Start your adventure with Leh Palace, which offers a stunning view of the city's surroundings. Built-in 1553, it served as the royal residence for the King of Ladakh. Explore the palace's nine floors to immerse yourself in the rich cultural history of the region.
Now it's time for some adventure! Hemis National Park is the largest national park in South Asia, and it's home to many species of animals, including the majestic snow leopard. Go for a trek in the park, and don't miss the opportunity to visit Hemis Monastery, one of the wealthiest and largest monasteries in Ladakh.
Indus River is known for its ferocious rapids and offers an adrenaline-filled adventure for rafting enthusiasts. Spend a day rafting with professionals and enjoy the scenic beauty of Zanskar and Ladakh's mountain ranges.
Get ready for an exciting trek across the Himalayan range that leads to the Zanskar Valley. The 14-day trekking journey takes you through some breathtakingly beautiful sights, and you'll also have the opportunity to stay with the welcoming locals and delve into their way of life.
Rated as one of the best river rafting experiences in the world, the Zanskar River offers a delightful mix of rapids and serenity. Get ready for an eight-day river adventure across the Zanskar River, starting from Padum and concluding at Nimo.
Pangong Tso Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake that stretches to almost 135 km in length. The turquoise blue waters of the lake are an Instagram-worthy sight. Take a stroll around the lake, enjoy camping, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Thiksey Monastery is a 12-story complex that resembles the Potala Palace in Tibet. It's a photographer's paradise, and visiting the monastery during sunrise is an out-of-the-world experience. The monastery's intricate architecture and collection of artwork make it one of the most beautiful and prominent monasteries in Ladakh.
It is recommended to hire a taxi service for the entire duration of the trip. The estimated cost is ₹20,000 for a small group of 4 people. Local buses are also available, but they can be crowded and infrequent. Exploring the destinations on a motorbike is another option, but it can be challenging for first-time travelers.
If you have extra days, consider visiting Diskit Monastery or Tso Moriri Lake. You can also go on a Yak safari and experience Ladakh's primal lifestyle. Make sure to carry adequate warm clothing as the climate can be harsh. It's advised to start your day early in the morning as most destinations close before sunset.
The nearest airport to Zanskar Monastery is the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh, which is around 209 km away from Zanskar. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Leh city center from the airport.