13 Tso moriri to Sarchu via Sumdo,Pang Tso Kar Thukjey Monastery

6/29/2017 Day 14 Sarchu to Manali 6/30/2017 Day 15 Manali to Delhi 7/01/2017 Day 16 Buffer

Doubts: – Does revised route to Padum make sense, as we are investing 16 days we want to utilize some time and cover this place – To reach PaniKhar from Sri Nagar, can we reach in 9 hours approx, in case it takes more time we are okay to not roam around sonamarg and Kashmir Sightseeings – On our Journey to visit Nubra from Leh, we want to go directly Turtuk Village visiting diskit and hunder enroute. Is it advisable, or shall we stay night at hunder , because we want to experience the camel ride and not sure if it available in morning time. – Last is to cover Leh – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Morriri -Sarchu -Tandi circuit, we are planning to carry 15-16 litters per bike petrol with us, as my bike gave 30 Mileage in spiti and with fuel tank capacity of 13. we must be able to cover distance within 850KM. Please suggest.

I hope this itinerary could be useful for travelers, thanks to my friend Mikesh.

Again Dheeraj, DoW blog is fantastic and we really appreciate your efforts. 🙂

Cheers, Paramvir Singh

Hi Paramvir,

I will suggest to take it easy and do not stress upon to include Zanskar Valley. Max if you have two days is what you can do is, make a trip to Rangdum – Penzi La pass, stay overnight at Rangdum and return to Kargil next. You will be able to cover Suru Valley at least. Trying to stress upon to fit Zanskar Valley will do only harm then good to the overall nice plan.

Go directly to Turtuk without stopping in Hunder, then next day come back and stay at Hunder, Deskit enjoy these village and next day go to PAngong Tso via Shyok route in company of other vehicles.

Hmm, it is fine but do rely upon other fuel options available in villages and if you re getting the fuel, do not shy away to take it. Carry a small thin cloth which can be used as filter for impurities in such black fuel

I just want to share my trip experience with everyone and to thank you for guidance.

You were right, we should not have destined to padum. Journey was too hectic, weather was extremely bad due to rain and cold and guess what, we missed to have lunch at Rangdhum because someone told us there are villages across penzi La. So we end up eating chocolates that we carried.

Actually there was issue with self start in one bike so we planned to stay at padum instead of rangdhum so that we can get mechanic in morning.

Otherwise trip was superb, we followed LEH -> Pangong (Man) -> Merak -> Chushul -> Loma -> Hanle -> Sumdo -> Morriri -> Tso Kar -> Tandi route. This was nearly 850 KM circuit so we carried total 67 liter petrol for 2 bullet. At end we had 7-8 ltrs extra fuel.

I saw petrol pump under construction near to observatory route, which could be bliss for traveler if completes.

Also observatory timings are 10AM – 5PM, we reached after 5 so missed to visit observatory, fellow travelers could note it.

During end on manali highway we witness hardship near jispa because of cloudburst, we stayed at tent shop in zing zing bar and it was very difficult to cross baralacha having rain, cold and clouds around.

I would suggest fellow bikers following:

1. Prefer trip on your own vehicles, we spent nearly 10K extra on rent bike as it was in very bad condition and unexpected breakdown, like self issue make us ‘dhaka-start’ experts. 2. Himalayan bike have few major problems, like coil get burnt, tight clutch, gear lever too tight and rear break shoe. Still if you are riding it, remember if self isn’t working, it means coil is gone. Lot of Himalayan were facing issue. 3. Please carry bike tool kit, plas etc and if your bike have luggage carrier take extra screws, because constant jerks will rip off the carrier screws. 4. Don’t forget to carry extra fuel, maybe you use it, but on the way struck bikers can get help. I met biker coming back from spiti due to bad weather and was out of petrol, so we happily helped him. 5. There are few reliable mechanic, a. Mohan Sharma in LEH, near main petrol pump, LEH – Manali highway, b. Mahadev autos in udhampur They are experts, especially Mohan sharma and service fee etc are very genuine.

Once again, thank you so much Dheeraj. Paramvir Singh

How much money would be required for accomodation and food considering the 8 day plan approx??

It depends on how are you traveling. What is the commute? Food and stay I generally take about 1000-1200 per day on an average.

Thanks for reply…..Is it good to go without any booking for accomodation….. How will be the availability of rooms during July…

Yeah, if you are OK to search few place on reaching there and are not that much choosy about stay then well yes, you can do so on the spot too.

Hi Dheeraj , What is the taxi rate from Kargil to Padum and back to Kargil if I reserve a private taxi ?

2 days to reach Padum from Kargil 1 day rest at Padum local sightseeing . I know this cost is different as I have to take separate car. 2 days to come back to Kargil

So how much the taxi will cost for Kargil-Padum-Kargil for 5 days ( 2 days up + 2 days down+ 1 day stay at Padum)

Kargil to Padum and back will cost around 28-30K for private taxi. Local taxi in Padum will cost around 4K.

Hi Dheeraj, When the road Kargil to Padum is expected to open this year considering Manali Leh opening earlier this year inspite of heavy snowfall ?

It is expected to open by the first week of June. Right now as per a bit stale updates road clearance has not reached Randgum from Kargil side and yet to reach Penzi La from Zanskar side.

Hi Dheeraj , Thanks for replying on Zanskar query. I understand October is not a good time for Manali to Leh. However if I travel to and fro Leh by flight from Delhi Mid October do you see any issue to have a trip to Tso Moriri, Nubra , Pangong Tso in October middle keeping in mind that snowfall may happen anytime in Leh particularly those areas like Chang La, Khardung La etc.

Hi Dheeraj , Another query.. I heard nowadays we have accommodation in between Kargil and Padum in places like Parakchik, Panikhar, rangdum. So e can break journey at Parakchik instead of rangdum or we can reach padum in 3 days from Kargil with night stays at Parakchik, Rangdum as we have 7 year old kid. What kind of accommodation we have at Parakchik and RANGDUM ? aPART FROM THESE TWO PLACES ANY OTHER ACCOMMODATION IN BETWEEN ?

Hi Nilavra,

Well, as you may know that age does not matter for acclimatization and 7-year-old kid can easily communicate annoyance/health issues. So, let’s not keep age factor in play here.

Now, doing KArgil – Padum in 3 days, well, I understand you plan to break it in between but frankly speaking Rangdum is much harsh place than Padum and it does not help staying up there while going to Padum. Also, these places do not have medical facilities while Padum has a big hospital where things can be taken care if something goes wrong. Parakchik stay is very basic.

If I were you, I will always stick to doing Kargil to Padum directly, resting in Padum for a couple of days, then while coming back overnight stay at Rangdum where La Himalaya Guest House is not up and running with attached bathrooms.

Hi Dheeraj , Thanks for the response. I am planning Zanskar this july. Another question…I read in one of your threads on Zanskar that couple of new roads being built – Darcha to Padum and Leh to Padum. What’s the status on thee roads ? Are these complete or when they are expected to be operational ? Can tourists like me go from Darcha to Shingo la at the moment ? Do BRO allow Darcha to Shingo La? do we need separate permission for that ? If I plan to come back from Leh to Manali I wish to visit Shingo la with an extra day at hand. is that possible ?

What about the rest of the strectch from Shingo La to Padum ? What about Leh to Padum ?

Both roads are work in progress and not yet operational. Darcha to Shingo La pass is open but not any further and no permission is required. You can do it while staying at Jispa. Padum to Shingo La is not open yet.

Nilavra, how many days do you have in hand. I am just curious to know as you have many threads open, for Zanskar, PAngi, Lahaul, Ladakh with all destinations ;)….

Anyways, back to question, both Tso Moriri and PAngong tso get very chilly and windy in nights and morning by that time. Consider sub-zero. So, not an ideal time to enjoy the nature. The snowfall can happen but that may block the road for only a day or two as it is not persistent snowfall unless you have luck running out from you.

Hi Dheeraj , Many thanks for your patience to answer all my queries. I am going for Zanskar trip in July and am having another plan for Leh trip in Mid october. So two trips in this year.

That’s really good to know 🙂

Hi Dheeraj , Any idea when Shingo La to Padum will open ? How many years ?

In couple of years at least.

Hi Dheeraj , Is it possible to have Zanskar trip mid october ? I mean Kargil to Padum ? As you say Manali Leh is not advised in October so what about the zanskar trip in mid october ? Do people go to Padum that time of the year ?

Now a days, people do travel but keep in mind it gets cold and dry in Zanskar as well. Also, snowfall may happen but since last few years, snowfall is delayed mostly.

HI, This is Pankit, My Cousin is Planning MANALI – LEH in JULY 17…. I wanted some information ….

he is keen on doing MANALI LEH thru CAR…so can u give me some options where all he can visit once he reaches… LEH……

thanking You ,

Pankit, you can refer the article: Ladakh from Manali – Most Common Itinerary

Hi Dheeraj We have been twice to Ladakh pan gong and Nubia. This time we have planned from Jalandhar on 28 May to 8 June having 12 days strictly by Pajero sports family of 5. We want to cover zhanskar pan gong and toso Mori. Plushest the possibility and itenry. We all are frequent travellers and can move on any rough terrains for continues days. Pl suggest best possible itenry with home stay accommodations only

Harish, better postpone the trip by couple of weeks as the Manali – Leh will not be open during that time of the year.

We have only this period from 28 May to 8 June strictly. So pl suggest us best possible itnery to zhanskar , tso morrari or some route like kaza. We love off road tours. We have been to chitkul and sach pass

Harish, Zanskar Valley will most likely be closed during that time as Penzi La will open around the first week of June. Then Srinagar – Leh Highway will be open and most likely Manali-Leh will open too. You have 12 days in hand and can easily refer a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

Drop the rest day to make it 12 day plan.

I want to visit Zanskar Valley with the Leh-Ladakh tour. Is it possible to visit Zanskar directly from Leh through Zanskar Valley Road (not via Kargil) by Car in the end of September? Can you tell me any alternate tour plan including Zanskar with Leh trip? I have only 10 days in hand for the trip.

Thanks in advance.

Regards, Anuvab

The direct road between Zanskar Valley and Ladakh has not been built/completed yet, so the only way to travel to Zanskar Valley is via Kargil only.

Zanskar Valley needs at least 4 days ex. Kargil. Two days are required to reach Kargil from Leh and come back to Leh or Srinagar. This makes it 6 days. In case you are flying, you can do these 6 days and after returning to Leh, you can make a trip to Nubra Valley for 2 days and Pangong Tso for two days. Finally on Day 11 fly back from Leh.

Thanks a lot Dheeraj for your valuable reply and also for the plan. Now we can make a proper plan. We have a plan to return through Manali, therefore this time may be we could not cover Zanskar. Moreover, we want to tough Turtuk in this tour. We have planned such way, Days-Locations 01-New Del-Leh 02-Leh-Nubra 03-Nubra-Turtuk-Nubra 04-Nubra- Leh (if possible local sightseeing) 05-Leh-Pangong Tso 06-Pangong Tso – Leh 07-Leh-Tso Moriri 08-Tso Moriri – Jispa 09-Jispa -Manali 10-Manali- Chandigarh

Is it working? and what about Turtuk? Can you give few more details?

Well, the only concerning factor in the plan is that you may not have enough acclimatization before moving to Nubra Valley on Day 2. In general, if flying into Leh, it is recommended that you take at least two days of rest in Leh before moving to high altitude places. You can only do it in following ways:

1. Add one day to your plan 2. Skip Turtuk 3. Take direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso.

Thanks again Dheeraj for the reply. We have traveled Kinnau-Spitiwith Chandrataal in the last year. So we need much rest for acclimatization. As you suggest we can move Pangong Tso from Nubra, so we can manage one day extra which we can add on second day.

I have some more queries, accommodations for Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Jispa.

What do u suggest for stay among Sarchu, Jispa and Keylong?

And what about Turtuk? How it is? I have seen few images and information through internet.

Turtuk needs an extra day in Nubra Valley in case you want to make a trip. If you have one extra day it will be worth the visit.

Sorry, I have missed few texts in last reply. I mean to say… We have traveled Kinnau-Spiti with Chandrataal in the last year. We have faced few problems. So we need much rest for acclimatization in Leh.

Just replied to other comment, make sure that you rest for two days in that case for sure.

how it looks with new direct road to Zanskar valley? When is the planned finish deadline? Is it possible to pedalling with bicycle (not motor bike) trough it now?

Thanks a lot.

