Embark on a magical 14-day Zanskar Trek that takes us around most of the Zanskar region, reaching an elevation of 5,500m. We cross the highest pass on our trip, the Phirtse La Pass, at 5,540 m. The 20-day Potala Adventurers Zanskar Trek is a great introductory trek for experiencing the Zanskar region. If we want a shorter trek but the same route, we may cut off this trek at Zangla after 10 days. Depending on your travel schedule.
After 2-3 days of well acclimatizing in Leh, during these acclimatization days, you visit some of the important places near Leh or the Indus Valley tour. Setting out from Leh on our 17-day trip from Leh to Manali, we drive along the Indus River on the Leh–Srinagar highway. En route, we visit some of the ancient villages before Kanji. Beginning to trek from the beautiful village of Kanji, we climb to Yogma la with the crossing of Shilakong and Sniugutse la pass at 5100m. Joining the main trail at Photoksar, we walked on a route that has been known for many years as Darcha – Lamayuru or Lamayuru – Darcha. Ancient track, old pack horse trail, and we cross several villages. Finally, following the Kargyak River chu, we climb to our last high pass of Phirtse la and enter the Lahaul valley. Our trek terminates at Sarchu, from where we drive to Manali by the wonderful valley of Tod, Gahr, and Tinan valleys along the Bhaga and Chandra River.
ZANSKAR TRAVERSE TREK - OUTLINE ITINERARY
Day 1 – Arrive Leh by morning flight from Delhi, acclimatize: Afternoon visit Leh palace, Tsemo gompa, Shanti stupa
Day 2 – Leh acclimatize: visit Shey & Thiksey - Hemis - Matho - Stok - Spituk
Day 3 – Drive Leh - Alchi - Lamayuru - Kanji 3850m, 7-8 hrs
Day 4 – Trek Kanji Dok - Yogma La 4720m - Shilakong 4300m, 6-7 hrs
Day 5 – Trek Nigutse La 5100m - Spangthang / Urtsi Dok 4500m, 6-7 hrs
Day 6 – Trek Sirsir La 4805m - Photoksar 4400m, 5-6 hrs
Day 7 – Trek Boumitse La 4400m – High Camp Sengge La 4400m, 7-8 hrs
Day 8 – Trek Sengge La 4950m - Yulchung 3900m
Day 9 – Trek Chochokuri La 3950m) - Nyerak 3710m, 7 hrs
Day 10 – Trek Takti La 4950m - Pangat La 3900m - Pharkunsa 3980m. 7-8 hrs
Day 11 – Trek Kurmafu 3700m / Sumdo, 7-8 hrs
Day 12 – Trek Namtse La 4500m - Honia - Zangla River camp 3500m, 6-7 hrs
Day 13 – Drive visit Zangla - Stongde - Karsha 3320m - Sani - Padum 3600m
Day 14 – Drive Padum to Bardan - Mune - Raru 3800m – Purne, Trek to Phuktal 3900m, back to Purne 3800m.
Day 15 – Trek Zingchen 4950m / High camp, 6-7 hrs
Day 16 – Trek Phirtse la 5540m - Chumik Marpo 4750m, 7-8 hrs
Day 17 – Trek Berga Songchak 4400m, 6-7 hrs
Day 18 – Trek Sarchu 4100m, 5-6 hrs
Day 19 – Drive Baralacha la 4890m - Keylong 3100m - Manali 2050m, 6 hrs
Day 20 – Manali - Delhi.
Day 21 – Arrive in Delhi, flight to home.
OPTION SURICHUN LA
Day 15 – Drive Kurgiakh, trek Kyi
Day 16 – Trek Surichun La High Camp
Day 17 – Trek Chumik Marpo Cross Surichan La 5620m
Day 18 – Trek Berga Songchak
Day 19 – Trek Sarchu, Drive Manali.
Day 20 – Manali to Delhi.
Day 21 – Arrival in Delhi, flight to home.
