A trip to Zanskar is a journey into a world that is both mesmerizing and rugged. The remote region, located in the Indian Himalayas, is known for its starkly beautiful landscapes, pristine rivers, and ancient monasteries. The highlight of any Zanskar trip is the trek through the Zanskar Valley, which takes you through towering mountains, deep canyons, and vast expanses of barren terrain.
The journey involves crossing several high-altitude passes, including the Shingo La, which stands at an elevation of over 16,720 feet and Shinkula Pass at an elevation of 16,600 feet. The road is open only for a few months in the year, from June to September, as heavy snowfall and extreme cold make it impassable during the winter months. The drive requires careful planning, as there are no gas stations or repair shops along the way. While the Leh-Zanskar drive is a challenging and adventurous route, it is also one of the most rewarding experiences for travelers who want to explore the remote and rugged beauty of the Himalayas.
What is included in the tour
- Bike
- Lead Biker with Bike
- Service Back up Vehicle with Mechanic and Helper
- Accommodation as per below mentioned hotels/camps or similar category
- Dinner and breakfast at all the places
- First Aid Kit and Oxygen Cylinder
- Inner Line Permit
What is NOT included in the tour
- GST @ 5%
- Enroute Lunch, Beverages, Snacks, Minibar etc.
- Any Adventure activity, Safari or adventure activity unless specified in inclusions.
- Monument entry, Guide fee etc.
- Any other sight-seeing other than mentioned in the itinerary.
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusion.
Day 1: ARRIVAL IN LEH
Day 2: LEH - PHOTOKSAR
Day 3: PHOTOSKAR - PADUM
Day 4: PADUM - PURNE
Day 5: PURNE - SARCHU
Day 6: SARCHU - LEH
Day 7: DEPARTURE DAY
Day 1: ARRIVAL IN LEH
Welcome to Ladakh extending from the Glacier to the main Great Himalayas, Ladakh is a land
like no other. Your adventure starts with your arrival at Leh Hotel. Leh is capital and largest
town of Ladakh. Today is set aside to allow you to settle in and rest up before we start
tomorrow to explore stunning landscapes and roads. By afternoon our Supported Team leader
will meet you at the hotel and brief you about the Trip. You will get your Bikes at the hotel.
Overnight stay at hotel in Leh
Day 2: LEH - PHOTOKSAR
Distance- 120 Kms
Duration- 7 Hrs
Highlights- Hall of Fame, Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill
After your morning meal, you will depart for Photoksar Village, where you will have the
opportunity to explore the Hall of Fame and its impressive collection of war memorabilia on the
way. Continuing your journey, you will come across the Pathar Sahib Gurdwara, where you can
take a moment to offer a prayer before heading to Magnetic Hill along National Highway 1. As
you ride through the deserted terrain of Taru Thang, you will be treated to breathtaking views of
Ladakh Konkha. The road should be a smooth ride, with plenty of picturesque scenery to enjoy.
After covering some distance, you will reach the charming Wanla village, followed by the beautiful
village of Photoksar, which boasts a stunning monastery. Finally, you will arrive at Photoksar,
where you can indulge in a delicious local meal at the camp or guest house. Enjoy an overnight
stay in Photoksar.
Day 3: PHOTOSKAR - PADUM
Distance- 205 Kms
Duration- 7 Hrs
Highlights- Shingo La Pass, Offroad, Zanskar river and picturesque landscape
Today, you will embark on a journey towards one of the most remote villages of Ladakh, called
'Zanskar'. Since this is an offbeat track, it is crucial to ensure that your bags are securely
fastened. The Zanskar bike trip will test your riding skills, so it is essential to ride cautiously
around corners and within your skillsets. Along the way, you will encounter breathtaking
landscapes, including the Shingo La pass, which stands at an altitude of 16,720 ft. Don't hesitate
to take a break for a photography session. After a while, you will reach the Zanskar river and the
first village of Zanskar, Zangla village (the headquarters of Zanskar). After riding your
motorcycle for about half an hour, you will spot Stongday village on your left. As you head
towards Padum, there is a beautiful monastery on the left side of the road. Padum is the most
significant village and market in Zanskar. Take some time to explore the bazaar, and you can
spend the night in Padum.
Day 4: PADUM - PURNE
Distance- 54 Kms
Duration- 2 Hours
Highlights- Sani Lake, Monastery
Discover the renowned sites of Padum on this excursion. Take in the stunning scenery of Sani
Lake and its monastery, which is hidden in the mountain. Departing from the charming town,
we will follow some paved roads to Reru before embarking on a dirt trail ride. The narrow
mountain ledge will lead us through steep inclines and declines on gravel roads. The highlight of
the journey is just before we arrive at Purne, where we will navigate through knee-deep sand,
rubble, and stones. Spend the night at a homestay by the Tsarap River, which provides minimal
amenities but a serene atmosphere.
Day 5: PURNE - SARCHU
Distance- 100 Kms
Duration- 8 Hrs
Highlights- Offroad, Gombo Rangjun (sacred mountain of Ladakh), Skinku-la pass (16580ft)
After a healthy breakfast, you will leave for Sarchu, and again the terrain is offroad. Follow the
tour guide and keep your pace with the rest of the rider. You will not fail to see a beautiful
mountain (Gombo Rangjun) in the middle of nowhere, this is a sacred mountain of Ladakh.
Continue your journey for Shinku-La pass, and the road down is bit tricky, be mindful of the of
your riding for this Zanskar bike trip. And after sometimes you will be joining the route of Leh-
Manali highway at Darcha, and continue your trip for Sarchu, which is an asphalt road and will
give your back the rest it needs. Overnight stay at Sarchu.
Day 6: SARCHU - LEH
Distance- 257 Kms
Duration- 7 Hrs
Highlights- Ghata loops, Moore plain, and Tanglang-la
As you depart from Sarchu, get ready for an exhilarating day on your Zanskar bike tour as you
make your way towards Leh. Today's journey includes navigating through the much-discussed
Ghata loops, a few minor passes, and the expansive Moore plain along the Leh-Manali highway.
Be sure to keep your camera within reach, as this route offers breathtaking views of the
surrounding natural beauty and vast landscape. Along the way, you will also encounter the
Tanglang-la pass, towering at 17,450 feet. Finally, arrive in Leh by evening for an overnight stay.
Day 7: DEPARTURE DAY
In the morning, wake up and have breakfast. Following that, return your bike and check out of
the hotel. You can either freely explore the city on your own or catch a flight back to Delhi.
