- 15 days
- India
- Trekking
The Rupshu region in the southeast of Ladakh is the western fringe of the Chang Tang, a vast plateau that spreads hundreds of kilometres across Tibet.
Key Information
Himalaya trekking experience for experienced hikers
Go through one pass above 5000 meters, rare for Ladakh, which means land of high passes. There are many villages and campsites along the way, which makes it convenient for a camping trek. The only day of high-altitude trekking takes place when you go over Shingo La (5091 m). Therefore, it is better to start from the Ladakh side as it gives you ample time to acclimatize to the altitude.
The length of trekking from Padum to Darcha has been cut short by more than half by constructing of a road. However, this is still an incredible trek from the Zanskar region of Ladakh to Darcha in Himachal Pradesh, an ancient trading route. We will be hiking through stunning countryside with monumental Tibetan Buddhist monasteries en route.
We will cross several passes on this trekking expedition, visit far-flung villages, and witness animal husbandry in a remote and rural part of Ladakh. We will camp in beautiful settings near villages, open pastures, meadows next to pristine streams, etcetera.
Food and nutrition on the trek
We are pioneers in gastronome trekking in the Himalayas. We provide a varied, exciting menu on treks throughout the Himalayas. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be catered for upon request, and other special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Trekking is not only fun, but it is beneficial for you. It helps in detoxifying the body while also nourishing the soul. Although to provide a better experience, we also tailor our meals to include superfoods as part of the ingredients to keep you fit and healthy while also assisting in acclimatization to high altitude. The combination of hiking in the pristine mountain air and healthy food makes trekking with us a complete adventure. Read More on Food and nutrition on our treks.
Why Choose Us?
- Our expert trek leader will ensure your safety while enhancing your trekking experience.
- Your private social bubble by staying in less busy lodges and trekking away from the crowded trails where possible.
- Experience the Himalayas in style.
- Your food is prepared with superfood ingredients to give the best nourishment, recovery, and acclimatization to high altitudes for our Wellness culinary trekking adventures.
Detailed Itinerary
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Arrive at Delhi airport to be met by our representative who will bring you to the domestic terminal. You will be given instructions on how to check in for your flight to Leh.
Fly to Leh rest in the morning/take it easy. We take a leisurely walk around the main Bazaar to help acclimate in the afternoon. Overnight Hotel with breakfast
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Sightseeing of Hemis, Shey, and Thikse Monasteries. Overnight Hotel with breakfast.
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We take a scenic drive to the town of Kargil. On this beautiful drive, we will be on the Leh to Srinagar highway passing by several monumental monasteries and valleys. Despite the short distance, we have to stop at Kargil overnight, as India’s Central government requires.
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Drive to Padum town. Overnight hotel with breakfast. We continue on the lovely drive towards Padum.
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We have an early start from Padum after breakfast. We drive to Bardan beside the Tsarap Chu (River) and enter the Lungnak valley. The drive is on a dusty trail, part of the road to Darcha over the Shingo La pass. We take this dusty trail up to Raru village. We continue our hike on this well-defined ancient trail with spectacular landscape views. We begin with a descent to the Tsarap Chu (River), cross a wooden bridge, and continue along the river up to Tsethang village via the lovely Ichar village. Overnight camp at Tsethang 3900 meters.
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We cross a suspension bridge soon after leaving Tsethang village and take the trail to Cha village. We continue to climb to the top, from where we get spectacular views of the Tsarap River valley and Purne to the distant south.
The trail descends to the Tsarap River, and we take the right bank of the River to Phugtal gompa, one of the most stunning sights in Zanskar. The main temple is built inside a massive cave. The rest of the monastery is built on a rock cliff. Changsems Sherab Zangpo established this monastery. Next, we cross the River over a temporary bridge; then, the trail continues on the River’s left bank to Purne.
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Purne village is located at the confluence of the Tsarap and Kurgiak Rivers. We have a short descent to the bridge followed by a steady climb to Hal and Testa, and we continue on the valley’s right side. Next, we hike past the charming villages of Testa 3900 m and Karu. Finally, we need to cross the river just before Tangtse village. Our trek continues on the right bank of the Kargiak River before we arrive at Kyin village. It is one of the highest villages in the Zanskar region.
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We continue along the right bank of the River as we leave Kargyak village. A well-trodden path leads us to the Gombo Rangjon peak. This impressive mountain on the trail adds to the beauty of the surroundings. This area is the summer high-altitude pasture land for the goats, sheep, dzo (a hybrid of yak and cow), and yaks. Next, we cross the stream and pass the Lakhang shepherd area. Finally, we have a climb of 25 minutes to the campsite at Pankeya 4700m. Overnight camp.