LEH FINISH
Day 15 – Trek & Drive Tangze & Kargiak | via Tangso & Skyng
Day 16 – Trek Surichun La High Camp
Day 17 – Trek Chumik Marpo | Cross Surichun La 5620m
Day 18 – Trek Berga Songchak
Day 19 – Trek Sarchu (4100m), Drive Leh, Cross Taglang La 5335m
Day 20 – Leh
Day 21 – flight Delhi
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive at Leh by morning flight from Delhi, acclimatize: Afternoon visit Leh palace, Tsemo gompa, Shanti stupa
Arrival in Leh from Delhi - Leh flight, airport pickup, and check into the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax and acclimatize to the altitude of 3500m, as well as visit the Leh bazaar. Visit the Royal Palace of Leh from the 16th century, continue through the fields of Sankar gonpa, which is adjacent to the north of Leh. Finally, end with a climb to the Shanti Stupa. Overnight in the hotel.
Day 2: Acclimatize: Visit Shey - Thiksey - Hemis - Matho - Stok - Leh
After breakfast, we drive to visit Shey first, than Thiksey. Thiksey monastery, which is 27 km from Hemis. This monastery is the oldest monastery of Gelugpa School in Ladakh. The great Lama Paldan Shesrap built it in 14th century. Here you can see the big statue of the Future Buddha. Continue to visit Hemis monastery which is 45 km far from Leh and it takes 90 minute drive. The great Mahasiddha Staktsang Raspa along with great ancestor Singey Namgyal builds this biggest monastery in 16th century. Continue to Matho than we drive to Stok which is situated opposite of Leh at a distance of 14 kms, At Stok visit of Royal Palace built during 1825 AD and palace has great collections of antiquity. Continue to visit Matho situated 10 kms from Stok, which has 10th century complex. Finally we drive back to Leh
Day 3: Drive Leh - Alchi - Lamayuru - Kanji (3850m). 7-8 hrs
Today after breakfast at Leh, we drive to Alchi monastery, situated at a distance of 68 kms from Leh. Its monastery built on lowlands rather than on a hilltop as others are, in order to protect from enemies. The chortens around Alchi gompa contains numerous wall murals of Lotsava Rinchen Zangpo, who has built this monastery. Alchi monastery has vast collections of wall paintings, and wood sculpture. We continue to drive to Lamayuru which is 58 kms from Alchi. Oldest monastery in Ladakh, founded by Indian scholar Mahasiddhacharya Naropa in 11th century. Lamayuru host mask dance festival (Yuru Kabgyat) during 17th and 18th day of fifth months of the Tibetal Lunar calendar. It belongs to red hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism; monastery is rich with Thankas and wall paintings. Lamayuru monastery was constructed by Arahat Nimagung in between 10th and 11th century. History says that in the 11th century the Mahasidha Naropa visited this place and the cave where he resided and meditated is still to be seen inside the monastery. After the visit continue your journey to Kanji, still 40 km drives. Arrive Kanji. Overnight at camp in Kanji village. (3850m)
* Lamayuru *
Day 4: Trek Kanji Dok - Yogma La (4720m) - Shilakong (4300m), 6-7 hrs
Morning after breakfast, you explore the village and attract with the innocent villagers. About 15 houses. After then you start your first day trek with easy trek along the right side of upstream river. After the easy walk for 2hrs, you have gentle ascent and then you arrive at small hamlet where you find the campsite. The view of the valley and its stunning mountains from here is indescribable. Enjoy the scenic beauty of nature of Himalayan Mountains. Continue for an hour and ascend towards the Yogma-la (4720m). From the top of the pass you have spectacular view of landscape. After enjoying few minutes at the top you have gentle descent and then you arrive at the camp. (4300m)
* Leaving Kanji at first along the small stream to Kanji dok *
* Ascent to Yogma la *
Day 5: Trek Nigutse La (5100m) - Spangthang / Urtsi Dok (4500m). 6-7 hrs.
Morning after the breakfast, continue the trek by following the well-defined and clear trek route on the left bank of the river. En-route amazing and beautiful landscape. After few hours of trek, you reach at the top of the Nyigutse-la (5100m). At the top of the pass, you will find yourself top of the world and get the stunning and enchanting view of unforgettable landscape with different mountains of Himalayan range. Cross the pass and then descend in beautiful lost valley opening on an immense plain where you find many animals like sheep’s, goats and yaks etc. Overnight Camp. (4500m)
* View from Snigutse la towards East - Photoksar*
*At Snigutse la * 
Sniugutse La ascent - view towards West - Yogma La above Shilakong
Day 6: Trek Sirsir La (4805m) - Photoksar (4400m). 5-6 hrs
Today you have to cross the river so it is advisable to carry some extra stock in your bag so that you may not get wet. As usual after breakfast, continue the trek with ascending the ridge right from the camping. Follow the clear path on rolling ridge and from here you see the Sirsir-la pass. Descend down in towards the river below. Cross the river and then start ascending straight towards the pass Sirsir la (4805m). Enjoy the view of wonderful valleys and its landscape. Gentle and easy descend by following the good trek path to Photoksar (A remote isolated charming village). Evening explore the village. Campsite before the village near the river. Overnight at Camp. (4210m).
