Zankser Valley Bike Trip- To Enjoy a Perfect Blend of Thrill and Cultural Experience

Ankita | Updated on September 19, 2022

A small district in Kargil, Zanskar Valley is even known by the name Zahar. The place is undoubtedly a hub for ardent traveller, especially adventure enthusiasts. If you are planning a visit to Zanskar Valley, then you have come to the right place. Plan your Zankser Valley Bike Trip and know about the weather, temperature, how to reach, the best time to visit, and travel tips from the blog. Book your bike tour package!

The valley has become popular for its splendid views and astounding landscape. A trip to Zanskar Valley will let you cross many clean gurgling rivers while enjoying pleasant weather.  The place offers a plethora of adventure activities that one can go spoilt for choice. Right from river rafting to camping to trekking, the place will give you an unmatched experience to cherish for a lifetime. So, don’t wait, plan your trip right away to this semi-deserted region of Ladakh and get soaked in the beauty of pristine nature. But before that take a look at some of the important things to know before embarking on your Zanskar journey.  

Zanskar Valley Highlights

  • Nestled at an elevation of approx. 6000 metres above sea level, Zanskar valley is all about unparalleled beauty. 
  • The Winter months between December and February is the time to indulge in the famous Chadar or Frozen River Trek. 
  • Enjoy white water rafting at the Zanskar river.
  • Indulge in night camping amidst the beautiful mountains.
  • Lugnak Trail Trek, Zanskar-Sham Valley Trek, and Padum-Darcha Trek are some of the treks for the daredevils. 

Zanskar Valley Weather

The weather of Zanskar Valley remains pleasant if you plan to visit in the summer season. You can enjoy sightseeing and indulge in trekking and camping activities. However, Ladakh is a rain shadow area, so monsoon weather is also favourable for a trip.  Winters in Ladakh are harsh and it is cold. So, plan a trip to Zanskar in winter only if you are up for the renowned Chadar/Frozen river trek. 

Zanskar Valley  Temperature

The day temperature in Zanskar Valley in the summer season goes up to 30°C. Nights become chilly as the temperature is as low as -2°C. During the monsoon season, the temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C and the winter temperature ranges from 2°C to -25°C. 

How to Reach Zanskar Valley

By Air: Board a flight to Leh. Leh is well connected to Delhi and all the major cities of India with direct and connecting flights. 

By Train: There is no railway station in Ladakh so you have to board a train to Jammu Tawi and upon reaching take a taxi or bus to reach Leh and then continue your journey to Zanskar. 

By Road: Take either Manali or Srinagar route to reach Zanskar by road. You can either drive on your own or board a bus to reach Leh first. On reaching Leh, continue your breathtaking journey to Zanskar by bike, car, jeep or local bus.  

Zanskar Valley Distance by Bike

The distance between Zanskar Valley and Leh is approximately 463 km. If you are up for a Ladakh bike trip with Zanskar, go ahead as the roads are favourable for a road trip. 

Zanskar Valley Bike Trip Cost

The cost of a Zanskar Ladakh bike trip depends on the category of package you choose, accommodation, meals, transportation and other factors. Also, the cost will be different if you wish to take a customised Zanskar bike trip package. 

Zanskar Valley by Road on Bike Best Route

No doubt, the Zanskar bike trip from Delhi is a blend of thrill and cultural experiences. We have mentioned below the best routes: 

  1. Via Srinagar and Kargil: If you are looking for the fastest route for your Ladakh bike trip with Zanskar, this is the best one. You can board a flight to Srinagar and then take the Kargil – Padum route.
  2. Via Manali: The most preferred route is via Manali. From Manali reach Leh and continue your journey to Zanskar Valley. The route is operational between May and October by road. 

Best Time To Visit Zanskar Valley

Ladakh is beautiful throughout the year. Take a quick look at all the seasons and plan your trip accordingly. 

Summer Season (April-June): The summer months are the best time to visit Zanskar Valley. The weather is pleasant during this time of the year making it favourable for indulging in trekking and camping. If you visit in the monsoon season between July and September, you can enjoy river rafting. Although it doesn’t rain much in Ladakh, a trip in the monsoon can be planned without any doubt. 

