Classic Zanskar Tour | Manali to Manali
- Leh Ladakh
Original price was: ₹110,000.00.₹105,000.00Current price is: ₹105,000.00.
- 7D/6N
- Leisure Tour
Tour Information
Transfers Included
Stay Included
Sightseeing Inluded
Breakfast & Dinner Inluded
Overview
This 7-day overland expedition from Manali to Zanskar and back promises an unforgettable journey through some of the most remote, scenic, and spiritually significant landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. Starting with a drive through the engineering marvel of the Atal Tunnel, the route enters the rugged Lahaul Valley, transitioning quickly from pine forests to the stark, high-altitude terrains of Zanskar.
You’ll cross the formidable Shinku La Pass to enter the secluded Padum region, Zanskar’s heartland. Along the way, discover stunning monasteries like Karsha, Stongde, and Rangdum, peaceful high-altitude lakes such as Sani and Raru, and marvel at the grand Drang Drung Glacier and Pensi La. The highlight of this trip is a trek to the surreal Phugtal Monastery, built into a cliffside cave, accessible only by foot.
This itinerary is ideal for adventure seekers, photographers, spiritual travelers, and nature lovers alike. With every twist of the mountain roads, a new wonder reveals itself. The journey concludes as you return to Manali, carrying memories of towering peaks, sacred monasteries, and roads less traveled.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Manali – Atal Tunnel – Sissu – Keylong
Distance: Approx. 120 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Depart from Manali and drive through the Atal Tunnel, crossing into the starkly beautiful Lahaul Valley. The road opens to stunning alpine views and glacial streams. Stop at Sissu, a charming hamlet known for its waterfall and riverside walks. Continue along the Chandra and Bhaga Rivers toward Keylong, Lahaul’s district HQ. Enjoy the contrasting terrain—verdant pine-covered slopes slowly giving way to barren hills. Overnight in Keylong, with optional visits to Shashur Monastery or a short riverside stroll.
Day 2: Drive from Keylong – Jispa – Darcha – Shinku La – Padum
Distance: Approx. 200 km
Travel Time: 8–9 hours
Leave Keylong and pass through the picturesque villages of Jispa and Darcha, gateways to many Himalayan treks. Begin your ascent to the high-altitude Shinku La Pass, crossing the Great Himalayan Range into Zanskar Valley.
The road is rugged and scenic, cutting through valleys, snow walls, and river gorges. Descend into Zanskar through a surreal, silent landscape. Drive through isolated hamlets before arriving in Padum, Zanskar’s administrative and cultural center, surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and majestic peaks. Overnight stay in Padum.
Day 3: Padum – Shila Waterfall – Karsha Gompa – Padum
Distance (round trip): Approx. 50–60 km
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Begin exploring Zanskar with a short drive to Shila Waterfall, hidden among rocks near the village. Next, visit Karsha Monastery, the largest in Zanskar, perched on a hillside with commanding views of the valley. Its peaceful prayer halls and murals reflect the spiritual core of the region.
Then proceed to Stongde Monastery, set on a steep ridge and offering panoramic vistas and ancient artifacts. Return to Padum by evening, with time to explore the town or visit local shops for traditional handicrafts. Overnight in Padum.
Day 4: Padum – Drang Drung Glacier – Pensi La – Rangdum Monastery – Padum
Distance (round trip): Approx. 180 km
Travel Time: 7–8 hours
Embark on a full-day drive through the dramatic Zanskar landscapes. Start with a visit to tranquil Sani Lake and nearby Sani Monastery, one of the oldest Buddhist sites in the region. Continue to Pensi La, a high mountain pass with jaw-dropping views of the mighty Drang Drung Glacier, a massive river of ice flowing between rugged peaks. Drive further to visit the isolated Rangdum Monastery, surrounded by stark plains and snow-capped mountains. This day offers some of the best photographic opportunities of the entire trip. Return to Padum for overnight stay.
Day 5: Padum – Bardan Monastery – Raru Lake – Ichar – Purne
Distance: Approx. 80 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Start your drive with a stop at Bardan Monastery, dramatically set on a rock outcrop. Then continue to Raru Lake, a scenic, lesser-known spot ideal for a peaceful break. Head onward to Ichar, a small village home to a Buddha statue overlooking deep valleys. The route to Purne includes narrow mountain roads and wooden bridges—perfect for those craving an offbeat Himalayan experience. Arrive in Purne, a remote settlement beside the Tsarap River, serving as the base for your Phugtal trek. Overnight in local homestay or camp.
Day 6: Trek to Phugtal Monastery – Drive to Gonbo Rangjon
Distance: 5 km trek (one way) + 40 km drive
Travel Time: 2 hours trek + 2–3 hours drive
Trek from Purne along the Tsarap River, crossing rope bridges and rock-carved trails to reach the extraordinary Phugtal Monastery, built into a limestone cliff. It’s one of Zanskar’s most iconic sights, housing monks in a structure that feels suspended in the void. After soaking in the spiritual vibe, return to Purne and continue by vehicle toward Gonbo Rangjon, a sacred monolith rising dramatically from the barren plains. The isolated location and spiritual significance make it a hauntingly beautiful stop. Camp or stay nearby under a starlit sky.
Day 7: Drive from Gonbo Rangjon – Shinku La – Darcha – Manali
Distance: Approx. 200 km
Travel Time: 8–9 hours
Your return journey retraces the dramatic mountain landscapes through Shinku La and down to Darcha. The views are no less stunning the second time, with ample chances to spot wildlife or pause for photos. Descend back into Lahaul Valley, crossing familiar villages like Jispa and Keylong. Re-enter Manali through the Atal Tunnel, ending your high-altitude expedition where it began. From sacred caves to glacier vistas, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Zanskar’s raw beauty.
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
- Adil 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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