Visit Zanskar Valley the Hidden Gem Of Jammu and Kashmir
Zanskar, a small district in the Kargil region of eastern Ladakh that is also known locally as Zahar, is situated there. The Himalayan region’s Zanskar Valley is one of the most alluring destinations for enthusiastic travellers. To avoid having problems securing essential facilities at the last minute, plan your trip to Zanskar Valley with C Himalaya well in advance. It is known that Buddhism is popular in this semi-desert valley.
Visit Zanskar Valley
The Zanskar Valley is renowned for its lofty, snow-capped mountains and the surrounding environment, which have distinctive geographical characteristics to this area. When you arrive, you’ll find an area with a pleasant atmosphere and sparkling-clean river waters that are worth exploring. The Zanskar Valley, 105 miles from Leh, is well-known among thrill seekers. The valley is one of the most well-liked vacation sites for people visiting the Himalayas since it offers a wide variety of activities.
Activities to do in Zanskar Valley
The Suru Valley
You pass through the Suru Valley on your way to the Zanskar Valley from Kargil to Rangdum. Unlike Zanskar, this valley is in full bloom with beautiful flora that may effectively draw attention. Unfortunately, the valley receives little attention because the majority of visitors merely happen to be passing through. Rafting vacations and mountain expeditions both begin in the Suru Valley.
Shafat Glacier
If you’ve heard of Nun and Kun summits, you’d be aware that they get their peak from this glacier. Usually, those who are getting ready to embark on a mountaineering excursion on these mountains begin from this location. This glacier gives rise to the Shafat Nala, a well-known torrent that feeds into the Suru River.
Doda River
Also known as the Stod River, this 79-kilometer-long river is the lifeblood of the Stod Valley, which is a significant feature of Zanskar. To enjoy various water sports like swimming and rafting, people joyfully swarm to the riverside.
Sani Monastery
This monastery, which is located a whopping 6 kilometres from Padum, is arguably the earliest place of worship in the entire Ladakh region. An illustrious Kushan emperor founded this monastery.
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How To Reach Zanskar Valley
By Air
Fly into the Kushok Bakula airport, which is the one closest to Leh. To reach to Zanskar Valley later, choose to rent a car.
By Train
Arrive at the Jammu Tawi train station, then take a taxi or a leased car to Leh, where you’ll continue on to Zanskar Valley.
By Road
If one takes NH 1 and NH 301, the 462 miles between Leh and Zanskar Valley can be travelled in under 11 hours. If you like, a rental car can take you from Leh to Zanskar through the road and through Kargil. Srinagar offers well-connected highways and a secure path for travellers to reach their trip objective, making it the best place to travel through to get to Leh.
Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley
Summer
June through September are the ideal months to visit Zanskar Valley. The valley’s visitors will have the best weather at this period. The early season, which lasts through June, is defined by poor roads that are unfit for traffic.
If you want to travel beyond this, you can only do it up until October, when there may be some minor challenges but it is still possible.
Winter
As there are no operating roads in the months of December through January or February, the only way you can get to the valley during these times is by walking over the Chadar trek.
Best Routes to Zanskar Valley
The fastest route to the Zanskar Valley is via Kargil and Srinagar. There are two ways to go to Leh: either by plane or by taking a train from Manali or from Leh to Kargil directly to Leh. From here, you can take a car to Padum. You can safely get there using Srinagar, Kargil, and Padum as the fastest route.
This road is now being constructed from Himachal and won’t be done for a few more years. From Darcha to Shingo La and then on to Padum, it crosses Himachal. Leh is connected to Nimoo, Chilling, and eventually Padum by a different route. The majority of this route parallels the Zanskar River.
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The famed Phugtal monastery, which is accessible by this 40-kilometer path from Darcha to Shingo La, is passed through.
Via Leh: This route is always in service and makes it simple to reach the Zanskar Valley. It will pass through Leh, travel through Chilling, and then turn towards Padum. The majority of the villagers still live off the roads, but after this project is finished, they will have a better way to travel.
About Zanskar Frozen River Trek
This walk, often referred to as the Chadar trek, is of a type that may be found all over the world. The word’s image of a blanket is reminiscent of the ice that accumulates over the Zanskar river during the harsh winters. This hike involves crossing the Zanskar River, which is frequently used by people for trading.
You should come here in January or February when the ice sheet is at its thickest if you intend to take on this expedition. Without passing a medical fitness examination at the local hospital in Leh, you cannot complete this trek.
Things to Carry at Zanskar Valley
- Don the proper attire. To be comfortable, you must dress appropriately for the season you are travelling.
- Drugs. Less medication is accessible as you proceed down the path to the valley.
- Sun protection, as sunburn danger only increases with height.
- Boots
- A first-aid kit and lights
- Novelties and prepared meals
- Prepackaged water, directions, and maps