Beyond the Himalayas, Beyond Every Ordinary Journey

Zanskar: Beyond the Himalayas

Starting @ 35,500 INR + 5% GST

Overview

Zanskar: Beyond the Himalayas

The Zanskar Expedition by Travel Bezzie is a high-altitude Himalayan road journey crafted for young travelers seeking raw landscapes, remote culture, adventure, and unforgettable experiences deep inside one of India’s most isolated mountain regions. Covering the dramatic route from Srinagar to Manali through the heart of Zanskar Valley, this 7 Nights / 8 Days expedition blends scenic drives, ancient monasteries, rugged mountain passes, hidden villages, and surreal Himalayan terrain into one extraordinary adventure.

Starting from the beautiful city of Srinagar, the journey begins with the peaceful charm of Dal Lake and Mughal-era gardens before gradually transitioning into the rugged wilderness of Ladakh and Zanskar. Crossing the legendary Zojila Pass, travelers witness dramatic changes in landscapes — from green valleys and glaciers to barren mountains and remote Himalayan settlements. The route through Kargil, Suru Valley, Rangdum, and Pensi La offers some of the most breathtaking road experiences in the Indian Himalayas, including spectacular views of the mighty Drang Drung Glacier and the iconic Nun & Kun Peaks.

The heart of the expedition lies in the mystical Zanskar Valley, where ancient Buddhist culture still thrives amidst towering mountains and untouched landscapes. In Padum, travelers explore centuries-old monasteries like Karsha and Stongdey, visit the historic Zangla Palace, and experience the unique lifestyle of the Zanskari people. The optional trek to the world-famous Phugtal Monastery from Purne adds another layer of adventure, taking travelers through dramatic canyon landscapes to one of the most extraordinary cliffside monasteries in the Himalayas.

One of the major highlights of this journey is the drive towards the sacred Gombo Rangjon Mountain and crossing the newly opened Shinku La Pass — an emerging high-altitude route connecting Zanskar with Himachal Pradesh. The region around Gombo Rangjon is famous for its surreal landscapes, spiritual significance, and crystal-clear night skies, making it a paradise for photographers, bikers, and adventure enthusiasts alike.

As the journey descends towards Jispa and Manali via the iconic Atal Tunnel, travelers witness a complete transformation in scenery — from cold desert mountains to lush green valleys of Himachal Pradesh. The expedition finally concludes in Manali, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories of remote Himalayan roads, high mountain passes, ancient monasteries, starlit skies, and the untouched beauty of Zanskar.

Designed specially for the 18–35 age group, this expedition is perfect for backpackers, explorers, photographers, road trip lovers, and anyone seeking an offbeat Himalayan experience beyond mainstream destinations. With a mix of adventure, culture, landscapes, and authentic mountain experiences, the Travel Bezzie Zanskar Expedition promises a journey that feels raw, immersive, and truly unforgettable.

Details of

Itinerary

  • Upon arrival at Srinagar Airport, meet our representative and transfer to the hotel/houseboat. Later, explore the famous Mughal Gardens including Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful Shikara Ride on the beautiful Dal Lake while witnessing the sunset.
  • Overnight stay in Srinagar.
  • Approx. 204 Km
  • After breakfast, begin the scenic drive towards Kargil via Sonmarg and the majestic Zojila Pass (3,528 m). Cross the dramatic mountain roads and continue towards Drass, known as the second coldest inhabited place in the world. En route, visit the Kargil War Memorial and Museum. Arrive in Kargil by evening and check into the hotel.
  • Overnight stay in Kargil.
  • Approx. 235 Km
  • After breakfast, continue the adventurous journey towards Padum in the heart of Zanskar Valley. Drive through the stunning Suru Valley and Panikhar region while witnessing the magnificent Nun & Kun Peaks. En route, stop at Rangdum and later cross the breathtaking Pensi La Pass (4,400 m), offering spectacular views of the mighty Drang Drung Glacier along with Ta Tso and Lang Tso Lakes.
  • Arrive in Padum by evening.
  • Overnight stay in Padum.

After breakfast, explore the ancient monasteries and cultural treasures of Zanskar Valley. Visit:

  • Karsha Monastery – the largest and richest monastery in Zanskar

  • Stongdey Monastery – beautifully located on a hilltop

  • Sheela Waterfall

  • Zangla Palace – once the ancient capital of Zanskar

Enjoy panoramic landscapes and the unique Buddhist culture of the region.

Overnight stay in Padum.

