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Discover Zanskar: A Hidden Himalayan Kingdom

Tucked deep in the remote western Himalayas, the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Zanskar remains isolated for much of the year. When snow closes its high mountain passes, the only access is via the frozen Zanskar River—a legendary walking route. This unforgettable trek offers a journey through timeless landscapes: cliffside villages, emerald fields of buckwheat and peas, and centuries-old monasteries. The region is renowned for its dramatic terrain and high-altitude passes, including Singge La (5090m), the "Lion Pass." By day five, trekkers reach the secluded village of Lingshed. You can choose to end your adventure in Padum after ten days, or continue on to Darcha for the full 20-day expedition.

Tucked deep in the remote western Himalayas, the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Zanskar remains isolated for much of the year. When snow closes its high mountain passes, the only access is via the frozen Zanskar River—a legendary walking route. This unforgettable trek offers a journey through timeless landscapes: cliffside villages, emerald fields of buckwheat and peas, and centuries-old monasteries. The region is renowned for its dramatic terrain and high-altitude passes, including Singge La (5090m), the "Lion Pass." By day five, trekkers reach the secluded village of Lingshed. You can choose to end your adventure in Padum after ten days, or continue on to Darcha for the full 20-day expedition.

Itineraries

Day 1

Drive to Lamayuru (3,510 m)

  • Distance: ~125 km (5–6 hrs drive).

  • Visit Lamayuru Monastery.

  • Camp or stay in guesthouse.

Day 2

Lamayuru – Wanla (3,250 m)

  • Trek Time: 3–4 hrs.

  • Cross Prinkiti La (3,720 m).

  • Gentle descent to Wanla village.

Day 3

Wanla – Hanupatta (3,760 m)

  • Trek Time: 5–6 hrs.

  • Easy walk through gorges and villages.

Day 4

Hanupatta – Photoksar (4,200 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Cross Sirsir La (4,800 m).

Day 5

Photoksar – Singge La Base (4,700 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Gradual ascent to base of Singge La.

Day 6

Cross Singge La (5,050 m) – Lingshed (3,800 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Visit Lingshed Monastery.

Day 7

Lingshed – Snertse (3,900 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Cross Hanuma La (4,700 m).

Day 8

Snertse – Hanumil (3,400 m)

  • Trek Time: 5–6 hrs.

  • Descend through deep gorges.

Day 9

Hanumil – Pishu (3,470 m)

  • Trek Time: 4–5 hrs.

  • Trek along the Zanskar River.

Day 10

Pishu – Karsha (3,650 m)

  • Trek Time: 5–6 hrs.

  • Visit Karsha Monastery (largest in Zanskar).

Day 11

Karsha – Padum (3,600 m)

  • rek Time: 2–3 hrs.

  • Short trek or vehicle transfer.

  • Resupply and rest in Padum.

Day 12

Padum – Raru (3,800 m)

  • Drive or trek via Bardan Gompa.

  • Easy trail with great scenery.

Day 13

Raru – Mone

  • Trek Time: 5–6 hrs.

  • Entering more isolated Zanskar villages.

Day 14

Mone – Purne (3,950 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Follow Tsarap River.

  • Optional detour to Phugtal Monastery.

Day 15

Purne – Phugtal – Purne

  • Optional day hike (3–4 hrs round trip).

  • Explore the iconic Phugtal cave monastery.

Day 16

Purne – Kargyak (4,200 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Cross scenic river valleys and high villages.

Day 17

Kargyak – Lakong (near Shinkun La Base, 4,600 m)

  • Trek Time: 6–7 hrs.

  • Prepare for final high pass.

Day 18

Cross Shinkun La (5,100 m) – Darcha (3,300 m)

  • Trek Time: 7–8 hrs.

  • Steep ascent and descent.

  • End of trek – vehicle pickup at Darcha.

  • Good experienced route guide
  • Homestay with all 3 Meals
  • Pick and drop by jeep to the starting and finishing point of the trek
  • Entry fee at the monasteries
  • Inner-line Permit
  • Stay while at Leh
  • Sleeping Bags For minus 30 Degree (will be provided by us on demand)
  • Sun Screen / Lotion
  • Walking Sticks
  • Down Jackets, Thermals
  • Water Bottle
  • Trekking Shoes (Recommended)
  • Hat,
  • Gloves
  • Flesh light
  • Good quality warm Jackets.
  • Travel or any type of insurance
  • Beverages (alcoholic or non alcoholic)
  • Tips
  • Any sort of expenses arising due to anything medical or anything else
  • Personal porter or pony (although can be provided on demand)

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