Zanskar Valley in Ladakh is a high altitude cold desert, located to the south west of Leh, there runs a mountain range of 7000 kms, separated from the other region of Ladakh. It is an offbeat region and has different terrain than Ladakh, it is less commercialized than other regions of Ladakh. The valley is located at an altitude of 12,000 ft. Pensi La is a gateway to Zanskar valley, it connects Suru valley(Kargil) to Zanskar valley.
The word Zanskar is derived from the Tibetan language, “Zang” means “copper” and “kar” means “valley” referring to presence of copper deposits in the valley. Zanskar has a rich Buddhist culture.
Zanskar valley was once a part of the ancient Silk Route, connecting Ladakh, Tibet, and Kashmir. The valley has rugged terrains which is characterised by deep gorges, glaciers and barren landscapes. The main valley of Zanskar region is Padum valley,
Drang Drung glacier, which is one of the largest glaciers in Ladakh region, is a major source of freshwater for the Zanskar River. Zanskar valley is India’s least populated region. It remains inaccessible for 7 months due to heavy snowfall. Zanskar valley is a home to various monasteries, high-altitude passes and glaciers.
Let us take you through the detailed guide to Zanskar valley.
Zanskar Valley: Your Gateway to Ladakh’s Most Remote Paradise
A road trip to Zanskar valley is truly an adventurous journey that takes you through the meandering roads, treacherous passes, serene gorges and beautiful ancient monasteries. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace in monasteries or thrilling experience in the mountains, Zanskar valley will amaze you with its austere beauty.
Best time to visit Zanskar valley
Summer season (June to September) is the best time to visit Zanskar valley in Ladakh, the weather remains pleasant, favourable for the road trip or bike trip. During this time, the road conditions are good and safe for traveling. These months are ideal for exploring the valley’s hidden gems. The monasteries, glaciers and the villages are what you will get to see on your trip. The snow-capped Himalayan peaks of Zanskar Himalayas with a blend of lush green landscapes looks ethereal.
Places to visit in Zanskar valley
Padum
Padum is located in the heart of Zanskar valley. Padum is the administrative centre and main town of Zanskar valley, this town is influenced by both Indian and Tibetan culture. Padum is a gateway to several religious sites such as Phugtal monastery, Gombok Rangjan, Zanskar Palace, Karsha monastery and more. With the passage of time, Padum has gained popularity due to better road connectivity. It is the best place for adventurers and spiritual seekers.
Karsha Monastery
It is the largest monastery of Zanskar region, it is a top attraction located in Padum valley, There are a number of shrines in the gompa which can accommodate 100 of monks. It is built in Buddhist architecture. It has exquisite wall painting and intricate carvings.
Phuktal Monastery- The epitome of Spirituality
Phuktal or Phugtal monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in the Lungnak valley of south eastern Zanskar in Ladakh region. It is one of the remote monasteries in Ladakh that is built around a natural cave. It is ideal for monks and scholars seeking peace. The Phugtal Gompa maintains a traditional medical clinic and serves the local community. You can reach Phugtal monastery by trekking through the 6.5-7 kms trek, starting from Purne village. You will pass through beautiful mountain trails, wooden bridges and landscapes. Phugtal trek is one of the best adventures that you should not miss in Phugtal.
Kargyak- Last village of Zanskar valley
Kargyak village is the small village in Zanskar valley, Kargyak is the last village on the Zanskar side before entering Himachal Pradesh via Shingo La Pass and the first village of Zanskar after crossing Shinko La. Kayak is located at an altitude of 13,000 feet, due to its high altitude and harsh climate, vegetation in this region is limited and done for a short span in summers.
It falls under the cold desert climate. The village is surrounded by various glacial streams, and mighty Gumbok Rangan Peak forms the backdrop of this beautiful village.
Gombo Rangzan
Gombo Rangzan is a sacred peak located in the south of Kargyak village in the Lungyak valley of Zanskar region. It is a hidden gem in Zanskar valley and holds great significance for Buddhists, towering over the Kargyak village, the precipice is the epitome of spirituality. There is local folklore associated with Gubok Rangzan, which adds to its mystical aura. It is a paradise for photographers, trekkers and adventure seekers. Let us throw some light on folklore of this sacred peak. It is believed that Gombo Rangzan was once a powerful warrior or divine protector who took the form of a mountain to watch over the valley forever. The name “Gombo” is associated with the protector deity in Tibetan Buddhism and Rangzan means self created or self rising, emphasising its divine origin. Local say, whenever any danger threatens Kargyak, the spirit of Gombo Rangzan awakens to shield the village.
Best Itinerary for Zanskar Valley
Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport | Acclimatization Day
On arrival at Leh, you will assemble at Leh airport and a vehicle will drop you at a designated hotel, after checking in the rest of the day is at leisure. Travelers are advised to acclimatize for a safe journey ahead. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities and rest well. In the evening, your trip captain will conduct a tour briefing session. Dinner will be followed by an overnight stay in Leh.
Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing | Ride to Kargil (210 Km)
Post breakfast, we will start our journey from Leh to Kargil. En route, we will visit Sangam, the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus rivers. We will visit The Hall of Fame, a war memorial maintained by the Indian Army. Additionally, we will explore Magnetic Hill, an anti-gravity phenomenon, and visit Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Further along, we will traverse Lamayuru Hills, as well as Fotula Pass (13,479 ft.) and Namika La (12,198 ft.), two of the highest passes on this route. Upon reaching Kargil, we will check into our hotel. Dinner will be followed by an overnight stay in Kargil.
