Get ready for an unforgettable journey deep into the wild, untouched corners of the Himalayas with our 6 Nights / 7 Days Zanskar Valley Tour from Manali. This adventure takes you through the scenic Lahaul Valley and across the high-altitude Shinkula Pass (16,580 ft) into the remote and magical land of Zanskar — a region known for its ancient monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and peaceful mountain life.
Along the way, you’ll visit charming villages like Purne and Kargyak, hike to the spectacular Phuktal Monastery built into a cliff, and spend a night under the stars next to the sacred Gonbo Rangjon Rock. You’ll also explore majestic monasteries like Karsha and Stongde, and witness the stunning Drang Drung Glacier from the iconic Pensi La Pass.
Whether you’re seeking quiet moments in nature, cultural insights, or just an offbeat Himalayan adventure, this tour offers a perfect blend of raw beauty, local charm, and peaceful escapes — far away from the tourist crowds.
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Brace yourself for an extraordinary journey into one of the most remote and untouched regions of the Indian Himalayas — Zanskar Valley. This 6N/7D adventure from Manali takes you beyond the usual tourist trails, across high-altitude mountain passes, sacred rock formations, ancient monasteries, and glacier-fed rivers. Raw, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful, Zanskar is perfect for thrill-seekers, culture lovers, and those who crave true Himalayan solitude.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Manali to Jispa, crossing the iconic Atal Tunnel—the world’s highest highway tunnel at 10,000 ft. As you exit the tunnel, the lush Kullu Valley transforms into the stark beauty of Lahaul Valley.
En Route Highlights:
Atal Tunnel :- Experience a dramatic shift in landscapes as you enter the cold desert region of Lahaul.
Sissu Waterfall :- Stop at this scenic village to witness a stunning waterfall backed by snow-clad peaks—perfect for photos and fresh mountain air.
Tandi Sangam :- Visit the sacred confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga Rivers—a unique natural and spiritual landmark.
Keylong :- Pass through the charming Lahauli town of Keylong, known for monasteries, tea spots, and local culture.
Arrival in Jispa :- Reach Jispa by evening—an alpine village on the Bhaga River, surrounded by peaceful mountains and riverside beauty. Check in to your stay, unwind, and acclimatize in this tranquil setting.
Overnight Stay: Jispa
Tip: Stay hydrated and take it easy to adjust to the higher altitude.
After an early breakfast in Jispa, gear up for one of the most adventurous drives of your trip as you cross the majestic Shinkula Pass (16,580 ft) – a rugged and high-altitude gateway that connects Lahaul to the remote and mystical Zanskar Valley.
Shinkula Pass:- This lesser-known yet thrilling mountain pass offers a dramatic transition into Zanskar’s raw terrain. Surrounded by barren mountains, glaciers, and wind-swept landscapes, the pass is a true test of the Himalayas’ wild charm. The views from the top are absolutely surreal – silence, snow, and sky stretching endlessly.
Remote Zanskar Hamlets
As you descend into Zanskar, drive through untouched villages like Kargyak, Thorang, and Tangze – timeless settlements where traditional mud-brick homes, grazing yaks, and fluttering prayer flags reflect the authentic Zanskari life. These remote villages lie tucked between towering peaks and are rarely seen by the average tourist.
Arrive at Purne :- By afternoon or evening, arrive at Purne, a peaceful village nestled near the crystal-clear Tsarap River. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and glacial streams, Purne is the base for treks to Phugtal Monastery and a perfect place to unwind amid nature.
Overnight Stay: Purne
Settle in at your riverside camp or homestay, enjoy a hot local meal, and breathe in the untouched serenity of Zanskar. With minimal network and maximum silence, this is truly a place to disconnect and just be.
Altitude Note: Purne sits at around 12,000 ft. Stay warm, hydrate well, and rest to prepare for the trek or exploration ahead.
Wake up to a peaceful Zanskari morning in Purne, and if you’re up for it, begin your day with a once-in-a-lifetime hike to one of the most unique monasteries in the Himalayas — Phuktal Monastery.
