Zanskar lies between the principal chain of the Himalayas to the south and the Zanskar Range to the north. The most isolated of all the trans-Himalayan valleys, made inaccessible for nearly eight months a year due to heavy snowfall resulting in closure of all the access passes, Zanskar has the distinction of being the least interfered with microcosms of Ladakh, and thus one of the last surviving cultural satellites of Tibet.
This geographical isolation together with the esoteric nature of Buddhism practiced here has enabled its some ten thousand inhabitants to preserve and perpetuate their cultural identity. Hemis to Zangla route leads through some of the most isolated mountain regions with no villages for six days. There are many rivers to cross which can only be forded in the periods of relatively low water runoff, namely from the last part of August until late November. There are three passes to cross, two over 5000m, one just short of 5000m. The tour includes the visit of Likir and Alchi monasteries before the start of the trek. Reaching the mountain ramparts of Zanskar, you will have an opportunity to examine the best of the ancient monastic establishments of this lost Shangri-La, most notably the monasteries of Karsha, Stongde and Zangla.
Our jeeps will bring you back to Leh from Zanskar via the magnificent Suru Valley under the shadows of the Nun – Kun massif, Kargil, Lamayuru and Sham.
Day 01 : Leh to Hemis Drive and Trek to Shang Sumdo
Early morning Leh to Hemis by jeep, visit the Hemis Gompa and start trekking to Shang Sumdo: cross Martselang bridge, then ascent up valley along the river, crossing it several times before reaching Sang Sumdo.
Day 02 : Trek Shang Sumdo to Lartsa Kongmarula, 4800m
The route follows through a stunning landscape of red rocks along the slope, then along river till Chuskyurmo (sour water), on through gorges of small rivers many of which need to be crossed before camp is made for the night at Lartsa below Kongmarula Pass.
Day 03 : Trek Larsa Kongmarula to Langthang Chu river
Before descending to a high mountain pasture at Nimaling (4700m), we must ascent steeply up to Kongmarula Pass (5150m), offering a beautiful view of the northern face of Kang Yatse Peak (6400m). From Nimaling up, cross a ridge, then descent to a beautiful valley, cross river, on up again, following a rocky slope up to Konga Ngonpo (5090m), then descend along a very steep route before reaching a campsite near Male.
Day 04 : Trek Langthang Chu – Zalung Karpo La (5200m)
After crossing a large stream and a moraine, valley divides an hour later. Continuing to our right, the route goes up and down before reaching Zalung Karpo La. Camp on the other side of the pass.
Day 05 : Trek Zalungkarpola to Tilat Sumdo
Start descending from the camp towards the main stream. After an hour arrive at Khamak Sumdo, a valley coming from the north (route directly north leads to Rabrang La, 5000m.) Follow the gorge, crossing a stream several times before reaching Tilat Sumdo along a rocky route.
Day 06 : Trek Tilat Sumdo to a north camp (4450m) of Chhar Chhar La 4950m)
Just after Tilat Sumdo camp, cross Khurna river, continue on its right bank, past couple side valleys. Four hours later as the valley narrows, break camp.
Day 07 : Trek from the north camp Chhar Chhar La to Zangla Sumdo
Follow the narrow gorge, past several narrow side gorges, eventually leaving behind the stream. The route follows gently up to the top of Chharchhar La, 4950m. From top follow stream down to Zangla Sumdo.
Day 08 : Trek Zanglasumdo to Zangla
Continuing down from Zangla Sumdo along the stream, the trail reaches the wide expanse of the Zanskar Valley, with great views of the Zanskar River and the villages of Pishu and Pidmo on the other side of the river.
Day 09 : Visits to monasteries
Sightseeing around Zanskar, visiting Zangla, Stongde and Karsha monasteries. Overnight in camps in Mulbekh.
Day 10 : Mulbekh Leh
Drive back to Leh in the jeeps. Arrive Leh. Dinner and overnight at Hotel.
