The Mystic Trails of Zanskar

• High-Altitude Trekking
• Cultural Immersion
• Scenic Drives and Photography
• Local Experiences
• Stargazing and Nature Exploration

• International Airfares.
• Personal equipment and personal Sleeping bags
• Any additional transport or activities apart from the trip itinerary.
• Travel Insurance.
• Expenses rising through unforeseen conditions like bad weather, natural calamities, flight cancellations, etc
• Rescue and evacuation services.
• Expenses of any personal nature like phone calls, drinks, cigarettes, souvenirs, laundry, etc.
• Tips.
• Anything not explicitly mentioned in inclusion.

• Complimentary airport transfers in Leh by Majestic Ladakh team
• Waterproof 2 person tent; One Polar, The North Face / similar for rest of the days
• All transport as mentioned in the itinerary with experienced driver
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary. All meals on trek
• Experienced lead guide, cook and helper during the trek
• Kitchen Equipment, Ration and Fuel for the trek
• Horses or Mules for transporting client baggage and camping gear along with pony men
• Porterage for max 15 Kgs per guest
• Oxygen cylinder throughout the trip in case of emergency
• First aid equipment throughout the trek
• All Innerline fees and Monastery Entrances

 Drive from  Leh to Sarchu Day (4201m) Adventure:

• Begin your adventure with a pre-dawn departure from Leh, enjoying a delicious breakfast to fuel the exciting day ahead.
• Ascend the towering Taglang La (5328m) Pass for a memorable photo opportunity amidst breathtaking views.
• Glide through the surreal Morey Plains, reveling in the panoramic vistas of the high-altitude desert.
• Enjoy a local lunch against the serene backdrop of the Himalayas at Pang or near Lachung La Pass (5059m).
• Arrive at Sarchu by late afternoon and settle into comfy tents, complete with opulent amenities and dining, set against the stark beauty of the landscapes.
• Spend the evening at leisure, with options for guided exploration, stargazing, or simply relaxing under the starlit sky, allowing for a perfect acclimatization and serene end to the day.
• Overnight in Serchu (4201 M)

Trek from Sarchu to Khamerup (4490m) - 4-5 hours

• Begin your adventure with a sunrise departure from Sarchu, stepping into the vast, unexplored territories of Zanskar.
• Trek through serene landscapes, with the first river crossing marking your entry into a world of unparalleled beauty.
• Wander amidst a large desert valley, encountering nomadic tents and ancient Mane walls, setting the stage for a night amidst yaks and wilderness, preparing your spirit for the days ahead.
• Overnight in Khamerup (4490 M)

Trek from Khamerup to Chumik Marpo (4710m) - 5-6 hours

• After a nourishing breakfast, your path leads you through mesmerizing canyons, opening up to breathtaking vistas.
• Forge rivers and ascend to Chumik Marpo, a shepherds' paradise, for an evening of stories under the stars.
• Overnight in a tent, under the starlit sky, surrounded by serene pastures.
• Overnight in Chumik Marpo (4710 M)

Trek from Chumik Marpo to Phirtse La (5490m) to Zingchan (4730m) - 8-9 hours

• Challenge the limits of adventure as you climb to Phirtse La, the zenith of your trek, rewarded with panoramic views that capture the essence of the Himalayas.
• Descend to a valley alive with Zanskari shepherds and their flocks, where a riverside campsite offers rest and reflection under the night sky.
• Overnight in  Zingchan (4730 M)

Trek from Zingchan to Toden La (5000m) to Tantse (3980m) - 5-6 hours

• Leave the riverside to ascend to lush pastures, unveiling Zanskar's secluded villages, a testament to the region's enduring spirit.
• Descend through a stony labyrinth to Tantse, where the warmth of local tea and the village's charm await.
• Overnight in Tantse (3980 M)

Trek from Tantse to Purney (3850m) - 4-5 hours

• A short car transfer to Purney, setting the stage for an afternoon at leisure.
• A gentle trek following the river, concluding with a quality camp setup near local homes in Purney.
• Overnight in Purney (3850 M)

Trek from Purney to Phuktal and Back to Purney (3850m) - 5 hours

• Walk the path less traveled to Phuktal Monastery, a marvel of Ladakh, perched dramatically in the cliffs, offering a day immersed in spiritual wonder.
• Return to Purney, carrying with you the peace and serenity of Phuktal.
• Overnight in Purney (3850 M)

