DAY 06. CHANDRATAL – TOKPO YOGMA.
A long exhausted trek but well worth, because occasionally trekkers encounters patches
of green pastureland. This stretch is about 14 to 16 km. The trail starts with a series of ups and downs through steep ravine
and boulders - stream fields. As you progress, a flat grassy land, which slopes up to snow, clad ridge. Snow cock can be heard
has heard and even sighted, if you are lucky. After 3 hrs the trail winds down a knoll, which has a steep precipice to the
river far down to the left. Cross the stream if the water is low or find Snow Bridge up near the source. Or camp and cross
next morning as earliest.
DAY 07. TOKPO YONGMA – TOKPO GONGMA.
Trek through a narrow valley flanked on both sides by snow capped mountains. Star walk
early as possible, since this stream to be cross, while the flow of the water is less early in the day. A short walk after
crossing the river, here the valley opens out on a broad plateau where camp is set on a delightful grassy patch.
DAY 09. TOKPO GONGMA – BARALACHA LA –
KELANG SERAIN.
Today after break fast start trek towards Baralacha la pass, which is 7 km long gives the source of three rivers
- Chandra through South, Bhaga through upper Lahoul and Yunam towards Zanskar. A splendid view of M-4, which is the highest
in the Moulkila range, can be seen from the trail as well as of Keorang range of Great Himalayas. On the pass, join the main
highway. Crossing Baralacha la pass we continue along the Yunam river untill Kelang Serai.
DAY 09: KELANG SARAI – DEBNI
The trail now narrows down and a river crossing is made. After this the terrain becomes
more and more barren, the landscape attaining fantastic forms and hues. Gradually the trail becomes Steeper as it leads towards
the (5’450m) high Phirtse-la. Following upward on the right bank of Lingti Chu River arrive at the campsite of Debni.
DAY 10: DEBNI – CHUMIK MARPO
An early start is recommended due to the crossing of Khamerup stream. After about 2 ½ hours
you arrive at a broad river of Khamerup, cross it, this originates from the glacier of Phirtse-la Crossing small Phirtse-la,
where extensive views are a delight.
DAY 11:CHUMIK MARPO – PHIRTSE LA (5’350m.)-ZINGCHEN (4’440m.)
An
early start to avoid the snow turning softens the Phirtse la is advised. After half an hour cross-grassy flat land. Now after
crossing a wide steep slope on a ride, descent to stream. Go up the opposite slope and reach Phirtse-la (5’350m.) Steep
descent on un-even ground with patches of ice and at the base of the slope. Now trail enters in the phirtse Chu valley, 2
hours walking in the valley arrive at the campsite of Zingchen.
DAY 12: ZINGCHEN - TANZE
The path leads away from the river, gradually up the slope. First view of rocky escarpment.
Further on, a pass with cairn and pasture. Fantastic view of Zanskar valley and the first village after Darcha. By passing
behind a rocky bridge follow steep gorge. Cross a stream. Then arrive Tanze village. Monastery in ruins a bit higher up. Over
night camp in Tanze.
DAY 13: TANZE - PURNE (3’965)
A short distance beyond Tanze, there is a small bridge across to the left bank. Slight
rise leading to Kuru village. Arrival in Testa beautifull village the path continues downwards near the river. Walk along
the left bank, and then climb to Yal. Crossing village descent towards a bridge, which you cross to Purne for overnight halt.
DAY 14: PURNE – PHUKTAL GOMPA
(4’055m.)-PURNE, 6 HRS
Go up the right bank of the Tsarap River in to the splendid gorges. Cross a bridge in good
condition. Walk for few minutes. A leads to a small plateau sprinkled with Chortens (stupas) and praying flags. From here
see the most spectacular sight in the tradition of Gelukpa (Yellow section). Visiting Phuktal return back by the same route
to Purne.
