RANGDUM –ALL ABOUT SECLUSION AND TRANQUILLITY

Located midway between Padum in the scenic Zanskar Valley and Kargil, Rangdum is one of the most bountiful places to visit during a Leh Ladakh tour. Situated around 3,657m above the sea level, this gorgeous valley in the pictorial Suru Valley of Ladakh is adorned by fascinating and colourful peaks on one side and stunning glaciers along with rugged mountains on the other side.

Secluded from the humdrums of city life, Rangdum is the ultimate place to wind up, relax, and get rejuvenated while having a tryst with the enchanting beauty of nature. In addition to this, visitors to Rangdum also gets the opportunity to witness and enjoy the contrasting sides of Ladakh region. While one can enjoy the stimulating views of the rugged mountains, visitors can revel in the astounding views and charm of several vibrant mountains around the valley. Along with the snow-clad peaks that depict the unique charm and aura of a Leh Ladakh tour, there are the verdant meadows that will make a stay in Rangdum an extremely soothing affair!

Location

Rangdum is located around 130km towards the south-east of Kargil and around 104km from Padum at an altitude of 3,657m. This scenic valley is around 337km from Ladakh’s capital city Leh, and can be reached via NH301 or NH1.

Best Time to Visit Rangdum

Unlike most of the tourist places in Ladakh, Rangdum is considered as a year-round destination with winter being the best time to enjoy its enticing charm and appeal. This picturesque valley does not receive heavy snowfall during the winters, and thus, visitors can expect pleasant weather conditions along with clear views and ample of opportunities for outdoor activities in Rangdum.

Tourist Attractions in Rangdum

Rangdum Monastery:

A sacred religious site among the Gelugpa Buddhists, Rangdum Monastery is located on a hilltop that resembles a sugarloaf. Situated at 13,225ft above the sea level, it is among the highest monasteries in Ladakh, and is only 25km from the enthralling Pensi La Pass. Rangdum Monastery was built around 200 years ago by GelekYashyTakpa, and it follows the cultural values of Zanskar Valley to a large extent. A mystical monastery, a visit to Rangdum Monastery is a must to have experience while on a Leh Ladakh tour.

Parkachik Glacier:

A few hours’ drive from Rangdum takes the visitors to the stunning Parkachik Glacier, which is revered as one of the most beautiful glaciers in India. Located around 90km from Kargil, visitors can also embark on a voyage to this glacier from central Kargil; the drive offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and peaks. From this glacier, visitors can also drive towards the Pensi La Pass and enjoy astounding views of the DrangDrungGalcier.

How to Reach Rangdums

By Road:

Road journeys from Kargil proves to be the easiest ways to reach Rangdum. Padum also serves as ideal destination to embark on a road journey to this gorgeous valley. However, the roads leading to Rangdum are not well-maintained; one needs to be quite an expert to drive to Rangdum.

By Train:

Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Rangdum. After arriving at the railway station, visitors can either make it to Leh or Kargil, and embark on a road journey to reach Rangdum.

By Air:

The Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport in Srinagar; located around 204km, is the nearest airport to Rangdum. KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport in Leh is around 230km from the Rangdum Valley and can be an ideal point for flight journey to reach Rangdum.

Stay Options in Rangdum

Owing to its interior location, visitors might not find enough of luxurious stay options in Rangdum. However, tourist bungalows and government operated rest houses can be availed in the valley. Visitors can also opt for tented stay options from the Rangdum Monastery Committee.