Article Published On - 11-03-2025
At the northern tip of the majestic Great Himalayan range and amid a rugged mountain network lies Zanskar – once an independent kingdom, which now forms part of Ladakh, India. Secluded and hard to access, protected by snow-covered mountain passes, this hard-to-reach location lays claim to an ancient form of Tibetan Buddhism that dates back centuries. This tradition flourishes at several remote monasteries, many seated atop fortified ridges in remote valleys and are renowned for their spectacular scenic vistas. As one traverses this region, one will witness breathtaking landscapes, from picturesque high meadow camping grounds and arid desert lands, towering mountain passes with snow-capped peaks, to Buddhist monasteries and charming villages with fields full of crops cultivated by their residents. Additionally, encounters with Zanskari people make the journey through this region truly enriching and memorable.
Day 1
Leh 3524 M
After you arrive in Leh, check into your hotel and relax a bit to allow your body to adjust to the high altitude. In the evening, explore local markets by strolling around.
Day 2
Leh – Lamayuru (3420M) 3-4 Hours’ Drive
At 6 AM, we depart Leh for Lamayuru, arriving just in time for lunch. During the afternoon, there will be time to explore this historic monastery as well as make any necessary preparations for our next adventure day.
Day 3
Lamayuru – Wanla (3250 M) 3-4 Hours
At this point, we’re ready to embark on our first leg. A moderate path leads uphill towards Prinkti La pass at 3750 meters before winding its way back down toward Shilla village and finally Wanla (3250 meters). Here, we set up our campsite and use the rest of the day relaxing under warm sunlight or exploring local monasteries before meeting up again later for an excellent dinner meal.
Day 4
Wanla -Hanupatta (3760 M) 5-6 Hours
Enjoy a stroll to Phansila (3410m). We will set up camp near Hanupatta village shortly afterwards, offering stunning views of the valley below.
Day 5
Hanupatta – Sirsir La (4850 M) – Photoskar (4200M) 6 -7 Hours
At one point in our journey, we switch direction by crossing a river to begin an extended and gradual ascent towards Sir La. At its summit, we are treated to stunning vistas of the central Zanskar range while staying nearby village allows for peaceful rest after an exciting and rewarding day.
Day 6
Photoskar – Singge La (5090 M) – Foot of Singge La 7-8 Hours
Today we traveled through Bumiktse La (4200), into the fertile Photang valley, gradually climbing Singe La, popularly known as Lion Pass. While its final stretch may be steep, reaching its summit will bring incredible panoramic views, and once below it will lead us directly back down towards our campsite.
Day 7
Foot of Singge La – Lingshed (4400 M) 4-5 Hours
Tracking along the Zanskar River from an elevated vantage point, we follow its path as we make our way towards Kiupa La at 4400 meters, where mountains appear more lush and less rugged. Once at Kiupa La, we descend through steep, zigzag treks down into Gongma at 3840 meters and Skiumpata villages; continuing upwards via gradual paths until reaching Margum La at the same altitude (4400 meters); a camping spot located close by Gelugpa monastery is our camping site in Lingshed.
Day 8
Lingshed – Snertse via Hanuma La (4950 M) 7-8 Hours
At dawn on a tiring day, we begin our trek through Lingshed’s lush meadows at Snertse campsite. The journey includes both ascents and descents until reaching Hanuma La’s foot, where we begin the challenging ascent into the valley. From there, we set up camp for the night at Snertse campsite.
Day 9
Snertse – Hanumil (3380M) via Purfi La (3950 M) 4-5 Hours
Today, we head towards another mountain pass: Parfi La. After taking a leisurely walk from Snertse, we will reach an unforgettable viewpoint overlooking Parfi La and Oma Chu River in the valley below. After traversing it, we descend onto the Zanskar River shores until reaching the village of Hanumil (3380 m). Here we set up camp for the night.
Day 10
Hanumil – Pishu (3470 M) 4-5 Hours
Our journey will begin with a stroll across flat, desolate terrain alongside the Zanskar River, heading in the direction of Pishu at an elevation of 3470 meters. Along the way, we will stop at Pidmo at 3420 meters for lunch – an idyllic village inhabited by only a handful of families living modest yet traditional lifestyles – before finishing our day in a verdant camping site featuring a nearby spring for water replenishment.
Day 11
Pishu – Karsha (3600 M) 4-5 Hours
From Pishu, we will climb steadily uphill towards Rinam at an altitude of 3550 meters along the Great Zanskar River, taking in breathtaking sights such as Tongde monastery along the way. At Karsha, we can relax by its peaceful waters before returning home through Karsha along a different path.
Day 12
Karsha – Padum (3531 M) 2-3 Hours
Beginning our journey by walking across a bridge and breathing in fresh mountain air, we set off for Zanskar valley’s main town and its main square – a perfect opportunity for restful reflection before returning home by car.
Day 13
Padum – Kargil (234 kms) 8-10 Hours’ Drive
On our way to Kargil, we will pass by the Sani monastery located 6 kilometres away and turn west, before crossing over the Doda River at Dh. From here we’ll continue along its right bank to Kargil, where we will check into our hotel and relax for the evening.
Day 14
Kargil – Leh (230 kms) 8-10 Hours’ Drive
Start the day right by leaving Kargil early for Leh, where we will stop for breakfast en route and arrive by afternoon. Check-in will follow shortly afterwards at our accommodations.
Day 15
Depart from Leh.
Starting Point: Padum/Zanskar.
By Road: Travel from Leh to Kargil via NH301 for two days of travel via Leh.
Use of shared taxis or privately owned vehicles is also an option for transportation.
By Air: Leh Airport (IXL) offers frequent flights to Delhi/Srinagar.
From Leh, travel by road (either via Kargil or the new Darcha-Padum road during summer months).
End Point: Lamayuru. From Lamayuru, drive towards Leh (125km / 3-4 hours).
Mid-July to Mid-September. All high passes in all regions of Switzerland are open, providing excellent conditions. Best for river crossings as well as visits to villages for stays.
Head Of Mountain Experts
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