Places to Visit in Zanskar Valley

Overview

While being a part of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Zanskar seems like an entire world itself. Covering a large area, it is home to some timeless monasteries, alpine lakes, and magnificent passes. 

At Monasteries like Sani Gompa, Karsha Monastery, Zongkhul Monastery, you take a step back into the rich history and culture of Zanskar valley. Trekking to the lakes and camping near them is an exciting experience. You get to lie under the star-studded sky and enjoy the gorgeous view. 

The most sought-after trek is the Chadar trek, where you get to walk on the Frozen Zanskar river. It is a winter trek, operating in January and February. Riding on the passes like Pasin La gives you the much needed dose of adrenaline. Towns and villages like Padum and Panikhar are one of the best places to visit in Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley is visited by tourists throughout the year. In summer, visitors come here for sightseeing tours and activities like trekking, rafting and mountain biking. Winter offers a lifetime chance to experience the live snowfall of Ladakh in the Zanskar Valley. Whenever you plan the duration of your trip, make arrangements accordingly.

Let Cliffhangers India, help you planning the perfect journey to Zanskar Valley, this year.  

01. Suru Valley

suru valley

Long stretches of meadows are seen in Suru Valley. It is one of the most popular places to visit near Zanskar Valley. 

Even though it is located at an altitude of about 3000 metres, the valley is the greenest valley of the Greater Himalayas. The natural beauty and lushness found here is very rare and tourists often visit here for nature walks and picnics. 

For day outings, you can visit some famous picnic spots here such as Parkachik, Damsna and Thulus. At Sankoo in Suru Valley, a wide array of wildflowers are seen blooming and bursting. The best time to visit Suru is from May to September. 

In winter, extreme cold conditions prevail and roads are also inaccessible due to heavy snowfall. 

Location: Kargil, Western Ladakh. 

02. Zanskar River

Zanskar river

Zanskar River is undoubtedly the most visited attraction of not only Zanskar Valley but of Ladakh also. A number of activities are accessible here for adventure buffs. 

Starting with river rafting, the place is perfect for advanced rafters. However, beginners are more than welcome here. Boating is also available and is a much safer and equally fun activity. The river beams with fishes and tourists often come here for fishing trips. 

Apart from these thrilling activities, visitors can simply explore around and even plan outdoor picnics near the river. In winter, it freezes completely due to minus temperatures. It is visited year round.

However, the best time to visit Zanskar river remains June to September. 

Location: Zanskar, Ladakh

03. Drang Drung Glacier

drang drung glacier

Drang Drung Glacier is about 23 kilometres long and is the largest glacier of Ladakh, accessible to tourists.

If you are someone who is looking for a trekking expedition in Ladakh, a trek to the glacier is one of the most enthralling ones. It starts from Padum and takes three days to reach this beautiful destination.

While the gradient level is moderate to difficult, it is completely worth it. It is also visible from the Pensi La, in the form of a river. 

The entire scenery of the glacier and surrounding is a visual treat. With wide sprawled water streams and mountains in the backdrop, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Zanskar Valley.

Come here from July to September for a pleasant experience. 

Location: Near Pensi La, Kargil-Zanskar Road

04. Padum

padum valley

Padum is the only town of Zanskar Valley and its administrative headquarter as well. The place is comparatively more populated than other regions of the valley.

It is popular as a trekking base of many hikes and treks. In Padum, do visit the Stagrimo monastery, accommodating 30 Lamas. Pibiting is another sightseeing spot of the town. Explore the vibrant markets of Padum town and buy souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

It is about 240 kilometres from Kargil town. While you can visit here any time of the year, the best time would be from April to September. 

Location: Zanskar, Ladakh

05. Karsha Monastery

karsha monastery

It is located in the Padum Valley, above the Stod river. It is expanded in a large area and the entire monastery is divided into different complexes. 

As the largest monastery of Zanskar, it is home to 120 monks. You can imagine its magnificence by the fact that there are 8 chapels inside the Gompa. It also contains private rooms, meeting rooms, chartens, etc.

Do visit here to attend the soulful morning and evening prayers. Respect the rules of the monastery and maintain silence.

It is managed by the younger brother of the 14th Dalai Lama. Come here from June to September for the best experience. 

Location: Padum Valley, Zanskar, Ladakh

06. Panikhar

panikhar

As you are headed towards Zanskar Valley, take a quick halt at Panikhar, located in the Suru Valley. This region of Zanskar is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful settlements. 

Filled with warm and friendly locals, you can surely come here for summer retreat.

The place is a perfect spot for different adventurous activities such as trekking, river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, etc. It is closely located to Parkachik La and from the pass, you get some magnificent views of Nun peaks. 

The best time to plan a trip to Panikhar is in summer, lasting from May to September. 

Location: Suru Valley, Zanskar, Ladakh

07. Zongkhul Monastery

Zongkhul Monastery

Zongkhul Monastery is a cave monastery of Zanskar Valley. It was built by a prominent Buddhist Saint, Naropa. 