Drive from Purney to Bardan Monastery to Padum; 4 hrs

• Journey from Purney towards Padum, visiting the serene Bardan Monastery en route, embracing the peace and spirituality of the region.
• Overnight in Padum (3669 M)

Padum to Karsha to Zangla to Stongde and Back to Padum - Full Day (Drive)

• A day exploring Zangla’s nunnery, the ancient palace, and the majestic monasteries of Stongde and Karsha.
• Absorb the rich cultural heritage and spiritual depth of Zanskar, before returning to Padum.
• Overnight in Padum (3669 M)

Unveiling the Capital to the Ancient Monastic Wonders - Padum to Lingshed (Full day journey) (Drive)

• Begin your adventure in Padum, the pulsating heart of Zanskar, where the blend of culture and nature sets a vibrant tone for the journey ahead.
• Cross over Zangla village again, taking in the scenic drive and the breathtaking views it offers.
• Immerse yourself in the ruins of a once-majestic citadel and a Buddhist shrine, offering panoramic views that etch into memory.
• Arrival in Lingshed: After crossing the breathtaking landscapes and high passes, unwind in the serene village of Lingshed. Spend the night in a cosy homestay, nestled in the heart of tranquillity.
• Overnight in Lingshed (4050 M)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Traversing High Passes to the Indus Valley - Lingshed to Leh (Drive)

• Wake up in the peaceful embrace of Lingshed, ready to journey through the rugged beauty of the Himalayas back to Leh.
• Experience the thrill of crossing Singe La (5091m) and Si-sir La (4804m), high passes offering majestic views of untouched landscapes.
• Descend along the Indus River to the quaint Wanla village, a hidden gem with ancient roots and vibrant cultural tapestry.
• Visit the Alchi Monastery, popularly known as a monastic complex comprising 4 hamlets. Out of the 4 hamlets Alchi monastery is said to be the oldest and most famous.
• Conclude your journey in Leh, where modernity and tradition converge amidst stunning natural backdrops. Check into your accommodation and spend the evening soaking in the vibrant life of Leh.
• Overnight in Leh: Reflect on the journey's wonders with an overnight stay in Leh, where comfort and hospitality await to pamper you after the exhilarating drive.

Is this trek for me?

• The Zanskar trek is considered to be a challenging trek due to the high altitude, cold weather, and rugged terrain that hikers can expect to encounter. This trek is usually classified as a difficult level trek, demanding a good level of physical fitness and preparation.
• Participants will face the challenge of climbing high passes and crossing glaciers, which require significant physical effort. The altitude of the trek ranges from 4,300 meters to 5,300 meters above sea level, necessitating acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and difficulty breathing.
• Moreover, the trek involves extensive hiking and climbing over steep and uneven terrain, with trekkers moving for around 4-6 hours daily and carrying their own backpacks.
• In summary, while the Zanskar trek offers a rewarding and breathtaking experience, it is best suited for seasoned trekkers or those in excellent physical condition. It is crucial to be well-prepared, both physically and mentally, before embarking on this demanding adventure.

Can I add accommodation in Leh and acclimatization tours within Leh?

• Yes, you can add these requirements by reaching out to us at info@majesticladakh.com.Guidelines Do’s & Don'ts

Guidelines Do’s & Don'ts

• Give your body enough time to adjust to the high altitude/acclimation.
• Avoid sleeping during the day & get enough sleep at night.
• Avoid frequent smoking or drinking alcohol.
• Respect and greet the locals with Jullay (pronounced joo-lay which means Hello).
• Wear respectable outfits during your visit to sacred sites/ Monasteries.
• Kindly read the Monastery guidelines before entering a monastery.
• Ladakhi people will always be ready to help you. So, it's advisable to travel with a smile and greet Jullay.

