Lahaul with zanskar

Traveling to Lahaul and Zanskar is considered one of the best travel experiences for several compelling reasons:

Lahaul and Zanskar Valleys are located deep in the Himalayas and offer stunning, pristine landscapes rarely found elsewhere. Travelers get to see towering snow-capped peaks, high-altitude passes like Shinku La, crystal-clear glacial lakes such as Deepak Taal, and powerful waterfalls like Sissu. The region is a trekker’s paradise with challenging routes that provide a mix of adventure and breathtaking views.

These valleys are rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage with ancient monasteries perched precariously on cliffs, such as the iconic Phuktal Monastery and Karsha Monastery. Visitors experience authentic local culture through homestays in villages like Padum, Purne, and Sani, interacting closely with the residents and sharing in their traditions and festivals. The spiritual ambiance of these monasteries and the remote lifestyle offers a profound sense of peace and  

connection.

Unlike popular hill stations, Lahaul and Zanskar remain off the typical tourist radar, providing solitude and unspoiled environments. This isolation makes the experience feel more genuine, away from commercialized tourism, which appeals to travelers seeking tranquility and uniqueness.

The journey itself is an adventure with iconic routes like the Atal Tunnel to Lahaul and the challenging Shinku La pass linking Lahaul to Zanskar. The ride involves river crossings, rugged mountainous terrain, and rarely traveled paths, creating a thrilling travel experience that is also a test of endurance and spirit.

Visiting between June and September allows travelers to experience pleasant weather with blooming landscapes, accessible trekking paths, and the chance to see rare Himalayan wildlife in the valleys and surrounding mountain ranges.

• Arrive at Chandigarh Airport or Railway Station in the morning.
• Drive from Chandigarh to Manali passing through beautiful landscapes, including Sunder Nagar for lunch.
• Check into hotel in Manali (altitude approx. 6725 ft) for acclimatization.
• Evening at leisure or explore Mall Road.

As in the next few day we are going to travel in relatively high   altitudes, we need a day for our body to acclimitize. We spend the day  sight seeing around Manali. 

• Early breakfast and depart for Jispa.
• Drive crosses Solang Valley, Atal Tunnel (10,171 ft), Sissu Waterfall, Keylong, or the Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft).
• Arrive in Jispa, a scenic valley town on Bhaga River, ideal for overnight stay and further acclimatization.

• Cross challenging Shinku La, connecting Himachal Pradesh with Zanskar region.
• Stop at the The sacred Gombo Ronjon Mountain along the river Kurgiakh
• Pass several water crossings and rugged terrain.
• Reach Purne village or homestay for overnight.

• Visit the spectacular cliff-hanging Phuktal Monastery by a moderate hike.
• Continue the drive to Padum (approximate altitude 3700 m).
• Explore Muney and nearby monasteries if time permits.
• Overnight stay in Padum or Karsha

• Visit Karsha Monastery, Sani Monastery, and Stongdey and Zangla.
• Option for short hikes around the valley to absorb local culture and natural scenery.
• Overnight stay in Padum or Karsha village.

• Drive through Pensi La Pass (4470 m), Rangdum village.
• Continue to Suru Valley and on to Kargil.
• Overnight stay in Kargil or Rangdum depending on time and preference.

• Option to take the route from Kargil towards Leh for further Ladakh exploration.
• Alternatively, drive back toward Manali retracing the route over the passes.
• Overnight stays en route to ensure acclimatization and rest.

• The route includes high-altitude passes (Shinku La, Rohtang, Pensi La) demanding vehicle and traveler readiness.
• Acclimatization days in Manali and Jispa are crucial to prevent altitude sickness.
• Fuel, food, and accommodation options are limited in Lahaul and Zanskar; stock up adequately.
• Weather can be unpredictable; flexible plans recommended.
• Travel best between mid-June and September when roads are open.

This itinerary balances travel times, acclimatization needs, and cultural experiences across Chandigarh to Manali, Lahaul, and Zanskar, offering a thorough Himalayan adventure in 2025. If You feel that you have less or more number of days or you want a different itinerary, we can customize one for you. get in touch with us.