Lamayuru to Padum Trek
Trip Overview
Overview
The Lamayuru to Padum trek, also known as the Sham Valley trek, is a captivating journey through the remote and picturesque landscapes of Ladakh, India. This trek typically spans around 12 to 14 days, covering approximately 100-120 kilometers, depending on the specific route taken. Here's a concise overview of this extraordinary adventure. The Lamayuru to Padum trek commences in Lamayuru, a quaint village also renowned for its ancient monastery and dramatic moon-like terrain. Trekkers embark on a challenging yet rewarding expedition, navigating through deep gorges, high mountain passes, and charming hamlets. The trail passes through several captivating villages like Wanla, Hinju, Sumdo, and Photoksar, providing opportunities to interact with the warm and hospitable locals and immerse oneself in Ladakhi culture. The mesmerizing landscapes vary from arid moonscapes to lush green valleys, providing a stunning visual feast for adventurers. Trekking through remote trails and crossing high-altitude passes such as Prinkti La and Sirsir La, trekkers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas, with peaks like Stok Kangri and Nun Kun dominating the horizon. The journey also involves crossing the Zanskar River, which presents a thrilling river crossing experience, especially during early summer when the river is in full force. This adds an element of excitement and adventure to the trek. As trekkers approach Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar, the landscape transitions into a mix of green valleys and barren terrains. The trek culminates in Padum, a region known for its unique culture, ancient monasteries, and the scenic beauty of the Zanskar River.Conclusion and Summary
Overall, the Lamayuru to Padum trek is an expedition that allows adventurers to connect with the untouched beauty of Ladakh, experience the rich local culture, and challenge themselves physically and mentally amidst awe-inspiring landscapes. It's a journey that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who undertake this remarkable adventure.Trip Highlight
- Scenic Flight from Delhi to Leh to Delhi.
- Visit one of the Highest Airport of the World: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport of Leh, India.
- Trek on of the most isolated regions in India
- Trek through one of the most beautiful treks in Ladakh
- Walk the Changthang plateau, one of the highest in the world.
- Traverse through Colourful mountains, two huge alpine lakes and plenty of wildlife all add to the surreal beauty of this trek.
- Experience basic luxuries in the wilderness.
- Visit the colorful local market of Leh
- Trek through the stunning high-altitude landscapes of Changthang, the land of the nomads
- Views of Pasture Land Overgrazed by herds of sheep, goats and yaks on the plains of Changthang and other Valley.
- Mesmerizing View of Moon Landscape at Lamayuru.
- Explore Lamayuru Monastery: One of the Oldest Monasteries in Ladakh
- Admire the surreal beauty of Tso Kar and Tso Moriri, the largest High Altitude lake in the Indian Himalayas
- Visit and Explore Famous Buddhist Monasteries like Thiksey Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery and Hemis Monastery in Ladakh and Indus Valley.
- Home to numerous species of wildlife including the wild Ass Kiang, Himalayan Marmot, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Antelope, and Himalayan Ibex and Birds like Horned Lark, Seed-eating Finch, Brown Headed Gull, Brahminy duck and The Bar Headed Goose.
- Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in Delhi’s bustling markets
- High Chances of Altitude Sickness during the Trek
- Requires High Level of fitness and experience for higher altitude
Itinerary
Take the Delhi to Leh flight in morning. After reaching Leh, you will meet our representative, who will transfer you to pre-booked hotel/guesthouse. Take rest and get acclimatized. At such elevations, it is extremely important to be accustomed to the climate. Visit the colorful local market of Leh at evening. Have the overnight stay in the hotel/guesthouse.
This is the day kept for sightseeing tour to some ancient monasteries of Ladakh. Perched 15 kilometers from Leh, Shey Gompa used to be the summer capital of Ladakh rulers. Around the palace, there are built multitudes of Gompas and Stupas. Deldan Namgyal constructed Shey Palace in early 17th century AD. 12-meter long Shakyamuni Buddha Statue, located inside the Dresthang Gompa, is the prominent attraction of Shey.
Located close to Shey, Thiksey Gompa is at 17 kilometers of distance from Leh. One of the most sublime monasteries in Ladakh, Thiksey Monastery belongs to Gelukspa Order.
At about 45 kilometers south of Leh is located Hemis Monastery, which is among the most popular and largest monasteries in Ladakh. This monastery was founded in the beginning of 17th century and it belongs to Drukpa Order. The monastery sheeted in a beautiful valley, flanked by radiant streams and fronted by colossal Mani Walls, makes the ambiance spellbinding. Overnight stay at hotel/guesthouse.
In the morning, we will leave for Lamayuru. We will visit confluence of two radiant rivers– Indus and Zanskar, on the way. Other than these streams, we will also come across Basgo Castle and some of the most popular and oldest monasteries of Ladakh, founded somewhat in 11th century. Lamayuru, Alchi and Likir offer extremely memorable tour experience as the travelers witness primeval monastery.
At morning, we will pack our small backpacks and set off for the first day of our trekking adventure. The steep trail takes up to the small pass of Prinkti La (3750 meters) and then we will head down to the scenic village of Shilla followed by a 3 kilometers trek to Wanla (3250 meters). We will set the camp at Wanla and spend the afternoon basking under the sun or visiting Gompa in Wanla. At night, gather around for the dinner and overnight stay at the camp.
