Kashmir to Leh via Zanskar – 6-Day Remote Himalayan Road Trip

6 Days
4200m
Moderate
Zanskar Tours

Highest points: Pantzela Pass 4200m and Zojila Pass 3528m

Attraction places: Purne, Phuktal, Bardan, Padum, Karsha, Zangla, Stongday, Stakrimoo, Sanni, NunKun view Rangdum monastery, Pentsela, Drangdrung glacier Draass, Srinagar.

                    Highlights of the Tour
                    Scenic Drass–Rangdum Drive: You’ll begin from Drass and journey through the dramatic high-altitude landscapes of the Kargil and Suru valleys, reaching the remote village of Rangdum—an idyllic introduction to Zanskar’s rugged beauty.
Pensi La & Drang‑Drung Glacier Panorama: Cross the striking Pensi La (approx. 4,400 m), known as the gateway to Zanskar, with breathtaking views of the massive Drang‑Drung Glacier—and descend into the wild Stod Valley.
Ancient Monasteries & Zanskar Culture: Explore centuries‑old Buddhist gompas like Karsha and Dzongkhul, set within deep gorges and vivid Himalayan surroundings, offering spiritual insight and cultural immersion.
Ending at Leh via rugged passes: Conclude with a scenic drive through Ladakh, passing more remote mountain passes and villages before arriving in Leh—completing a journey packed with altitude, culture, and adventure.

                

Detailed Day-wise Itinerary

Our taxi will pick you up from Srinagar, and the journey toward Drass offers a stunning introduction to the landscapes of Ladakh. As you travel through the picturesque Sonamarg Valley, you are treated to lush meadows, flowing rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The ascent to Zoji La Pass (3,528 meters) is both thrilling and scenic, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After crossing the pass, the terrain gradually transforms into the rugged high-altitude landscapes of the Kargil district. On reaching Drass, known as the second-coldest inhabited place in the world, you are greeted by striking mountain views and the rich cultural presence of the region. The route also offers glimpses of historical and strategic landmarks, making it a memorable part of the journey. It is around 150 km, and it takes 6-7 hours to reach Drass. While in Drass, you can also visit the Drass War Memorial, a tribute to the brave soldiers of the Kargil War. Located along the Srinagar–Leh highway, the memorial offers a solemn and powerful experience, with views of the famous Tiger Hill and detailed exhibits honoring the sacrifices made during the 1999 conflict.

After the wonderful breakfast, the journey from Drass to Rangdum has stunning views of high-altitude landscapes, including the Kargil and Suru valleys and the view of Nun Kun Glacier. Drop off to hotel at Rangdum village. while in Rangdum, you can visit the Rangdum Monastery overnight. From Drass to Rangdum is around 125km, and it takes around 4-5 hours.

Drive toward Padum Zanskar via Penzila Pass. On the way from Rangdum to Padum, especially around Drang Drung glacier, the view is breathtaking. The glacier itself is one of the largest in the region, with its long, widening ice flow visible from the road near the pensile pass. In this area, you can often see Local people living in temporary settlements with their yaks. The journey will continue toward Padum through Stod valley and drop off to the hotel. The distance between Rangdum and Padum is around 90 km, and it takes 4- 5 hours to reach Padum.

After the wonderful breakfast and drive toward Purne village. Between these, you can also visit Bardan monastery, which is a wonderful monastery in the Ladakh region. And the journey continues toward Purne, where you can visit the Phukal Monastery. Please Note: The Monastery is accessible only by foot from Purne, and it takes approximately 2 hours to reach the monastery. After spending some time at Phutal, you will return to Purne via the same route, which takes around 2 hours. and overnight stay at Purne. In the morning, you will drive for sightseeing around Padum. You will visit Zangla, Stongday monastery, and back to padum, after lunch you can visit Karsha Monastery and Sani monastery and drop off to hotel.

Drive back to Padum, and you can visit Zangla Monastery near Padum, Stongday Monastery, Karsha Monastery, and Sni Monastery, and drop off at hotel overnight stay at Padum.

After the wonderful breakfast, we will drive toward Leh Via Chader Road, which is a newly constructed road. Please Note: Initially, traffic movement on this road was regulated to specific days of the week, which are Sundays and Wednesdays. From Padum to Leh, it is around 170 km, and it takes 5 to 6 hours. And drop off to hotel.

Route Map

Frequently Asked & Question

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