* Sirsir la *
* Photoksar *
Day 7: Trek Boumitse La (4400m) - base of Singe La (Sengge La (4400m), 7-8 hrs.
After breakfast, continue trek. Today you have to cross one easy pass. Right from the camp, start ascend for few meter and then continue along the clear path.beatiful view of village Photoksar and surrounding mountains and gorge. Carry on ascending up to top of Boumitse-la, from the pass you can directly see the Singey la Pass which is about more than three hours trek from this point. Continue to climb on a high pasture land on photang valley, where villagers of Photokars keep their yaks, dzo, and horses for grazing. At final stage we climb steep to Singey la 5060m the 2nd highest point of our trek. Sengge in Tibetan means lion. So its lion pass, the view and formations of pass appears like lion, from pass a panoramic view of Zanskar range, next 1 hrs of steep ascent to base camp.
* Towards Sengge la *
* Crossing of stream at near base camp of Sengge la *
Day 8: Trek to Singey La/Sengge La (4950m) - Yulchung (3900m)
Right from the camp, start ascending up to top of Singe-la. It is easy to ascend but 1200m before the top, it is steep ascend in zigzag. From the pass, the route descends steeply to a loose boulder strewn area. This is called Champado Gongma. Continue along the right side of the valley, clear path up to village Skyumphatta. Beautiful and awesome view of landscape of the valley. Follow the beaten easy track and on the way you find a junction. One goes straight towards Lingshed and another goes down towards Yulchung village that you see below. Take left handside and then descend down in zig zag clear path.
Day 9: Trek to Chochokuri La (3950m) - Nyerak (3710m)7 hrs
Leaving Yulchung continue trek with gentle climb to cross the small easy pass Chuchokhuri La (3970m). Cross the pass then steep zig zag descent till Zanskar River. Cross the River over a wooden bridge and then begin to climb towards Nyerak village. Arrive Nyerak. Overnight at camp in Nyerak village (A small and charming village. (3750m) 
* View of Nyerak from Chuchokuri la *
Day 10: Trek to Takti La (4950m) - Pangat la (3900m) - Pharkunsa (3980m). 7-8 hrs
Morning after breakfast, continue climb to cross the Labar-la pass. It seems difficult to climb but slowly and steadily it becomes easy. So continue slowly and steadily to reach at the top of Labar la. From this point you have spectacular and magnificent view of landscape. After crossing the pass, continue gentle climb towards the Pangat-la (3900m). From the top of Pangat-la you have awesome panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and wonderful landscape. Cross the pass, easy descent down till you reach near a river. Cross the river and then continue trek down along the downstream. Again cross the river towards right and then you arrive at beautiful campsite. Good campsite in the middle of willow trees near the river. Overnight at camp. (3730m)
* Descent from Takti la / Nyerak la *
* at small pass after Takti la *
* The trail goes through deep canyon - the most stunning sight of trek *
Day 11: Trek Kurmafu (3700m) / Sumdo,7-8 hrs
As usual morning after breakfast, continue trek along with the river. Today you have to wade in the river for several meters so it is advisable to carry extra shoes in your bag. After then continue easy trek along the valley up to the campsite. Good campsite near the river. Overnight camp. (3650m)
Day 12 - Trek to Namtse La (4500m) - Honia - Zangla River camp (3500m),6-7 hrs
After the breakfast, continue trek with gentle climb towards a small and easy pass. Cross the pass and then easy trek path towards Namtse-la. Continue up along the valley till you reach at top of the pass.From the top of the pass you have enchanting and magnificient panoramic view of landscape. Cross the Namtse-la Pass and then easy descent till you reach at Honara.On the way your first glance will be Zangskar River, Pidmo village and motor road. Descend down till foot of the mountain. From Honara you trek on motor road for a kilometer and then you arrive at Campsite across the meadows near zanskar River. Overnight at camp in Zangla. (3430m)
* Zangla river camp*
Day 13: Drive to visit Zangla - Stongde - Karsha (3320m) - Sani - Padum (3600m)
Today you have full day culture tour around Padum by drive. Morning after breakfast, drive to Stongde village. Visit beautiful picturesque monastery built on hill top by Lama Marpa 950 years ago. Approximately 60 monks are residing in this monastery. After the visit, continue drive to Karsha (Pair of White i.e., Outer white and Inner white). Visit Karsha monastery. This monastery is the largest of all the monastery in Zanskar and this monastery (Gonpa) was first founded by Great Lama Phagspa Shesrap (the translator of Zanskar). From the monastery, you have amazing and spectacular view of the capital of Zanskar (Padum) and its surrounding mountains. After the visit explore Padum (The capital of Zanskar). Overnight in Padum. (3530m)
* View of Padum Central Zanskar Valley from Karsha gonpa *
Day 14 – Drive Padum to Bardan - Mune - Raru (3800m) – Purne, Trek to Phuktal (3900m), back to Purne (3800m).
