Zanskar Valley : All You Need To Know (2024)

Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley : June To September

Time Required: 2-3 days for a complete tour

Zanskar Valley Ladakh Temperature: 10°C to 20°C (Summer) – 30°C (winter)

Things to Do: Zanskar Valley Trek, River Rafting on Zanskar river, Monasteries visits, Camping

Places to Visit in Zanskar Valley: Padum, Phuktal Monastery, Karsha Monastery, Zongkhul Monastery

Zanskar Valley to Leh: 105 kms

Zanskar Valley: Introduction

Zanskar Valley trip must be included in your Leh Ladakh tour packages! Nestled at an altitude of 13,154 ft, offers stunning snow-capped mountains, pleasant weather, sparkling water bodies, and lush landscapes. It’s also famous for its Himalayan views and the unique Chadar Trek during winter. Alos read Zanskar valley tours activities.

Tips to Visit Zanskar Valley

1. Acclimatize Properly: Spend a few days in Leh or Kargil to adjust to the high altitude.
2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent altitude sickness.
3. Travel Light: Carry only essentials due to the physically demanding journey.
4. Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local culture and traditions.
5. Plan for Limited Connectivity: Expect minimal phone and internet access.
6. Prepare for Harsh Weather: Pack warm clothing even in summer.
7. Health Precautions: Carry a basic medical kit and necessary medications.
8. Cash Availability: Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are scarce.

Suggested Read : Ladakh Travel Tips For Travelling Responsibly

How to Reach Zanskar Valley

The best route to Zanskar Valley, one of the amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh is via Kargil, which is about 235 km away. From Kargil, you can take a shared taxi or a private vehicle to reach Padum, the administrative centre of Zanskar. The journey from Kargil to Padum takes approximately 10-12 hours and traverses rugged terrains and scenic landscapes. 

Another route is via Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Although longer, this route offers stunning views of the Indus River and numerous high-altitude passes. The Leh to Zanskar route usually requires an overnight halt at Kargil. The route offers stunning vistas and high-altitude passes like Fotu La and Namika La.

About Zanskar Frozen River Trek

The Chadar Trek is a unique experience involving walking on the frozen Zanskar River amidst towering cliffs and pristine landscapes. It takes place in January and February and is considered challenging due to extreme weather conditions.

Hotels Near Zanskar Valley

Accommodation options in Zanskar Valley are limited but sufficient for travellers. In Padum, the main town of Zanskar, you can find several guesthouses and homestays offering basic amenities and warm hospitality. Notable options include Hotel Ibex and Karsha Gustor Guesthouse. 

Leh and Kargil, which serve as transit points, provide a wider range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to more luxurious stays. Options like The Grand Dragon in Leh and Zojila Residency in Kargil ensure comfortable lodging with good facilities. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in local homestays to enjoy authentic Ladakhi culture.

Things to Carry at Zanskar Valley

1. Warm Clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night.
2. Trekking Gear: Good quality trekking shoes, backpacks, and sleeping bags.
3. Medical Kit: Basic first aid supplies, altitude sickness medication, and any personal medication.
4. Camping Equipment: If you plan to camp, carry a sturdy tent, sleeping mat, and cooking gear.
5. Food Supplies: Non-perishable snacks and high-energy foods.

Food to Try in Zanskar Valley

1. Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup.
2. Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat.
3. Butter Tea: A traditional Ladakhi beverage made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt.
4. Skyu: A traditional pasta dish made with vegetables or meat.