SEASON: July - Mid September MAX. ALTITUDE: 5060m

Start the drive to Padum. O/N stay at a small lodge/camp at Suru Valley.

Start the drive again towards Padum. Reach Padum late in the evening. O/N camp at Padum

Karsha is the largest and the most important monastery in the Zanskar region. It lies North of Padam, towards Yalang and can be reached after crossing the Doda River (Stood River). It contains a big library. On the way to the monastery, one passes the Chamber Ling temple, which dates back to the 11th Century.

The trail is easy, often following the Zanskar River. Before Pishu, make a little detour to see the longest hanging bridge over the Zanskar.

The trail continues on the left bank. While the path is mostly easy, a moraine needs to be crossed on the way.

The path now leads away from the Zanskar River, up to the plateau, then to the foot of the Parfi La. The climb to the pass is steep and difficult. After the pass, the descent is rather sudden and equally steep, until you reach the Oma Chu River. Walking further and after crossing a bridge, you will reach the campsite.

The ascent to the Anuma La goes through gorges. A kilometer of steep descent after the pass and a climb for half a kilometer will bring you to the campsite.

It's an easy climb up to Margum La (4100m). Descending from there, you reach the Zanskar River again. After passing the villages of Gongma and Skiumpata, a steep ascent will take you to Kuba La (3800m). Continue climbing up to the base of Sengge la (5060m).

It takes about two hours to reach on the top of the pass, and then a short descent opens out in a broad valley. After an easy walk, climb up to Boumitse La (4200m). Then descend to Photoksar.

A long ascent from Photoksar takes you to Sirsir La. From the pass, descend to the river, cross a bridge and after passing a stony valley, arrive at the campsite.

From Hanupatta, continue across the slope until entering the gorge. Follow the path till you cross a ridge, and then go down until you reach a good bridge across the Yapola. A beautiful Gompa welcomes you at the campsite.

Go up the Shill Kong along the right bank, cross it then arrive in Shilla village. After passing this village you will arrive at a broad chorten, and then follow a dry gorge as far as the Prinkiti La (3762m). Cross the river and go towards the village of Lamayuru. A vehicle will pick and drop you to Leh. O/N Leh

After breakfast drive for full day excursion of Shey Palace, Thiksey and Hemis Monastery and Stok Palace Museum. Return Leh in the evening. O/N Leh

Laze around the Mall and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the town.

Depart from Manali by evening. O/N bus journey to Delhi

Reach Delhi by morning. Trip ends