  • Approx. 60 Km
  • After breakfast, proceed towards Purne Village. Guests may opt for the famous Phugtal Monastery trek, one of the most spectacular monasteries built into a cliffside. The trek duration is approximately 2–3 hours depending on fitness level.
  • Overnight stay in Purne.
  • Approx. 60 Km
  • After breakfast, begin the drive towards the mystical Gombo Rangjon Mountain, considered sacred by local Tibetan Buddhists and often referred to as “God’s Mountain.” Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes, this region is especially famous for its night sky and astrophotography opportunities.
  • Overnight stay near Gombo Rangjon.
  • Approx. 93 Km
  • After breakfast, continue towards Manali via the high-altitude Shinku La Pass connecting Zanskar and Himachal Pradesh. Pass through Keylong and the iconic Atal Tunnel. Enjoy changing landscapes from barren mountains to lush valleys as you descend into Himachal.
  • Arrive in Manali and check into the hotel.
  • Overnight stay in Manali.
  • After breakfast, check out from the hotel. Guests can enjoy self-exploration in Manali till evening. Later, proceed for the overnight journey to Delhi by Volvo.
  • Tour concludes with unforgettable memories of Zanskar and the Himalayas.

Details of

Inclusion

↪ Cost includes:

  • Accommodation on double/ triple sharing basis
  • 8 breakfasts and 8 dinner
  • 1 Night stay in Srinagar
  • 1 Night stay in Kargil
  • 2 Nights stay in Padum
  • 1 Night stay in Purne
  • 1 Night stay near Gombo Rangjon
  • 1 Night stay in Manali
  • Srinagar pickup and Manali drop, One-Way Volvo Tickets (AC Semi Sleeper) from Manali to Delhi/Chandigarh.
  • SUV upto 6 pax/ Tempo Traveler for 7 pax and morer
  • Driver allowances, toll taxes, parking charges
  • Inner line travel assistance/ permits wherever applicable
  • First Aid Kit
  • Trip assistance by Travel Bezzie

Details of

Exclusion

↪ Cost does not include:

  • Airfare / train tickets
  • Travel insurance and medical expenses
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, tips, beverages, etc.
  • Lunch and any meals not mentioned in inclusions
  • Entry fees, camera fees, guide charges
  • Adventure activities
  • Additional accommodation or transport due to roadblocks, weather conditions, flight cancellations, or any force majeure situations
  • Any services not specifically mentioned under inclusions
  • Air-conditioned vehicle services are not available in mountain regions

Details of

Important Travel Information

High Altitude & Health Advisory

This journey covers remote Himalayan regions situated at high altitudes. 

Guests are advised to:

  • Stay well hydrated throughout the trip
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking during the trip
  • Eat light and warm meals
  • Walk slowly and avoid overexertion at high altitude
  • Inform the tour captain/driver immediately in case of discomfort

If you have any pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, heart conditions, high blood pressure, or breathing-related concerns, kindly consult your doctor before joining the trip.

Things to Carry

Clothing

  • Warm jackets & thermals
  • Fleece / woollen layers
  • Comfortable trekking shoes
  • Woollen socks, gloves & cap
  • Quick-dry clothes for travel days

Essentials

  • Valid Government ID proof (Adhaar Card)
  • Personal medicines
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Lip balm & moisturizer
  • UV sunglasses
  • Water bottle / thermos flask
  • Power bank
  • Torch / headlamp

Recommended

  • Dry snacks & energy bars
  • Small backpack for daily excursions
  • Camera for landscape photography
  • Basic toiletries & wet wipes

Network & Connectivity

  • Mobile connectivity may be limited in certain regions of Zanskar Valley.
  • Postpaid SIM cards generally work better in Ladakh and surrounding regions.
  • Internet access may be slow or unavailable in remote villages.

Road & Weather Conditions

  • Roads in Zanskar and high mountain passes can be rough, dusty, and unpredictable due to weather conditions.
  • Flexibility and patience are essential while travelling in the Himalayas.

Responsible Travel Guidelines

  • Respect local culture, traditions, and monasteries.
  • Avoid littering and help preserve the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
  • Maintain discipline during group travel for a smooth experience for everyone.
  • Photography inside monasteries may be restricted in certain areas.

Accommodation Note

Hotels, camps, cottages, and homestays in remote Himalayan regions are basic yet clean and comfortable. In places like Purne and Gombo Rangjon, accommodations are limited and should not be compared with city hotels. The experience is focused more on nature, adventure, and the unique beauty of the region.

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Price

Partial Payment - 12,425 INR (PP)

Srinagar - Manali (8D - 7N)

Full Payment - 35,500 INR+ GST (PP)

Srinagar - Manali (8D - 7N)

Extra GST 5%*

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