The direct route to Zanskar Valley from Leh as well as Darcha – Manali is not yet complete. There was a setback on Padum side due to a flash flood last to last year. If you plan to pedal it, it will be quite a lot of journey where you will need to carry it while trekking. The road from Darcha to Shingo La and few KMs beyond has been opened by BRO last year but beyond that to reach Padum you may have to carry the bicycle alot. If you can get the porters and mules, it could be worth a try.

Dear Dheeraj, If I have to go by Srinagar -Zanskar- Leh route , do you mean I will need 3 different taxi for the entire trip. I have been to kashmir and ladakh separately , now Zanskar is on my cards. Do you have any recommended taxi driver for srinagar to zanskar and zanskar site seeing and drop to leh?

Hello Himadri,

From this year onward the taxi union rules in Zanskar have been relaxed and you no longer need to take individual taxis for it. If you want to do just Zanskar, any Kargil based taxi should be able to take your through Zanskar and now even Ladakh based taxis are also allowed. A Kargil based taxi is more preferable because of the region they are frequent to that route from the past and Ladakh/Srinagar guys will be starting their trips most likely from next season as earlier they were not allowed. You can refer the list: List of Taxi Drivers for Ladakh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali

That is a great piece of information , thanks a lot Dheeraj. I have a few other questions- What is the best way to travel from Srinagar to Kargil on budget or do I will need to hire a taxi for dropping? Can it be done in public transport ? How much time will it take?

Yes, you can travel from daily buses from Srinagar to Kargil. However, from Kargil to Padum the buses are not that frequent. You either need a private taxi or you need to travel with local shared taxi that works by per seat basis of around Rs 1500

Thanks for the details. I finished my trip to Zankar valley. (Shared taxi). including trek to Phutkal monastery.

I just felt, a day stay in Phuktal is really required to enjoy the remoteness of the place 🙂 And Padum was really awesome, such a big valley.

Thanks again.

My return journey from Padum to Kargil was night journey, and it was different experience though. (Because of some time constraints, I had).

– Rohith

Awseome Rohith !! How about sharing the travel tale with us in DwD Community. It will be helpful to many other fellow travelers.

Hi dheeraj Is it possible to visit zanskar valley in mid nov, with a fwd high gc car.

It will be veru risky affair and not recommended at all because Penzi La close at anytime.

HI Dheeraj,

Last time I asked about Spiti, which I have put on hold and instead want to plan Zanskar in July. The quotes I have received for the taxi are exorbitant. Rs 36,000 fro a four day trip from Kargil to Padum and back to kargil. the overall itinerary is as follows. Since I shall be travelling with wife and kinds, the program is relaxed. 01 Arrival Srinagar Pickup to house boat, Afternoon visit Shalimar, Shankar Achariya, 02 Srinagar to Kargil over night hotel, 03 Kargil to Ragdum to overnight camp, 04 Radum to Padum over night guest house, 05 Padum Karsha, Stungday monastery visit back to Padum over night guest house, 06 Padum to Rangdum overnight camp, 07 Rangdum to Lamayuru over night hotel, 08 Lamayuru to Leh over night guest house,

Well the camps too are expensive at Rangdum. Any suggestions? Are the Taxi fares Okay?

I will say go directly to Padum instead of staying at Rangdum because it is a harsh place. Taxi fare is OK. At rangdum you can stay at a home stay instead of camps which are very costly

hii Dheeraj

we are planning for trip from srinagar to leh . But people are saying that road condition from srinagar to leh is not good for bike and also there will be lot of dust. so what should we prefer bike or public transport ? we will prefer bike if road are smooth .

our Ladakh trip is coming closer and one question is in my head: How about electricity in certain places? – Just need to charge my camera battery (cannot use solar power bank with Canon chargers…). In which of the following is this possible?

I’d need this information especially for:

Zanskar (Padum or Karsha) and

guesthouses around Tso Moriri.

Furthermore, how about electricity at Pangong Tso and Nubra (Hunder, Diskit)

Thank you so much for your information and for sharing your experience. This would help me a lot to plan our 50-days-Ladakh-trip.

Kind regards from Thailand,

Hello Daniel,

Most of the places will have electricity like Nubra Valley, Zanskar, Padum, Karsha. Guest houses in Tso Moriri too will have electricity but limited supply and same will be applicable for Pangong Tso. Some of them do have generators for providing this limited power supply. So, better carry extra batteries for your camera and keep them charged in Leh, Padum, Nubra before making moves to remote places like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri and Manali – Leh highway

Hi Dheeraj, I was wondering is it possible to add Zanskar Valley to the 14 days most common Srinagar-Kargil-Leh-Manali trip? Because the Zanskar Valley itself take 8 days as stated above. I’m from Indonesia and i’m not sure if i can go back to Ladakh again in the future so i hope i can cover all the places if it’s possible (with time effeciency, and money issues of course haha). Or maybe can you suggest me another itinerary to cover best places at Jammu-Khasmir and Ladakh in less than 18 days?

Thanks in advance,

Zanskar Valley needs about 3-4 days at minimum from Kargil. So, within 14 days, well, it will be too much to ask for. You will need to skip one of the places in Ladakh in order to accomodate it. You can at most save two days, one by directly flying to Srinagar and other by removing the rest day in that common itinerary for Ladakh. You will still needs at least 1-2 days to add Zanskar Valley.

I see you have 18 days, then it is like:

Fly to Srinagar, saves you one day. Reach Kargil the next day, then move to Padum from Kargil. Rest day at Padum and local sightseeing next day, next day start for Rangdum enjoying the journey in between with longer stopovers, finally reach Kargil or Mulbekh or Lamayuru next day. From there resume the 14 day plan. Remove rest day from the plan and well you should be good to go with 18 days.

Thanks Deeraj, Wow it seems like a really though trip. I think i’ll just skip Zanskar for this time.

That will be better bet.

Hi Dheeraj, It’s good to know that we can reach Padum with Public transportation.

With my previous trips to ladakh (July/2015 & Dec/2015), I have covered following places: – Manali-Leh – Khardungla-Diskit-Turtuk – Pangong Tso – Tsomoriri

I have already planned to reach Srinagar in July/2016.

1. Srinagar-Leh-Hanle (& probably few other places) > But, Do I have anything else than Hanle? I have visited other places in my previous visits. 2. Srinagar-Kargil-padum (Just as per your suggested itinerary) > I would miss Kargil-Leh route, Lamayouru and Hanle.

I am thinking of going on with (2) Do you have any suggestion? Thanks in advance

Hmm, well there are many routes like Pangong Tso – Nubra connects with 3 routes, I am not sure which one you took. Then Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri connects via 3 routes, not sure which one you took. Kargil to Leh is connected by two routes too not sure which one you too. You can try all these places as well 🙂 … Refer DoW Maps of Ladakh to explore any routes that you might not have taken. Zanskar Valley should be done as a dedicated trip, so focus on it only this time.

Thanks Dheeraj, I think, I will plan for Zanskar only. As I am travelling solo, just worried about the journey. Anyways, I will update on my travel once I finish. Anyways, I have 4 more months to plan.

Sure, feel free to post any queries you have for your Zanskar Valley plans.

hi Dheeraj,

As usual amazing info regarding any destination in the Himalyas. Just wanted to confirm one thing. Can the above 8/9 day itinerary be done using public transport? Or is it difficult to get public transport in Zanskar?

Jatin, with public transport as well it can be done. Buses do run between all these places but within Padum/Zanskar you might have to rely on shared taxis or private taxi only.

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🗓 Best Time To Visit: June to September

⏰ Open Hours: N/A

🏞 Things To Do: Trekking, River Rafting, Visiting Monasteries

💰 Budget: Approximately INR 20,000 - 30,000 for a week

🧳 Traveller Types: Adventure Seekers, Nature Lovers, Photographers

🔖 Known For: Breathtaking Landscapes, Ancient Monasteries, Zanskar River

📍 Distances: From Leh - 105 km, Nearest Airport - Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh - 73 km

🌡 Climate: Sub-zero temperatures in winter, mild in summer

📷 Photo Opportunities: Zanskar River, Panikhar, Pensi La Pass

🍲 Local Cuisine: Thukpa, Momos, Skyu

⚠️ Travel Tip: Acclimatise for a day or two in Leh before travelling to Zanskar to avoid altitude sickness

Zanskar Valley: A Complete Guide to the Land of White Copper

Zanskar Valley is a part of the Greater Himalayas, situated at an altitude of 3,500 to 7,000 meters above sea level. It covers an area of about 5,000 square kilometers, and is surrounded by the Zanskar Range, the Ladakh Range, and the Indus Valley. It is also known as the Land of White Copper, because of its rich deposits of copper and other minerals.

Zanskar Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, as it offers some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in the world. You can witness the frozen wonder of the Chadar Trek, the majestic beauty of the Suru Valley, the spiritual aura of the Phugtal Monastery, and the thrilling excitement of rafting on the Zanskar River. You can also explore the ancient and authentic culture of the Zanskari people, who have preserved their traditions and customs for centuries.

History and Culture of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley has a rich and fascinating history and culture, that dates back to thousands of years. It has witnessed the rise and fall of various kingdoms and dynasties, the spread and influence of Buddhism, and the celebration and diversity of festivals.

Origin and Etymology of Zanskar Valley

The origin and etymology of Zanskar Valley are not very clear, but there are some theories and legends that try to explain them. One theory suggests that the name Zanskar derives from the Tibetan word “Zangskar”, which means “copper star”. This refers to the copper mines that are found in the region, and the star-shaped pattern that they form on the ground. Another theory proposes that the name Zanskar comes from the Sanskrit word “Janskar”, which means “the land of white copper” . This also relates to the abundance of copper and other minerals in the area.

According to a legend, Zanskar Valley was once a part of a vast lake, that was drained by the sage Padmasambhava , who is revered as the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. He created a passage through the mountains, and allowed the water to flow out. He then blessed the land and the people, and established many monasteries and temples in the region.

Rulers and Dynasties of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley has a long and complex political and military history, that involves various rulers and dynasties. The earliest recorded history of Zanskar Valley dates back to the 8th century, when it was a part of the Tibetan Empire. It was then ruled by the local kings of the Zanskar Dynasty, who were loyal to the Tibetan kings. The Zanskar Dynasty lasted until the 15th century , when it was annexed by the Ladakh Kingdom.

The Ladakh Kingdom ruled over Zanskar Valley for about three centuries, until it was invaded by the Dogra forces of Jammu in the 19th century. The Dogra rule lasted until the 20th century, when Zanskar Valley became a part of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. After the independence and partition of India in 1947, Zanskar Valley remained a part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, until 2019, when it was reorganized into the union territory of Ladakh.

Religion and Spirituality of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is predominantly a Buddhist region, with about 95% of the population following the Tibetan branch of Buddhism . Buddhism was introduced to Zanskar Valley in the 8th century, by the famous Indian monk Padmasambhava, who is also known as Guru Rinpoche. He established many monasteries and temples in the region, and spread the teachings and practices of Buddhism among the people.

Zanskar Valley is home to some of the oldest and most sacred monasteries in the world, such as Karsha, Stongde, Sani, Bardan, and Phugtal. These monasteries belong to different schools of Tibetan Buddhism, such as Gelug, Kagyu, Drukpa, and Nyingma. They are the centers of religious and cultural activities, where monks and nuns live, study, and meditate.

Geography and Flora and Fauna of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is a unique and diverse region, that has a variety of geographical and ecological features. It has a rugged and mountainous terrain, a cold and dry climate, a rich and varied flora and fauna, and a valuable and abundant natural resources.

Landscape and Climate of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is a part of the Greater Himalayas, which is the highest and youngest mountain range in the world. It is surrounded by the Zanskar Range, the Ladakh Range, and the Indus Valley, which form natural boundaries and barriers. It has a complex and varied topography, with high peaks, deep valleys, narrow gorges, wide plains, and glacial lakes. Some of the prominent geographical features of Zanskar Valley are Zanskar River, Zanskar Range and Pensi La.

Flora and Fauna of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley has a rich and varied flora and fauna, that reflects its diverse and extreme environment. It has a sparse and alpine vegetation, that consists of grasses, shrubs, herbs, and flowers. Some of the common plants found in Zanskar Valley are juniper, birch, willow, poplar, wild rose, and edelweiss. It also has a rare and endangered medicinal plant, called yartsa gunbu, which is a fungus that grows on caterpillars, and is used for various health benefits.

Zanskar Valley has a diverse and exotic wildlife, that includes mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Some of the common animals found in Zanskar Valley are yak, ibex, bharal, marmot, snow leopard, wolf, fox, and bear.