Save the Himalayas: Follow the leave no trace policy

Majestic Ladakh proudly supports the ‘Leave no trace policy’ for our majestic Himalayas. We request you to follow the below guidelines and help us in preserving the splendid natural beauty of our country:

• Carry personal water bottles throughout the tour as locals will be always happy to provide water to refill & basically free of cost at restaurants and hotels.
• Advisable to carry a water bottle with a filter as you can refill it while travelling to any part of Ladakh.
• DZOMSA stalls are also available for refilling water bottles at just ₹7 per litre.
• Use reusable shopping bags in Leh market as plastics are totally banned in Ladakh as they are harmful to our environment.
• Do not litter. Bring back your own trash.
• Let nature’s sounds prevail; avoid loud voices and noises.

Safety during the Trek: 

• Our Trek Leaders are advanced mountaineering course qualified and are trained in rescue procedures from leading mountaineering institutes and certified first-aid responders.
• Local guides who will accompany the group are certified first-aid responders and the support staff are trained in 1st Aid.
• The expedition team carries Oxygen cylinders which can be used if any medical emergency arises.

Recommended stay & food options available  

• During the Rumtse-Tsomoriri trek, you will be staying in Moving camps. 
• On a full-service moving camp, the support staff erects and dismantles the tents at different places selected for an overnight stay. Apart from the basic facilities such as hot water to drink, the staff also carries oxygen cylinders in case of a medical emergency at high altitudes. As the camp does not carry drinking water you will be camping close to the river/ stream where fresh running water is available for cooking. 
• There will be toilet and dining tent
• Stay in Leh and other cities:- Twin-sharing rooms are provided with breakfast
• Single rooms can be requested for a supplement and are subject to availability

In a moving camp the breakfast, lunch and dinner will be prepared by the cook travelling with the group. Meals options are mentioned below:

• Breakfast - porridge, cereals, eggs and toast with plenty of tea, coffee or hot chocolate
• Lunch - a picnic lunch with soup, various kinds of local bread, cheese, eggs, tinned fish, meat and fruit as per the availability.
• Afternoon snack - tea and biscuits on arrival at camp
• Dinner - usually soup, pasta, rice or potato-based main course with fresh vegetables, followed by dessert, tea, coffee or hot chocolate.

Weather in Ladakh

Generally the weather is good in Ladakh during the Summer, with warm to very hot sunny days (temperatures can reach up to 30ºC/35ºC), and cool to cold nights depending on the altitude.

• There is, however, always the possibility of rain, and snow at higher altitudes, and you should be prepared for this. Ladakh, though technically part of the Tibetan Plateau and classified as a high altitude desert, can and does occasionally experience the effects of the Indian monsoon.
• During the trek, you should expect to face the high altitude, cold weather, and rugged terrain. It is important to be properly equipped and physically prepared to undertake this trek.

What is AMS?

Acute mountain sickness (AMS), is the negative health effect of high altitude, caused by rapid exposure to low amounts of oxygen at high elevation. Symptoms may include headaches, vomiting, tiredness, trouble sleeping, and dizziness.

How to avoid AMS?

• Give your body enough time to adjust to the high altitude/acclimation
• Get enough sleep and eat healthy food
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol

If you suffer from any respiratory or health-related issues, please let the tour guide know before the start of the tour.

How is the mobile connectivity in Ladakh?

Only Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh registered pre-paid sims are serviceable in Ladakh. The following services providers/services are active in Ladakh:

• Airtel: Postpaid service
• Jio: Postpaid & pre on post-service
• BSNL: Postpaid service

You can buy and activate a new sim in Leh.

What things should I carry for the trip?

Following are the list of essentials that you should carry:

• Medicines such as Diamox, Aspirin/ Disprin, Candy bars
• Warm clothes and Thermals
• Sunglasses, sunhat & sunscreen
• Torch and power banks
• Water-bottles
• Backpack for Extra Luggage
• Warmer layers for the late August/September trips
• Soft kitbag for camping - please note that this trip is camping. A large, hard, wheeled suitcase is not recommended for camping. We suggest you bring a Sift kit bag.

How are the restaurants in  Leh?

You can find plenty of restaurants in Leh serving Ladakhi,  Indian, Kashmiri, Tibetan, Korean, Italian and continental food. There are always plenty of choices for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. Please keep about £70-100 (US $110-160) for food.

Do try the Ladakhi cuisine like vegetable momos or thukpa during your time in Leh!

Booking and Cancellation Policy 

• Please refer booking and cancellation policy https://www.majesticladakh.com/bookingpolicy