Shying away in the remote corners of Ladakh, Zanskar Valley is like a secret whisper of the Himalayas which isn't exposed to the outer world. Owning breathtaking landscapes and unique geographical formations, Zanskar is a sweet melody to nature admirers. Emerald rivers, high mountain passes, century-old monasteries, an arid barren desert overlooking the blue sky, and unparalleled Buddhist culture - this place has it all. Zanskar is said to be ideal for adventure enthusiasts who want to be teleported to earthly moonland.
Summary
Start & End Location
Delhi/ Manali
Start Time
Between 08:00 PM - 10:00 PM on Day 0 (Delhi)
End Time
10:00 AM on Day 8 ( Delhi)
Duration
6 Nights / 7 Days
Best time
March, April, May, September, October, November
Difficulty Level
Easy
Mode of Transport
Toyota Coaster (17 / 22 seater) or Toyota Hiace (9 seater)
Highlights
Shinkula Pass – A high-altitude pass that connects Zanskar with the Lahaul region, offering epic views and a thrilling adventure for offbeat travelers seeking a challenge.
Gonbo Rangjon – A sacred mountain peak of deep spiritual significance, symbolizing power and beauty for the locals, and a focal point in Zanskar's cultural landscape.
Phugtal Monastery – A peaceful, cliffside monastery built in the 15th century, located in a secluded valley. Known for its incredible location and deep ties to Tibetan Buddhism, it’s over 550 years old.
Kargyak Valley – A beautiful, quiet valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks and traditional villages, perfect for offbeat travelers looking to explore untouched landscapes.
Purne Village – A small, picturesque village offering a true taste of rural life in Zanskar, known for its friendly locals and stunning scenery, ideal for cultural immersion.
Padum Village – The administrative center of Zanskar, where travelers can experience the region’s culture, visit monasteries, and embark on nearby trekking routes.
Karsha Monastery – The largest monastery in Zanskar, home to monks and famous for its Buddhist art, ancient rock carvings, and chortens that serve as the graves of mummified lamas. It offers panoramic views of the Zanskar landscape.
Zangla Palace – A historic palace that provides a glimpse into Zanskar’s royal past. The palace, known for its traditional Ladakhi architecture, is where Hungarian philologist Sandor Korosi Csoma edited the first Tibetan-English dictionary in 1823.
Sani Lake & Monastery – A serene lake near the peaceful Sani village, known for its religious importance. It’s believed to be the oldest religious site in the entire Ladakh and Zanskar region.
Drang Drung Glacier – A stunning glacier, likely the second largest in Ladakh after Siachen Glacier, known for its raw beauty and sense of isolation. It stretches over 23 km and flows like a long river of ice.
Pensi La Pass – A 4400-meter-high pass offering spectacular views of the valley and mountains. It’s the gateway to Zanskar from the Suru Valley.
Baralacha La Pass – A high-altitude pass at 4850 meters connecting Leh (Ladakh) with the Lahaul region in Himachal Pradesh. Famous for its snow-filled vistas and breathtaking views.
Suraj Taal – A peaceful, high-altitude lake, the third highest in India, reflecting the surrounding mountains. It’s the source of the Bhaga River and features a stunning 800-meter-long turquoiseblue surface.
Sheela Waterfalls – A hidden gem in the valley, where travelers can enjoy the tranquil beauty of cascading water surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat.
Deepak Taal – A serene, untouched lake nestled in the mountains, providing an escape into nature’s pristine beauty.
Sissu Falls – A breathtaking waterfall located in the Lahaul region, known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a perfect spot to unwind.
Atal Tunnel – A modern engineering marvel that significantly reduces travel time to Zanskar, providing easier access to this remote region, transforming the experience for adventurers.
Booking Details
Zanskar Valley
Double Occupancy - 26500
Triple Occupancy - 23500
Short Itinerary
Day 00: Delhi Pickup
Day 01: Manali Arrival
Day 02: Manali To Purne
Day 03: Purne To Padum
Day 04: Padum Local Sightseeing
Day 05: Day Excursion To Drang Glacier & Pensi La Pass
Day 06: Padum To Jispa
Day 07: Jispa To Manali
Day 08: Delhi Arrival
Day Wise Itinerary
Day 00: Delhi Pickup
Board your bus from Delhi to Manali
Overnight journey.