Today an early departure from Padum, we drive to Phuktal along the Tsarap chu and enter in Lungnak valley. Today is a great day to see one of most stunning sight of Zanskar. We follow the trek towards Phuktal along the left bank of Tsarap River for ½ an hour.We cross the river by bridge and trail goes along the right bank of river. We will have first impressive view of Phuktal by climbing short ridge, the most spectacular sight in Zanskar and our trek. Main temple built inside huge cave and rest of monastery houses built on rock cliff. The monastery was founded by Changsems Sherab Zangpo. We visit this great monastery and back to campsite at Purne.
* At Raru - these girls are making Yak / Dzo cheese and drying in the sun for winter use - mostly used in stew *
* Phuktal gonpa *
Day 15 – Trek Zingchen (4950m) / Base camp, 6-7 hrs.
A short drive to Tangze village, a view of beautiful and charming villages of Testa 3900m and Karu across the Kurgiakh Chu. We cross the river just before Tangtse village. We take a left path which leads to Phirtse la pass. The path leads away from the river, gradually up through a gorge and later the slope. A spectacular view of Zanskar valley can be have from a small pass. Crossing the stream we climb gently along the nallah to base camp. Overnight camp at Zingchen
* High camp of Phirtse la *
Day 16: Trek to Phirtse la (5540m) - Chumik Marpo (4750m),7-8 hrs
Today, leaving early to avoid the snow turning softens the Phirtse la is advised. After an hour of gradual walking along the small stream we climb steep to Phirtse la pass with patches of ice. Magnificent view of peaks rising above 6000m to the right and the view goes as far a upto Rupshu. After taking a break of 30 minutes, we descend gradually along the slopes with patches of snow to Chumik Marpo camp. Wonderfful camp site and at Chumik Marpo where you will find several doksas with a number of Yaks. Overnight camp at Chumik Marpo.
* View from Phirtse la *
Day 17: Trek to Berga Songchak (4400m), 6-7 hrs
Today, an early start to cross 2 rivers. Leaving the campsite along the left bank of the River. After 2 hrs of walking, we cross the river and cross the grassy flat land to the broad river of Khamerup. The river coming from the right, we cross it before noon. Continue on wide open space and flat grassland to our campsite close to the River called Berga Songchak. There are a number of camp sites along this Lingti chu valley. Overnight camp at Berga Songchak.
* Chumik marpo *
* 2 river crossings this day - the big one is at Khamerup *
Day 18: Trek to Sarchu (4100m), 5-6 hrs
Today again, a long day of trekking is waiting for us, and the last river crossing. Soon after breakfast, we continue on a wide open space in high altitude grassland. After 2 hrs of trail will bring you to a small pass from where a wide open view of Sarchu and the Yunam River valley. Descend to Riverside and cross it. The campsite is located soon after the crossing
Day 19 – Drive Baralacha la (4890m) - Keylong - Manali, 6 hrs
We drive to Baralacha La Pass, which is 7 km long, giving the source of three rivers - Chandra through South, Bhaga through upper Lahoul and Yunam towards Zanskar. A splendid view of M-4 (6514m), which is the highest in the Moulkila range, can be seen from the trail as well as of the Keorang range of the Great Himalayas. Passing through the wonderful valleys of Tod, Gahr, and Tinan to reach Manali. Overnight in the hotel
Day 20: Manali to Delhi
Morning, explore the local market in Manali hill station, and evening depart to Delhi with an overnight journey.
