Off-Grid Expedition
The valley the world forgot. Go before they remember.
Overview
Zanskar is not just remote — it is the kind of remote that changes how you think about remoteness. From Jispa, you cross Shinku La into the Lungnak valley, descend toward Purne, trek to the legendary cliffside monastery of Phugtal, continue to Padum, and explore ancient gompas before returning via the same high pass. A 4x4 vehicle is mandatory.
Day by Day
Briefing on the road ahead. Check vehicle and gear. Your last reliable connectivity before Padum.
7–8 hrs. Cross Shinku La Pass (5,090m). Descend into Zanskar terrain — barren, beautiful, unlike anything. Gonbo Rangjon peak on the horizon.
Trek 12km to Phugtal — a 12th-century monastery built into a cliff cave above the Tsarap River. Drive to Padum.
Karsha Monastery (largest in Zanskar), Stongdey Monastery, Sani Gompa. Walk Padum town.
Cross Pensi La (4,470m), view Drang Drung Glacier — one of Ladakh's largest.
7–8 hrs via Shinku La. Return to YOLO Outdoors. Bhaga River never looked better.
Continue toward Leh via Kargil-Lamayuru route. Adds 2 days, ends at Leh airport.
Key Highlights
Be Prepared
July to September. The road via Shinku La is only reliably open August–September; July can still have snow on the pass.
Explore more of Jispa — discover all stays and experiences at The YOLO Collective.