Optional Trek to Phuktal Monastery (1.5 hours)
A moderate trek takes you through rugged trails and river crossings to reach the Phuktal Gompa, a centuries-old monastery dramatically carved into a cliffside cave. With monks living in meditation and the Tsarap River flowing below, it’s one of Zanskar’s most iconic spiritual sites. The vibe is peaceful, the architecture is surreal, and the views are unforgettable.
Drive to Padum – The Capital of Zanskar
Return to Purne and resume your scenic drive to Padum, the administrative and cultural center of Zanskar Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass green patches, deep gorges, and timeless villages, with every turn offering postcard-worthy Himalayan vistas.
En Route Attractions:
Sheela Waterfall :- Take a refreshing stop at Sheela Waterfall, a beautiful cascade surrounded by alpine greenery — perfect for a photo break or a moment to soak in nature’s calm.
Karsha Monastery :- Visit Karsha Gompa, the largest and most influential monastery in Zanskar. Perched against a dramatic mountain backdrop, this 11th-century monastery offers deep spiritual vibes, fluttering prayer flags, and panoramic views of the valley below.
Stongde Monastery :- Another gem on the route, Stongdey Gompa is set on a hilltop and offers majestic views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s less crowded, serene, and rich in Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Overnight Stay in Padum
Arrive in Padum by late evening and check in to your hotel or guesthouse. With its small market, local eateries, and monasteries in every direction, Padum is the ideal base to explore the rest of Zanskar.
Tip: Padum sits at around 12,000 ft — take it easy, stay hydrated, and enjoy the peaceful pace of life here.
Today’s journey takes you deeper into the heart of Upper Zanskar, as you explore some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes and spiritual sites in the region. It’s a day filled with high-altitude passes, ancient gompas, and surreal Himalayan vistas.
Scenic Drive through Upper Zanskar :- After breakfast in Padum, gear up for a breathtaking road trip towards Pensi La Pass, passing through a route that offers some of Ladakh’s most dramatic scenery.
Sani Lake & Sani Monastery :- Begin with a visit to the tranquil Sani Lake, a peaceful spot reflecting the surrounding mountains. Just nearby lies Sani Gompa, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh, offering a spiritual start to your day.
Pensi La Pass (14,450 ft) :- Known as the gateway to Zanskar, Pensi La offers sweeping views of the snow-covered Zanskar and Suru valleys. This high mountain pass is a dream for photographers and nature lovers, especially when skies are clear and peaks shine bright.
Drang Drung Glacier :- From the top of Pensi La, witness the spectacular Drang Drung Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in Ladakh. Its winding, icy expanse looks like a frozen river from above — a must-see highlight of your trip.
Rangdum Monastery:- Continue onward to the isolated Rangdum Monastery, perched dramatically on a hill surrounded by a vast mountain plain. This ancient gompa offers not just spiritual vibes, but also a stunning panoramic backdrop that feels almost otherworldly.
Return Drive to Padum :- After exploring these iconic spots, drive back to Padum by evening. Rest, recharge, and relive the day’s incredible sights.
Tip: Carry snacks, water, and warm clothing for this full-day excursion — facilities are limited en route, but nature will leave you speechless.
Today, you begin your return journey from Padum toward Lahaul Valley, but not before making a memorable stop at one of the most mystical and awe-inspiring places in Zanskar — Gonbo Rangjon.
Depart From Padum :- After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive through the remote and raw beauty of the Zanskar landscape. You’ll retrace your path through high-mountain passes and remote villages, taking in the vast silence and majestic views.
Gonbo Rangjon – The Sacred Mountain:- Make a detour to visit the iconic Gonbo Rangjon, also known as “God’s Mountain.” This towering, standalone black rock formation rises dramatically from the valley floor and is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.
With its spiritual significance, striking symmetry, and sheer vertical presence, Gonbo Rangjon is often said to resemble a meditating monk. Its magnetic energy, peaceful surroundings, and unspoiled landscape make it one of the most soul-touching stops of your entire trip.
