Immersive Zanskar and Aryan Villages
- Ladakh
Durations
11 Days
Difficulty
Challenging, Moderate
Enjoy the Adventure
This extraordinary expedition traces one of the world’s most dramatic mountain routes, beginning in the foothills of Manali and climbing into the rugged wilderness of Lahaul and Zanskar. Each day unveils a new layer of the Himalayas — from green valleys and glacier-fed rivers to the high-altitude desert of Ladakh. Travelers cross legendary passes like Shingo La and Singge La, explore ancient monasteries, and immerse themselves in the deep spiritual calm of these remote lands.
As the journey progresses northward, the landscapes shift from stark mountain gorges to the surreal moon-like terrain of Lamayuru and the culturally rich Aryan Valley. The final stretch into Leh offers both rest and reflection, marking the completion of a truly once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan adventure — where every turn of the road feels like a step closer to the sky.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Distance Covered: ~300 km
Time Taken: 7–9 hours
Terrain: Plains transitioning to winding mountain roads
Arrive at Chandigarh Airport (CHD) and commence the drive towards Manali. This journey leaves the plains and ascends into the Kullu Valley, marking the start of your Himalayan adventure.
Night Stay: Manali (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~2,050m / 6,726 ft.
Focus: Rest, acclimatization, and final vehicle/gear checks
Activity: Light, local exploration
A crucial rest day before ascending to extreme altitudes. Light exploration options include Old Manali or Hadimba Temple. Use this day for final vehicle checks and supply arrangements for the upcoming Zanskar leg.
Night Stay: Manali (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Distance Covered: ~140 km
Time Taken: 5–7 hours
High Point: Rohtang Pass (3,978m) or Atal Tunnel (3,000m)
The high-altitude journey begins, crossing into Lahaul Valley via Atal Tunnel or Rohtang Pass. The landscape transitions into a cold desert terrain. Jispa, located on the Bhaga River, is the last settlement with full facilities before entering Zanskar.
Night Stay: Jispa (Hotel/Camp) – Altitude: ~3,200m / 10,500 ft.
Distance Covered: ~260 km
Time Taken: 10–14 hours
High Pass: Shingo La (Shinku La) – 5,091m / 16,703 ft
Terrain: Extremely challenging unpaved roads, river crossings, and high-altitude passes
A demanding expedition day crossing the formidable Shingo La into the Lungnak Valley of Zanskar. Experience one of the most remote and rugged overland routes in the Himalayas. Arrive at Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar.
Night Stay: Padum (Hotel/Guesthouse/Homestay) – Altitude: ~3,669m / 12,037 ft.
Focus: Rest, deeper acclimatization, and local monastic exploration
Activity: Vehicle-based local sightseeing
Visit Karsha Gompa (largest in Zanskar), Stongdey Monastery, and Sani Monastery—some of the oldest Buddhist sites in the Himalayas. Immerse yourself in Zanskari Buddhist culture and heritage.
Night Stay: Padum.
Distance Covered: ~240 km
Time Taken: 10–14 hours
High Passes: Singge La (4,959m) & Sirsir La (4,825m)
Terrain: Challenging and remote mountain tracks
Traverse northwards through the Zanskar range, crossing Singge La (Lion’s Pass) and Sirsir La. Arrive at Lamayuru, known for its ancient monastery and “moonland” landscape.
Night Stay: Lamayuru (Hotel/Guesthouse/Homestay).
Distance Covered: ~95 km
Time Taken: 3–4 hours
Focus: Cultural transition into a unique ethnic enclave
Visit Lamayuru Monastery in the morning, then drive towards the Aryan Valley. Discover the Brokpa community, believed to be descendants of Alexander’s army.
Night Stay: Dah/Hanu/Garkone (Homestay/Guesthouse).
Focus: Exploring the Brokpa villages and culture
Activity: Village walks and community interactions
Explore Dah, Hanu, Garkone, and Darchik, witnessing their preserved traditions, attire, and agricultural practices. A rare glimpse into one of Ladakh’s most isolated cultures.
Night Stay: Dah/Hanu/Garkone.
Distance Covered: ~160 km
Time Taken: 5–6 hours
Terrain: Smooth state highway
Drive along the Indus River through the Sham Valley. Visit Alchi Monastery (UNESCO site), Indus–Zanskar Confluence, Magnetic Hill, and Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~3,500m / 11,500 ft.
Focus: Leisure, rest, and last-minute shopping
A well-deserved rest day after the expedition. Explore Leh Market, enjoy cafés, or organize travel gear for your return.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse).
Activity: Airport transfer
Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). The morning flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges—a fitting farewell to an extraordinary journey.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
5% GST, personal expenses, insurance, fines or servicing costs, activities additional to what has been planned for, extra costs arising from delays or breakdowns, and anything not specifically included as per customized final plan.
