Zanskar Valley Expedition
Ride into the deep, isolated valleys of Zanskar. Bordered by towering peaks and glacier fields, this rugged dirt-road loop is the ultimate adventure route.
EXPEDITION PHOTOS
Expedition Route Map
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Detailed Itinerary
Leh/Srinagar to Kargil (Transition Ride)
Meet in Kargil (acclimatized from Srinagar or Leh). Allocate the motorcycles, inspect tire threads, and carry out minor adjustments. Overnight briefing regarding Zanskar road status and fuel availability.
Kargil to Rangdum (Suru Valley & Glacier Views)
Leaving the tarmac, we ride along the Suru River basin. The dirt road winds through scenic Balti villages, offering spectacular views of the Nun and Kun twin peaks. We end at Rangdum—a tiny, remote hamlet with an ancient fortress monastery.
Rangdum to Padum (Crossing Pensi La Pass)
We climb onto the Penzi La Pass (4,400m / 14,435 ft), which overlooks the massive Drang-Drung Glacier. We descend into the isolated valley of Zanskar, riding along gravel trails to reach Padum, the capital town.
Padum Local Exploration (Monasteries & Forts)
A relaxed day to explore the valley. We ride to the cliffside Karsha Monastery and Sani Monastery, and explore local village life.
Phugtal Cave Monastery Trekking Day
We ride along the river gorge to Cha village. From Cha, we trek on foot (5 km each way) to reach the Phugtal Monastery, built into a massive cave mouth. We return to Padum in the evening.
Padum to Jispa (Crossing Shingu La Pass & River Bed Ride)
Our toughest off-road day. We ride through deep gorges, climb the unpaved Shingu La Pass (5,054m / 16,580 ft)—navigating snow trails—and descend into the Lahaul Valley to reach Jispa.
Jispa to Manali (Return Ride)
We ride back through the Atal Tunnel to Manali, returning our bikes and holding a farewell group dinner.
Departure from Manali
Expedition ends. Transfers to bus stations for onward journeys.
RIDE FOOTAGE
What's Included
- ✓ Royal Enfield Motorcycle (with fuel for group tours)
- ✓ Professional Tour Leader & Local Mechanic
- ✓ Support vehicle for luggage & medical gear
- ✓ Accommodation on Twin-Sharing Basis (Hotel/Camps)
- ✓ Breakfast & Dinner on riding days
- ✓ Inner Line Permits & environment fees
- ✓ Oxygen cylinder & emergency medical kit
What's Excluded
- ✗ Airfare to/from Leh
- ✗ Personal riding gear (jackets, gloves, etc.)
- ✗ Refundable bike security deposit
- ✗ Lunch on all days
- ✗ Tips, laundry, telephone calls, alcohol
- ✗ Damage costs to the motorcycle during transit
Key Highlights
- ⛰ Nun Kun Peaks View
- ⛰ Rangdum Monastery
- ⛰ Pensi La Pass (4,400m)
- ⛰ Drang-Drung Glacier View
- ⛰ Phugtal Cave Monastery Trek
International Rider Safety
⛰ High Altitude Protocol: This expedition crosses passes up to 17,580ft. We include 48 hours of acclimatization rest in Leh and carry portable oxygen cylinders, oximeters, and trauma kits in our backup vehicle.
🛂 Visa & Permits: We secure all Restricted Area Permits (PAP) and provide official booking confirmation letters for your Indian Tourist Visa application.