Natural Resources of Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley has a valuable and abundant natural resources, that are both renewable and non-renewable. It has a rich and varied mineral resources, such as copper, gold, silver, lead, zinc, iron, and uranium. It also has a potential and untapped hydroelectric resources, as it has many rivers, streams, and glaciers, that can generate electricity. It also has a promising and emerging solar and wind resources, as it has a high altitude, a clear sky, and a strong wind.

Attractions and Activities in Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, as it offers some of the most spectacular and diverse attractions and activities in the world.

1. Chadar Trek

Chadar Trek is one of the most challenging and thrilling treks in the world , where you walk on a frozen river in sub-zero temperatures. The Chadar Trek is a winter trek, that takes place from January to February, when the Zanskar River freezes and forms a thick layer of ice, called the Chadar. The Chadar Trek covers a distance of about 105 kilometers, and takes about 9 days to complete. It starts from Chilling, a village near Leh, and ends at Naerak, a village in Zanskar Valley. Along the way, you can witness the stunning scenery of the Zanskar Gorge, the frozen waterfalls, the ice caves, and the snow-capped mountains.

2. Phugtal Monastery

Phugtal Monastery is one of the most spectacular and isolated monasteries in the world , where you can witness the ancient and authentic Buddhist culture and practices. The Phugtal Monastery is a cave monastery, that is built on a cliff, and overlooks the Lungnak River. It is accessible only by foot, and takes about 7 hours to reach from Padum, the nearest town in Zanskar Valley. The Phugtal Monastery was founded in the 12th century, by the Tibetan saint Phugtal Lama, who meditated in the cave for many years. It belongs to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, and houses about 70 monks and nuns, who live, study, and meditate in the monastery.

3. Suru Valley

Suru Valley is one of the most scenic and fertile valleys in the regio n, where you can enjoy the lush greenery, the colorful flowers, and the majestic views of the Himalayas. The Suru Valley is a part of the Suru River basin, which originates from the Panzella Glacier, and flows northward for about 185 kilometers, before joining the Indus River.

Rafting is one of the most exciting and adventurous activities in the region, where you can experience the rapids and the currents of the Zanskar River . Rafting is a summer activity, that takes place from July to September, when the water level is high and the weather is warm. Rafting covers a distance of about 30 kilometers, and takes about 3 hours to complete. It starts from Chilling, a village near Leh, and ends at Nimmu, a village near the confluence of the Zanskar and the Indus rivers.

Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley has a seasonal variation in its weather and accessibility, that affects the best time to visit the region. The best time to visit Zanskar Valley depends on your preference and purpose, as each season has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a brief overview of the best time to visit Zanskar Valley, based on the temperature and the road conditions.

Summer Season

The summer season in Zanskar Valley lasts from June to September , when the weather is pleasant and sunny, and the roads are open and accessible. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, and the rainfall is scarce.

Winter Season

The winter season in Zanskar Valley lasts from December to March , when the weather is cold and snowy, and the roads are closed and inaccessible, except for the Chadar Trek. The average temperature ranges from -20°C to -5°C, and the snowfall is heavy.

Spring and Autumn Seasons

The spring and autumn seasons in Zanskar Valley are transitional, with moderate temperature and precipitation. The spring season lasts from April to May, and the autumn season lasts from October to November. The average temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C, and the rainfall is moderate.

How to Reach Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is a remote and isolated region, that is not easily accessible by any mode of transportation.

The nearest airport to Zanskar Valley is the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport , which is located in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. It is about 230 kilometers away from Zanskar Valley, and takes about 6 hours to reach by road.

The nearest bus station to Zanskar Valley is the Kargil Bus Stand , which is located in Kargil, the second largest town in Ladakh. It is about 105 kilometers away from Zanskar Valley, and takes about 4 hours to reach by road. The Kargil Bus Stand is connected to many major cities and towns in India, such as Srinagar, Jammu, Manali, and Leh, by various bus operators, such as JKSRTC, HRTC, and HPTDC.

The nearest railway station to Zanskar Valley is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station , which is located in Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is about 650 kilometers away from Zanskar Valley, and takes about 14 hours to reach by road.

Zanskar Valley is a region of immense natural beauty and cultural heritage, that attracts many tourists and travelers from all over the world. It is a place where you can experience the adventure and thrill of the Himalayas, the spirituality and peace of Buddhism, and the diversity and richness of Ladakh. It is a place that you should not miss, if you are looking for a unique and unforgettable journey.

Zanskar Valley Reviews

Places To Visit In Jammu And Kashmir

Travel Blogs for Zanskar Valley

Zanskar valley tour

Phuktal, padum, karsha....

The Zanskar valley is a hidden gem for travellers seeking an authentic village life experience in the remote Himalayan region. It is also home to numerous monasteries steeped in history, with the most renowned being the enchanting Phuktal monastery .

The Zanskar valley is accessed from Leh and the Indus valley via Singe La pass at an altitude of 5,360 metres above sea level. After descending from the pass, you will arrive at Lingshed , a charming Zanskari village with a prominent whitewashed gompa.

The town of Padum , the capital of Zanskar, serves as an ideal base for exploring the nearby villages, palaces, and monasteries of the region, including Zangla , Stongde , Karsha , Bardan , Sani and Zongkhul .

As you drive from Padum towards Rangdum , you will encounter a variety of natural wonders, such as Pensi La & Drang Drung glacier , Parkachik glacier & Nun Kun Peak and the breathtaking Suru valley .

As part of your Zanskar tour, you will have the chance to explore all the attractions situated between Leh and Kargil in the Sham region of Ladakh. This includes visits to the well-known monasteries in the Indus valley, such as Alchi , Likir , Lamayuru , Shargole , Rizong , Basgo , Phyang and Spituk .

Other nice places that you will be able to see during this tour include the 8-metre-high Maitreya Buddha rock carving at Mulbek , the confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers known as Sangam , the mysterious Magnetic Hill and the Sikh place of worship Gurdwara Pathar Sahib .

OTHER TOURS THAT MAY INTEREST YOU

Places to visit in zanskar valley, phuktal monastery.

Phuktal monastery , situated in the southeastern part of the Zanskar region in Ladakh, is the most impressive attraction in the area and one of the most secluded gompas. It is constructed around a natural cave, a sacred site believed to have drawn scholars, translators, and monks over 2,550 years ago. Its remote location made it an ideal haven for monks seeking tranquility for meditation. The present-day Phuktal monastery follows the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and was founded in the early 15th century by Jangsem Sherap Zangpo, a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa.

The name 'Phuktal' derives from the Zanskari dialect, where 'Phuk' means 'cave,' and 'tal' means 'at leisure'. Reaching this monastery involves a two-hour walk, making it an ideal adventure for hiking enthusiasts who want to experience the natural beauty along the Tsarap river.

Padum , situated at an altitude of 3,669 meters, serves as the capital of the Zanskar region and is home to approximately 1,500 residents. This charming town provides a variety of amenities, including quaint restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, and shops. It offers easy access to nearby villages and monasteries, making it an ideal central hub for travelers seeking to explore the Zanskar region.

Singe La Pass (5,057m)

Lingshed monastery.

Lingshed monastery is an historical and spiritual treasure nestled amidst the majestic Zanskar Range mountains on the south side of Singe La pass. Founded in the 1440s by Changsems Sherabs Zangpo, a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, it is located 83 kilometers north of Padum. This Gelugpa Buddhist monastery has a rich history, originally established on a monastic site founded by Translator Rinchen Zangpo.

Karsha Monastery

Karsha monastery stands as the largest and most significant monastery in the Zanskar valley. Affiliated with the Gelugpa or Yellow Hat sect, this monastery comprises a series of 30 whitewashed buildings, cascading along the mountainside.

Presently under the guidance of the younger brother of the 14th Dalai Lama, Karsha monastery was established by the Buddhist master Phagspa Sherab, who introduced Buddhism to the Zanskar valley and is attributed to Guru Padmasambhava. Within the monastery, you can find numerous shrines, ancient rock carvings and the Avalokiteshvara Temple. However, the most remarkable feature of the monastery is a chorten that houses the mummified remains of Rinchen Zangpo, an incarnate lama, enclosed within a wooden box adorned with silver.

Zangla Palace & Monastery

Zangla village , once ruled by a monarch who still resides here with his family, is a unique and historic place. An old palace on a nearby hillock, just a 15-minute hike away, overlooks the village. Inside the palace, an intact Buddhist shrine offers breathtaking views of the valley.

Stongde Monastery

Stongde monastery , one of the most significant gompas in Zanskar, may not appear very imposing when viewed from below, but it occupies a prominent vantage point that offers breathtaking views of the Zanskar valley, especially in the morning light.

Legend has it that Stongde was once situated on the shores of a large lake. A small, box-like room below the main monastery, which is believed to have been right at the lakeside about a thousand years ago, is said to have been used by the Tibetan Buddhist Great Translator Marpa Lotsawa for meditation.

While the current monastery structure mainly dates back to the 20th century, a small and atmospheric prayer room on the left side as you enter the inner courtyard houses ancient murals that are believed to be over 250 years old.

Bardan Monastery

Bardan monastery is a 17th-century Buddhist gompa, approximately 12 kilometers south of Padum, situated on the banks of the Lungnak river. This charming monastery boasts a grand Dukhang, an assembly hall adorned with magnificent statues of revered Buddhist deities and a collection of small stupas.

Sani Monastery

Sani monastery , located on a flat area much like Alchi, belongs to the Drukpa school and is affiliated with Stakna in Ladakh. This school holds a special reverence for the master Naropa , and a small chapel within is said to house relics of this great teacher. Sani monastery is a captivating blend of diverse elements spanning different eras and architectural styles.

Zongkhul Monastery

Pensi la & drang drung glacier.

Pensi La , located 150 km south of Kargil, is a mountain pass at an elevation of 4,400 meters above sea level. This pass connects the Suru valley and the Zanskar valley regions.

Rangdum Monastery

Rangdum , situated at the end of the Suru Valley, is the first Buddhist village along the route to Zanskar. The monastery, perched on a small hill, is affiliated with the Gelugpa order.

Parkachik Glacier & Nun Kun Peak

Parkachik glacier , situated on the slopes of Nun Kun peak, showcases its expansive icy terrain. This glacier is a prominent natural attraction.

Suru Valley

Situated to the south of Kargil, the Suru valley is a fertile and picturesque region embraced by the Suru river, a tributary of the Indus river. This charming valley not only sustains the local communities but also boasts awe-inspiring landscapes.

Best time to visit Zanskar valley

The Zanskar valley tour is feasible from mid-May to mid-October , when the Singe La pass is open to traffic. Throughout the rest of the year, the road is inaccessible. The responsibility for road maintenance and snow clearance falls under the purview of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a division of the Indian Ministry of Defence.

Tips for planning a trip to Zanskar valley

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Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

Zanskar Valley Tour Package from Manali (with Leh Ladakh)

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Ladakh by Road
Ladakh Package
Meals included
Zanskar Valley Tour Package

Zanskar Valley Tour Package from Manali or Delhi for 10 nights 11 days

Duration: 10 Nights & 11 Days

Trip Synopsis: Delhi – Manali –Atal Tunnel – Keylong- Jispa – Shinkula pass – Purne – Muney – Bardan – Padum (Zanskar valley) – Karsha – Stongdey – Sani – Zangla – Nimmu – Sangam – Magnetic Hill – Gurudwara Pathar Sahib – Leh – Hall of Fame – Spituk Gompa – Leh Palace – Shanti Stupa – Khardungla Pass – Nubra Valley – Pangong Lake – Changla pass – Thiksey – Shey – Leh

10 Nights 11 Days Zanskar valley tour package from Manali is the newest tour package after opening of the Manali-Zanskar valley road via Shinkula pass. The lease visited remote Zanskar valley, which is not only beautiful and full of cultural heritage, remained hidden for centuries, and now is easy to reach from Delhi or Chandigarh via Manali.

