Ladakh Zanskar
Introduction and history: Zanskar, meaning copper star in Tibetan, is a high altitude semi-desert lying on the Northern flank of the Great Himalayan Range. At about 20 Kms. south-east of Rangdum stands the Pazila watershed; and across lies Zanskar. The top is 4401 meters from sea level, is a picturesque table land adorned with two small alpine lakes and surrounded by snow covered peaks. As the Zanskar road tapers down the steep slopes of the watershed to the head of the Stod Valley, the majestic ‘Drang-Drung’ glacier looms into full view. A long and winding river of ice and snow, it is perhaps the largest glacier in Ladakh, outside the Siachen formation. It is from the cliff-like snout of this extensive glacier that the Stod or Doda River, the main tributary of River Zanskar, rises.
What to see and when to go: Trekking is the apex attraction and is considered as one of the lifetime experience. Owing to the altitudes the Zanskar valley is accessible only during from June to mid of October. The winter months are too harsh for travel in Zanskar. An astonishing fact is that in the winter months the water of the River Zanskar freezes and becomes the Chador road.
Things to do: Apart from trekking, adventure seekers have river rafting from Serchu to Nyimu via Padam. The fort of Zoravar Singh at Panikhar and Gelugpa monastery are the must visit to know the importance of the religion in the lives of the inhabitants of Zanskar.
Accommodation: Plan well ahead before visiting Zanskar as the not much accommodation is available. Tourist complex, private hotels and camping places at Padum and dormitory at Karsha are the only available options and their prince starts from 800 rupees per day.
Mode of transport: The nearest road is 240 km long Kargil-Padum road, which remains opened from around mid July to early November. B-class buses operate thrice, weekly, from Kargil. However groups can charter A-Class or even Super-Deluxe buses also.
Related links:
• Tourist information: www.jktourism.org
See also (nearby places): Castle at Zangla, cave monastery in Zongkhu, the monastery of Stongdey, Panikhar and Panzella pass.