Day 01: Manali Arrival
Morning arrival at Manali
Check in to your hotel and rest to recharge & acclimatise for the journey
Explore Manali in the evening by yourself
Evening briefing session & chilling at the hotel
Night stay in Manali
Day 02: Manali To Purne
Morning departure from Manali
Drive through Atal Tunnel, and you exit to a different world - Lahaul
You will cross - Shinkula Pass (16,703 ft) before reaching Gonbo Rangjon (holy mountain)
En route enjoy the forgotten hamlets of Kargyak Valley
Night stay at Purne
Day 03: Purne To Padum
Wake up to absolute peace in no man's land
Head towards Phugtal monastery (significant one of Zanskar) by hiking
Indulge in crazy views and unparalleled culture of Phugtal Gompa
Leave for Padum after coming back to Purne
Night stay in Padum
Day 04: Padum Local Sightseeing
Visit the Karsha Monastery, the largest and one of the most significant monasteries in the Zanskar region
Witness the frozen beauty of the Sheela Waterfall, where ice sculptures and cascading frozen water create a magical, winter wonderland.
Take in the serenity of Stongdey Monastery, perched on a hill and offering a peaceful retreat with panoramic views
Explore Zangla Palace, a hidden gem showcasing Ladakh’s royal history
Night Stay in Padum
Day 05: Day Excursion To Drang Glacier & Pensi La Pass
Set out for a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes as you drive to Pensi La Pass.
Stop en route at Sani Lake, a serene lake near the peaceful Sani village.
Admire the majestic views of the valley and surrounding mountains
Visit the stunning Drang Drung Glacier.
Night stay in Padum
Day 06: Padum To Jispa
Morning departure from Padum
Drive through Shinku La Pass and cross mighty Gonbo Rangjon (holy mountain).
Visit Baralacha La Pass (15,910 ft.) one of the highest passes in India, and glacier lakes - Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal
Gift yourself a visual treat with soul-satisfying Himalayan vistas on the way
Night stay in Jispa
Day 07: Jispa To Manali
Wake up to the serene Lahauli landscapes in Jispa, surrounded by snow capped peaks and lush valleys.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Keylong and Sissu, with their picturesque countryside and charming vibes.
Visit the Sissu waterfall, a peaceful retreat offering the perfect spot to unwind amidst nature.
Drive through the iconic Atal Tunnel, marveling at the engineering feat and stunning mountain views.
End your day with an evening drop in Manali
Bid farewell to your companions.
Day 08: Delhi Arrival
Overnight journey from Manali
Reach Delhi in the morning.
Inclusions
Transport from Delhi to Delhi. Overnight Volvo from Delhi to Manali and return
Tempo traveller from Manali to Manali.
Accommodation in well-maintained hotel / homestay / Swiss Camps as per the itinerary on a triple / double sharing basis.
6 Breakfast and 6 dinner
Comfortable tempo traveller for all days as per the itinerary.
Reliable, experienced trip coordinator and local driver with great knowledge of the area and the terrain.
All permits.
Anything which is not mentioned in itinerary.
Exclusions
Any Personal expenses / Medical expenses / Tips
Lunch / Any Beverages
Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances including medical emergencies and acts of God.
Room heater charges if anyone wants a personal room heater.
Extra days stay / food at any place during the tour because of bad weather or road blocking due to snow.
Arrival in Manali: Upon arrival at the Volvo drop point, any auto/cab charges to the hotel will be borne by the customer (approx. ₹100 per person).
Mall Road to Volvo Parking: On departure day, any auto/cab charges to the Volvo parking stand will be borne by the customer.
Anything that is not mentioned in the above list of inclusions.
How To Reach
Delhi Pickup (on day zero) : Location - Kashmere Gate ISBT / Majnu ka tila | Time - 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Manali Pickup (on day 1) : Location - Direct check-in into Manali stay | Time - after 11:00 AM
Manali Drop (on day 7) : Location - Private volvo bus stand, Manali | Time - approx 7:00 PM
Delhi Drop (on day 8) : Location - Kashmere Gate ISBT | Time - approx 10:00 AM
Carry BSNL sim~ Jio or Airtel postpaid sims only- Gonbo, purney does not have network.
Carry your ID cards along with one photocopy. ( Adhar Cards / Voter Card Or Passport)
Carry enough cash after Manali you will find ATMs in leh only.
Carry a personal hot flask instead of plastic water bottle ,avoid plastic bottles.
Carry wet wipes
Personal medication if you are taking any.
Additional Information
Why Join Trekotrip's Signature Road Trip to Zanskar Valley?
A Unique Experience Zanskar Valley, nestled in eastern Ladakh, offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure for nature lovers and explorers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and serene environment, this hidden gem invites you to witness the untouched beauty of towering mountain passes, alpine lakes, and ancient monasteries that few have had the privilege to experience.
