Discover Zanskar
10 - day tour
Zanskar is one of the most pristine and less traveled parts of Ladakh which has all the potential to satisfy a traveler’s imagination. It offers amazing landscapes, from the vast pastures of Pentse-La to the foot of the great Drang Drung glacier. This tour proposes a visit of Zanskar during which you will visit dramatically perched monasteries, walk on age old footpaths in the mountains and drive next to glaciers along some of the oldest and newest roads connecting this isolated region to the rest of India. In doing so, you will cross mountain passes, see herders in the pasturelands and engage all your senses with the raw and pure nature of this very special land. You will get an opportunity to discover the Buddhist life of Zanskar and depending on the time of the visit, attending some colorful festivals and even local marriages.
Day 1
Welcome to Ladakh! Your journey begins with a smooth pickup from Bakula Rinpoche Airport, ensuring a comfortable ride to your hotel. Please note that Ladakh's high altitude requires a full day (24 hours) of acclimatization for your well-being. Take it easy, stay hydrated, and let the breathtaking landscapes await your exploration once you're fully acclimated. Enjoy your stay in this enchanting region!
Day 2
Day two embraces low-impact activities for altitude adaptation. Explore Ladakh with visits to Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries in the southeast, followed by an afternoon at Shanti Stupa for breathtaking views of Leh.
Day 3
Post breakfast, embark on a scenic journey from Leh to Kargil, stopping at Lamayuru with its moon-like landscape. Spend the night in Kargil, and explore the abandoned village of Hunderman. Take in the unique experience of seeing Silmo, an abandoned village across the border with Pakistan. An enriching adventure awaits.
Day 4
After breakfast, we will take the road towards Padum in Zanskar. We will drive through the lush landscape of the Suru Valley along the Suru River from where we can see some of the most impressive glaciers of India. This includes the famous Nun Kun summits and a series of majestic glaciers that are bounding the Stod River. We will stop for lunch in Rangdum which is located half way between Kargil and Padum, at an altitude of 4,000 meters, and surrounded by a breathtaking landscape. We will eventually cross the Pentse La pass at an altitude of 4,400 meters. Driving along the pastures of Pentse La, you will see the summer camps of Zanskarpas, where herders are grazing yaks, dzos and cows and processing milk product. We will spend the night in Padum.
Day 5
Embark on a captivating journey to Kargyak in the picturesque Lungnak Valley, a region recently connected by road, preserving the untouched essence of Zanskar life. Explore the sacred Gonbo Rangjon, a dramatic rocky mountain, offering a unique opportunity for night photography. Experience the warmth of traditional homestay accommodation in Kargyak, immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Zanskar as you spend the night amid its breathtaking landscapes
Day 6
Day six beckons as we drive towards Phuktal, tracing the ancient footpath along the Tsarap River to the monastery. Walk across a traditional footbridge to explore the village of Yugar adjacent to the monastery. Spend the night in Phuktal, offering a unique opportunity to attend prayers at the monastery, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this remote and culturally rich location.
Day 7
On the seventh day, the journey leads back to Padum. In the afternoon, witness the awe-inspiring Karsha Monastery, perched dramatically in the landscape. Explore the cultural and spiritual treasures of this unique monastery, adding a touch of serenity and history to your enriching adventure in the heart of Zanskar.
Day 8
Early morning, commence the return journey to Leh. En route, explore the dramatically perched Stongdey Monastery, offering bird's-eye views of Zanskar. Drive along the breathtaking Zanskar gorge, navigating a zigzag road from the gorge's bottom to reach Photoksar for lunch. Continue to Lamayuru, crossing the Singe La mountain pass at 5,100 meters. Conclude the day by spending the night in the enchanting lunar surroundings of Lamayuru.
Day 9
Embarking on the return journey to Leh, enjoy some leisure time for shopping in the local market. The day concludes with a final dinner, offering a moment of camaraderie and reflection on the enriching experiences of the trip. Cherish the memories forged during this remarkable adventure through the cultural and natural wonders of Zanskar
Day 10
As your journey concludes, depart from Leh in the morning. Note that while Zanskar is a rewarding destination year-round, the autumn landscapes adds a spectacular touch, providing a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the breathtaking beauty of this enchanting region. Farewell to the awe-inspiring landscapes and memories crafted in the heart of Zanskar and see you in the fall, perhaps! Safe travels!