The Zanskar valley tour package will have its centre at Padum for sightseeing of Zanskar, the headquarters of the Zanskar, and at Leh for sightseeing of Pangong lake and Nubra valley. The package also includes sightseeing of major tourist places of Leh Ladakh.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Delhi – Manali (overnight journey)

Day 2: Manali local sightseeing (Hidimba temple, Old Manali, Club House, Vashisht hotwater Spring, Mall Road)

Dat 3: Manali – Solang valley – Atal Tunnel – Sissu – Keylong – Jispa

Day 4: Jispa – Darcha – Shinkula pass – Kargiakh – Purne – Padum (Zanskar valley)

Day 5: Zanskar sightseeing (Karsha monastery, Stongdey monastery, Sani Gompa, Padum town etc)

Day 6: Padum – Zangla – Nimmu – Sangam – Magnetic Hill – Pathar Sahib Gurudwara – Leh

Day 7: Hall of Fame – Spituk Gompa – Leh Palace – Shanti Stupa – Leh market

Day 8: Leh – Khardungla pass – Nubra Valley (Hunder and Diskit)

Day 9: Nubra – Shyok – Pangong Lake

Day 10: Pangong – Changla pass – Thiksey – Shey – Leh

Day 11: Leh Airport Drop

This package starts from Delhi and ends at Leh airport.

The Zanskar valley tour package from Manali includes sightseeing of Manali , Zanskar valley and Leh Ladakh.

After travelling to Manali from Delhi in overnight Volvo bus (can travel in private taxi as well), the onward journey starts in a private taxi (SUV or Traveller). The adventurous journey with scenic road starts from Manali. The transformation in landscapes starts as you enter Atal tunnel.

After spending a night at Jispa in Lahaul valley, you will start a uphill climb to Shinkula pass (Shingola pass) and then descend to Zanskar valley. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes dotted with amazing small villages which recently received road connectivity. After a small halt at Purne for lunch break, you will reach Padum for night stay. Padum is the main town of Zanskar valley.

After visiting major monasteries like Karsha, Stongdey and Sani Gompa, you can explore Padum town. Later head to Leh via Zangla and Nimmu.

Now starts your Leh Ladakh trip.

This package includes visit to Hall of Fame , Spituk monastery, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Magnetic Hill , Sangam, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa and Leh market.

Zanskar valley tour package from Delhi also includes major tourist places of Ladakh — Nubra valley and famous Pangong lake .

The package also includes a visit to Khardungla pass , Nubra Valley (Diskit and Hunder) and Pangong Lake.

Zanskar valley tour package from Manali includes the most visited monasteries including Thiksey , Shey , Spituk and Diskit monasteries.

At Pangong, you will enjoy the beautiful lake which changes its colour from morning to evening. In the Nubra valley of Ladakh, you can enjoy double humped camel ride at sand dunes of Hunder besides visiting the picturesque Diskit monastery. Diskit monastery is also famous for its 100ft high statue of Lord Maitreya Buddha.

The tourists will experience the adventurous drive through mighty Khardungla pass at 18,380ft. Khardungla is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world after Umling La.

You will travel in bus from Delhi to Manali and then a private taxi will pick you up from Manali and drop you off at Leh Airport on the last day after you finish your trip. A private taxi will be available for all the sightseeing that you finalize in your itinerary.

The 10 days Zanskar valley tour package from Delhi is suitable for tourists of all age-group who are healthy and not suffering from breathing or heart-related problems. Ailing people, children below 3 year-old, should consult doctor first.

Zanskar valley is in Kargil district of Ladakh. Pangong lake, Khardungla and Nubra valley are in Leh district of Ladakh.

Tourists need to obtain permits after payment of fees to be eligible to visit the places in Ladakh. Permits can be booked online from the government website .

Know all about Ladakh which is constituted of two districts – Leh and Kargil.

Itinerary for Zanskar Valley Tour Package from Manali or Delhi

Day 01: Delhi – Manali Pick up from Delhi by Luxury Volvo at evening and you would reach Manali the next morning.

Day 02: Manali Meal: Dinner Today, you would be picked up from bus stand. Check-in to hotel. Later you can visit local attraction of Manali including Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Hot Water Springs, Tibetan Monastery, Explore the Mall Road and let your body be acclimatize according to the high altitude climate. Overnight in Manali hotel.

Day 03: Manali –Atal tunnel – Jispa Meal: breakfast and dinner Today after breakfast, proceed to Keylong or Sarchu for night stay. You would cross Solang Valley, Atal Tunnel, Sissu, Tandi Sangam and Keylong. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel at Jispa.

Day 04: Jispa – Padum (Zanskar Valley) Meal: breakfast and dinner After Breakfast, check out from the Hotel & proceed to Padum. You will traverse 16,580 foot high Shinkula pass to enter the Zanskar valley of Ladakh in Kargil district. We shall pass through Kargiakh, the first village of Zanksar and then Purne village. On way you will pass through Muney monastery and Bardan monastery. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel/guesthouse in Padum in Zanskar.

Day 05: Zanskar Valley Meal: breakfast and dinner Begin the day by visiting Karsha Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Zanskar. Explore the monastery complex, which includes various temples, stupas, and monk quarters. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the monastery’s vantage point. After visiting Karsha Monastery, explore the nearby villages of Karsha and Pibiting, where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life. Enjoy a traditional Ladakhi lunch at a local home or restaurant. In the afternoon, visit Stongdey Monastery, another significant monastery in Zanskar known for its stunning location and architecture. Later visit Sani Gompa and return to Padum in the evening and relax after a day of exploration. Overnight stay in Padum.

Day 06: Padum – Nimmu – Leh Meal: breakfast and dinner Today after breakfast leave for Leh via Zangla and Nimmu. You will follow the Zanskar river for most of the day and then you will connect to Kargil-Leh highway at Nimmu near Sangam, the confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers. On the way, visit Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Dinner and overnight stay at hotel in Leh.

Day 07: Leh Meal: breakfast and dinner Visit Hall of Fame, Spituk gompa, Leh palace and Shanti Stupa. Later you are free to explore the Leh town. Dinner and overnight stay in hotel in Leh.

Day 08: Leh – Khardungla Top – Nubra Valley Meal: breakfast and dinner Today after an early breakfast we shall leave for Nubra Valley. Enroute visit Khardung-la-pass, the highest motorable road in the world at 18,380ft. Nubra Valley is popularly known as Ldorma or the valley of flowers. It is situated to the north of Ladakh between the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges of the Himalayas. Arrive at Hunder & check in at Hotel/Camps. Later visit Diskit Village & enjoy the Camel ride on sand dunes. Dinner and overnight stay at Hotel/Camp.

Day 09: Nubra Valley – Pangong Meal: breakfast and dinner After breakfast, check out from the camp & proceed to Pangong Lake, east to the Leh via Shyok. You will drive through Durbuk and Tangtse villages in the Changthang region of Ladakh. This is perhaps one of the most amazing lakes in Asia which changes its color 4 – 5 times a day. At evening enjoy the breathtaking view of Pangong Lake. Overnight at the Camp at Pangong Lake.

Day 10: Pangong Lake – Leh Meal: breakfast and dinner Today after breakfast, check out from the Camp & proceed to Leh via Changla Pass (17500ft). Also visit Hemis, Thiksey Monastery and Shey while coming to Leh. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 11: Leh Airport Drop Meal: breakfast After Breakfast, check out from the Hotel & you would be transferred to Leh Airport to catch flight to Delhi. Your memorable Zanskar Valley tour package from Manali concludes here.

(If you have time, you can get your drop again in Delhi by road via Sarchu and Manali Or in Srinagar via Kargil)

>>You can ask to make any possible changes to the itinerary or increase your stay or add more destinations.

>>To know everything about Ladakh, which is constituted of two districts – Leh and Kargil – visit https://discoverlehladakh.in/about_leh-ladakh.htm

Included in Package

Hotel/Camp accommodation for 09 nights

Welcome drink on arrival

09 breakfasts and 09 dinners (MAP meal plan)

Morning tea

Private taxi (Xylo/Innova for upto 6pax and Tempo Traveller for more than 7 pax) for all sightseeing as per itinerary. You can upgrade to other vehicle. Please note that AC would be switched off on the hills.

Leh Airport Pick-up ad Drop off

Inner Line Permit/ Protected Area Permit

24 hours guidance

Parking, toll, fuel, driver allowances

An experienced driver would work as a guide (You can hire a dedicated guide as well)

No hidden charges

Not Included in Package

Lunch, beverages and meal other than the meal plan

Flight/rail tickets

Laundry, tip, shopping expenses

Private guide

Monument/museum entry fee

All that is not included in the “Included in package” column

— Get special group package cost on request —

Lowest package cost guaranteed

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Or WhatsApp your query at wa.me/919418703344

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR TOURISTS VISITING LADAKH

Ladakh is a very safe, tourist-friendly and cheering place, but still, you need to take care of some preparations which can make your tour even better and memorable:

– Only post-paid mobile phones work in Leh-Ladakh, preferably BSNL, Airtel and Jio. As phones may not work in many places, keep your family members informed well in advance not to worry if they fail to contact you.

– You would hardly find any cellular network in most of the areas in Leh. BSNL works better here, however, you would find Airtel and Jio signals also at some places (Leh, Hunder and Diskit).

– Don’t expect high-speed internet in Ladakh.

– Keep ready a pair of woollen (not heavy) with you as temperature may dip as low as 5 degrees any time even during summer months.

– Carry good Sun Screen lotion, sunglasses (goggles), cap with you to avoid sunburn as sun rays are direct and can burn your skin.

– Don’t forget to carry photo id with you. Driving License, Passport, Voter Cards, and Aadhaar are valid photo IDs.

– While travelling on the mountains, keep drinking water and eating healthy food and fruits to avoid high altitude sickness and dizziness due to curvy roads, low air pressure and dry air.

– Carry headache, stomachache, anti-vomiting tablets with you.

– You may consume diamox at least 7-8 hours before arrival at Leh (preferably before falling asleep) and may also take before boarding plane to Leh. The medicine is optional. Having rest and drinking enough water for some hours after reaching Leh is advised.

– Leh has some ATM machines where you can withdraw cash. These machines witness long queues of customers during peak season and run out of cash many times. Non-connectivity is another issue. So carrying enough cash is advisable.

– Please respect the Buddhist and Muslim culture of Ladakh. People of all communities here believe in brotherhood and harmony and respects the tourists. The residents expect the same from the tourists.

Zanskar Valley Tour Package from Delhi (7 Nights 8 Days)

Tour Reviews

Wow. Just wow! The roads to Zanskar valley of Ladakh are still under construction and are not for faint-hearted. Thankfully we had a the best driver. The valley is less touristy due to its remoteness, poor roads and high tour cost. Also, Zanskar has a limited hotels and guesthouses. The valley has amazing and beautiful monasteries. The landscapes of the valley are just fantastic. The road journeys may feel lengthy but you will want more of them as every turn has something new to show you. The best part of our package was that leh ladakh was also included in it. We could visit pangong tso lake and nubra valley and leh in the same package. A few tour operators arrange this trip. We were lucky to be in safe hands of discover leh ladakh travel agency. We didn’t have any complain. We are extremely happy with their services.

This Zanskar trip is all about adventure, fun, beauty, adrenaline rush, high altitude, mountain passes, glaciers, rivers, wildlife, ancient monasteries, monks and lot more. ❤️

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Zanskar Valley – Facts and Complete Travel Guide

Zanskar valley is located in the Kargil district of the Union Territory of Ladakh at a distance of 463 km from Leh. The administrative headquarter of Zanskar, Padum, is situated at an elevation of 3669 m. The offbeat valley features a scenic landscape surrounded by Zanskar ranges giving it a gorgeous view.

The Zanskar valley is undoubtedly one of the remotest places in the whole country, but at the same time, it has been one of the most beautiful ones as well. The famous attractions in Zanskar are worth a visit not only for the natural beauty but also because it offers various adventure activities popular among tourists. One can find some pretty fantastic places to visit in and around Zanskar. If you want to explore the pristine beauty of nature in the beautiful Zanskar valley of India, plan your trip now. Enjoy your tour to Indian Himalayas! And make sure you explore this incredible Indian paradise.

We have compiled a comprehensive travel guide in this blog post for exploring the Zanskar valley in the best possible way. It will cover all the vital information, including accommodation, transport, and all the major attractions to see in Zanskar valley.

If you are planning a trip to Zanskar valley, our travel guide will help you plan a memorable and perfect trip to Zanskar. Our team of dedicated specialists from Ladakh offers customized tour packages at discounted rates to all our customers who wish to spend an incredible vacation in Ladakh. If you have any queries related to Zanskar valley, feel free to contact us.

Get best deals to explore Zanskar valley in our Ladakh tour packages

Things to do and places to visit in Zanskar

Trekking is one of the most unique and intriguing things to do in Zanskar Valley. The beautiful valley of Zanskar is located in the high-altitude peaks of the Himalayas and is surrounded by high mountains, icy glaciers, and frozen rivers. As such, visitors can enjoy hiking throughout the year. There are many trekking destinations in and near Zanskar valley like Lamayuru, Darcha-Padum, and Rangdum in Suru Valley.

