Day 01 | Chandigarh / Delhi – Manali – Sissu
Overnight Stay: Sissu
Arrive in Manali following your overnight Volvo journey from Chandigarh or Delhi.
Continue towards Sissu through the famous Atal Tunnel, which connects the lush Kullu Valley with the spectacular landscapes of Lahaul.
As you emerge from the tunnel, witness a dramatic change in scenery, with towering mountains, rugged valleys and traditional Himalayan settlements.
Reach Sissu, a charming village surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. The day allows travellers to experience the beautiful Lahaul Valley and begin adjusting to the higher altitude.
Experience Highlights: Atal Tunnel, Lahaul Valley, mountain landscapes and acclimatisation.
Day 02 | Sissu – Shinku La – Gombo Ronjon – Purne
Overnight Stay: Purne
After breakfast, begin an exciting journey towards the remote Zanskar Valley.
Travel through increasingly dramatic Himalayan terrain before reaching Shinku La Pass (approximately 5,091 metres), one of the major high-altitude gateways connecting Lahaul with Zanskar.
Descend into the magnificent landscapes of Zanskar and witness the iconic Gombo Ronjon, an extraordinary isolated mountain rising above the surrounding valley.
Enjoy the breathtaking wilderness and photographic opportunities before continuing towards Purne, a remote Himalayan settlement.
Experience Highlights: Shinku La, Gombo Ronjon, high-altitude mountain roads and remote Zanskari landscapes.
Day 03 | Purne – Phuktal Monastery – Padum
Overnight Stay: Padum
Today brings one of the most memorable experiences of the Zanskar expedition.
After breakfast, travel towards the recently developed road access near Phuktal Monastery, one of the most extraordinary Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas.
From the accessible road point, enjoy a scenic walk of approximately 30–40 minutes one way, subject to the final road-access point and prevailing conditions.
Situated dramatically around a natural cave high above the Lungnak Valley, Phuktal Monastery offers a rare combination of spiritual heritage, fascinating architecture and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
Explore the monastery and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this remote Buddhist settlement.
Return along the walking trail and continue by road towards Padum, the principal settlement of Zanskar.
Experience Highlights: Phuktal cave monastery, Himalayan walking experience, Buddhist heritage and Lungnak Valley.
Day 04 | Padum – Zangla – Stongdey – Karsha – Padum
Overnight Stay: Padum
After breakfast, explore the cultural and historical treasures surrounding Padum.
Visit Zangla, known for its historic palace and traditional Zanskari village setting.
Continue to Stongdey Monastery, an important Buddhist institution offering magnificent views over the Zanskar landscape.
Explore Karsha Monastery, renowned for its traditional architecture, spiritual heritage and impressive setting above the valley.
During the journey, enjoy interactions with local communities and experience the distinctive culture and everyday life of Zanskar.
Visit the scenic Sheela Waterfall, subject to local accessibility and time.
Return to Padum for your overnight stay.
Experience Highlights: Zangla Palace, Stongdey Monastery, Karsha Monastery, local village experiences and Sheela Waterfall.
Day 05 | Padum – Pensi La – Drang-Drung Glacier – Padum
Overnight Stay: Padum
Today, travel towards the spectacular western landscapes of Zanskar.
Drive along a scenic mountain route towards Pensi La Pass (approximately 4,400 metres), surrounded by dramatic high-altitude terrain.
One of the day's major highlights is the magnificent Drang-Drung Glacier, an immense river of ice flowing through the rugged Himalayan mountains.
Enjoy panoramic views, photography opportunities and the incredible solitude of this remote landscape.
Depending on available time and local conditions, explore surrounding heritage attractions and natural springs.
Return to Padum by evening.
Experience Highlights: Pensi La, Drang-Drung Glacier, high-altitude landscapes and Himalayan photography.
Day 06 | Padum – Shinku La – Manali
Overnight Stay: Manali
After breakfast, begin the return journey through the dramatic landscapes of Zanskar.
Travel towards Gombo Ronjon and cross the mighty Shinku La Pass once again.
Enjoy the remarkable transition from Zanskar's remote mountain wilderness into the spectacular valleys of Lahaul.
Continue through the Atal Tunnel towards Manali.
Arrive in Manali and check into your accommodation for a relaxing evening after the expedition.
Experience Highlights: Gombo Ronjon, Shinku La, Lahaul Valley, Atal Tunnel and scenic Himalayan driving.
Day 07 | Manali – Chandigarh / Delhi
Departure Day
After breakfast, check out from your accommodation.
Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy some free time in Manali for shopping, local exploration or purchasing souvenirs.
Later, proceed towards Chandigarh or Delhi by the arranged return transport.
Your remarkable Zanskar Valley expedition concludes with unforgettable memories of remote landscapes, ancient monasteries and authentic Himalayan culture.