Route Overview
Explore the remote and beautiful Zanskar Valley in a 6-day circuit from Leh. This route takes you from Leh to Kargil, continues towards Padum through dramatic mountain valleys, includes a day excursion towards Phuktal Monastery, and also gives time for local sightseeing around Padum before returning to Leh via the Lingshed / Chilling route, subject to road conditions.
Perfect for travellers who want to experience Zanskar Valley, Padum, Phuktal Monastery, ancient monasteries, remote villages, and one of Ladakh’s most adventurous road journeys.
Route Points
Route Trip
Day 01: Leh to Kargil via Lamayuru
Depart from Leh in the morning
Visit Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Stop at Indus–Zanskar Sangam viewpoint
Drive via Basgo and Lamayuru route
Visit Lamayuru Moonland landscape
Cross Fotu La and Namika La passes
Continue towards Mulbekh and Kargil
Arrive in Kargil by evening
Check in at hotel
Night Stay: Kargil
Day 02: Kargil to Padum via Suru Valley and Pensi La
Early departure from Kargil
Drive through Suru Valley towards Sankoo and Panikhar
Enjoy views of Nun Kun peaks, subject to weather
Continue towards Rangdum region
Cross Pensi La Pass, the gateway to Zanskar Valley
View Drang Drung Glacier from the pass area
Descend towards Zanskar Valley
Reach Padum by evening
Check in at hotel / guesthouse
Night Stay: Padum
Day 03: Padum to Phuktal Monastery Excursion
Early departure from Padum
Drive towards Purne / Anmo side, subject to road condition
Continue as far as the vehicle-accessible point
Walk / trek towards Phuktal Monastery, depending on current road access
Visit Phuktal Monastery, one of the most unique cave monasteries in Ladakh
Spend time exploring the monastery and surrounding valley views
Return back to vehicle point and drive back to Padum
Arrival in Padum by evening
Night Stay: Padum
Day 04: Padum Local Sightseeing
Breakfast at the hotel / guesthouse
Visit Karsha Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Zanskar
Visit Stongdey Monastery, known for beautiful valley views
Explore Padum town and nearby village areas
Optional visit to Sani Monastery or Bardan Monastery, subject to time
Enjoy relaxed local sightseeing around Zanskar Valley
Return to Padum by evening
Night Stay: Padum
Day 05: Padum to Leh via Lingshed / Chilling Route
Very early departure from Padum
Drive towards Zangla and Lingshed route
Pass through remote mountain valleys and rugged landscapes
Continue towards Photoksar / Wanla / Chilling side, subject to route condition
Drive along the Zanskar River section towards Nimmu
Continue from Nimmu to Leh
Arrival in Leh by late evening
Drop at hotel / main market area
Night Stay: Leh
Covered in This Trip
- Shared taxi travel for the complete circuit
- Professional drivers experienced in high-altitude routes
- Fuel charges for the entire journey
- Toll taxes, parking fees, and environmental fees
- Driver allowance and night halt expenses
- Pick-up and drop within Leh town / main market area
- Vehicle as per seat booking category (Innova / SUV)
- Luggage space as per standard allowance
- 24/7 trip coordination support from Taxi Leh team
Only pay for personal Choices
- Accommodation (hotel / camp stays in Nubra or Pangong)
- Meals, snacks, tea, or bottled water
- Camel ride at Hunder sand dunes
- Entry tickets for monasteries or sightseeing spots
- Personal travel insurance
- Oxygen cylinders or medical expenses
- Additional pickup/drop outside Leh main town
- Any service not specifically mentioned in "Included"
Travel Conditions & Expectations
This is an adventurous expedition through the remote Zanskar Valley involving long driving hours, rough mountain roads, river valleys, and high mountain passes. Guests should be prepared for basic facilities, limited network connectivity, unpredictable weather, and occasional road delays due to landslides or road work. The Phuktal Monastery excursion may include short walking or trekking sections depending on road access. Proper acclimatization in Leh, warm clothing, personal medication, and valid ID proof are strongly recommended throughout the journey.
Before You Travel
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