If you are a first-time trekker, you may find it slightly tricky and challenging, but you can explore the Zanskar Valley in the best way with a recommended and professional guide. Being the trekking capital of India, the famous Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River in winters is absolute bliss for adventure enthusiasts. The scenic landscapes with lush green meadows make the trekking experience all the more unique, and you can’t wait to discover the mystery of the majestic Zanskar Ranges.

River Rafting

River rafting in Zanskar is a true adventure that offers rafting option in the most isolated and remote regions of Ladakh. Situated at 12000 ft, it is the highest rafting point in the world and one of the toughest in India. It is one of the most thrilling adventure activities in Ladakh. The snowcapped mountains and the pleasant fragrance that hangs in the air will leave you mesmerized while rafting, and it will definitely make your Ladakh trip a memorable experience.

Depending on the level of professionalism, rafting in the Zanskar River consists of three distances. The first level consisting of 6 km, is usually tried by first-time rafters and those who just want to have light fun in the river. The second level consisting of 14 km, is the one that offers a fair amount of challenge and most people prefer this level because the water has a good level of currents and rapids as well. The third level, consisting of 28 km, is for those trained professionally as this level requires an ample amount of stamina. The level of difficulty is very high since the river has an extreme intensity of rapids and curves that can flip the boat at any time.

Sani Monastery

The Sani monastery is located near the Sani village in Stod valley of Zanskar. It is about 6 km to the northwest of Padum, and you can reach there by walking for about 2 hours. The monastery belongs to the Drukpa Kargyu school of Tibetan Buddhism and is famous for being the oldest gompa in Ladakh. The monastery has a small temple dedicated to Yogi Naropa and is adorned with peculiar sculpture-like paintings in bright colors. Outside the monastery exists one of the most significant crematory grounds of the Tibetan Buddhists, where a massive boulder is placed with a gleaming picture of Buddha painted on it. Moreover, the splendid Sani Lake adds to the charm and beauty of surroundings as you take a walk around the monastery.

Every year, the monastery also hosts two festivals, namely Sani Naro-Nasjal, The Great Prayer Festival, and Nungnes. Sani Naro Nasjal is celebrated when the “Guru Naropa Flower” blooms in the first week of August. On the eve of the festival, the statue of Naropa is unveiled, and lamas from the Bardan Monastery perform ritual offerings in the form of masked dances. The festival of Nungnes does not have any fixed date and usually takes place in the month of July. Lastly, “The Great Prayer Festival” is held in winters, during which an annual ritual reading of the Tibetan canon is performed with the firewood provided by the locals in the village. You will get a chance to witness a blend of several Central Asian cultures that bring life to the valley of Zanskar.

Dzongkhul Gompa

The Dzongkhul monastery is situated at the foothills of the Stod Valley in Zanskar, which also leads to the Umasi La Pass. The gompa belongs to the Drukpa school of Tibetan Buddhism, and the foundation of the monastery is attributed to Naropa, who was a famous Buddhist monk and yogi. There are two caves in the monastery, and he is said to have meditated in one of the caves around which the entire monastery is built. You can also find his footprints in the rock close to the entrance of the lower cave. It also contains thankas of renowned Drukpa Lamas and paintings on the cave walls, some of which are almost 300 years old. The Dzongkhul gompa hosts the “Zongkhul Huchot” festival on the 16th and 17th of the fourth Tibetan month, and unlike the festivals of the Sani monastery, there are no masked dance performances.

Zangla Palace

The Zangla palace is located in the Zangla village of Zanskar Valley. It is about 32 km from the central region of Padum. The palace is located on a hill, and you can get there by hiking for about 10 minutes. At the palace, a small entry fee is collected at the entrance, and the proceeds are utilized for the renovation of the palace. The palace is sometimes called a monastery due to the omission made by historians in the past, probably because of the presence of a shrine and monks living in the palace. There is also a small Buddhist nunnery in the Zangla village where you can have a cup of tea along with delicious momos.

Karsha Monastery

The Karsha monastery is located about 11 km away from the main town of Padum in Zanskar. Built along the mountainside, the gompa comprises 30 buildings. It was founded by Phagspa Shesrab (translator) under the Gelugpa Order and is also known as “Karsha Chamspaling.” The monastery is attributed to Guru Padmasambhava and consists of exquisite paintings, ancient rock carvings and houses bone relics of Dorje Rinchen. There are a number of shrines inside the monastery which are under the control of the younger brother of the 14th Dalai Lama. The Lamas of the monastery unfold a cloth painting which is embroidered intricately in colorful threads depicting Buddha surrounded by his tutelary gods. The most important feature of the gompa is a chorten that contains the mummified body of the incarnate lama known as Rinchen Zangpo inside a box with a silver lining.

Every year in January, the “Gustor festival” is held in the precincts of the monastery in which the resident monks perform sacred masked cham dances.

Phuktal Monastery

The Phuktal monastery, popularly known as the “Cave monastery,” is located in the Lungnak valley of Zanskar. The monastery is built around a cave and resembles a honeycomb which adds to its beauty. It belonged to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and was established in the 15th century by Jangsem Sherap Zangpo. The monastery is situated in a remote location that serves the purpose of meditation in a peaceful atmosphere. It is one of the only monasteries in Zanskar that can be reached only by foot. During the summer season, the supplies are brought on donkeys and horses and in winters through the frozen river of Zanskar. The monastery has also set up a monastic school and a Traditional Tibetan Clinic for the local community, which prepares and provides natural medicine to the people.

A number of festivals are celebrated at the Phuktal monastery starting from the month of February. The festivals are celebrated according to the Tibetan calendar, which is a lunisolar calendar; hence the dates of the festivals differ every year.

Listed below are some of the festivals held in the Phuktal monastery of the Zanskar valley:

Smonlam Chenmo
Phukta Gutor
Chudsum Chodpa
Gadam Nagchod
Chonga Chodpa
Gyalwe Jabstan

Stongdey Monastery

The Stongdey monastery is located 18 km from Padum, on the Zangla road. It was built in the 11th century by Naropa’s disciple and belonged to the Gelugpa order of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is home to 60 Gelugpa monks and the second-largest monastic institution in the Zanskar valley. It consists of seven temples decorated with intricate paintings which are outlined in gold.

Every year, the Stongdey monastery hosts the “Gustor Festival” on the 28th and 29th of the eleventh Tibetan month.

Suru Valley

The Suru valley is located in the Kargil district of Ladakh. It is around 139 km from Padum and can be visited on the way to Zanskar. The unexplored Suru valley is very popular among mountain climbers as this tiny piece of heaven has so much to offer to the trekkers and visitors. It starts from Kargil and extends up to the Penzi La glacier (origin of Suru river). As it is situated along the banks of the Suru river, the lower part of the valley is quite fertile and used for agricultural purposes. The picturesque valley is dotted with small villages and offers spectacular views and sightseeing opportunities. There are many picnic spots in Suru valley like Sangra Parkachik, Umba, and Damsna.

Sangam Point – Confluence of Indus and Zanskar Rivers

On the way from Leh to Zanskar lies the Indus Zanskar Sangam Point, which is one of the famous tourist spots in Ladakh. At the confluence point, you can see the bright blue color of the Indus river merging with the green color of the Zanskar river. Also, it is said to be changing colors in different seasons, offering an altogether unmatched sight. In addition, you can witness the vivid landscape and the snow-covered mountains in the backdrop of the two rivers. The Sangam Point is a must-visit on your Zanskar trip as the heavenly sight of the confluence cannot be missed at any cost.

Bardan Monastery

The Bardan monastery is around 12 km from Padum. The monastery was built in 17th-century and belonged to the Drukpa Kargyud monastic order. It consists of several small stupas, a large assembly hall with glorious statues of Buddha. The prayer hall houses some ancient murals and statues of many other Buddhist figures.

How to reach Zanskar valley?

The most common way to reach Zanskar Valley is to fly to Leh and then travel from Leh to Kargil in a shared taxi. From Kargil taxi stand, hire a cab to Padum.

However, it is essential to stay in Leh for a night to acclimatize appropriately and then travel to Kargil on the following day early in the morning.
It would take five to six hours to reach Kargil from Leh.
Don’t travel to Zanskar on the same day of arrival in Kargil, instead arrange a taxi to Padum in Zanskar for the next day.
It’s best to spend a night in Kargil, as the route to Zanskar from Kargil is very tiresome.
Travel to Zanskar valley the next day after having breakfast in Kargil.

Read in detail how to reach Zanskar Valley.

Best time to visit Zanskar

June to September is the best tourist preferred time to visit Zanskar valley. The road to Zanskar Valley gets blocked by heavy snowfall during the winter and opens only in May.

From May to September, the scenic natural beauty of Zanskar would be at its best with picturesque landscapes and majestic snow-capped mountains.

Peak Season – June to September
Shoulder Season – April, October, and November
Chadar trek Season – January and February

Transportation and communication

Zanskar is surrounded by mountains and rivers, which makes access to this area complicated.
Zanskar valley remains isolated from the rest of Ladakh in the months of December to April.
From December to April, the Chadar trek trail on the frozen river of Zanskar is the only route to connect Zanskar from the rest of Ladakh.
From May to November, Kargil to Zanskar road remains open and is the only access to Zanskar Valley by road.
Visitors traveling through this route are urged to drive slowly and be aware of rocks and debris on the road.
The UT Ladakh government also provides helicopter services to reach Zanskar valley, but these are limited to emergency and rescue services.

Itinerary Guide – How to plan your Itinerary for Zanskar valley?

Planning an Itinerary for Zanskar trip without a guide is not an easy task. We planned an Itinerary with our experts and arranged a trip to Zanskar valley to share our experience with you. It would be best if you read it to get all the details about Zanskar valley to plan your itinerary easily.

The journey from Leh to Kargil

We packed our bags with all the necessary stuff a day before our trip and woke up early in the morning to prepare for our journey towards the Zanskar valley. It was around 6 am in the morning, and there was complete darkness. We stacked our bags in a pile while we were still in our sleepy state and started our journey.

As we traveled from Leh to Zanskar valley, the landscape transformed mysteriously before our eyes. We suddenly found ourselves surrounded by barren mountain peaks and deep valleys with rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. The exquisite co-existence of the dry landscape and charismatic river added to the mystique of the surrounding valley.

After a couple of hours, we stopped at a tea stall to have some tea and snacks. The roads were pretty smooth, but it was extremely windy at some places. After driving continuously for eight hours, we reached Kargil. The town of Kargil is a common stopover on the way to Zanskar, Srinagar, and many other places. It is best to stay in Kargil for a night before traveling to Zanskar.

The journey from Kargil to Zanskar:

We stayed overnight at a hotel, and the following day we had a light breakfast and were on our way to Zanskar valley.

We drove for two hours and reached the first checkpoint of the journey. After this point, the roads were ridiculously dusty and bumpy. After a while, our SIMs also stopped working, and we could not find any mobile network for the next few hours. While we drove on the rocky roads, we came across the most beautiful sceneries, and we were fascinated by the sheer beauty of the striking landscape and the towering mountains. We crossed many waterfalls, small streams, and deep valleys where we saw a herd of goats and sheep grazing in the lush green meadows.

On the way, we also came across the magical valley of Suru. We wanted to relish every bit of the greenery, but we did not have enough time, so we continued our journey towards Zanskar. In the afternoon, we had our lunch at Rangdum, which was located halfway, and it was the only kind of town in our entire journey till now. We rested for a while and headed towards the Dzongkhul monastery in Zanskar valley.

A visit to Zongkhul Monastery

The Dzongkhul or Zongkhul monastery was situated 20 kilometers south of Rangdum. The roads to the monastery were quite bumpy, and it took around 2 hours to reach there. After crossing the Tungri village bridge, we reached a point where the road was divided into two. We took the right turn towards the Dzongkhul gompa and finally got there.

The extraordinary cave monastery was built on a rock wall overlooking the Zongkhul falls. We saw wonderful murals on the walls of the cave monastery and also spotted several collections of artifacts such as a crystal stupa, thankas, and ivory image of Samvara. There were two caves behind the monastery and ten stone houses in the front which perfectly blended with the surroundings from a distance. From the monastery, we reached a high viewing spot that offered marvelous views from the terrace.

