|
Introduction
The lovely landscapes and the Buddhist
culture of the Zanskar Valley are sure to leave a mark.
Zanskar literally means the Copper Star. In fact the
various rivers flowing into Zanskar carry copper
sediments. The spectacular Himalayan landscape and the
lifestyles of the inhabitants attract many tourists to the
hidden kingdom of Zanskar
Sight Seeing
The hill resort of Zanskar is one of the
isolated and scantly inhabited Himalayan Valleys. Zanskar
is wrapped in snow-covered peaks and boats of two small
alpine lakes. But there is nothing comparable to the
wonderful view of the "Drang-Drung" glacier.
Panikhar is an important place in the Zanskar Valley that
is the border of the Suru Valley. At Panikhar the fort of
Zorawar Singh is a major tourist attraction
Then there is the Penzella Pass that divides the Zanskar
valley with the Suru Valley. Besides being the excellent
camping site the Penzella Pass is a vintage point offering
excellent views of the majestic mountains and the
captivating countryside.
Karsha is a human settlement with basic facilities. The
Gelugpa monastery at Karsha is a must visit to know the
importance of the religion in the lives of the inhabitants
of Zanskar. The mural art displayed at Labrang is other
must check out in Zanskar
On the isolated mountains there are several places
associated with the Tibetan Buddhists that are worth
exploring
The adventure seekers may try river rafting from Serchu to
Nyimu via Padam. Trekking is possible to Panikhar or
Rangdum over the Pentse La, into the Zanskar Valley from
Lamayuru, Leh or Darcha, from Padum to the Markha valley
et al. The climatic conditions need to be kept in mind
choosing the trek.
Weather
Owing to the altitudes the Zanskar valley
is accessible only during the summer months. The winter
months are too harsh for travel in Zanskar. It is
noteworthy that in the winter months the water of the
River Zanskar freezes and becomes the Chador road.
Location
The Zanskar valley is situated
across the Suru Valley and over the Pensi La in the Ladakh
region of Jammu and Kashmir. Zanskar is situated 235 km
away from Kargil.
Getting there
There are several high passes that need to be crossed in
order to reach Zanskar. Padum in the Zanskar valley may be
joined but the track is not really smooth
Road & Rail
It is noteworthy that the road that
links Zanskar with Kargil is open from mid July to early
November. Buses. Jeeps, gypsies and taxis are easily
available for transport to Zanskar from Kargil. Kargil is
approximately 235 km away from Zanskar. During the months of
June and July you may trek into Zanskar from Panikhar or
Parkachik onwards.
Accommodation
Ample accommodation is available in Zanskar. You may stay
at the Tourists complex or be economical and opt for the
camps in the tents. There are few hotels too in Zanskar
that provide basic facilities. At the inns of Zanskar
dormitory accommodation is possible. Monasteries and
village houses are the other stay options in Zanskar
|