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We begin our morning by climbing on a gentle ascent towards the top of Shingo la pass or Shinkun la 5090m. This is the highest point of our trek. We will tell the top of Shingo la pass with numerous prayer flags and mani stones laid by people who have been passing through over hundreds of years. We will get impressive views of the Zanskar side, the valley we trekked recently, and the summits of the Great Himalayan range rising above 6000 meters to the south. We descend to Chumik Marpho, Ramjak and continue to Zanskar Sumdo camp. Our trek ends here.
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We board our waiting vehicle at Zanskar Sumdo after saying goodbye to our horse riders and support crew and drive towards Darcha. There are several small tea shops at Darcha Sumdo. After refreshments and checking in at the Darcha checkpoint, we continue our drive to Keylong, Lahaul, and Spiti’s headquarters. We pass Jispa and Gemur villages en route. Finally, we enter the Ghar valley at Stinger and continue driving to Rohtang pass to Manali. Overnight hotel.
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Drive from Manali to Delhi in the early morning, arriving in Delhi late evening. We have a whole day of driving in the comfort of our private air-conditioned vehicle with several stops for toilet stops and meals.
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International Departure. You will be brought to the airport three hours before your departure time.
Cost Includes:
- ‘A’ class hotel in Leh
- All meals, as mentioned on the trip.
- Experienced regional leader or hire Raj
- Porters or pack animals on the trek
- Trek permit
- Park fees
- Staff insurance
- Non a/c transport
- Accommodation a mentioned in the program.
- Sightseeing as indicated
Cost Excludes:
- International airfare and airport tax
- Hotel in Delhi. The cost of a hotel room in Delhi ranges from US$50 to a couple of hundred dollars, depending on the standard chosen.
- Internal airfare for Delhi / Leh / Delhi sector in economy class. The airfare can cost from US$60 to $500, perhaps even higher each way. July and August are the busiest months. Therefore, it is best to book the flights in advance.
- Travel Insurance
- Any extra activities & optional tours
- Riding horse during the trek
- Personal bills like drinks, bar & beverages, tips, telephone, laundry, any additional and optional trips than the above, etc.
- Anything which is not included in the includes section
- Tips (suggested amount US$75 per week for staff only; leader’s tips at your discretion)
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A Responsible promise
Despite the exceptional circumstances in which we find ourselves at the moment, we don’t want you to give up your holiday – and we want you to be able to book your trip without any worries.
To provide additional security for your booking, we have introduced a new rebooking and cancellation policy so that you can easily rebook or cancel your trip free of charge if the worst comes to the worst.
Free Cancellation With the Responsible Promise 100% Money-Back Guarantee
For new bookings made between May 10th 2021, and December 31st 2022, you may cancel your complete package (activities, hotels, tours, excl. flight) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure and get 100% of your money back. However, to stay flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.
Full flexibility on your booking
Stay flexible with our new rebooking service until shortly before your departure. For new bookings made between May 10thh and December 31stt, 2021, you may rebook your package (activities, hotels, tours) free of charge up to 30 days before your departure (subject to availability). Rebooking is only allowed once, and you must inform us 30 days before your planned departure. Any additional costs incurred due to changes in your schedule or upgrades, such as additional fees in high season or upgrades to your accommodation, will still apply. To remain flexible, we recommend that you choose a flexible fare when booking your flight.
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Trek FAQÂ
Most of our clients have completed their treks from 3 years old to some in their 70s with almost no exercise or training.
Do you offer hotel/airport pick-up?
We offer hotel and airport pick-up. As you continue with your booking, there will be an option to input flight details or hotel names.
Do I need a visa?
All foreign nationals who want to enter India must possess a valid international travel document such as a passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. All visa applicants are requested to apply for the Indian visa online by filling out the online application form.The duly signed hard copy of the completed application form will be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to the Indian Mission or Post. The instructions to fill out the form and appointment scheduling can be seen in the Regular Visa Application Instructions. In addition, the applicant must bring the referral number and the required documents on the interview’s scheduled date.
The status of the visa application can be checked on the link for Visa Enquiry. The applicants are also requested to visit the website of the Indian Mission for detailed information about the Indian visa.
What should I bring on a Trek?
Being adequately equipped is one of the keys to a successful trek. For information to help you select the best type of clothing and equipment for your trip, please see our Clothing and Equipment Guide.
Also, see our Links page for details of specialist retailers who will offer further advice and assistance with purchasing new clothing or equipment.
If you have more questions, please check this article to reference equipment to pack or contact us.
Is this trip safe for solo/female/LGBT+/minority/POC travelers?
You are safe as long as you respect the culture, do not show affection in public, and dress decently (this won’t pose too much problem as you will be covered up in layers to stay warm).Here are some helpful articles:
Am I too old to go trekking?
Should I bring cash or ATM cards?
What to pack for a trek?
Do I need to train for a trek?
What is a typical day on a trek like?
What is the food like on the trek?
The Benefits of using trekking poles.
What do I need to know about high altitudes?
High altitude myths.
How to trek safely?
For more articles, you can go to our blogs.