A visit to the Monastery of Sani

On the way to Padum, we also visited the Sani monastery. Unlike other monasteries of Ladakh, it was not built on a hill but flat terrain. It is known for being the oldest monastery in the entire region of Zanskar valley. The monastery was built in the 17th century and accommodated an antique chorten known as the Kanika Chorten (20 ft high). As we entered the rectangular compound, we saw a beautiful gate chorten with prayer wheels. Behind the altar, a small room called Gongkhang housed an ancient figure of Cho Rinpoche and several volumes of the Kangyur (sacred text).

The Assembly Hall of the monastery had 16 columns and consisted of pictures of Chenren, Padmasambhava, and Chamba. In addition, there were depictions of protective deities and prayer cards with some mantras written on them. In the backyard of the monastery, we saw the Kanika Chorten, and next to it were ten stones with deities engraved on them in a pre-Tibetan style. There was also a vast plantation of old poplar trees near the gompa, which was a treat for our eyes as we took a stroll around it. Stepping out of the monastery, we saw a cremation ground of the Tibetan Buddhists encircled with ancient carvings of rock.

Arrival in Padum

As we set foot in the town, we caught sight of the beautiful green valley below us and the magnificent Zanskar river splitting into numerous small streams along the bottom. We were wonderstruck by the spectacular scenery and the snow-bound mountains stretching high into the sky above. The glaciers and the colorful flowers all around made us feel like we had retreated into an enchanting world of fantasy.

The village was nestled in the middle of this massive stretch of land with traditional old houses, lush green fields, and farms spreading all around the place. It was located at the intersection of three valleys, and there were only a handful of shops, restaurants, and guesthouses in the one-street town of Padum. A cold gust of wind blew across the land as we took a stroll in the grass fields that seemed to wave and dance to its rhythm. The majestic Himalayan peaks surrounded us, and the clear blue skies with the bright sun above us never seemed to disappear from our sight. We stayed overnight in Padum and woke up feeling refreshed and quite energized for the next day.

There was no mobile network, but the only connection available was at the two Internet Cafes, which charged 5 rupees per minute for their Wi-Fi connection. We wanted to upload some pictures, but it took almost five minutes to load the Instagram page only, so we decided to post the pictures later.

A visit to Zangla

We reached the scenic village of Zangla in Zanskar, set against the panoramic backdrop of the Zanskar Ranges. The offbeat town did not have much to visit other than the Zangla Palace, so we decided to visit the palace. After hiking for 10 minutes, we reached the palace. It was located atop a hill in the village and housed a temple with some monks inhabiting it. The palace offered a charismatic view of the mountains, and we clicked several pictures of the palace while enjoying the breathtaking scenes. The royal family still lived in the village, and they welcomed us for a cup of tea.

We also visited a Buddhist nunnery, where we got to know about the daily life of the nuns. Afterward, we headed towards Stongde, where we came across an old monastery located in Tsazar village, midway between Zangla and Stongde.

A visit to Stongde Monastery

While returning from Zangla, we stopped at Stongde monastery, one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Zanskar. As it was situated on the top of a hill, we had to walk up the entrance stairs to enter the monastery. The snowcapped mountains of the valley and the splendid landscape with patches of green fields made an impressive contrast.

We entered the courtyard of the monastery and found many monks waiting to have their lunch. We wanted to retreat, but they insisted on sitting with them and offered us some butter tea and a bowl of noodles. The traditional butter tea tasted utterly delicious, so we drank as much as we could. After having lunch, we walked around the monastery for some time and left thinking that it was perhaps the most incredible experience we’d ever had at a monastery.

Overnight stay at Cha Village

On the way to Phuktal Monastery, there was a small village known as Cha. It is best to spend the night here before hiking towards Phutkal Monastery. So, we drove to the Cha village, and from there, we began walking towards our homestay to stay overnight. It was around 7 pm, and the sky started to darken. The host offered us home-cooked food that was organically grown in their garden. It was the most delicious meal we’d ever had the pleasure of experiencing. In the evening, we relished the fantastic view of the mountain peaks while enjoying a hot bowl of soup.

A visit to Phuktal Monastery

The following day, we headed towards the Phuktal monastery, one of the famous attractions in Zanskar valley. We left for Phuktal at around 8 am. We drove till the end of the motorable road, and from there, we had to reach the monastery through a beautiful valley of Zanskar. While walking on the rugged trails, we came across stunning rock formations blending into their surroundings.

After 2 hours, we finally reached there and walked up the stairs to explore the monastery. We had a brief conversation with one of the monks, and he took us around to show us the prayer rooms. We clicked several pictures of the monastery and spent some time playing with the young kids. At around 4 pm, we left the monastery and got back to Cha village. We had already arranged our taxi a day before. So, as soon as we reached the village, we saw our driver waiting for us, and it took us almost 3 hours to return to Padum.

Find on Google map

A visit to Karsha Monastery

We were completely exhausted when we reached Padum after the hike. We stayed overnight at a guesthouse, and the next day we were ready to explore the Karsha monastery. Set on the top of a hill, the monastery houses more than 100 monks. As we entered the gompa, we were delighted to watch the lamas praying, and the sound of their prayers reverberated in the whole valley.

The monastery was undergoing renovation, and some expert artists were busy painting the walls. The massive chortens and walls of the gompa were being whitewashed, which is the tradition of Ladakh. While walking around the monastery, we talked to one of the lamas, and he opened the prayer room where a colossal statue of Buddha was kept. The walls were decorated with paintings of different incarnations and lessons taught by Buddha. We also saw many small clay and metal idols of Buddha known as Bodhisattvas.

In one of the rooms, the Tantric masks were kept, but the door was locked. We waited for a while but did not find anyone who would open the door, so we decided to let go and headed towards the monastery courtyard. More than the monastery itself, we were spellbound by the surreal sights of Zanskar and enjoyed the fabulous valley views marked with ragged peaks and Buddhist monasteries.

Back to Leh

The next day, we left at 7 am for Kargil and stayed at the same hotel prearranged on our tour. We also visited Alchi monastery and many other places we would not have otherwise seen on our way back to Leh. Finally, after all the adventure, we heaved a sigh of relief in the evening as we reached Leh, and it was like returning home.

To be honest, visiting Zanskar was one of the most thrilling experiences of our life. The close-up views of the Zanskar Ranges with massive glaciers and the hospitality of the Zanskari people made the place worth a visit. Although the valley was very remote and one of the last frontiers of India but the love from the locals of Zanskar made us feel at home. It was not just a travel destination but our happiest place to be around.

Travel Zanskar. You will love it!

Insider travel tips

There are a few essential tips you can follow to make your travel more pleasant.

Reaching Zanskar from Leh or Srinagar takes time. So, you need to plan a trip of at least three days and two nights to the Zanskar valley.
Carry RT-CPR report of earlier than 96 hours with you.
The road from Kargil to Zanskar valley has very poor road conditions and is not with a well-developed infrastructure. So, check your car’s ground clearance and make sure your vehicle is in good condition.
If you want to travel in a taxi, hire/share a taxi up to Kargil Town. Rest for a night in Kargil. From Kargil, hire another taxi up to Padum.
Eat breakfast before beginning your journey from Kargil, as you won’t get time for breakfast on the way to Zanskar.
Hire a taxi only up to Kargil town, as taxis from Leh or Srinagar would not be allowed to travel up to Zanskar valley. So, you have to change the taxi in Kargil and hire another taxi under the Kargil Taxi union, up to Zanskar.
When you stay a night in Kargil, ask locals for current road conditions, as sometimes the road gets blocked and you won’t be able to travel. You can also contact us to know the current situation and road conditions to Zanskar valley.
On the way to Zanskar, make a stop at Panikhar to explore the village.
The road to Zanskar passes through many remote regions where cell phone signals are weak. BSNL SIMs receive better signals than other SIMs, so subscribe for a postpaid BSNL SIM before visiting Zanskar.
Carry some spare fuel from Kargil.
Use Google offline map if you are traveling in your own car or bike.

Zanskar Etymology

Zanskar is pronounced as Zangskar by the Ladakhi Natives.
As per the etymological study by David Snellgrove and Tadeusz Skorupski in 1980, the word Zang came from Tibet, which means copper as the region was known for its natural presence of copper.
The Word Zangskar might also be originated from the word Zan-M-Khar which means palace of food (‘Zan’ means food and ‘Khar’ means palace), quoted by John Crook (British ethologist) and Henry Osmaston (geographer and forester) in their book Himalayan Buddhist Villages.
David Snellgrove and Tadeusz Skorupski also suggested that some religious scholars of Ladakh believe that the Zanskar word might be derived from the words “Bzang-dkar.” ‘Bzang’ means good, and Kar is derived from the word ‘Karpu,’ which means white, as the triangular shape of Padum was known for its goodness and simplicity.

Historical facts of Zanskar Valley

The first remains of the valley go back to the Bronze Age, known as Mon. They were the first known population of the valley, followed by Dard, another old ethnicity that later mixed with the Mons.
Before Buddhism, the people of Zanskar predominantly the Bon religion.
Buddhism is said to have spread in Zanskar during the period of the famous Kushanas.
Zanskar used to be a Kingdom of its own, the rulers of which were Buddhists.
The rulers built Karsha and Phugtal monasteries during the 10th and 11th centuries C.E.
However, after the 15th century C.E., the kings of Ladakh took control over Zanskar.
Together with the neighboring region of Ladakh, Zanskar was briefly a part of the kingdom of Guge in Western Tibet.
In the 19th century C.E., the joint forces of Kullu, Lahaul, and Kinnaur (a part of Himachal Pradesh today) invaded Zanskar. They took over the Palace and city of Padum, located in the heart of Zanskar Valley.
Due to continuous border disturbances between the neighboring countries of China and Pakistan, Zanskar was not allowed to be visited by any foreigners in the mid-20th century C.E.
Despite going through all the highs and lows of history and tests of time, Zanskar still maintains a very unique and closed cultural identity.
The language of Zanskar is a dialect of the wider spoken Ladakhi language in the neighboring areas of Leh and Kargil.
Since the last three decades, after Zanksar got popularized by travelers, the area has been visited a lot. Though the road to Zanskar is still very rough due to the topography, people go to see its beautiful culture and nature.
There have also been many researchers and archeologists interested in the history and geography of the valley.
Due to its slightly different language and culture and its remote location, the people of Zanskar have been demanding a separate district due to its somewhat different language and culture. Zanskar will probably be the third district of Ladakh after Kargil and Leh.
All in all, Zanskar has a lot to offer to those who love to travel, explore and make adventures. The potential of its tourism is not yet realized to the core.
Zanskar is a desert landscape area located in the northern part of the Himalayan range.
It is situated at an elevation ranging from 11,500 feet to 25,000 feet high.
The total area covered by Zanskar is around 7,000 sq km (2,700 square miles)
The river in Zanskar, which takes a northeastern course, is formed by the Doda river and Lungnak river.
The Zanskar Range is a mountain range in the union territory of Ladakh that separates Zanskar from Ladakh. These mountains range to around 400 miles (640 km).
Zanskar is one of the seven Tehsils of Kargil District.
The administrative center is Padum (former Capital of Zanskar).
Zanskar lies 250 km south of Kargil town on NH301.
25 villages comes under Zanskar tehsil.
The mountains of the Zanskar range affect the climate of Zanskar valley.
The monsoon clouds find it harder to pass the Zanskar range resulting in the scarcity of rainfall during the monsoon season.
The snowfall in winter contributes a lot to forming the glaciers. The melted water through these glaciers is used for irrigation in summer by the villagers.
In summer, the weather remains pleasant and warm.
During winter, the weather remains harsh and freezing. The temperature can go below -30°C

Type of plants found in Zanskar:

Blue poppies

Crops in Zanskar

There is more precipitation on the upper parts of Zanskar, making irrigation easier for the villagers. The upper slopes are famous for their meadows of edelweiss. Plants such as alpine and tundra are also found on these parts.

Crops including potatoes, barley, and lentils are grown by the villagers at lower altitude areas.

Snow leopard
Alpine ibex
Lammergeier

Domesticated animals

Dzo (a hybrid of cow and yak)
Dogs, including Bakarwal dogs and Tibetan Mastiff
Tourism and livestock are the major contributing factors to the economy of Zanskar.
The most important livestock species are yaks used for agriculture and carrying heavy loads. Also, the milk of Yaks is used for dairy products. Yak’s fur is also very useful; the villagers use it to produce clothes, bed covers, carpets, and more. Thus, yaks have great importance in the livestock economy of Zanskar.