A Hidden Destination Explore Zanskar's lesser-known destinations like Padum, Phugtal Gompa, and Karsha Monastery, as well as Bardhan Gompa. Cross towering mountain passes like Pensi La, Shinkula, and Baralacha La. Visit stunning lakes such as Sani, Deepak Tal, and Suraj Tal, and experience surreal desert-like terrain, emerald rivers, and the mesmerizing beauty of Drang Drung Glacier. The beauty of this region, untouched by mass tourism, offers a serene, offbeat adventure.
Expertly Curated Itinerary Our meticulously crafted itinerary covers the best of Zanskar, taking you to natural and cultural gems like the Phugtal Monastery, Karsha Monastery, and the Gonbo Rangzon. Hike to these awe-inspiring monasteries, traverse high-altitude mountain passes, and enjoy unforgettable views of Zanskar’s pristine lakes and landscapes. All while avoiding the crowded, typical tourist routes to ensure a more intimate, authentic experience.
Comfortable and Safe Travel Travel in comfort and safety with our experienced group coordinators and skilled drivers. Whether you’re navigating rugged mountain terrain, crossing high passes like Shinkula and Baralacha La, or driving through remote villages, we prioritize your safety and comfort, ensuring you can fully enjoy the rugged beauty of Zanskar without any worries.
Authentic Local Experience Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Zanskar by visiting traditional villages and monasteries. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, learn about their Buddhist traditions, and explore centuries-old monasteries like Phugtal, Karsha, and Bardhan Gompa. Stay in well-maintained homestays, camps, and hotels for a comfortable and authentic experience after a day of exploration
Small Group, Big Experience Our small group sizes provide a personalized and intimate experience, allowing for deeper connections with fellow travelers and more meaningful interactions with the local culture. This ensures a richer experience as you engage with the beauty and traditions of Zanskar.
Expert Support Enjoy 24/7 support from our dedicated team, offering expert guidance, local insights, and assistance throughout your journey. Whether it's help with travel plans or advice on local customs, we’re here to make your Zanskar adventure smooth and unforgettable.
Hassle-Free Arrangements We handle all logistics, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, so you can focus on enjoying the stunning beauty of Zanskar. Stay in well-maintained homestays and camps, relax after a long day, and let us take care of all the details for you.
Unforgettable Memories Create lasting memories as you explore the rugged beauty of Zanskar—whether you’re crossing high passes like Pensi La or Shinkula, hiking to the iconic Phugtal Monastery, or gazing at the pristine beauty of Sani Lake. With its starry skies, unique landscapes, and vibrant local culture, your Zanskar experience will leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQS
How do I register for a trip? Pay a minimum token amount of ₹8,000 to secure your slot. A booking confirmation email will be sent once confirmed.
Can I join Trekotrip? Yes, you can join solo, with friends, or as a couple.
Can I customize the trip? Yes, customization is available for private groups with your choice of dates, duration, or any other requests.
What payment modes do you accept? We accept all online payments (debit/credit cards, net banking, UPI).
Can I pay through EMI? Yes, EMI options are available. Full payment must be completed 7 days before departure.
When do I need to pay the balance amount? The balance must be paid 7 days before departure.
Is there a WhatsApp group created before the trip? Yes, a WhatsApp group will be created 7 days before departure after receiving full payment from all participants.
What is your cancellation policy? No cancellations allowed. 100% refund if Trekotrip cancels the trip.
How many minimum participants are required for a fixed departure? 4 participants. If this number isn’t met, Trekotrip will cancel the trip and provide a full refund, or suggest you join another confirmed group departure for the same dates.
Can I cancel/reschedule my trip in an emergency? No cancellations or reschedules allowed for fixed departure trips.
What happens if Trekotrip cancels my trip? You will receive a 100% refund if Trekotrip cancels the trip.
How long does the refund take? Refunds will be processed within 7-10 business days aer initiation.
Can I bring my own vehicle? Yes, you can. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with valid insurance and documents. You will cover all expenses (fuel, maintenance, etc.).
Can you provide a separate vehicle for us? Yes, subject to availability. Book at least 15 days in advance. Extra charges apply.
Can you arrange airport pickup? Yes, airport pickup and drop-off can be arranged for an additional charge.
Can you arrange stay at the base location? Yes, denitely we can help you with that.
Can you help us find the correct flights? Yes, we can suggest some good flight and train options for you to choose from based on your preference or time constraints.
Is there a group coordinator from Team Trekotrip? Yes, if the group size exceeds 8 people, a group coordinator from Trekotrip will be present throughout the trip to ensure smooth operations and to assist with any needs.