Along the Zanskar River
to Lingshed
This 10-day journey combines the overland drive from Srinagar through Kashmir and into Zanskar with a 4-day trek along the Zanskar River from Pishu village to the isolated village of Lingshed. The trek follows the river through remote gorges before climbing two high passes — Purfi La and Hanuma La — into terrain that almost no tourists ever visit. The journey ends with a long scenic drive back to Leh, passing through some of the finest monasteries in Ladakh along the way. Possible wildlife sightings include Himalayan brown bear and blue sheep.
Arrive in Srinagar. Evening sightseeing by car: Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, and local market. Optional short Shikara boat ride on Dal Lake. Overnight Srinagar.
Drive through the scenic Zoji La Pass — the gateway from Kashmir into Ladakh. En route, visit Drass Valley, the second coldest inhabited place on earth and home to the Kargil War Memorial. Continue to Kargil. Overnight Kargil.
Drive to Padum — the capital of Zanskar Valley. A long but very scenic drive along the Suru and Zanskar valleys, with views of the Drang Drung Glacier and Rangdum Monastery. Arrive Padum by evening. Rest and preparation for the trek. Overnight Padum.
Drive from Padum to Pishu village. Trek begins here. Walk along the beautiful Zanskar River, passing through Pidmo village with views of remote landscapes on all sides. Possible sightings of Himalayan brown bear and blue sheep in the surrounding hills. Reach Hanamur campsite. Camp at Hanamur.
The first high pass crossing. A steep ascent to Purfi La with stunning mountain views from the top. Cross the Oma Chu river below the pass, then continue through Snertse and descend to the Jingchen Zampa bridge. Camp at Jingchen Zampa.
The most challenging day of the trek. Follow the stream upward toward Hanuma La Pass with panoramic views of the rugged Zanskar mountains at the top. Descend via a dramatic zigzag trail to Lanag campsite. High altitude landscapes throughout. Camp at Lanag.
An easy walk to finish the trek. Descend to Lingshed village — one of the most isolated villages in Ladakh, accessible only by a 2-day walk or helicopter. Visit the famous Lingshed Monastery, perched dramatically above the village. Experience local village life. Homestay in Lingshed village.
Drive from Lingshed to Leh along a scenic mountain road. On the way, visit 1-2 monasteries depending on time: Lamayuru Monastery and its famous Moonland landscape, Alchi Monastery with its extraordinary 11th-century murals, Likir Monastery, or Phyang Monastery. Overnight Leh.
Half-day local sightseeing by car: Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace with views over the Indus Valley. Evening free for shopping at Leh Main Market — Pashmina shawls, thangka paintings, turquoise jewellery, and local spices. Overnight Leh.
Airport transfer. Trip ends.