Zanskar (Jammu & Kashmir)

The rugged valley of Zanskar is the biggest draw for adventurers in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. The trip to the valley can be arduous but the rewards that await there are extreme. The three-armed valley occupies a position between the great massifs of the Himalayas and the doughty ranges of the Zanskar. The picturesque valley remains skirted by soaring mountains and deep gorges. The people that inhabit the valley are mainly Buddhists. So apart from having some epic adventure experience, you can also meet with the Buddhist populace that resides in this beautifully unsmooth area.



Zanskar Fast Facts
States : Jammu & Kashmir
Area : 5,000 sq km
Population : 10,000
Languages : Kashmiri, Tibetan and a variant of Ladakhi
Best Time to Visit : June to September

Zanskar Tourist Attractions
A trip to the Zanskar region, one the one hand, gratifies your thirst for some high-adrenaline adventure. On the other, it lets you observe some of the most interesting cultures and traditions that have impregnated the region from one point to the other.

Karsha
At Karsha, perched at an altitude of 3,610 m, you come across with a people that are known for their ancient traditions and cultures. Besides, you can also visit the Gelugpa Monastery, which has the distinction of being the largest in the Zanskar region. From upon the roof of the monastery, you can have stunning views of the Himalayas and the Zanskar Valley.



Tibetan-Buddhist Centres
There are numerous Tibetan-Buddhist centres in the Zanskar Valley. These centres are a must-see for all who wish to observe the age-old traditions and wish to soak up the spiritual charm before heading back home.

Mulbek
Advancing from Leh to Zanskar, you come across with a place called Mulbek. The spot has an old-worldly charm revolving around it. A huge sculpture of Buddha, which stands on a rock, is a major attraction for tourists here.

Panikhar
Another site that you get to visit en route to Zanskar is Panikhar. The place in question lies close to the Suru Valley. The Suru Pass, lying between Panikhar and Sankoo, is from where Zorawar Singh and his army entered Ladakh in the year 1832, on their way to taking possession of Tibet.

Penzella Pass
Lying at an altitude of 4,200 m, the pass separates the Zanskar region from the Suru Valley. The camping grounds on the either side of the pass, stunning views from the top and two fresh water springs are major sights for the visitors. The pass can be accessed only between May and September as during the rest of the year heavy snowfall makes it unreachable.



Air/ Rail/ Road Links
One can access the Zanskar region only through the Kargil-Padum Road (A stretch of 240 km). The first 90 km of this road is paved. This road-route remains open between the months of July and November which is also the ideal time to enjoy trekking. Tourists can avail of a thrice weekly bus service from Kargil. Heavy snowfall makes the area of Zanskar inaccessible for the remaining part of the year.