Day 21: Depart Manali - Delhi
Arrival in Delhi early morning, flight to home.
REVIEWS
"Hi Prem, Nice hearing you.
For me, the most memorable and challenge one are Nigutse La pass, the other after Yongma La, and Phirtse La, the last pass. There are several passes in between are also nice. Ii find most spectacle is the rock formation after descend from Nigutse La, it's really amazing and impressive. Anyway it is still a very good trip, on the scenery, landscape and others.
What to say..we missed to cross some passes due to weather but we crossed others with different scene so never know, we missed something but also gain something.
Anyway, thanks so much for organizing, I want to say food and other services support during the trek are good, and almost excellent, food (quality and quantity) are good, I would put up my testimonial on the link. I hope I can join you next trek and also want to complete the unfinished trek business"
Stanley's 7th Great Himalayan trek with us.
1. Parang la & Kanamo peak - 2011
2. Zanskar Traverse - 2014
3. Umasi la & Kanji la - 2015
4. Pin Parvati & Hamta pass - 2016
5. Poat la & Stok kangri - 2017
6. Kharnak trek Morang La & Kang Yatse II - 2019
7. Ladakh peaks & Passes, Spangnak Ri 6390m - 2024
"Thank you Prem and our trekking team: guide Sherab, Cook - Ravi, helper - Phurba and pony man Disu. We trekked in 1999 from Darcha to Lamayuru (with Potala Adventurers) and now in 2016 with our 3 children, aged 7,11 and 13. We enjoyed trekking in Zanskar/Ladakh from Kelang Sarai to Photoksar. Sherab and the team took great care of the children and although at time there were challenges for the children. They had a wonderful experience. Many thanks !."
Mrs Louise K (family of 5) - Melbourne, AUSTRALIA - 26th Sept
"Ravi cooking was very good and delicious. I liked his cakes. Disu riding horse was very lovely and well behaved. The sight were very nice." Miss Elsa - aged 7 yrs
"Thanks POTALA adventures for an amazing trek. It was a great fun and an interesting experience. I was expecting to find it a lot harder but our expert guide helped us every inch of the way !. I was amazed at the incredible skills of our cook Ravi and his helper Phurba, who cooked delicious food on a kerosene stove. They even made a few cakes !! Our horseman Disu was superb at getting the horses to behave. He was also very strong and fast, so even though he left after us he always beat us to camp, and when we arrived the tents were already up. The views were also breath taking !!" Mr Owen - aged 13
Trek: Zanskar Traverse
Duration: 18 days
"Trekking crew supported us in every way. We had great luck to have Mr Gyaltson as a guide. Have a wonderful cook Mr Ravi and his helper and the strong and hard working horseman. Thank you for a great experience we will remember this for a long time ! For sure we will come back to India to do an another trekking. All I can say is Julley !!
We did the Zanskar trek which was 18 days but felt like less time, when you are having a good time ! Due to fantastic team we had a great time in a astonishing environment. Mr Ravi cooked us great meals every day making sure we had lots of energy. Mr Gyaltson was a good guide who helped us many times during this hard but beautiful trek. Thank you all for this wonderful experience."
Mr Leon Van Der & Mrs Margrit - NETHERLANDS - 15th Aug
Arrival in Leh, check in hotel - Acclimatize 1: Afternoon explore local market. Visit Leh palace, Tsemo gompa, Sankar, Shanti stupa.
Today morning early transfer or drive to domestic airport for the flight to Leh, but spectacular flight over the Himalaya to Leh. The rest of the day is free to relax and acclimatize to the altitude of 3500m as well as visit Leh bazaar. visit the Royal Palace of Leh from the 16th century, continue through the fields of Sankar monastery , which is adjoins the north Leh. Finally end with climb to the Shanti Stupa. Overnight in hotel.
After breakfast, we drive to visit Shey first, than Thiksey. Thiksey monastery, which is 27 km from Hemis. This monastery is the oldest monastery of Gelugpa School in Ladakh. The great Lama Paldan Shesrap built it in 14th century. Here you can see the big statue of the Future Buddha. Continue to Taktok and Chemdey and return back to visit Hemis monastery which is 45 km far from Leh and it takes 90 minute drive. The great Mahasiddha Staktsang Raspa along with great ancestor Singey Namgyal builds this biggest monastery in 16th century. Continue to Matho than we drive to Stok which is situated opposite of Leh at a distance of 14 kms, At Stok visit of Royal Palace built during 1825 AD and palace has great collections of antiquity. Continue to visit Matho situated 10 kms from Stok, which has 10th century complex. Finally we drive back to Leh.
