Manali to Leh Via Zanskar | A Short Escapade
- Leh Ladakh
Original price was: ₹110,000.00.₹105,000.00Current price is: ₹105,000.00.
- 5D/4N
- Leisure Tour
Tour Information
Transfers Included
Stay Included
Sightseeing Inluded
Breakfast & Dinner Inluded
Overview
This 5-day journey from Manali to Leh via Zanskar Valley is an intense yet deeply rewarding expedition through some of the most rugged and spiritually rich regions of the Indian Himalayas. Beginning in Manali, the route swiftly transitions from the lush forests of Himachal to the stark, high-altitude wilderness of Zanskar, offering an extraordinary overland experience rarely found on conventional itineraries.
Travel through high mountain passes like Shinku La and Singe La, witness glacial rivers, untouched monasteries, and villages where time seems frozen. Highlights include visiting the dramatic cliffside Phugtal Monastery, accessible only via a scenic hike, and the quiet charm of Padum, Zanskar’s spiritual heartland. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient monasteries, sacred lakes, towering rock formations, and breathtaking valleys framed by snow-clad peaks.
The journey concludes in Leh, the vibrant capital of Ladakh, offering a moment to reflect on your passage through some of the most isolated, serene, and awe-inspiring terrains on Earth. This is a perfect trip for true adventurers and cultural explorers alike.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Manali to Purne – Enroute Sightseeing
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Start your journey from Manali, driving through the Atal Tunnel into the stark beauty of Lahaul Valley. The route follows the Bhaga River, passing through Keylong, Jispa, and Darcha, where the terrain turns rugged. Begin the ascent to Shinku La, a high-altitude pass linking Lahaul with Zanskar. Cross wooden bridges and narrow gorges as the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic. Drive through tiny hamlets like Kargyak and Tangze, eventually reaching Purne, a small riverside village nestled at the confluence of trekking trails and alpine views. Settle in for the night in a peaceful camp or homestay amid pristine surroundings.
Day 2: Purne to Padum – En Route Phugtal Monastery
Distance: Approx. 80 km (includes 10 km trek)
Travel Time: 5–6 hours
From Purne, trek to the magnificent Phugtal Monastery, one of the most remote and unique monastic complexes in the Himalayas. Built into a cliffside above the Tsarap River, it is a serene, spiritual haven accessible only on foot. The trail winds along rocky cliffs and narrow paths, with breathtaking views throughout. After the trek, begin your drive toward Padum, passing Ichar, Raru, and Bardan Monastery along the way. These ancient settlements and monastic structures give insight into Zanskar’s rich cultural heritage. Arrive in Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar Valley, for an overnight stay.
Day 3: Local Sightseeing in Padum
Distance (local): Approx. 50–60 km
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Spend the day exploring Padum and its surrounding cultural landmarks. Visit Karsha Monastery, the largest in Zanskar, perched on a hillside with commanding views. Proceed to Stongdey Monastery, a dramatic cluster of white buildings that holds centuries-old thangka paintings and scriptures. Explore the lesser-known but peaceful Sani Monastery and Sani Lake, revered by both Buddhists and Bon practitioners. If time allows, visit Zangla, an old royal village with a crumbling palace and panoramic views. The day offers a blend of spiritual exploration, scenic drives, and insight into Zanskari life. Return to Padum for overnight rest.
Day 4: Padum to Leh via Singe La
Distance: Approx. 260 km
Travel Time: 9–10 hours
Set off early for a dramatic mountain drive from Padum to Leh, crossing the mighty Singe La Pass, a high-altitude gateway that connects Zanskar with central Ladakh. The route is adventurous, winding through remote villages like Lingshed and Photoksar, with expansive views of high cliffs, deep gorges, and open skies. Stop for brief visits to lesser-known monasteries perched along the mountainsides. As you approach Leh, the scenery shifts to open plateaus and classic Ladakhi landscapes. Arrive in Leh by evening and relax in the high-altitude city, surrounded by gompas and bustling bazaars. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 5: Drive to Leh Airport – Departure
Distance: Approx. 10 km
Travel Time: 30–40 minutes
Conclude your trans-Himalayan adventure with a short drive to Leh Airport. Reflect on the breathtaking journey across mountain passes, sacred sites, and ancient paths. Whether it was the cliffside serenity of Phugtal, the timeless charm of Padum, or the remote beauty of Singe La, this journey leaves a lasting imprint. Depart with memories of rare landscapes and a deeper connection to the high Himalayas
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
Call Now
Chat With UsRelated Tours
5D/ 4N
6D/ 5N
6D/ 5N
4 Days / 3 Nights
