Zanskar Valley

State: Jammu and Kashmir
Location: Located in Trans Himalayan valley
Area: 5000 sq km
Languages: Various forms of Ladakhi language.

Introduction:
Popular as the “land of white copper”, Zanskar valley is one of the most fascinating valley in Ladakh.

This small mountain locked valley is located at an elevation of 3, 500m to 7, 000m above the sea level and is one of the remotest regions in the entire world. Till 1994, this stunning valley of Jammu and Kashmir state was remained in veil. But only in 1995, it was opened for tourists.

Located at the confluence of two rivers that flow towards each other along the northern side of the Great Himalayan and meet in the vast plain of Padum valley. The coldest plains of Zanskar valley is also famed as one of the coldest habitats of world as in mid-winter the temperature of this region drops to -40 degrees. Residents of this valley stays very far from each other and requires several days and weeks to reach one another's place.

Places to Visit:
One of the least populated region in world, Zanskar is also adorned with some exotic tourist spots. Dominated by Buddhist people, Zanskar valley has some beautiful gompas and other places of tourist value.

Drang-drung glacier: The main attraction of Zanskar valley is the nearby Drang-drung glacier. The beauty of this glacier is incomparable.

Zongkhul: This place is famous for cave monasteries. There are two cave monasteries that are used by the famous Yogi for the solitary meditation. The walls of the cave are decorated by some ancient frescos of beautiful designs. These are believed to be the original murals executed by Zhadpa Dorje, a scholar painter.

Stongdey: It is another monastery that lies 18 km (11.19 miles) north of Padum Valley, on the road leading to Zangla.

Penzella: This pass divides the Zanskar valley from Suru valley. It is an excellent camping site that provides fantastic views of high mountains and serene countryside.

Gelupa Monastery: Located in Karsha, Gelupa monastery is a worth watching site. This monastery is one of the highly revered place for the inhabitants of Zanskar valley.

Panikhar: The fort of Zorawar Singh is one of the major attraction of Panikhar. This place also border the Suru valley.

Adventure Activities To Do:
This virgin valley of Ladakh is famous for some exciting forms of adventure sports.

River Rafting: Zanskar valley that meanders through the Zanskar valley is one of the best places in the world to enjoy the exciting river rafting expedition. Zanskar river has some tough rapids that attracts the rafters from all over the world. Serchu to Nyimu via Padum is an excellent site for rafting in Zanskar valley.

Trekking: Zanskar valley has numerous treks that beacons the trekkers from various parts of world. Trekking to this barren region helps the trekkers to explore every nook and corner of the region. Panikhar or Rangdum over the Pentse La, into the Zanskar Valley from Lamayuru, Leh or Darcha, from Padum to the Markha valley etc are some famous trekking sites. Always keep in mind the climatic condition before selecting the treks.

Best Time To Visit:
Due to the harsh climatic conditions and high altitude, it is better to visit Zanskar valley during summer season. In the winter season, the water of the Zanskar river freezes and becomes Chador road.

How To Reach:
By Road: The most easiest way to reach Zanskar valley by road is from Kargil. A day drive from Zanskar to Padum via Panji la is the only motorable road to reach Zanskar. You can board on both state run buses, luxury coaches and taxis from Kargil to reach Zanskar, which is at distance of 146 miles.

By Air: One can also reach Zanskar by air. Leh is the nearest airport to Zanskar. Srinagar also has an airport. Flights of various airlines operates from Delhi to these towns.