After having the breakfast, start for the trek to Hanupatta. This trail begins with a flat section. Before Panji La, we have to walk on the riverbank. At the confluence of Indus and Zanskar, we will see the Chorten and religious flags. Continue across the gradient and reach Hanupatta. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Hanupatta.
Enjoy the breakfast in camp and then start trekking to Photoskar. It is a long climb into the stone valley. Traverse the river and walk up to SirSir La (4800 meters). After reaching SirSir La, there is a long descent to Photoskar (3750 meters). Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Photoskar.
Enjoy the breakfast and then start to trek the foot of Sengge La. Take the packed lunch with you. Climb up to Bumiktse La (4200 meters) followed by a steady trail leading to the broad valley. After this trail there is, a short ascent to Sengge La (5000 meters) and then a steady descent till the foot of Sengge La. Make the camp here and enjoy the dinner and overnight stay in the tent.
Take the hearty breakfast in the camp and then start the trek to Lingshed. On the way after Kiupa La (3850 meters), is the steady descent to the villages of Skiumpata and Gongma. These rural areas offer striking panorama with a view of Nierag Valley on the other bank of Zanskar River. After crossing Murgum La (4100 meters), reach Lingshed and take the camp near the Lingshed Monastery. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Lingshed.
This day is meant for relaxation and exploring the area.
Trek to Snertse after enjoying the breakfast. From Lingshed, it is a simple climb to Hanuma La Pass (4700 meters). A long dip down to the sheepfolds of Snertse. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Snertse.
Have the breakfast and start for the trek to Hanumil. From the river Oma Chu, there is a steady climb to Parfi La (3900 meters) and then a sharp decline to the foot of pass. Walk up the plateau onto the path leading towards the fringe of Zanskar to Hanumil. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Hanumil.
Have the breakfast in camp. There is an easy walk to Pishu taking around 5 hours for completion. Set the camp below the village of Pishu. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Pishu.
Cross the Rinam, this is a small watercourse and shelter created by the boulders. It is a easy trail along the banks of river Zanskar to Karsha. You can witness the gorgeous Gelukpa Monastery that date backs to 15th Century. Enjoy the packed lunch on the route. The overnight stay and dinner will be at the trekking tents in Karsha.
Trek to Padum after having the scrumptious breakfast. Take the packed lunch with you. Transverse through the Doda River and walk through the dusty plain to Pipiting followed by Padum. Observe the local monasteries and Gompas in evening. Camp in Padum and enjoy the overnight stay here.
Take the breakfast and then drive to Kargil. Have the overnight stay in Kargil
Enjoy the breakfast and then drive to Leh. Have the overnight stay in Leh.
Transfer to airport after having breakfast in order to take the flight for Delhi. Reach Delhi to continue for the onward destination.
Departures & Availability
The set departure dates listed are specially quoted and specified for group joining option. Let us know if the set departure dates are not suitable for you- another dates which are suitable for you can certainly be added by us.
Check Available Dates
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All trip prices are per person based on double occupancy, are subject to change without notice and do not include airfare. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars.
Price include
In the Above Cost It Includes:
- Airport Pick-up and Drop Off
- Licensed and trained trekking guides
- Potters for carrying goods and supplies
- 3 Nights Accommodation in the 3 Star Hotel in Kathmandu with B & B. (Bed
& Breakfast) - All accommodation during the trek.
- All meals and hot beverages during the trek.
- Transportation to and from trail head.
- All necessary documents and permits for trekking (where applicable)
- National Park/Conservation Area entry Permit, Equipment such as tents And Mattresses, Cooking Equipment, Camp site charges, Insurance, and
equipment for the staffs. - Coordination of quick Rescue service (Costs covered by your Insurance Plan)
- Trekking staffs wages etc.
- 1 hr. trekker massage after your trek.
Price Excludes
- India visa fee(payable at airport upon arrival)
- Nepal re-entry visa fee
- Bar bills (Coke, mineral water, hard or soft drinks)
- Personal expenses
- Donation or tips
- Emergency evacuation for the Rescue.
- Personal equipment and Medical kid box
Gears And Equipment
Trip Information
Nestled in the Trans Himalayan ranges there is a fascinatingly rugged land, offering immense adventure, which was once dominated by the kingdom of Zanskar and even now can only be visited on foot. The area is still quite remote and is secluded between Indus valley and Himalayas and hence gives the trekkers an opportunity to take the pleasure of wandering through some of the most isolated regions of the world. However even in this remoteness the traditional hues of Ladakh still reflects from the ancient monasteries, Stupas and Gompas, which are still found in abundance, some in ruins and some still retaining their rich architectural works. The Lamayuru Padum trek starts from the famous monastery of Lamayuru, which is one of the oldest in the region. Other characteristic of this trek include lovely high meadow camp sites on the cold and dry desert land, the thrill of passing through high passes and the joy of espying snowcapped peaks amidst stunning scenery. Not to forget the Buddhist monasteries and picturesque villages replete with irrigated fields of barley and potatoes. Even chance encounters with the people of Zanskar make this journey a memorable one.
Lamayuru to Padum Trek Route Map
Gallery
FAQS
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Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.
Traveler Reviews
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