A Short Escape to Zanskar | Srinagar to Manali
- Leh Ladakh
Original price was: ₹50,000.00.₹44,000.00Current price is: ₹44,000.00.
- 5D/4N
- Private Tour
Tour Information
Transfers Included
Stay Included
Sightseeing Inluded
Breakfast & Dinner Inluded
Overview
This thrilling 5-day itinerary offers a journey through the stunning landscapes of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, blending remote Himalayan adventure with spiritual exploration. The trip begins with your arrival at Sonmarg, a pristine alpine destination in Jammu and Kashmir, surrounded by lush meadows and snow-covered peaks.
From there, you’ll embark on a challenging but breathtaking drive to Padum, the administrative center of the remote Zanskar Valley, crossing high-altitude passes and vast barren lands that offer some of the most untouched natural beauty in the region.
Day 3 is dedicated to exploring Padum and its surrounding monasteries and villages, immersing yourself in Zanskari culture and heritage. The following day brings a once-in-a-lifetime trek or drive to Phuktal Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliffside and accessible via a short hike. This monastery is one of the most isolated and awe-inspiring spiritual sites in Ladakh.
Your final day involves an adventurous drive through the rugged terrain of the Zanskar and Lahaul regions as you journey toward Manali, a popular hill station nestled in the Kullu Valley. This leg of the trip showcases the dramatic shift in landscapes from barren high-altitude deserts to lush Himalayan forests. Throughout the journey, expect long drives, limited connectivity, and an experience rich in raw nature and remote Tibetan-Buddhist culture—perfect for those seeking authentic adventure off the beaten path.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Srinagar to Sonmarg (J&K)
Distance: Approx. 90 km
Travel Time: 3 hours
Upon arrival at Sonmarg, you’ll be welcomed by serene landscapes. Nestled at an altitude of around 2,730 meters, Sonmarg is known as the “Meadow of Gold” and is a peaceful starting point for your high-altitude expedition.
Take time to acclimatize and enjoy the tranquil environment. The Sindh River offers a scenic spot for photography and leisure walks. Surrounded by glaciers and pine forests, Sonmarg provides opportunities for light treks or pony rides. You can visit Thajiwas Glacier, located around 5 kilometers away, which is reachable by a short hike or horse ride. Spend the evening strolling around the meadow, soaking in the cool mountain air and preparing for the journey ahead.
With limited tourist traffic compared to other hill stations, Sonmarg remains largely unspoiled, making it an ideal location to relax before venturing deeper into the mountains.
Day 2: Drive to Padum (Zanskar Valley)
Distance: Approx. 270 km
Travel Time: 9 hours
This day begins your long and adventurous drive from Sonmarg to Padum, the remote heart of Zanskar Valley. The journey includes crossing the formidable Zojila Pass and traversing the surreal moonscapes of Ladakh. You’ll pass through Kargil and continue on rugged mountain roads via Suru and Rangdum Valleys. Along the way, expect shifting terrains—lush meadows slowly giving way to barren, dramatic high-altitude deserts.
Rangdum Monastery makes a worthwhile stop, perched dramatically in the wilderness. The route is marked by glacial rivers, stark cliffs, and minimal habitation, offering an unmatched sense of remoteness. As you descend into the Zanskar Valley, you’ll witness dramatic panoramas of snow-dusted peaks and winding river valleys.
Padum, sitting at around 3,500 meters, serves as the base for Zanskar exploration. Though isolated, the village has basic accommodations and a few homestays. The challenging drive is tiring, but the stark natural beauty makes it one of the most memorable Himalayan routes.
Day 3: Padum Sightseeing
Spend the day immersing yourself in the quiet charm and cultural richness of Padum. Begin with a visit to Karsha Monastery, the largest in Zanskar, located about 10 kilometers from Padum. Built on a hillside, it offers panoramic views of the valley and houses ancient Buddhist relics and murals.
Next, explore Stongdey Monastery, around 18 kilometers away, another historic religious site set against a rugged backdrop. Between these visits, you can walk through local villages like Pibiting, where traditional Zanskari life continues largely untouched by modernity. You’ll encounter friendly locals, prayer wheels, and mani walls that echo the deep Buddhist roots of the region.
For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Padum market—modest in size but vibrant in atmosphere—where you might find handcrafted items or local food. The day involves light travel (30–40 km round-trip) and ample opportunity to rest and acclimatize. The peaceful isolation and spiritual atmosphere of Padum make for a reflective and rewarding experience.
Day 4: Explore Phuktal Monastery
Distance (drive + hike): ~50 km drive + 4–5 km trek
Travel Time: 2–3 hours drive + 1.5–2 hours trek (one-way)
This day is dedicated to reaching the mystical Phuktal Monastery, one of the most iconic and remote monasteries in the Indian Himalayas. From Padum, drive towards Anmo village, covering approximately 50 kilometers on rough, unpaved roads through wild, rugged landscapes. From Anmo, a moderate trek of 4–5 kilometers along the Tsarap River takes you to the monastery.
Built into a cliffside cave, Phuktal appears to emerge from the rock face, offering a truly awe-inspiring view. The monastery is home to monks who live a secluded life devoted to spiritual learning. Once there, explore the meditation caves, library, and ancient murals that make this site historically and spiritually significant. The return follows the same path. The combination of remote travel and moderate trekking makes for a physically engaging day.
Despite the effort, visiting Phuktal Monastery is a spiritual high point, offering peace, solitude, and an unforgettable glimpse into Himalayan monastic life.
Day 5: Drive to Manali
Distance: Approx. 380 km
Travel Time: 12–14 hours
Begin your journey from Padum to Manali via the newly opened Shinku La Pass, which connects Zanskar to Lahaul. The route is long and rugged but showcases spectacular landscapes as you transition from Zanskar’s arid terrain to Lahaul’s verdant valleys. You’ll pass remote settlements like Darcha and Sissu along the route, where you may pause for brief breaks.
The road conditions vary, with sections of rough mountain tracks and some paved stretches as you near the Manali-Leh Highway. This is one of the most scenic drives in India, passing glacial streams, sharp ridges, and vast meadows. As you descend into Manali, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in scenery—tall deodar trees, apple orchards, and bustling roadside dhabas. Though the journey is long, the diversity of landscapes and the sheer scale of the Himalayan ranges make it rewarding.
Upon arrival in Manali, your trip concludes amid the cozy comforts and tourist-friendly atmosphere of this charming hill town.
Include/Exclude
- Standard Hotel/Houseboat Accommodation on twin sharing.
- Breakfast and Dinner
- All Transfer in Sedan – swift /Etios.
- All transportation taxes, permits, fuel etc.
- Insurance
- Personal Expenses.
- Union Transportation.
- Lunch
Call Our Tour Expert
- +91 70064 13075
- Arif Langoo (Tour & Travel Expert)
For customisation, group discounts, change in itinerary or stay options etc
Tour Information
Transfers Included
Stay Included
Sightseeing Inluded
Breakfast & Dinner Inluded
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