ZANSKAR– WHERE ISOLATION BRINGS EXCITEMENT

The Zanskar Valley that compromises almost the half of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most enchanting places to visit within the Leh Ladakh tour packages. Guarded by the towering Zanskar Range (6,000m) that separates Zanskar Valley from Ladakh Valley, this scenic valley at around 13,154ft above the sea level is also one of the least explored destinations in the country.

Accessible only during the months of April to August, Zanskar Valley boasts of being a much sought destination among the adrenaline seekers. Be it paragliding, enthralling trekking routes or river rafting, this enchanting valley offers an array of exciting activities. Among all these, the Chadar Trek is considered the most challenging as well as popular attractions of Zanskar Valley.

The valley is also a home to the pious Stongdey Monastery, the picture-perfect Drang-Drung Glacier and several other natural marvels. Plan your Leh Ladakh tour, visit the magnificent Zanskar Valley and romance its charm while having a tryst with its thrill!

Location

Zanskar Valley is located around 105km from Leh, and can be reached only during the months of April to August. It reaches a maximum height of 13,154ft in the Zanskar Range of the Trans Himalayan region, and can also be reached from Kargil via Padum.

Best Time to Visit Zanskar

Zanskar becomes accessible to the outer world only during the months of April to August, and remains inaccessible during the rest of the year. Due to heavy snowfall in the region, the roads get block resulting an increase in the risks involved! It is advisable not to book a Leh Ladakh tour that includes a visit to Zanskar during the harsh months of the year.

Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Zanskars

Chadar Trek:

A dream come true trek for the adrenaline mongers, Chadar Trek can be called as the ultimate offering of any Leh Ladakh tour packages. Conducted only during the months of January and February, when the Zanskar River flowing through the Zanskar Valley completely freezes down, this enthralling trek is famed as one of the most challenging treks in the entire world. Book Leh Ladakh tour packages with us for this adrenaline pumping trek for the nest year.

White Water Rafting:

As the Zanskar River makes its way from the Sarchu Plateau through the deep creeks, it results in ravines that offers some of the most challenging and adrenaline pumping rapids. These rapids are often thronged by adventure junkies who visits the Zanskar Valley in the quest of fun, thrill and extreme adventure. Unlike white water rafting in other rafting destinations across India, Zanskar Valley offers some of the most scenic and pictorial rapids in the country

Jeep Safaris:

For those visitors who want to make their Leh Ladakh tour, a memorable journey or an affair of nature’s bountiful beauty along with fun and excitement, they must indulge in jeep safaris across the Zanskar Valley. While on such a safari, visitors can witness tourist attractions like monasteries, snow-clad peaks, picturesque meadows, and much more. The safaris also pass through the some of the highest mountain passes in Ladakh.

Camping:

Camping in Zanskar has its own charm and allurement! Jotted with numerous camping destinations, this scenic valley is an ideal camping ground among the adventure lovers who yearns for exciting camping experiences in Ladakh.

Baralacha La Pass:

A high mountain pass that connects the Lahaul region in Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh Valley, Baralacha La Pass is a plateau located on the confluence point of three mighty peaks – PirPanjal, Zanskar Range, and the great Himalayas. Perched at an astounding height of 16,000ft, the pass also divides the Bhaga and Yunam rivers naturally and is a sought after destination for the adventure seekers. It serves as the origin to several enthralling treks in Ladakh.

Lingshed Monastery:

Seated in the captivating Zanskar Range, Lingshed Monastery is among the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. Nestled amidst scenic mountains, this sacred religious enclave is located in the Lingshed village which is around 224km towards the south-west of Leh. The monastery is believed to have been founded in 1440 by KyabjeDagom Rinpoche. A home to around 60 monks, it is also known as Kumbum.

Rumtse:

A scenic village in the Rupshu Valley of Ladakh, Rumtse is cossetted by Tibet and Zanskar Valley. Located around 70km towards the east of Leh, it is the first human settlement after the majestic Taglang La Pass. Known for its scenic beauty and charm, Rumtse is also the origin of several treks that heads towards the gorgeous Tso Moriri Lake. The Rumtse-Kibber trek is also one of the best offerings of Leh Ladakh tour packages; it starts from this scenic village.

Zongkhul Monastery:

In addition to its enchanting charm and appeal, Zongkhul Monastery also boasts of striking architecture. Resembling a swallow’s nest, this sacred monastery in the Stod Valley belongs to the Drugpa sect of Buddhism, and lies on the Padum-Kishtwar route.

Where to Stay in Zanskar

During a visit to Zanskar, visitors will notice that there are no stay options available in the valley other than camping. They can hire tents or camps from local tour operators and enjoy camping in Zanskar.

How to Reach Zanskar

By Road:

State run buses for Zanskar are available from Jammu and Kashmir. Visitors can board these buses at regular intervals, or can take a drive from Srinagar; it takes around 6-7 hours to reach Zanskar from Srinagar.

By Train:

Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Zanskar. Post that, visitors can board the buses from Jammu and Kashmir or get private taxis from Srinagar and enjoy the Leh Ladakh tour in Zanskar.

By Air:

KushokBakulaRimpochee Airport in Leh is well connected to most of the major tourist cities in India. Visitors willing to book Leh Ladakh tour packages can fly to this airport and drive to Zanskar. The Sheikh-UL-Alam International Airport in Srinagar is the next options for those who wants to take a flight to reach Zanskar.