Top Places to Visit in Padum – Zanskar Valley Guide 2025
As the only town of Zanskar sub-district, Padum has a number of local attractions to explore. Some of them are among the most visited sightseeing spots of Ladakh.
Starting with the monasteries found in the town, some are huge in build, others are smaller in comparison. You can trek to a few of them, cabs and taxis are required for the rest. Popular Gompas located in the Padum town include Pibting Monastery, Karsha Monastery, Sani Gompa, Stongdey Monastery, Bardan Monastery, etc. For those planning a complete experience, various Zanskar Valley tour Packages are available to explore these stunning sites comfortably.
Other than ancient monasteries, explore the local villages such as Sheela village, Zangla village, etc. In these villages, the palace and waterfall are the sought-after tourist spots.
Summer is the ideal time for a trip to the town. The attractions are open to the tourists and weather conditions are conducive for sightseeing too.
Padum is located at a distance of 230 kilometres from the Kargil town. The travel duration is around 10 hours.
With Cliffhangers India, plan an exciting trip to the Padum, Zanskar Valley, Ladakh.
Places to Visit in Padum
Pibting Gompa
The Pibting Monastery is another local attraction to explore in Padum. An easy trek of just 2.5 kilometres leads you to the Gompa.
It was built by King Kanishka, on a hilltop near the Tsarap river in the Pibting village of Zanskar.
The architecture of the monastery is worth taking notice. As you enter, there is a big prayer hall. Sit there and join in the prayers and meditation.
From the monastery, a panoramic view of the Zanskar Valley awaits you.
Zangla Palace
Zangla village used to be the capital of Zanskar at one time, back in the ancient times. Zangla Palace is located here.
It was built in the 17th century. Even though it is in ruins presently, tourists still visit here to know its rich history and architecture. It is divided into different complexes. You can even go inside and explore thoroughly.
As you come here, visit some nearby places too including Sani Monastery, nunnery and local villages.
Karsha Monastery
Dating back to the 10th century, Karsha Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries of the Zanskar Valley. Its construction is credited to Phagspa Sherab.
It is recognised as the largest one in Padum as well. The Gompa is one of the best places to visit in Padum.
The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa Tibetan sect of Buddhism. Various idols, scriptures, and paintings are found inside the complex.
It is at a distance of about 10 kilometres from the main town. To reach there, book a taxi or cab.
Sani Gompa
When in Padum, you can’t miss sightseeing at Sani Gompa and Sani Lake.
Starting with the Gompa, it was constructed in the 11th century. As one of the oldest ones in Zanskar, it houses some of the ancient Buddhist artefacts. Mask Dance performed by Lamas during festivals and Tibetan New Year, is a prime attraction among tourists.
Sani Lake, located in proximity to the Monastery is considered sacred. The locals believed in the healing property of the water.
It is at a distance of 6 kilometres from Padum, reached via trek or taxis available.
Stongdey Monastery
Stongdey Monastery is the second largest monastery in the Zanskar Valley. It was built back in the 11th century.
The Gompa sits on a hilltop. A total of 7 temples are present inside the complex.
A Tibetan style of architecture is followed throughout the construction. It belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism. On the walls, you can see some paintings, with figures outlined with golden colour.
It is located at a distance of 20 kilometres from the main town of Padum. Book or share a taxi with fellow tourists to reach there.
Bardan Monastery
Bardan monastery lies on a hilltop in the Lugnak Valley of Zanskar. It was constructed in the 17th century.
It is said that a cow picked and dropped Lama Barawa’s lantern at the stop and that’s where it was decided to build the Gompa. It was assembled in a fortress-like design.
Belonging to the Dugpa-Kagyud order, it is spiritually significant among locals and monks. Villagers and tourists often attend the morning and evening prayers and even meditation classes.
The Bardan Monastery is at a distance of 12 kilometres from Padum town.
Sheela Village & Waterfall
A beautiful village awaits you in the Zanskar Valley. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Padum. At a distance of just 4.5 kilometres from Padum, you can either trek there or book a 10 min ride via taxi.
In the village, a small yet gorgeous waterfall attracts tourists. As you reach there via clear trails, it may not look huge but surely is tall in length.
The water falls from a height in a pond. Locals consider it to be sacred and spiritual.
They often use it for household purposes like cooking, drinking. However swimming and bathing is not allowed at the waterfall to keep it clean.
Dyani Buddha Rock Carvings
As you are driving below the Padum town, you would notice five stone carvings of Buddha on a huge boulder.
Five Dhyani Buddhas is another local name of the giant carvings. In the middle, a stone figure of Maitreya Buddha(Future Buddha) is seen. He is wearing a crown. Rest of them represent the present and three preceding Kalpas. Each of them is seen to be sitting on a lotus flower.
While they aren’t counted as a tourist spot, you can surely stop by and admire the carving skills. They date back to the 9th-10th century.
Stakrimo Gompa
Popular places to visit in Padum include Stakrimo Monastery. The Gompa holds spiritual importance among locals, monks and tourists alike.
As you visit here, explore the complex entirely, spotting the artefacts, murals, and scripture present there.
It is at a distance of only 5 kilometers from the main town of Padum. Plan a hike in the morning and you will be there by noon. The trails leading to the Gompa are clear and beautiful.
Summer is the convenient time to plan a visit here. In winters, it is completely covered in white snow and remains inaccessible.
Zongkhul Monastery
The Dzongkhul Monastery lies in the Stod Valley of Zanskar. It is in the northwest of Padum, at a distance of about 30 kilometers.
It is one of the best places to visit near Padum. As you visit here, Bardur river flows, creating a peaceful ambiance.
While it is a local Monastery presently, it used to be a Meditation centre for the Indian Buddhist, Naropa. To mark his importance, the footprints are present at the entrance.
Dzungkhul Huchot Festival is celebrated annually on the 16th and 17th day of the fourth month of the Tibetan Calendar.
FAQ's
What is Padum famous for?
Padum in Zanskar is famous for showcasing rare natural beauty. It is home to a number of culturally significant landmarks such as Karsha Monastery, Stondgey Gompa, Sani Monastery, Zangla Palace, etc.
Where is Padum valley?
Padum valley is located in Zanskar sub-district of Ladakh. It is the administrative centre of Zanskar.
The valley lies at a distance of about 230 kilometres from Kargil. Government buses as well as taxis are available for the transfer.
Is there network in Padum?
Yes, there is a network in Padum. The Jio and BSNL networks work decently in and around Padum. Even in villages like Sheela, network coverage is quite good.
Does normal sim work in Leh?
Yes Normal sim of various networks like BSNL, Airtel and Jio work in Leh. It is suggested to get a local sim with a prepaid plan.
What are some offbeat places to visit in Ladakh?
Ladakh is home to many famous tourist destinations, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds and explore lesser-known gems, there are several offbeat places in Ladakh that offer unique experiences. One such destination is Padum, located in the Zanskar Valley, known for its ancient monasteries, remote villages, and peaceful landscapes. This area is perfect for trekking, camping, and photography. To discover more offbeat places in Ladakh.
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