Day 3: Kargil to Padum (295 km) Via Penzi La Pass
After an early breakfast, we will head towards Padum, the capital of Zanskar Valley, known for ancient rock carvings dating back to the 8th century. En route, we will pass through Rangdum, a culturally rich village in Suru Valley, and cross Penzi La Pass (14,000 ft.), the gateway to Zanskar. Kargil to Zanskar distance is approx. 150 kms.
From the pass, you can view the stunning Statso and Langtso lakes. We will also witness the breathtaking Drang Drung Glacier before reaching Padum.Upon arrival, we will check into homestay. Dinner will be followed by an overnight stay in Padum.
Day 4: Padum Local Sightseeing | Karsha Monastery
After breakfast, we will explore Padum. We will start with Karsha Monastery, Zanskar’s largest monastery, located on the banks of the Doda River. Karsha is a treasure trove of Buddhist art, particularly the 500-year-old wall paintings in the Lhabrang (teaching room). Afterwards, we will explore Padum Market and its surroundings. The rest of the day will be at leisure. After sightseeing, we will return to Padum for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Padum to Purne Via Phuktal Monastery (56 Km)
Post breakfast, we will travel to Purne, a scenic village in Zanskar Valley. En route, we will visit Phuktal Monastery, a remote Buddhist monastery in the Lungnak Valley. Phuktal Monastery is one of the few monasteries in Ladakh that can only be reached by trekking (7 km one way). The main attraction of Phuktal Gompa is its natural caves, which are said to have been visited by many sages over 2,500 years ago. Upon reaching Purne, we will check into homestay. Dinner will be followed by an overnight stay.
Day 6: Purne to Sarchu via Gombo Rangzan & Shinku La Pass
After breakfast, we will journey towards Sarchu, traversing the rugged terrain of Zanskar Valley. En route, we will pass through Kargyak, the last village of Zanskar, offering incredible views. You will also witness Gombo Rangzan, a sacred mountain in Ladakh.
We will cross Shinku La Pass (16,500 ft.), which connects Zanskar in Ladakh with Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh, before joining the Leh-Manali Highway at Darcha. Upon arrival in Sarchu, we will check into our campsite. Dinner will be followed by an overnight stay.
Day 7: Sarchu to Leh (230 Kms) Via Gata Loops
Post breakfast, we will ride from Sarchu to Leh. En route, we will be traversing three iconic high-altitude passes which are Nakee La (15,547 ft), Lachung La (16,600 ft), and Tanglang La (17,480 ft). We will also be riding through the enthralling Gata Loops which consists of 21 hairpin bends on the Manali Leh Highway. We will also be traversing the iconic More Plains which is an aesthetic 40 Kilometer stretch of land & Upshi which is a tiny Ladakhi hamlet. Lastly, we will visit the Shanti Stupa which is known for its beautiful white dome shape, statues, and intricate carvings.In the evening, we’ll check into our designated hotel. Dinner followed by an overnight stay in Leh.
Day 8: Departure from Leh
We can guarantee that you will wake up feeling truly fulfilled with a lingering sense of peace and calmness within. Greet yourself a hearty breakfast and take a few minutes to simply reminisce about the last few days. With loads of memories etched in your heart, bid a bitter-sweet goodbye to your friends as you head back home from the Leh Airport.
FAQs
What is Zanskar Valley famous for?
Zanskar valley is famous for its raw natural landscapes, glacial streams and rich Buddhist heritage. It is also known for untouched and remote villages such as Padum, Kargyak. These villages captivate adventure seekers and nature lovers with its beauty. Zanskar valley in Ladakh has high altitude passes such as Pensi La, which is the gateway to Zanskar valley and the Shinko La, the pass that connects Zanskar valley of Kargil with Lahaul region of Himachal. The journey to Zanskar valley is a unique experience filled with a lot of thrill and adventure.
Which is the highest pass in Zanskar?
The highest pass in the Zanskar region is Shinko La with an altitude of 16,703 feet. It connects Ladakh(Zanskar region) with Himachal Pradesh( Lahaul valley).
Does Zanskar have a river?
Yes, the Zanskar river flows through the Zanskar region of Ladakh. It is a major tributary of the Indus river. The source of the Zanskar river is Siachen glacier.
How to go from Leh to Zanskar?
Road is the only way to reach Zanskar valley. You can hire a taxi (SUV) or self drive to reach Kargil and then continuing your journey, reach Zanskar valley. It is a paradise for highly skilled and experienced riders. Noob riders might find it difficult to ride through the Offbeat places of Zanskar valley. You can reach Zanskar valley( Pensi La pass) to Leh via Kargil. Leh to Zanskar distance is around 230 kms. Moreover, the distance between Leh to Kargil is 213 kms.
When to visit Zanskar Valley?
You can visit Zanskar valley in the summer season (June to September). During this season the climate remains pleasant, favorable for sightseeing, exploring villages and trekking.
Experience the untouched beauty of Zanskar valley where ancient monasteries, thrilling adventures, and breathtaking landscapes await. Embark on an unforgettable Zanskar Valley Trip!
