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Winding rivers of ice and snow, flowing from the Shafat & Drang-Drung glacier, the largest glacier in Ladakh, outside the Siachen formation. The word Zanskar means ‘White Copper’ or ‘Brass’. Probably the white copper indicates the frozen rivers formed due to temperatures below -25 during the winter in Zanskar. The Stod or Doda River, the main tributaries of which meet at Padum, to form the river Zanskar, and flows into Zanskar range. The head waters of Zanskar river are Yunam, the Serchu and Cherpa,which rise to the north of Himalyas near Bara Lacha.
The frozen Zanskar river is used as a short route to reach Nimmo, this also attracts few adventure lovers to trek in frozen region during the winter particularly in month.
The valley demands expert trekkers as the routes are rough, passes very high, rivers deep and oxygen level low at the high altitude that varies from 3000m to 6000m.For the longer winter season in Zanskar over 07 months (Oct to April) the hardy domestic animals like Yak ,Dzo and Horses are most common.The Ibex,antelopes and snow leopards are visible in higher regions. |
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Alpine lake at Penzila Zanskar
About 20 kms south-east of Rangdum stands the Panzila axis, across which lies Zanskar, the most isolated of all the trans-Himalayan valleys. The Penzila pass (4,401m) is a picturesque tableland surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
As the Zanskar road winds down the steep slopes of Penzi-la 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, "Drang-Drung" 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 tributary of the Zanskar River rises.
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Zanskari villagers at a festival
Zanskar is a tri-armed valley system situated between the Great Himalayan Range and the Zanskar mountains, the three arms radiating star-like towards the west, north and south from a wide central expanse. Here the Zanskar River comes into being by the confluence of its two Himalayan tributaries, the Stod/Doda and the Lingti-Tsarap rivers. It is mainly along the course of this valley system that the region's approximately 14,000 strong, mainly Buddhist population, live.
Spread over an estimated geographical area of 5000 sq kms of mountainous territory, Zanskar is surrounded by high-rise mountains and deep gorges.
It remains inaccessible for nearly 8 months a year due to heavy winter snowfall resulting in closure of all access passes, including the Penzi-la. This geographical isolation and the esoteric nature of Buddhism practised here have enabled its inhabitants to preserve their identity, so that to-day Zanskar is the least interfered with microcosms of Ladakh. Closer observation of the lifestyle evokes admiration for a people who have learnt to live in perfect harmony with the unique environment.
Within the mountainous ramparts of this 'Shangri-La' are a number of ancient yet active monastic establishments. Some of these foundations have evolved around remote mountain caves, which are by legend associated with famous Buddhist saints. These are in fact the main places of attraction for the visitors in the area, in addition to the haunting beauty of the spectacular landscape and the ancient culture. |
Places of Interest
(3505 m) Padum town is 240 km from Kargil, around 12 hours journey crossing through Panzil-la Pass (4407 m). Padum is the most populous settlement of Zanskar, it also has a large number of muslim community who’s origin dates back to 17th century.
Zanskar, with a large concentration of gompas, is explorer’s most desired destination. 6km west of Padum is the Sani village.The attractive Sani Gompa, a castle like monestary exhibits the Kanika Stupa (associated with Kanishka, the ruler from Kushan dynasty of 2nd century). The frescoes, stucca murals and floral designs depict the life of Guru Padmasambhava who is believed to have medidated inside the monastery.A bronze statue of a famous Yogi Naropa, who medidated in Sani monastery is unveiled in late July on the eve of Naro nasjal festival. The festival is attended by a large number of people from all over Zanskar and the Lamas of Bardan Monastery perform Mask dance as a ritual.
Other interesting places to visit are 14th century Karsha monastery, 14 km from Padum, an old nunnery Dorjie Dzong near Karhsa. Stong-de Monastery,18 km from padum which has strenuous climb followed by breathtaking scenery. The old Buddhist nunnery at zangla 35 km from padum. 17th century Bardan monastery 12km south of padum. The 12 century, Phugtal Monastry is a most isolated spectacular site. |
Getting There
| SRTC bus service from Kargil to Padum charges Rs. 485 for deluxe coach 348 for semi-deluxe coach. The local buses also operate on this route. One can hire a taxi from Kargil to Padum. |
| Where to Stay |
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Hotels & Guest Houses in Zanskar have charges from Rs, 300 to Rs. 2000. |
| Where to Eat |
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Padum market has a few restaurant where the visitors can have day meals. Eating out at the hotels and guest houses is mostly preferred by the tourists in Zanskar. It is strictly advisable to be a part of the all inclusive tours organized with the assistance of travel agents.
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