Zanskar Valley Tour

About Zanskar Valley - Ladakh

Zanskar is most isolated region of Ladakh in Jammu & Kashmir, around 480 kms from Leh and 250 kms from Kargil. Zanskar is reached after a day drive to Kargil and second day from Kargil to Padum. The route from Kargil to Padum is the only motorable road to reach Zanskar valley, which remains open from June to September. Approaching Padum through this route, one travel south, along the Suru River,which flows down from Penzila Pass through Suru valley and Zanskar. The Suru valley in Ladakh is one of the most beautiful regions here and is inhabited by people of the Balti origin. Muslim communities inhabit the valley, but in the past, the valley was populated by Buddhist.

There are few rocks curving of Maitriya Buddha, at Kartse Khar and Padmapani Avaloketeshvara at Byama Khambu. Sanku is the largest village surrounded by colorful Rocky Mountains and beautiful flowers in summer. It has a small market with some shops and restaurants. The next major village is Panikhar, under the shadows of Nun Kun Massif. The photographic view of Nun Kun can be enjoyed from the village Thangbu, about 12 Kms. short of Panikhar. Leaving Panikhar and arrive Parkachik, through the ascent along the Suru River, one reaches the first little Buddhist village called Zuldo. Next comes the Rangdum monastery, which is situated on a rock hill in the middle of the valley. Around hours journey from here is Penzila from where one can view the Zanskar valley and Drang Drung Glacier beside the Penzila.

There are many small villages in between Aksho to Padum i.e. Hamuling, Phay and Dungri. The valley is covered with blanket of green patches. The road leads to the left bank of Doda chu. At Dungri it crosses the Doda chu. The road turns to the south and leads to Padum. On the way one passes the Suny monastery, with the Kanika Chorten and then Padum after 6 Kms. Padum, Once the Capital of the Zanskar valley, presently it is the administrative headquarter of the region and probably the most populous settlement of the Valley. There are many monastery to visit in Zanskar i.e Suny, Stongdey, Zongkhul, Karsha and Phuktal monasteries. This Jeep tour can be organised for 1-2 weeks starting from Leh.

Location Of Zanskar Valley Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Major Attractions Of Zanskar Valley Zongkhul, Zangla, Penzella Pass, Panikhar, Stongdey Monastery
Adventure Activities In Zanskar Valley Trekking, Mountaineering, Rafting

Wrapped in snow capped peaks and boats of two tiny alpine lakes, Zanskar is a beautiful tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the scantly inhabited Himalayan valleys blessed with immense scenic beauty.

Top Places To See & Visit In Zanskar

Zongkhul -The spectacular Zongkhul monastery is reached by undertaking an exciting trekking route - Padum-Kishtwar trail. Located on the rock face of the Ating george, the monastery is an architectural delight. It is associated with the renowned Indian Yogi Naropa, who lectured in the Vikramshila and Nalanda universities.

Zangla

Lying deep in the northern region of Zanskar, Zangla is an old castle. It was ruled by a titular king and now is lying in ruins. A small chapel here lies on a hilltop, overlooking the desert valley below. Drive to a tiny village nearby known as Tsa-zar treasuring exquisite frescoes. Another worth visiting attraction here is a small old Nunnery, a kaleidescope to the austere lifestyle of the monastic community of nuns.

Penzella Pass

The captivating beauty of Penzella Pass makes it a favorite vintage point for the nature lovers. The pass divides the Zanskar valley with the Suru valley. Visitors can enjoy magnificent views of majestic mountains and alluring countryside from the Penzella Pass.

Stongdey Monastery In Zanskar

One of the most fascinating attraction in Zanskar is Stongdey Monastery. The stunning structure is associated with the Tibetan yogi, Marpa and is the second largest monastic establishment of Zanskar. About 60 Gelukpa monks are the permanent residents of Stongdey Gompa. It houses numerous majestic shrine, each is repository of region's rich monastic legacy.

Karsha

Karsha is essentially a human settlement with all kind of basic facilities. Visit the Gelugpa monastery, providing an insight to the importance of the religion in lives of the people of Zanskar. The impressive mural art displayed at Labrang is worth seeing.

Panikhar

Panikhar is another place of tourist interest in Zanskar. It is the border of Suru and offers breath-taking views of verdant locales. Feast your eyes at bewitching natural splendor of Panikhar. Catch a glimpse of the Panikhar Fort built by Zorawar Singh.

Adventure Activities You Can Performed In Zanskar Valley

Zanskar is truly a thrilling adventure destination in Ladakh. The undulating hilly ranges offers ample of opportunities for the adventure enthusiasts. Measure the great height of majestic mountains and experience its rugged surfaces by indulging yourself in mountaineering. Explore the fascinating trek routes and enjoy nature's beauty at its best. Thrill yourself with white water rafting to challenge the wild and soft waves of Zanskar river.

Where to stay in Zanskar Valley

If you are bit more adventurous than carry your personal tents and enjoy an exclusive experience of camping. Dinning under star-studded sky amidst the high hilly ranges in an open, is truly a wonderful experience. Visitors can also book their stay in Karsha dormitory and tourist complex at Padum.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Zanskar Valley

The Best Time To Travel To Zanskar valey is Between July to October.

How To Reach Zanskar Valley

By Air : Leh domestic airport is the nearest airport from Zanskar

By Rail : Jammu is the nearest railhead from Zanskar

By Road : Drive to Leh through Srinagar route and from there one easily reach Zanskar Valley. Several buses are available from Kargil connecting Zanskar.