The gompa houses the oldest images and murals of Buddha. Portraits of Padmasambhava, Mitukpa and Mahakala are also seen here. As you explore the entire complex, you see an impressive collection of ancient artifacts such as ivory images of Samvara, texts of chants and songs, crystal stupa, etc.

To visit the monastery, trekking via Stongdey or Burdam is the only way. The suitable time to visit here is from July to September. 

Location: Ating Valley, Ladakh

08. Sani Monastery

sani gompa

Best explored in the summer, from April to August, Sani Monastery remains as one of the most added destinations in the Ladakh itinerary. 

The Gompa is one the oldest of ladakh. It is only 6 kilometres from Padum and resides in the centre of the village. Unlike most of the monasteries of Ladakh, it is constructed on a flat ground. 

Inside the complex, a huge collection of statues of Buddhists’ Gods are present. A crematorium, which is believed to be Tibetan Buddhism’s eighth most important cremation ground, is found outside the monastery. Attend the morning and evening prayers here. 

Location: Zanskar, Ladakh

09. Phuktal Monastery

phugtal monastery

Phuktal Monastery is located in the Lung Tak valley of Zanskar. The most fascinating part of the Gompa is its construction and outside view itself. 

It is built out of a big rock or cave and seems like a honeycomb in the middle of it. It is home to about 40 monks.

The monastery contains a sanctuary and there’s also a treasury, filled with sacred scriptures. The complex is divided into prayer rooms, housing rooms, learning centres, etc. a sacred spring also flows nearby. 

The best time to visit Phuktal Monastery is from July to September. Weather is comfortable and roads are accessible. 

Location: Zanskar, Ladakh

10. Pensi La

Pensi La Pass

A road trip on the alpine pass of Pensi La, is one of the most memorable experiences. It is at an altitude of about 14.446 feet above sea level. 

Since the pass connects Suru Valley to Zanskar Valley, it is also called Zanskar Gateway. The descent is steeper, though, you will easily be able to cross it. It is a small pass and you will hardly notice when the ascending from the top starts. 

From the Pass, many stunning visuals can be seen. The most popular one is Drang Drung Glacier. In this region, it snows very heavily during winters and roads are temporarily closed. 

The best time to visit Pensi La is from July to September. 

Location: Ladakh, India

11. Rangdum Monastery

rangdum monastery

In Rangdum, a very exciting contrast of landscape can be seen. With towering mountains on one side to glaciers on the other, it is truly mesmerising. 

The region is home to one of the most popular sightseeing attractions, Rangdum Monastery or Rangdum Gompa. Located at the cliff of a hill, at a decent height, it is in proximity to a water-stream, creating perfect scenery.

About 40 monks live in this monastery. Here, you can come to explore the architecture and heritage of the monastery. 

The place is an ideal choice to rest, relax and rejuvenate. The location of the monastery in the remote corners of Zanskar Valley makes it a perfect spot to escape the hustle bustle of city life. 

Location: 29PF+P49, Rangdum, 194109 

12. Ta Tso & Lang Tso Lakes

ta tso and lang tso lakes

As the name suggests, Ta tso and Lang tso Lakes are the twin lakes of Ladakh and one of the best places to visit in Zanskar Valley

It is in proximity to the Pensi La Pass. As you visit these pristine water streams, you can see the reflection of Zanskar peaks on the surface.

The place is perfect for night camping. Here you can indulge in stargazing and even light bonfire and enjoy with fellow campers. It is an ideal location for nature photography. Bring camera, lenses and tripod for postcard perfect clicks. 

Visit here in the summer season, since the weather is moderate and lovely. July to September is a convenient time.  

Location: Ladakh, India

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    FAQ's

    Zanskar is famous for a number of reasons. From sightseeing spots to adventure destinations, there is everything here. Visit ancient monasteries to explore the rich culture of Ladakh. For thrilling sports, visit Zanskar river and Panikhar. Indulge in activities like mountaineering, river rafting, trekking, camping etc. 
    Yes, Zanskar is totally worth visiting. The valley is a year round destination and is accessible throughout the year. The place is home to some of the most beautiful meadows, lakes, rivers and monasteries. Even winter trekking and snow camping is accessible here. 
    You can explore most of Zanskar Valley in about 3 to 5 days. However, you have complete liberty to shorten or extend the duration of the trip. A trip on the weekend comprises sightseeing at major destinations only. A week-long journey covers remote locations and passes too. 
    The most common, oldest and best route for Zanskar Valley is via Kargil. Zanskar is about 230 kilometres from kargil and takes about 10-12 hours. The route goes through Kargil-Sankoo-Parkachik-Rangdum-Pensi La-Padum.   If you are planning to reach the valley from Srinagar, it is the most convenient one. 
    Yes, a permit is required for Zanskar Valley. You need Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP). carry your Aadhar Card, driving licence, passport size pictures too.  
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