Demographics

https://academicjournals.org/journal/JENE/article-full-text-pdf/0120EBC10245

Sam K. Pandepa

Exciting and interesting. Would like to stay connected.

Tour of Zanskar Valley provided by Two Travel Tailors

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Stenzin Chotak local travel agent from Zanskar founded Djule Adventure in 2007. A professional & dedicated travel agent from Zanskar which organize & Specialize in Zanskar Tours, Trekking in Ladakh Zanskar, Mountaineering Ladakh Zanskar, Customize tours in Ladakh Zanskar, Rafting, Skiing, Bike tours, Filming and many more. Registered with Ladakh Tourism Department.

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Zanskar Valley Tour

Zanskar valley tour.

zanskar valley

Zanskar valley is one of the most exciting regions of Jammu & Kashmir. A relatively new destination for new age trekkers and travellers to explore, zanskar is gaining popularity with the government’s attention for better accessibility. Zanskar is subdistrict of kargil bordering Himachal Pradesh, kashmir valley & ladakh. Historically, its culture and terrain was part of erstwhile Tibetan kingdom and the ladscape is still pristine and relatively unexplored. While of late, lot of interest is being shown by domestic travellers, it continues to receive its dose of foreign trekkers and travel enthusiasts. Though the route from kargil to padum is still in a bad condition, the valley is mostly toured and explored for its excellent trekking & mountaineering routes.

Similar to ladakhi terrain, zanskar has its own unique natural beauty with commanding views, glaciers & amazing high altitude villages. Padum is its administrative center and the last point that can be reached by zanskar road from kargil. As of now, it is approachable only through kargil and takes about 11 hours to get reach by a vehicle. Further to padum are karsha & zangla both offering spectacular views and also accessible by road. Padum is center point from where trekkers can regroup/resupply and span out to different points in the valley by foot.

Rangdum: Rangdum often serves as midpoint of journey from kargil to padum. High in altitude, at about 12000ft it’s a beautiful valley with suru river flowing in its midst. It has thick grass covered in its plains and surrounded by majestic mountains. The grass is thick and juicy enough to attract bakarwalas with their sheep for grazing. They make their ardent journey all the way from jammu. It is also home to many wild animals including the famed marmots.Rangdum is often recommended a stopover enroute or return from padum. Darung drung glacier and pensi la pass top is closest to rangdum, so it becomes the most convenient stopover for a day’s visit to the great glacier. For an overnight stay, Rangdum offers a shabbily maintained tourist bunglow, few tents and a new hotel. The new hotel La Hotel offers clean rooms and tasty food. To make a booking, send a mail here.

Drang drung glacier

Karsha gompa: Karsha is oldest and most significant of all monasteries of the zanskar range. The gompa is nestled at a vantage point overlooking the doda river. At 14 kms from padum, It’s a must see monastery especially for its exquisite paintings by Lama Dzadpa Dorje. A popular festival, the gustor festival is held every year as per Tibetan calendar. The sacred dance at the festival attracts everyone in the vicinity.
Padum: Named after the tantric tibetan buddhist padmasambhava, padum is the one of the ancient capitals of kingdom of zanskar. Presently, it is the administrative headquarter of zanskar and serves as the end point of the route between kargil and zanskar. From here, valley of zangla and karsha gompa is easily accessible along with many historic trekking routes including chardar trek. There is a lot of infrastructure planned by govt of india to connect padum to various parts of himachal and ladakh.
How to plan journey to zanskar: To travel to the magnificient valley of zanskar, one has to hire a vehicle either at kargil, Srinagar or leh. If you need to drive straight from airport to zanskar, then you need to alight either at Srinagar or leh. Travelling from Srinagar is recommended as it’s the shortest route accompanied by travelling pass through sonamarg and zozila pass.

Best Time to Visit Zanskar

Months from May end to August are the best time to visit Zanskar Valley since the temperature of the day falls below zero in the other months.

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Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley, Ladakh

Zanskar or Zangskar is an important tourist attraction in Ladakh for trekking, monasteries and scenic places. Zanskar includes a valley and a river running through it. It is famous for extreme rafting tours that scale for 12 days. If you are looking for adventure activities in Ladakh, this is the right place to visit.

Zanskar Attractions

Zangla – nunnery, sightseeing spot and culture
Zongkhul – cave monasteries
Stongdey – Stongdey monastery, scenic spots in the valley and others
Karsha – Karsha monastery
Panikhar – Zorawar Singh fort

Penzella Pass running through Zanskar valley is a good spot for camping, picnic and others. Monasteries are famous for exploration, mural art display, paintings and others.

Top activity to enjoy here is trekking. You can find numerous trekking trails here. Starting from mountain passes to simple village routes, you can find many trails here. Some of the trails are strictly for avid trekkers. Learn about the route and difficulty before trying it. Iconic trails are the Chadar trek, Padum trek and others. If you are looking for long trekking route, try Rangdum to valley via the Pentse La or valley to Lamayuru or Padum to Markha valley. Rafting is another important activity here. The Zanskar River provides many rafting trips that are as short as few hours long to the classic 12- day rafting trip. During winter, the river freezes and people trek on the river.

Other top activities here are

Rock Climbing
Sunset View

Best time to Visit Zanskar

With respect to the altitude of the place, it is accessible only during summer months. Summer starts in June and ends in September. All the trekking routes and adventure activities are common during this season. This is also the right time to enjoy water-based activities. If you are visiting in winter, the river route will be available for trekking.

How to reach Zanskar

The valley is easily reached through road route from Kargil. Kargil is the largest town near it. The valley lies on the highway between Leh and Srinagar. Zanskar is 240 km away from Kargil. You can hire jeeps, taxis, buses or others from any important cities to reach Zanskar. The route from Kargil to Valley is open from July to November. If you are visiting during June or July, it is more interesting to trek to Zanskar from Panikhar. If you are visiting the valley via the Srinagar-Kargil route, halt at Drang Drung glacier for sightseeing.

Shopping in Zanskar

Yak’s fur is used for making articles. You ought to buy carpets or clothes made of this fur. Big bazaars are not available here. Other top souvenirs to buy are

Silk Carpets
Tibetan handicrafts and Kashmiri art works
Local attire
Pashmina shawl

Best Similar Packages

Tour packages.

3N/ 4D - Leh Ladakh Tour Itinerary
4N / 5D - Road Trip to Ladakh from Delhi
4N / 5D - Ladakh Pangong Lake and Khardungla Tour
6N / 7D - Ladakh Srinagar Tour
4N / 5D - Nubra Valley Tour with Khardungla
8N / 9D - Ladakh Jeep Safari
13N / 14D - Monastery & Cultural Tours of Ladakh
7N / 8D - Leh Ladakh Trekking Tour
10N / 11D - Ladakh Monastery Tour
7N / 8D - Sri Nagar to Lah Ladakh
10N / 11D - Leh Ladakh Festival Tour
10N / 11D - Hemis Monastery + Festival
How to Reach Ladakh
Why Visit Ladakh Travel
Ladakh Travel Tips
Religion & Culture
Ladakh Cuisine
Art & Crafts
Khardung La
Pangong Lake
Stok Palace
Magnetic Hill
Motorbike Safari
Jeep Safari
Horse Safari
Camel Safari
Nature Walks
Mountaineering

Monasteries

Spituk Monastery
Shey Monastery
Diskit Monastery
Hemis Monastery
Sani Monastery
Thiksey Monastery
Alchi Monastery
Lamayuru Monastery

Destinations

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Himalayas: 11-Day Motorbike Expedition To Zanskar Valley

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The Zanskar region of the Indian Himalayas is a breathtaking destination for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking a unique adventure.

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Zanskar Unveiled: A Two-Wheeled Adventure in the Shadow of the Giants

Discover the indomitable spirit of zanskar.

Zanskar, a region veiled in the mystic beauty of the Indian Himalayas, beckons the brave and the bold. This is not just a journey; it’s a conquest of the self amidst the grandeur of nature. Zanskar Valley is your invitation to partake in a saga written by the winds, narrated by the paths, and celebrated by the heartbeats of every adventurer who dares to explore beyond the visible.

Challenging Roads Ahead:

The journey begins at the foot of the Himalayas and takes you through a scenic route that winds through the mountain ranges and along the Indus River . The high-altitude road offers challenging riding conditions, with steep inclines , hairpin bends , and rocky terrain that make it a prime destination for experienced riders.

Expedition Price

Our payment system accommodates all types of currency.

RE Himalayan 411cc (Include)

NEW RE Himalayan 452cc + £ 300

Motorbike Deposit

Motorbike Insurance (Full Damage Protection) + £ 200

Motorbike Security Deposit (It’s Refundable) + £ 250

Single Room Supplement + £300

Expedition Program

Day 1: delhi – bhuntar (arrival in bhuntar).

Board the Volvo bus for your overnight journey from the Indian capital of New Delhi to the Himalayan district of Kullu. Arrive in Bhuntar and check in to your hotel in the morning.

Altitude Reached : 121m (Delhi).

Note:- Also you can take a flight from Delhi (DEL) to Bhuntar (KUU) Flight Prices are around Rs.6000 To Rs 25000. It depends on when you book.

Delhi (DEL) – Bhuntar (KUU) (Rs. 6000-25000)
Chandigarh (IXC) -Bhuntar (KUU) (RS. 6000-25000) Get Details.
Flight- Alliance Air.
Timing- Delhi Airport (6:40 am) – Chandigarh Airport (07:40 am) – Chandigarh Airport(08:10 am) – Bhuntar Airport, Kullu(09:00 am).

Day 2 Bhuntar arrival

After breakfast, we set out to discover the local region. Riding towards Kasol, the little Himalayan village famous for its food and hippie vibes. Besides acclimatizing you to the Himalayas, this short trip would also help you get familiar with your partner for the next 2 weeks – your motorbike. In the evening, we ride back to Bhuntar.

We get our lunch in Kasol before returning to Bhuntar for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation : Hotel.
Included Meals : Dinner.
Sleeping Altitude : 1107m
Max. Altitude Reached : 1580m.
Average Distance: 100KM

Day 3 Bhuntar–Jispa

Day 3 begins marks the beginning of our ascent into the deeper Himalayas. After breakfast, we ride towards the village Jispa, crossing the world’s highest single-tube tunnel! The Atal tunnel ensures the deeper Himalayas stay connected with the rest of the country despite unpredictable weather conditions.

En route, we stop in Sissu for lunch and check out the gorgeous Sissu waterfall. Dinner and overnight stay in Jispa.

Included Meals : Breakfast, Dinner.
Sleeping Altitude : 3200m
Max. Altitude Reached : 3200m.
Average Distance: 140 KM

Day 4 Jispa–Padum

Day 4, we break the monotony of post-breakfast rides and go for a short, 1-hour hike to the Phuktal Gompa, a 2500-year-old Buddhist monastery that has been the home of several renowned Lamas and religious scholars.

Feel free to take pictures with the Blue Sheep and Ibex that aimlessly wander the fields! After lunch at Purne, we ride towards Padum, our stop for the night.

Sleeping Altitude : 4000m approximately
Max. Altitude Reached : 4267m.
Average Distance: -KM

Day 5 Padum (Local Sightseeing)

Enjoy local breakfast to your heart’s content because we have a long day of sightseeing ahead of us! We first visit the namesake monastery at Sani, believed to be constructed in the 2 nd century CE. A majestic statue of the revered Buddhist teacher, Guru Padmasambhava can be seen in the nearby lake.

Before returning to the hotel for dinner, we go to the heavenly waterfall at Sheela which falls into a crystal-clear pool.

Sleeping Altitude : 4000m
Max. Altitude Reached : 4000m.
Average Distance: – KM

Day 6 Padum-Lamayuro

– After having breakfast, our journey from Padum to Lamayuru is a total of 332 km. – The riding for the day is expected to take around 9-10 hours. – Along this route, we will be covering two high mountain passes, the first one being Singga La at 5009 meters, which is the highest point of the day, and the second being Sir Sir La at 4832 meters. – We will be riding alongside the Zanskar River. – The terrain will consist of 80% off-road and 20% on-road sections.

Sleeping Altitude : 3510m
Max. Altitude Reached : 5009m.
Average Distance: 332KM

Day 7 Lamayuro-Leh

After enjoying our breakfast, we hit the road once again. The ride from Lamayuro to Leh while long is full of adventurous roads. This is one of those days when it’s all about breathing the clear Himalayan air and enjoying the ride without distractions.

In the evening, we reach Leh for dinner and an overnight stay.

