Zanskar Pilgrimage (Monastery) Tours - Tour No. 6
Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days | Elevation: 5150 Meters | Region: Zanskar (Zangskar)
Overview
Zanskar or Zangkar, meaning "white copper," covers an area of approximately 7,000 square kilometers (2,700 sq mi), at an elevation ranging from 3,500 to 7,135 meters (11,500–23,409 feet). It consists of the region along the two main branches of the Zanskar River. The first branch, the Doda River, originates near the Penzi La mountain pass at 4,400 meters (14,400 feet) and flows southeast towards Padum, the capital of Zanskar. The second branch is formed by the Lakhang Chu (Kurgiakh River) and Tsarap River, which unite below Purney to form the Lungnak River. This river flows northwest through a narrow gorge before merging with the Doda River to form the Zanskar River.
The region has a rich history, with Hungarian scholar Sándor Csoma de Kőrös being one of the first Tibetologists to spend significant time here. He lived in Zanskar for over a year in 1823 and spent two years at Phuktal Gonpa from 1824-26, as well as several years in Zangla.
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival Leh. Transfer to the hotel after a spectacular Trans-Himalayan flight. Rest for acclimatization. Visit Sankar Monastery, Shanti Stupa, and Leh Market.
- Day 2: Leh City Tour. Visit Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Leh Palace. Explore Leh's cultural heritage.
- Day 3: Drive Leh to Lamayuru. Visit Alchi Gompa, Rizong Monastery, and Lamayuru Monastery. Overnight in Lamayuru.
- Day 4: Lamayuru to Padum via Singge La (5070 meters). Visit Lingshed Gonpa, Nerak Village, Zangla Castle, and Stongde Gonpa. Overnight in Padum.
- Day 5: Padum Sightseeing. Visit Sani Gonpa, Karsha Gompa, Zangkul Gompa, and Drangdurung Glacier. Explore ancient monasteries and monuments.
- Day 6: Drive to Lungnak Valley. Visit Barden Monastery, Mune Gonpa, and Icher Gyalwa Chamba. Trek to Phugtal Gonpa and return to Purne. Overnight in Purne.
- Day 7: Drive to Manali via Shinku La Pass (5130 meters). Visit Gonbo Rangjon and alpine lakes. Overnight in Manali.
- Day 8: Transfer to New Delhi by cab or Volvo bus. Option to drive back to Leh or travel to Srinagar via Kargil.
Pricing
The total cost for this tour package is:
This price includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided tours.