Evening Vibes & Stargazing:- As the sun sets behind the mountains, settle into your riverside or valley camp near Gonbo Rangjon. The area is far from light pollution, making it perfect for stargazing. Watch the stars emerge one by one over the sacred peak — an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Overnight Stay: Camp near Gonbo Rangjon
Tip: Dress warmly — nights are cold and crisp, but perfect for sitting around a bonfire and soaking in the serene silence of Zanskar.
After a peaceful night beneath the stars at Gonbo Rangjon, begin your journey back towards Lahaul Valley. This day is all about soaking in the remoteness one last time before returning to more familiar terrain.
Relaxed Morning at Gonbo Rangjon:- Wake up to the silence of the mountains and the spiritual aura of Gonbo Rangjon. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your campsite, take a short walk around the area, and bid farewell to this mystical rock formation that leaves every traveler humbled.
Drive Back via Shinkula Pass:- Begin your return drive, retracing the rugged route through Zanskar’s raw landscapes. You’ll once again cross the Shinkula Pass (16,580 ft)—a high-altitude adventure with panoramic views of untouched valleys and jagged Himalayan peaks.Every turn offers postcard-worthy moments, so keep your cameras ready as you descend back into Lahaul.
Arrive at Jispa:- By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Jispa, where the comfort of riverside hotels or cozy camps awaits you. After days in the wild, Jispa feels like a welcome return to warmth, hot food, and the soothing sounds of the Bhaga River.
Tip: Use this evening to rest and rejuvenate. Enjoy a hot meal, share stories of your Zanskar journey, or simply sit by the river under a clear Himalayan sky.
Your incredible Zanskar–Lahaul journey comes to a close today as you return to the vibrant hill town of Manali. After a week of high-altitude adventures, rugged landscapes, and peaceful villages, it’s time to descend back to comfort and connectivity.
Post-Breakfast Departure from Jispa:- Enjoy your final Himalayan breakfast by the Bhaga River in Jispa. Take in the serene surroundings one last time before you begin the journey back to Manali.
Scenic Return via Atal Tunnel:- Drive back through the majestic Lahaul Valley, retracing your route past Keylong, Tandi, and Sissu. As you approach the Atal Tunnel, you’ll once again witness the dramatic shift in scenery — from Lahaul’s barren beauty to the greener, livelier vibes of Kullu Valley.
Optional Stops (Time Permitting):
If time allows, you may stop for optional sightseeing or activities at:
Sissu – Revisit the charming waterfall or enjoy a quick snack with mountain views.
Solang Valley – Try your hand at paragliding, zip-lining, or simply enjoy the stunning views and local cafes.
Evening Drop in Manali :- By evening, you’ll reach Manali. Our team will drop you at your hotel or Manali Volvo Bus Stand, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure through Zanskar and Lahaul.
Tip: If catching a bus or connecting to another destination, ensure your departure time aligns with today’s travel plan for a smooth end to your journey.
The best time for this tour is mid-June to late September, when the Shinkula Pass is open and the weather is relatively stable. This is also when the roads are accessible, and you can enjoy clear skies and vibrant landscapes.
Currently, Indian citizens do not need a special permit to enter Zanskar via Shinkula Pass from Manali. However, foreign nationals may require Inner Line Permits (ILPs) depending on the route. We assist all travelers with updated guidance and any paperwork needed.
Zanskar is a remote and high-altitude region with basic facilities, long drives, and rough roads. It’s ideal for adventure lovers, bikers, trekkers, or offbeat travelers. Families with young children or elderly members should prepare accordingly and consult us before booking.
You’ll experience a mix of riverside camps, guesthouses, and homestays in remote villages like Jispa, Purne, Padum, and Gonbo Rangjon. Facilities are clean and comfortable but basic — part of the charm of exploring untouched regions like Zanskar.
Mobile signals are very limited. BSNL postpaid may work in some places like Padum, but don’t expect regular network or internet access. We recommend informing loved ones in advance and enjoying the digital detox!
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rsv@manalitraveladventure.com
