Zanskar, part of Kargil District, was once accessible only by trek. The region is dotted with old monasteries and the local people are mostly Tibetan Buddhists. New roads have opened up to this marvellous region from Manali and Leh.

The Zanskar overlanding is planned in such a way that one gets to experience the Zanskar Valley at its full length and width. The expedition is in two major sections. The first one will cover Manali to Khalsi via Padum and Lingshed in Zanskar, and the second one is back to Manali from Khalsi via Batalik, Kargil, Rangdum and Padum.

Manali to Lamayuru in Leh via Padum and Lingshed in Zanskar Valley

From Manali, we enter the Lahaul Valley via the famous Atal Tunnel. The first halt will be at Jispa in Lahaul Valley on the banks of River Bhaga. The drive from Jispa to Purne in Zanskar will be done in a day. This would be an eventful day with crossing the Shinku La Pass and then water crossings on the foot of the Pass. Mt. Gumbok Rangan is also in this stretch, which is considered to be holy by the local inhabitants. From Purne the most beautiful Phuktal monastery can be visited while on the way to Padum. From Padum it’s more difficult off-road up to Lingshed and towards Lamayuru via Khalsi.

Lamayuru to Manali via Dah – Hanu, Batalik, Kargil and Rangdum.

From Lamayuru, the drive towards Kargil will be through Batalik and Aryan Valley. The Drive towards Padum from Kargil will be all different terrain. The prominent features will be the beautiful Suru Valley and Majestic Nun Kun mountains. From Rangdum the road is a complete off-road trail towards Padum crossing Penzila Pass. The Rangdum Monastery is situated on a small hill at an altitude of 4031m and is more than 200 years old. From Padum the same offroad trail is retraced towards Kargiak and then to Jispa crossing Shinkula Pass once more. Jispa to Manali ride will be short and the trip ends at Manali.