Tour Highlights
A trip to Zanskar, a remote and rugged region in the Indian state of Himachal and UT Ladakh, offers a unique adventure in the heart of the Himalayas. Travel to Zanskar requires careful planning, as the region is cut off from the rest of India during the winter due to heavy snowfall. It’s best to visit during the summer months when roads are open and conditions are more favorable. Additionally, be prepared for high-altitude conditions
Here are some highlights of a Zanskar trip:
1. Pristine Landscapes: Zanskar is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including towering peaks, deep gorges, winding rivers, and vast expanses of untouched wilderness. The Zanskar River, a tributary of the Indus, carves through the dramatic Zanskar Valley.
2. Trekking and Hiking: Zanskar offers excellent trekking opportunities. The Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River in winter is world-famous, while summer treks to places like Stok Kangri, Markha Valley, and Padum provide stunning views and a chance to explore remote villages.
3. Buddhist Culture: Zanskar is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist culture, with numerous monasteries, stupas, and prayer flags adorning the landscape. Visit monasteries like Karsha, Phuktal, and Stongde to witness ancient rituals and stunning architecture.
4. Unique Festivals: Experience local festivals like the Karsha Gustor and Padum Gustor, where masked dances, traditional music, and elaborate ceremonies are held in the monasteries.
5. River Rafting: The Zanskar River offers thrilling opportunities for white-water rafting and kayaking, particularly in the section between Padum and Nimu, where the river flows through deep gorges.
6. Ancient Villages: Explore charming, centuries-old villages like Padum, Stongde, and Zangla, which provide insights into traditional Ladakhi and Zanskari lifestyles.
7. Wildlife Viewing: Zanskar is home to unique wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard. While sightings are rare, the region offers a chance to spot other species like blue sheep, ibex, and Himalayan marmots.
8. Adventure Camping: Set up camp in remote and picturesque locations along the Zanskar River, providing a chance to sleep under the stars in one of the world’s most pristine environments.
9. Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Zanskar is an excellent place for stargazing. On clear nights, you can witness a stunning display of stars and constellations.
10. Challenging Roads: Accessing Zanskar can be an adventure in itself, with treacherous mountain roads. The most common approach is through the Kargil-Zanskar Road or the Manali-Leh-Zanskar route (in summer).
11. Buddhist Art and Crafts: Explore local markets to shop for traditional handicrafts, including thangka paintings, prayer wheels, and colorful textiles.
12. Remote Beauty: Zanskar is known for its isolation and remote beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
Tour Itinerary
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Day 1: Manali to Jispa via Atal Tunnel and Keylong**
– Depart from Manali and drive through the newly constructed Atal Tunnel, an engineering marvel that connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
– Continue your journey towards Keylong, the administrative center of Lahaul Valley, located at an altitude of 3100 meters.
– From Keylong, drive to Jispa, a charming village situated at an altitude of 3200 meters.
– Check-in to your accommodation and relax for the night in the beautiful surroundings of Jispa. -
DAY 2:Jispa to Purney via Shinkun La and Gonborangjum**
– Start your day with an early breakfast and proceed towards Purney.
– Drive through the challenging Shinkun La Pass, which stands at an impressive altitude of 5090 meters.
– Continue your journey, passing through Gonborangjum, Kurgiakh, and Purney, all nestled in the heart of the Himalayas at altitudes ranging from 3800 to 4330 meters.
– Reach Purney, where you’ll spend the night, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. -
DAY 3: Purney to Padum via Phugtal Monastery**
– Today, you’ll embark on a unique adventure to Phugtal Monastery, a remote and ancient Buddhist monastery.
– After visiting Phugtal Monastery, return to Purney and continue your journey to Raru and then to Padum.
– Padum, the largest town in Zanskar, is situated at an altitude of 3600 meters.
– Check in to your accommodation and explore Padum, soaking in the local culture and serene landscapes. -
Day 4: Padum to Pensi La and Back**
– Today’s journey takes you to Pensi La, a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4470 meters.
– Drive through Tungri, Phe, Hamiling, and Abran to reach Pensi La.
– Take in the panoramic views from the pass before returning to Padum for the night. -
Day 5: Padum to Karsha Monastery and Sani**
– Visit Karsha Monastery, one of the largest and most important monastic complexes in Zanskar.
– Explore the picturesque village of Sani and its ancient monastery.
– Return to Padum and enjoy another peaceful night in the heart of Zanskar. -
Day 6: Padum to Lingshed via Stongde and Zangla Palace**
– Depart from Padum and drive to Stongde Monastery, perched at an altitude of 3800 meters.
– Continue your journey to Zangla Palace, a historic and architectural gem.
– Finally, reach Lingshed, a remote village nestled at 3900 meters.
– Check in to your accommodation and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Lingshed. -
Day 7: Lingshed to Lamayuru via Sengge La, Photoksar, and Sirsir La**
– Today’s journey involves crossing multiple high mountain passes, starting with the challenging Sengge La Pass at 4940 meters.
– Continue through Photoksar, cross Sirsir La Pass at 4800 meters, and reach the village of Wanla.
– Visit Lamayuru Monastery, one of the oldest and most iconic monasteries in Ladakh.
– Finally, arrive in Leh, where you’ll check in to your hotel and unwind. -
Day 8: Leh via Alchi and Likir**
– Depart from Leh and visit Alchi Monastery, known for its ancient Buddhist art.
– Explore Likir Monastery and its magnificent surroundings.
– Return to Leh, where you can explore the local market and enjoy your last evening in the region.
– Overnight stay in Leh.This Zanskar tour offers an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and remote villages. Be prepared for varying road conditions, dramatic altitude changes, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and natural beauty of the region.
Pricing Packs
Basic
Single bed, Breakfast- 4 Stars Hotels
- Economy Class Flight
- Directed Flight
- 24/7 Customer Support
Standard
Double bed, Meals, Transfer- 4-5 Stars Hotels
- First Class Flight
- Directed Flight
- 24/7 Customer Support
Premium
All Inclusive- 5 Stars Hotels
- Business Class Flight
- Directed Flight
- 24/7 Customer Support
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