5-Day Adventure Itinerary for Exploring Zanskar Valley via Manali

Day 1: Manali Arrival and Local Exploration

Manali, India on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947

Enjoy an authentic Italian breakfast overlooking the Beas River, perfect for energizing your day before heading out.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hidimba Devi Temple

Explore this ancient cave temple surrounded by cedar forests, a serene spot reflecting Himachali architecture and culture.
INR20, 1h

11:00am

Stroll through Old Manali

Discover quaint shops, cafés, and local markets that offer a taste of local life and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Drifters’ Café

Savor a mix of Indian and international dishes in a cozy setting, ideal for relaxed midday dining.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Manu Temple

Pay a visit to the temple dedicated to the sage Manu, nestled amidst the hills of Old Manali.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Vashisht Hot Springs

Unwind in naturally heated springs believed to have medicinal properties, a perfect prelude to your journey.
INR50, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Café

Relish Himachali and North Indian specialties in a friendly atmosphere, preparing for the day ahead.
INR900, 1.5h
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Day 2: Manali to Keylong Drive

Keylong, India on June 17, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early and hearty breakfast at your Manali hotel to prepare for the long drive ahead.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive from Manali to Keylong

A scenic 3-4 hour drive crossing Rohtang Pass, the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti regions en route to Keylong.
INR2000 (taxi fare), 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at a local Dhaba in Keylong

Enjoy traditional Himachali dishes like siddu and trout fish, fresh and authentic local cuisine.
INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Keylong Monastery

Explore one of the largest monasteries in Lahaul, offering great insight into Buddhist culture with panoramic views.
INR50, 1h

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Settle into your hotel in Keylong and rest in preparation for the journey onwards to Zanskar.
Varies, Rest of evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Warm up with locally inspired dinner options served at your hotel, perfect for a relaxed evening.
INR700, 1h
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Day 3: Arrival and Exploring Zanskar Valley

Zanskar Valley, India on June 18, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at Keylong

Early breakfast focused on traditional and sustaining fare to prepare for the drive into Zanskar Valley.
INR400, 30m

7:00am

Drive from Keylong to Padum, Zanskar

A rugged 5-6 hour drive across breathtaking mountainous terrain, entering the heart of Zanskar Valley.
INR3000 (shared taxi), 6h

1:00pm

Lunch in Padum

Enjoy traditional Zanskari cuisine, including barley-based dishes and thukpa noodle soup.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Karsha Monastery

Explore one of the largest and most important monasteries in Zanskar with its impressive collection of ancient Buddhist art.
INR50, 1.5h

4:30pm

Walk around Padum Town

Take a calm stroll through the main bazaar to observe local life and traditional crafts.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at local guesthouse

Experience home-cooked Zanskari meals in a cozy guesthouse setting, warming up after a day of travel.
INR500, 1h
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Day 4: Zanskar Valley Sightseeing

Zanskar Valley, India on June 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast featuring local produce and traditional breads.
INR400, 45m

9:00am

Trek to Stongdey Monastery

A short and moderate trek to the remote Stongdey Monastery, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful frescoes.
INR20, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the scenic landscapes of Zanskar, the perfect spot to relax and take in the views.
INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Zangla Palace

Explore the ruins of the old Zangla Palace, offering insight into the area's history and spectacular valley vistas.
INR50, 1h

4:00pm

Relax in Padum

Spend the afternoon resting or exploring artisan shops for traditional Zanskari crafts and textiles.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Guesthouse

Enjoy a final Zanskari meal featuring local specialties to end your day on a flavorful note.
INR500, 1h
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Day 5: Return to Manali

Manali, India on June 20, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast

Have an early breakfast at your guesthouse to prepare for the journey back to Manali.
INR400, 30m

6:30am

Drive from Padum to Keylong

Reverse the scenic mountainous drive, retracing your way back through breathtaking landscapes to Keylong.
INR3000, 6h

12:30pm

Lunch at Keylong

Refuel with a warm Himachali meal at a local dhaba before the final leg of the journey.
INR600, 1h

1:30pm

Drive from Keylong to Manali

Continue the return trip to Manali crossing Rohtang Pass, enjoying the last leg of your Himalayan adventure.
INR2000, 4h

6:00pm

Check-in and Rest in Manali

Check into your hotel and relax after a day of travel.
Varies, Evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Café 1947

Conclude your journey with a memorable Italian dinner alongside the Beas River, reflecting on your adventure.
INR900, 1.5h
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