Zanskar, the Copper Star of India
Zanskar is located across Suru Valley and over the Pensi La in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir state of India. It is 235 km away from Kargil. It lies at an average altitude of 4000 m above sea level. The rivers Stod and Lungnak flow through Zanskar valley. Stod Valley is the greener side of Zanskar while Lungnak valley is rugged with little habitation. Literally Zanskar means “Copper Star”. The rivers flowing through it carry copper sediments.
Zanskar is famous for its mighty hills and gorgeous Gompas. Its lovely landscape and Buddhist culture definitely leave a mark in the tourist’s heart.
Drang-Drung Glaciers:
Tourists can have a magnificent view of Drang-Drung Glaciers at the entrance of Pensi La Valley. Its source is river Stod. Its view is incomparable.
Padum:
The main town of this valley is Padum. It is the starting point for various treks in the region. The ancient rock carvings of five Dhyani Buddhas is located at the center of this town. It has basic accommodation and a few shops.
Panikhar:
This place is in the border of Suru valley. Here one can visit the Fort of Zorawar Singh which is a major attraction.
Penzella Pass:
It is the pass which divides Suru and Zanskar valleys. Tourists can set up tents and stay, as it is an excellent camping site. It is a vantage point which offers a panoramic view of majestic mountains and captivating countryside.
Karsha:
It is a place with just basic facilities. Here travelers must visit Gelugpa Monastery to know the importance of the religion of the inhabitants of this valley. Karsha is 10 km away from Padum.
Pipiting:
This is a site of temples and Stupa where the Dalai Lama has delivered sermons in the past.
Sani:
It is 8 km from Pipiting. Being one of the oldest religious sites of the area, it has a Chorten built by Emperor Kanishka. Also a monastery of Saint Padmasambhava of the 8th century which is a must visit place. This temple has some beautiful murals and paintings.
Stongde:
Travelers can visit a monastery established here in 11th century. This place is 12 km from Padum. There are seven temples here. The murals in them are well preserved.
Bardhan and Phugtal Monasteries:
These monasteries are located in Lungnak valley. Travelers can reach this place only by trekking or by mule. This stunning location makes the visit worthwhile.
Other Activities:
Trekking is the most adventurous activity here. Padum to Lamayuru and Padum to Darcha are well known trek routes here. Water rafting in Zanskar river will give a thrilling experience to travelers.
Tourists have to cross several high passes to reach Zanskar. A road which joins this valley with Kargil is opened from mid - July till early November. So travelers can take buses, jeeps, or taxis from Kargil to Zanskar. Tourists can trek into this valley from Panikhar or Parkachik in the months of June and July.
Zanskar is famous for its mighty hills and gorgeous Gompas. Its lovely landscape and Buddhist culture definitely leave a mark in the tourist’s heart.
Drang-Drung Glaciers:
Tourists can have a magnificent view of Drang-Drung Glaciers at the entrance of Pensi La Valley. Its source is river Stod. Its view is incomparable.
Padum:
The main town of this valley is Padum. It is the starting point for various treks in the region. The ancient rock carvings of five Dhyani Buddhas is located at the center of this town. It has basic accommodation and a few shops.
Panikhar:
This place is in the border of Suru valley. Here one can visit the Fort of Zorawar Singh which is a major attraction.
Penzella Pass:
It is the pass which divides Suru and Zanskar valleys. Tourists can set up tents and stay, as it is an excellent camping site. It is a vantage point which offers a panoramic view of majestic mountains and captivating countryside.
Karsha:
It is a place with just basic facilities. Here travelers must visit Gelugpa Monastery to know the importance of the religion of the inhabitants of this valley. Karsha is 10 km away from Padum.
Pipiting:
This is a site of temples and Stupa where the Dalai Lama has delivered sermons in the past.
Sani:
It is 8 km from Pipiting. Being one of the oldest religious sites of the area, it has a Chorten built by Emperor Kanishka. Also a monastery of Saint Padmasambhava of the 8th century which is a must visit place. This temple has some beautiful murals and paintings.
Stongde:
Travelers can visit a monastery established here in 11th century. This place is 12 km from Padum. There are seven temples here. The murals in them are well preserved.
Bardhan and Phugtal Monasteries:
These monasteries are located in Lungnak valley. Travelers can reach this place only by trekking or by mule. This stunning location makes the visit worthwhile.
Other Activities:
Trekking is the most adventurous activity here. Padum to Lamayuru and Padum to Darcha are well known trek routes here. Water rafting in Zanskar river will give a thrilling experience to travelers.
Tourists have to cross several high passes to reach Zanskar. A road which joins this valley with Kargil is opened from mid - July till early November. So travelers can take buses, jeeps, or taxis from Kargil to Zanskar. Tourists can trek into this valley from Panikhar or Parkachik in the months of June and July.