Sleeping Altitude : 3500m
Max. Altitude Reached : 3500m.
Average Distance: 127KM

Day 8 Leh (Day at Leisure)

We also need to take an expedition down into the town to get our permits sorted for entering the Ladakh region ahead of us. Leh City is one of the most beautiful cities in North India and is known for unique sightseeing places like Hemis Monastery, Shanti stupa and Leh Palace. We will explore the above-mentioned tourist places and give our bodies enough time to acclimatize to such high altitudes. During the evening hours, we will explore the local market of Leh and buy some souvenirs for your dear and near ones.

Average Distance: 70-80km

Day 9 Leh-Sarchu

After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Sarchu from Leh at 8 o’clock in the morning. The total ride from Leh to Sarchu covers a distance of 260 km. During this ride, we will cross three high mountain passes. The first and highest point of the day is Tanglang La at 5328 meters. After that, we’ll pass through Lachung La at 5059 meters and finally Nakika at 4738 meters. A notable feature on this route is the famous high pass, More Plains, which spans 50 km of straight road where you can test your maximum speed. Following that, we will stop at Pang for lunch, and then navigate the 21 hairpin turns known as the ‘Gata Loop.’ Ultimately, we will reach Sarchu.

Accommodation : Large tents with attached WC and proper camp beds.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Sleeping Altitude : 4850m
Max. Altitude Reached : 5328m.
Average Distance : 260KM

Day 10 Sarchu-Bhuntar

After breakfast, we will commence our journey from Sarchu to Bhuntar. The total ride from Sarchu to Bhuntar covers a distance of 225 km, with well-maintained roads, making the ride approximately 5-6 hours of breathtaking landscapes and serene valleys. During this journey, we will cross one high pass, Barlachala, standing at a height of 4850m.

The route, marked by scenic beauty, takes you through a landscape that shifts from rugged terrains to lush greenery. Each twist and turn of the road unfolds new vistas, making this bike ride an unforgettable experience. Sarchu to Bhuntar is not just a journey; it’s an odyssey for those seeking the thrill of the open road.

Max. Altitude Reached : 4850m
Average Distance : 225km

Day 11 Depature

After a good sleep, we will be bid for you. At the breakfast, we will cheer some moments of togetherness that we will never forget for a lifetime in the hope of meeting soon again. We will click some memories of the entire group, you can bid your friends that you will have for a lifetime.

Included Meals : Breakfast

Accommodation.

This refers to the places where participants will stay overnight during the expedition. The specific details about the accommodation, such as the type of lodging and its amenities, are usually mentioned in the daily itinerary.

Motorbike Mechanic.

This indicates the presence of a mechanic who is knowledgeable about motorbikes and can provide assistance and maintenance throughout the expedition. They are responsible for addressing any mechanical issues or breakdowns that may occur during the journey.

Environmental & Permit fee.

This fee covers any necessary permits or fees required for accessing certain areas or regions during the expedition. It ensures compliance with local regulations and helps to support the preservation of the environment.

01 backup vehicle to carry luggage.

A backup vehicle is provided to carry luggage. Participants can store their belongings in the backup vehicle, allowing them to ride their motorbikes without carrying heavy baggage.

First aid box and oxygen cylinder.

These are safety provisions included in case of any medical emergencies during the expedition. The first aid box contains basic medical supplies to address minor injuries or ailments, while the oxygen cylinder is used in case of altitude-related issues or breathing difficulties in high-altitude regions.

Experienced English-speaking road captain.

The road captain is a knowledgeable and experienced individual who leads the expedition. They are fluent in English and guide the participants throughout the journey, ensuring smooth navigation and addressing any concerns or questions along the way.

Royal Enfield.

This specifies the type of motorbike provided for the tour. The Royal Enfield Himalayan is a popular model known for its reliability and suitability for adventure or off-road riding.

Fuel for the motorbikes is included in the expedition package. This ensures that participants have a sufficient fuel supply to cover the distances travelled during the expedition.

Personal expenses like Telephone, Laundry, Tips Table Drinks etc.
Any type of insurance-Medical, Accidental, theft
The cost incurred to transfer or tow the motorbike in case it is dropped on the way (Till our main office).
Security deposit per motorbike of £200 . As per the deposit policy (This is refundable at the end of the expedition if there is no damage or spare parts used.)
Any cost incurred due to extension, change of itinerary due to natural calamities, roadblocks, vehicle breakdown, union issues and factors beyond our control (to be paid by the client directly on the spot)
Anything that is not mentioned in the Inclusion sections

The advisable maximum size of baggage should not exceed 60 litres. Remember that you have to carry the luggage to the backup vehicle and into the accommodation

Tipping for the mechanic, backup driver, and guide, a suggested range is between £50 and £200 , depending on the quality of service provided.

Important Informations

E-visa for india.

Travel to India, you will need an e-visa . This process has been made simple and accessible through online applications. You can apply for your e-visa by visiting the official website at E-VISA . The application process is straightforward. One of the requirements for obtaining your e-visa is to provide the address of an Indian company during your application. This is part of the information needed to process your visa. It’s important to have all the required details and documents ready before you start your application to ensure a smooth process. Remember, applying for an e-visa is a crucial step in planning your trip to India, so it’s best to take care of it well in advance of your travel dates. This way, you can look forward to your trip without any last-minute hassles.

India’s e-Tourist Visa system offers three types of visas for travellers wishing to visit the country, catering to different durations and types of visits. Here’s a brief overview:

1. One Month e-Tourist Visa : This visa option is suitable for both group and individual tourists. For group tourists, it became available from October 15, 2021, and for individual tourists from November 15, 2021. The visa is valid for one month, or 30 days, allowing for a double entry. However, it is important to note that this visa cannot be extended or converted into another type.

2. One Year e-Tourist Visa : This visa is valid for one year, or 365 days, from the date of electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) grant. It permits multiple entries into India. This option is ideal for those who wish to make several trips to India over the course of a year without the need to reapply for a visa each time.

3. Five Year e-Tourist Visa : For those planning longer-term travel or multiple visits over several years, the five-year e-Tourist Visa is the best option. Valid for five years from the date of ETA grant, it also allows for multiple entries. An important condition for holders of the one-year and five-year e-Tourist Visas is that their total stay in India during any calendar year should not exceed 180 days.

These visa options provide flexibility for tourists according to their travel plans, making it easier to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of India. Port Of Arrival:

India Address:

Things To Carry

Bike Gear (* required)

The easiest way to bring your riding gear is by wearing it on the flight if you need to transfer onto a smaller, national flight with luggage restrictions (Please check before you leave home). Should you only fly international flights to the meeting point, it’s easy to pack all this gear into a duffel bag, which can be folded and kept with your luggage which will travel in the backup van for the duration of your motorbike expdition.

Padded/armoured motorbike jacket
Riding pants (with knee pads)
Motorbike gloves
Motorbike boots (Dualsport / MX)
Kidney belt (highly recommended)
Snood / Buff / Dust mask
Hydration Bag
License, Medical Insurance and Travel Insurance
Saddlebags/ Magnetic tank bag
Comfortable clothes: tracks, raincoats, tee-shirts
Personal medication
Riding Shoes, a pair of slippers for the night, extra pair of socks
Sunglasses, caps or hats, sunscreen lotion and insect repellents
Personal toiletries
Water bottles, backpack with plastic lining, daypack

Confirmation Policy

The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking

In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.

Booking & payment conditions:

A deposit of 30% of the total cost of the Expedition is required at the time of booking.

Documents To Carry

Original Passport ID
International Driving License Or Domestic Driving Licence With IDP – Original Read full infomation IDP

Expedition Key Points

How to get there.

Indira Gandhi International Airport

Transfer not provided

Bus Pick-Up Stations

Majnu ka Tila Volvo pickup spot – TRAVAMIGO, P62G+QVR, Magazine Rd, Block H, Majnu-ka-tilla, Timarpur, Delhi, 110054

Bus Timing (India)

6 PM To 11 PM

The ticket will be shared two days before the tour departure.

Import Notes

We require a minimum strength of 3 riders to operate one group with Backup.

If there are any additional expenses due to bad weather or any other reason beyond the control of the expedition operator on account of a hotel stay, transportation, meals, etc. extra bill will be raised.

Neither Motorbike Expeditions nor the participating partners/hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses.

Motorbike Expeditions is not responsible for any change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control like changes in flight and train schedule, cancellation of flights/trains, political disturbances, natural phenomena, etc.

If any group member wants to leave the group in between the expedition then he/she has to pay the cost of transportation motorbike from the point of leaving the tour till the Main office drop.

Group members would have to get their own riding gear. Wearing a helmet, carrying a valid ID proof & driving license is mandatory.

All guests will be responsible for the safety and security of their own luggage. We will not be at all responsible for the damaged/missing/lost luggage. So carry a small daypack bag to carry all the expensive things with you.

Compensation for any damage/accident done by you during an expedition to another property/person would be directly payable to you.

Avoid High-Altitude Sickness

To avoid high-altitude sickness, here are a few steps you can take to prepare and mitigate the risks:

1. Stay Hydrated : Drink water in small sips every 10 minutes. Carrying a hydration bag can make it easier to stay hydrated without having to stop frequently. Hydration helps your body adjust to the altitude more efficiently.

2. Consider Medication : Diamox is a medication that can help prevent altitude sickness. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor before your trip, especially if you have any allergies or medical conditions. Your doctor can advise on the appropriate dosage and whether it’s safe for you to take.

3. Eat a High Potassium Diet: Foods high in potassium, such as bananas, avocados, and potatoes, can help your body adjust to high altitudes. A diet rich in these foods before and during your trip can be beneficial.

4. Oxygen Support : We carry oxygen cylinders for emergency use. Our guide is trained to recognize the symptoms of oxygen deprivation and will provide oxygen from a 10-15 litre big cylinder or a 2-litre portable cylinder if required. It’s critical to listen to your guide and communicate any discomfort you may be experiencing.

5. Stay Positive and Don’t Panic : A good mindset is crucial when dealing with high altitudes. Being aware that you’re in a high-altitude area with less oxygen is important, but it’s equally important not to panic. Stay positive and trust in your preparation and resources. Your guide will instruct you on what to do and how to handle different sections of your journey effectively. Listening to your guide and maintaining a positive outlook can significantly improve your ability to adapt and enjoy your high-altitude adventure.

6. Expedition Program Plan: The expedition program has been customized in such a way that we will gradually ascend from lower altitudes to higher altitudes day by day. This approach helps in acclimatizing to the changing oxygen levels and reducing the risk of high-altitude sickness. Gradual ascent allows your body time to adjust to the altitude changes, making the journey safer and more enjoyable. This methodical increase in altitude is designed to enhance your body’s adaptation process, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience as you reach higher elevations.

Remember, preparation and acclimatization are key. Allow your body time to adjust to the altitude by taking it easy the first few days and being mindful of your physical condition.

Is Setellite Phone Allow?

No, the use of satellite phones is strictly prohibited as you will be in a very sensitive area. Satellite phones can pose security concerns and are often restricted by Government in certain regions, especially sensitive or protected areas. It’s important to respect these rules to avoid any legal issues or security risks. Always check and adhere to the local laws and guidelines regarding communication devices in any area you plan to visit.

Buy Sim Card in India

Certainly, here’s a concise guide for purchasing a mobile SIM card at airports like Delhi and Chandigarh, focusing on a trip to the Himalayas region:

1. How to Spot Mobile SIM Card Stalls Delhi/Chandigarh Airport: Fixed stalls are available. Look for signs or ask airport staff for directions.

Logos of Jio and Airtel, major Indian telecommunications companies, displayed side by side for comparison.

2. Choose Your Operator Recommended: Jio is recommended, though Airtel is also a good option. Opt for a post-paid plan for better connectivity in Ladakh.

3. Documentation Needed Passport, visa, and a passport-sized photo. Sometimes proof of local address or mobile number. Use our address and mobile number

4. Activation Time Activation can take a few hours to a day. Ensure your phone is compatible and unlocked.

6. Payment and Top-Up Payments can be made via cash or card. Top-ups can be done online, through the operator’s app, or at local stores.

Key Tips : – Post-paid SIMs are advised for better coverage in Ladakh. – Check if your phone supports India’s GSM network bands. – Keep all necessary documents handy for a smoother purchase process.

Expeditions Mape

Confirm Departure Date

No matter how many minimum riders there are, the expedition will still proceed

16 Jun– 26 Jun 2025

12/12 Bike Left

Request To Book

25 Aug – 04 Sept 2025