Today after breakfast at Leh, we drive to Alchi monastery, situated at a distance of 68 kms from Leh. Its monastery built on lowlands rather than on a hilltop as others are, in order to protect from enemies. The chortens around Alchi gompa contains numerous wall murals of Lotsava Rinchen Zangpo, who has built this monastery. Alchi monastery has vast collections of wall paintings, and wood sculpture. We continue to drive to Lamayuru which is 58 kms from Alchi. Oldest monastery in Ladakh, founded by Indian scholar Mahasiddhacharya Naropa in 11th century. Lamayuru host mask dance festival (Yuru Kabgyat) during 17th and 18th day of fifth months of the Tibetal Lunar calendar. It belongs to red hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism; monastery is rich with Thankas and wall paintings. Lamayuru monastery was constructed by Arahat Nimagung in between 10th and 11th century. History says that in the 11th century the Mahasidha Naropa visited this place and the cave where he resided and meditated is still to be seen inside the monastery. After the visit continue your journey to Kanji, still 40 km drives. Arrive Kanji. Overnight at camp in Kanji village(3850m)
Morning after breakfast, you explore the village and attract with the innocent villagers. About 15 houses. After then you start your first day trek with easy trek along the right side of upstream river. After the easy walk for 2hrs, you have gentle ascent and then you arrive at small hamlet where you find the campsite. The view of the valley and its stunning mountains from here is indescribable. Enjoy the scenic beauty of nature of Himalayan Mountains. Continue for an hour and ascend towards the Yogma-la (4720m). From the top of the pass you have spectacular view of landscape. After enjoying few minutes at the top you have gentle descent and then you arrive at the camp. (4300m)
Morning after the breakfast, continue the trek by following the well-defined and clear trek route on the left bank of the river. En-route amazing and beautiful landscape. After few hours of trek, you reach at the top of the Nyigutse-la (5100m). At the top of the pass, you will find yourself top of the world and get the stunning and enchanting view of unforgettable landscape with different mountains of Himalayan range. Cross the pass and then descend in beautiful lost valley opening on an immense plain where you find many animals like sheep’s, goats and yaks etc. Overnight Camp. (4500m)
Today you have to cross the river so it is advisable to carry some extra stock in your bag so that you may not get wet. As usual after breakfast, continue the trek with ascending the ridge right from the camping. Follow the clear path on rolling ridge and from here you see the Sirsir-la pass. Descend down in towards the river below. Cross the river and then start ascending straight towards the pass Sirsir la (4805m). Enjoy the view of wonderful valleys and its landscape. Gentle and easy descend by following the good trek path to Photoksar (A remote isolated charming village). Evening explore the village. Campsite before the village near the river. Overnight at Camp. (4210m)
After breakfast, continue trek. Today you have to cross one easy pass. Right from the camp, start ascend for few meter and then continue along the clear path.beatiful view of village Photoksar and surrounding mountains and gorge. Carry on ascending up to top of Boumitse-la, from the pass you can directly see the Singey la Pass which is about more than three hours trek from this point. Continue to climb on a high pasture land on photang valley, where villagers of Photokars keep their yaks, dzo, and horses for grazing. At final stage we climb steep to Singey la 5060m the 2nd highest point of our trek. Sengge in Tibetan means lion. So its lion pass, the view and formations of pass appears like lion, from pass a panoramic view of Zanskar range, next 1 hrs of steep ascent to base camp.
Right from the camp, start ascending up to top of Singe-la. It is easy to ascend but 1200m before the top, it is steep ascend in zigzag. From the pass, the route descends steeply to a loose boulder strewn area. This is called Champado Gongma. Continue along the right side of the valley, clear path up to village Skyumphatta. Beautiful and awesome view of landscape of the valley. Follow the beaten easy track and on the way you find a junction. One goes straight towards Lingshed and another goes down towards Yulchung village that you see below. Take left handside and then descend down in zig zag clear path.
