Zanskar Winter Expedition – Into the White Wilderness

Experience the raw, untouched beauty of Ladakh in its purest form. The Zanskar Winter Expedition takes you deep into frozen landscapes, ancient monasteries, remote Zanskari villages, and snow-covered valleys where time seems to stand still. This journey is not just an adventure — it’s a rare opportunity to witness the resilience, culture, and wilderness of the Himalayas during its harshest yet most magical season.
Perfect for travelers seeking solitude, challenge, and an unforgettable Himalayan winter experience.

DAY 1 — Arrival in Manali: Enter the Winter Gateway

Your journey begins with a scenic overnight Volvo ride from Delhi/Chandigarh to Manali, a winter wonderland wrapped in snow and silence. As you enter Manali (2,050 m), the temperature dips to –5°C, pine forests turn silver, and the mountain air feels crisp and fresh.

Spend the day exploring Manali’s winter charm, stroll across Mall Road, soak in the calm of Hadimba Temple, dip into the warm waters of Vashisht Hot Springs, or enjoy a hot cuppa in Old Manali’s cafés. This is your rest and acclimatization day before the real adventure unfolds.

DAY 2 — Manali ➝ Solang ➝ Miyar Valley ➝ Trilokinath ➝ Keylong/Sissu

Begin early as the Himalayas shine under fresh morning light. Drive through the magical Solang Valley and glide through the legendary Atal Tunnel, entering a breathtaking world of frozen rivers and whitewashed landscapes welcome to Lahaul in winter.

Warm up with breakfast at PLM Dhara, then cruise deeper into winter as you enter Miyar Valley, a pristine, hidden paradise dusted in snow.

Visit the sacred Trilokinath Temple and the ancient Mrikula Temple, both draped in winter silence and overflowing with spiritual energy.

By evening, settle into your cozy stay at Keylong/Sissu crackling wood fires, local winter meals, and a night sky full of stars await you.
Stay: Keylong/Sissu (Weather dependent)

DAY 3 — Keylong ➝ Jispa ➝ Darcha ➝ Shinkula ➝ Gombo Ronjon ➝ Purne

A warm breakfast fuels your journey into one of the most dramatic winter routes in the Himalayas. Drive past Jispa, glide along snow-laced landscapes, and climb towards the mighty Shinkula Pass, the frozen gateway to Zanskar.

Make your first stop at Gombo Ronjon, a towering twin-peak mountain revered by monks and travelers alike.

Continue through Kargyak village, one of Zanskar’s highest settlements, where winter life thrives quietly amidst deep snow.

Lunch awaits at The Grand Purne Camps hot beverages, warm food, and panoramic white horizons.

End your day in the serene village of Purne, embraced by silence, snow, and Himalayan wilderness.
Stay: Fixed stay in Purne

DAY 4 — Padum Local Exploration: Palaces, Gompas & Frozen Falls

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast and set out to discover the soul of Zanskar.

• Explore Zangla Palace (3,900 m), once home to Zanskari royalty.
• Offer prayers at Stongdey Monastery (3,500 m), guided by a monk in true Himalayan serenity.
• Visit a local village school or interact with villagers to understand their winter lifestyle.
• Wander into the ancient halls of Karsha Gompa (3,600 m), Zanskar’s largest monastery.
• Explore Sheela Village and witness the majestic Sheela Falls frozen into a towering wall of ice.

If weather favors, experience ice climbing as an adrenaline-surging winter challenge!
Evening brings warmth, dinner, and stories back at your Padum stay.
Stay: Padum

DAY 5 — Padum ➝ Drang Drung Glacier ➝ Penzila ➝ Secret Place

Start early and drive to the massive Drang Drung Glacier (15,419 ft) a breathtaking frozen river of ice stretching into the horizon.

Continue to Penzila Lake (14,435 ft), mirror-like and surrounded by majestic winter peaks.

Then comes the highlight of a mysterious Secret Place, known only to a few monks and locals. Legend says the water outlet here was opened by Guru Padmasambhava, and its waters are believed to have healing energies.

Witness ancient organic homes, traditional winter kitchens, and age-old Himalayan living in its purest form.
Spend a magical night at this sacred hidden spot.
Stay: Padum Local

DAY 6 — Padum ➝ Gombo Ronjon ➝ Manali

Bid farewell to Zanskar and begin your return journey through winter-carved valleys and sunlit snowfields. Stop for lunch at Gombo Ronjon, savoring warm food surrounded by towering icy giants.

Reach Manali by evening, check into your hotel, enjoy a comforting dinner, and relax your final night in the mountains.
Stay: Manali

DAY 7 — Departure

Check out, carry the mountains in your heart, and begin your journey home with stories of frozen rivers, hidden kingdoms, and Himalayan magic.

• Heavy winter jacket (-10°C rated)

• Thermals (upper + lower)

• Waterproof gloves & woolen socks

• Snow boots

• Refillable bottle + thermos

• Sunscreen & lip balm

• Power bank

• Basic medication + altitude kit