Leaving Yulchung continue trek with gentle climb to cross the small easy pass Chuchokhuri La (3970m). Cross the pass then steep zig zag descent till Zanskar River. Cross the River over a wooden bridge and then begin to climb towards Nyerak village. Arrive Nyerak. Overnight at camp in Nyerak village (A small and charming village. (3750m)
Morning after breakfast, continue climb to cross the Labar-la pass. It seems difficult to climb but slowly and steadily it becomes easy. So continue slowly and steadily to reach at the top of Labar la. From this point you have spectacular and magnificent view of landscape. After crossing the pass, continue gentle climb towards the Pangat-la (3900m). From the top of Pangat-la you have awesome panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and wonderful landscape. Cross the pass, easy descent down till you reach near a river. Cross the river and then continue trek down along the downstream. Again cross the river towards right and then you arrive at beautiful campsite. Good campsite in the middle of willow trees near the river. Overnight at camp. (3730m)
As usual morning after breakfast, continue trek along with the river. Today you have to wade in the river for several meters so it is advisable to carry extra shoes in your bag. After then continue easy trek along the valley up to the campsite. Good campsite near the river. Overnight camp. (3650m)
After the breakfast, continue trek with gentle climb towards a small and easy pass. Cross the pass and then easy trek path towards Namtse-la. Continue up along the valley till you reach at top of the pass.From the top of the pass you have enchanting and magnificient panoramic view of landscape. Cross the Namtse-la Pass and then easy descent till you reach at Honara.On the way your first glance will be Zangskar River, Pidmo village and motor road. Descend down till foot of the mountain. From Honara you trek on motor road for a kilometer and then you arrive at Campsite across the meadows near zanskar River. Overnight at camp in Zangla. (3430m)
Today you have full day culture tour around Padum by drive. Morning after breakfast, drive to Stongde village. Visit beautiful picturesque monastery built on hill top by Lama Marpa 950 years ago. Approximately 60 monks are residing in this monastery. After the visit, continue drive to Karsha (Pair of White i.e., Outer white and Inner white). Visit Karsha monastery. This monastery is the largest of all the monastery in Zanskar and this monastery (Gonpa) was first founded by Great Lama Phagspa Shesrap (the translator of Zanskar). From the monastery, you have amazing and spectacular view of the capital of Zanskar (Padum) and its surrounding mountains. After the visit explore Padum (The capital of Zanskar). Overnight in Padum. (3530m)
Today
an early departure from Padum, we drive to Phuktal along the Tsarap chu and
enter in Lungnak valley. Today is a great day to see one of most stunning sight
of Zanskar. We follow the trek towards Phuktal along the left bank of Tsarap
River for ½ an hour.We cross the river by bridge and trail goes along the right
bank of river. We will have first impressive view of Phuktal by climbing short
ridge, the most spectacular sight in Zanskar and our trek. Main temple built
inside huge cave and rest of monastery houses built on rock cliff. The
monastery was founded by Changsems Sherab Zangpo. We visit this great monastery
and back to campsite at Purne.
A
short drive to Tangze village, a view of beautiful and charming villages of
Testa 3900m and Karu across the Kurgiakh Chu. We cross the river just before
Tangtse village. We take a left path which leads to Phirtse la pass. The path
leads away from the river, gradually up through a gorge and later the slope. A
spectacular view of Zanskar valley can be have from a small pass. Crossing the
stream we climb gently along the nallah to base camp. Overnight camp at
Zingchen
Today
leaving early to avoid the snow turning softens the Phirtse la is advised.
After an hour of gradual walking along the small stream we climb steep to
Phirtse la pass with patches of ice. Magnificent view of peaks rising above
6000m to the right and the view goes as far a upto Rupshu. After taking a break
of 30 minutes we descend gradually along the slopes with patches of snow to
Chumik Marpo camp. Wonderfful camp site and at Chumik Marpo where you will find
numbers of doksas with numbers of Yaks. Overnight camp at Chumik Marpo.
Today
an early start to cross 2 rivers. Leaving campsite along the left bank of
River. After 2 hrs of walking we cross the river and cross-grassy flat land to
broad river of Khamerup. The river coming from right we cross it before noon.
Continue on wide open space and flat grass land to our campsite close to River
called Berga Songchak. There are numbers of camp site along this Lingti chu
valley. Overnight camp at Berga Songchak
Today
again a long day of trekking is waiting for us and the last river crossing.
Soon after breakfast we continue on wide open space in high altitude grassland.
After 2 hrs of trail will bring you to a small pass from where the wide open
view of Sarchu and Yunam River valley. Descent to Riverside and cross it. The
campsite is located soon after the crossing.
We
drive to 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 (6514m), which is the highest in the Moulkila range, can
be seen from the trail as well as of Keorang range of Great Himalayas. Passing
through wonderful valleys of Tod, Gahr and Tinan to reach Manali. Overnight in
hotel
Morning rest and relax, and afternoon depart to Delhi with an overnight journey.
Arrival Delhi in the morning, Flight back to home.
Cost includes
ü All ground transportation to & fro as per the itinerary, Leh to Manali.
ü Leh airport pickup, Leh & Padum sightseeing.
ü 5 nights hotel accommodation (2 x Leh, 1 x Padum, 2 x Manali) on CP plan
ü 15 nights camp with all camping facilities. 3 men spacious 4-season tents for 2, sleeping bags, foam mattresses, dining tent, trekking poles & safety gears.
ü All meals during trek - starts with bed tea to breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea /coffee, snacks. from Indian, Tibetan, Chinese to continental cuisine.
ü Support staff: well English-speaking, Ladakhi-speaking local trekking guide, cook & camp crew.
ü Trekking mules/horses for porterage of your luggage and trekking gear.
ü Camping fee, trekking permits.
ü Goods and services tax.
ü First aid medical kit.
Cost excludes
× Domestic flight Delhi - Leh,
× Hotel in Delhi. Delhi airport transfer on request. Manali to Delhi transportation.
× Travel insurance.
× Soft or hard drinks.
× Entrance fee at monasteries
× Personal tipping to staff: Guide, cook, helper, horseman, driver.
× Any unforeseen cost arising from natural hazards rain, snow, or road block, which costs extra lodging & boarding beyond the trip Schedule.
"Hi Prem, Nice hearing you. For me, the most memorable and challenge one are Nigutse La pass, the other after Yongma La, and Phirtse La, the last pass. There are several passes in between are also nice. Ii find most spectacle is the rock formation after descend from Nigutse La, it's really amazing and impressive. Anyway it is still a very good trip, on the scenery, landscape and others. What ...
Dear Indra, "Hello, you were very kind helper and always smile to me, when I want trekking horses, you accepted it. And let me know ways. I’d like to say thank you all of that (especially thank you let me know perfila mountain way) it was very kindness. I hope see you again in this Dec. in Nepal with Ravi. I wish always you happy. " Dear Ravi,&...
"Trekking crew supported us in every way. We had great luck to have Mr Gyaltson as a guide. Have a wonderful cook Mr Ravi and his helper and the strong and hard working horseman. Thank you for a great experience we will remember this for a long time ! For sure we will come back to India to do an another trekking. All I can say is Julley !!We did the ...
"Thanks POTALA adventures for an amazing trek. It was a great fun and an interesting experience. I was expecting to find it a lot harder but our expert guide helped us every inch of the way !. I was amazed at the incredible skills of our cook Ravi and his helper Phurba, who cooked delicious food on a kerosene stove. They even made a few cakes !! Our horseman Disu was superb ...
"Ravi cooking was very good and delicious. I liked his cakes. Disu riding horse was very lovely and well behaved. The sight were very nice."
Thank you Prem and our trekking team: guide Sherab, Cook - Ravi, helper - Phurba and pony man Disu. We trekked in 1999 from Darcha to Lamayuru (with Potala Adventurers) and now in 2016 with our 3 children, aged 7,11 and 13. We enjoyed trekking in Zanskar/Ladakh from Kelang Sarai to Photoksar. Sherab and the team took great care of the children and although at time there were challenges for the children. They had ...
What we provide
We provide all the GROUP GEAR included in the following list:
What you may need - Your personal gear recommended in List :-
Foot wear :-
Accessories :-
Others :-
Tour details
TRIP FACTS
Region - Ladakh Union Territory
Activity - Trekking & hiking
Difficulty level - Moderate to strenuous
Max altitude - 5540 meters
Trip Length - 21 days, Delhi to Delhi
16-day Leh to Manali
14-day trekking
15 nights camping
5 nights hotel
Best time - Mid June to Oct
Day 11 campsite
Day 14 - Hike to Phuktal
Day 1,2 Leh market
Day 3 - Kanji
Day 10 - Takti La descent