Winter Season (November to February): Roads to Ladakh in the winter season remain inaccessible. So, you can reach Leh by air. This season should only be preferred if you are ready for the Chadar Trek. 

Places to Visit in Zanskar Valley Bike Trip

Zanskar Valley has many beautiful places. Some of them are tourist places that are easily accessible while others are located far-flung. Below we have mentioned some of the places that you can explore when on your Zanskar Valley in Ladakh trip.  

Suru Valley:

The valley is contrary to Zanskar as you will find it in full bloom which will surely grab your attention. The Suru Valley is the starting point for mountain expeditions and river rafting.  

Shafat Glacier:

Ever heard about the Nun and Kun peaks? Well, it is Shafat Glacier from where they are found. The Mountain expedition to Nun and Kun starts from Shafat Glacier. 

Doda River:

The river is even popular by the name Stod river and is 79 km long. Tourists and adventure lovers often flock to the riverside to indulge in activities like rafting and swimming. 

Sani Monastery:

A trip to Zanskar would be incomplete with a monastery visit, so head to Sani Monastery which is believed to be the oldest religious institution in Ladakh. The monastery is around 6 km away from Padum.  

Things to keep in mind while travelling to Zanskar Valley

  • Acclimatise yourself in Leh for a day or two before heading to Zanskar. This will save you from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). 
  • Carry a first aid kit with basic medicines as medical help/facilities are quite far in the Ladakh region. You will only find good ones in Leh. 
  • Carry light woollen clothes even when travelling during summers to stay protected during the night. 
  • You can carry light snacks like cookies, protein bars, and chocolate to stay active throughout the Ladakh bike trip with Zanskar.  
  • Carry Electral/ORS sachets, and bottles of water to stay hydrated. 

Tips to Book Zanskar Valley Bike Trip Packages Online

  • Check the reviews and ratings of the tour operator thoroughly on google. 
  • Get insight into the inclusions and exclusions of the Zanskar Ladakh bike trip package. 
  • Speak to the customer service executive first rather than being impulsive in booking the package.  
  • Understand the itinerary and services offered in the package.  
  • Make payment for the final booking once you are convinced. 

 

Zanskar Valley by Road on Bike Safety Guidelines

  • Bike Luggage and Gear: When you book your tour package with us, you will be provided with premium bikes, gear and accessories. But if you are planning to visit all on your own, do carry a helmet, 3-4 Bungee Cords and 2 Jerry Cans of 5 litres. Carry a mask to cover the nose and mouth. 
  • Carry Cash: Carry enough cash or withdraw in Leh as the only ATMs you will find and can rely on are in Leh. 
  • Speed Limit: Don’t be in a hurry. Stay within the speed limits as instructed to you by the tour guide. 

Things to Carry on Zanskar Valley  Bike Trip

Clothes: Carry woollen clothes no matter what season you are travelling, a pair of good hiking shoes, and slippers. 

Documents: Keep ID proofs like passport, Aadhar card, voter ID, tour itinerary and medical insurance (if any). 

First-Aid Kit: Keep a first-aid box with all basic medicines for common health problems like nausea, fever, headache, joint/muscle pain, etc.  Also, keep Diamox for AMS. 

Miscellaneous Items: Sunscreen with SPF 50, lip balm, moisturiser, a hat, sunglasses and a lip balm. 

Other: Chargeable torch light, power bank, camera etc. 

Why Book Zanskar Valley  bike tour packages  with Us

  • We are local tour operators 

We have more than a decade of experience in providing excellent bike trip services to our clients. With us, you can rest assured as you will be witnessing the raw beauty of Ladakh. We offer Ladakh bike trips with Zanskar as well as customise the tour packages as per our client’s requirements. 

  • We provide premium bikes and gears

With us, you don’t have to worry about the quality. We provide Himalayan bikes with premium quality gear and accessories. Ride smoothly on the treacherous roads of Ladakh and get one of a kind experience. 

  • We prefer deluxe accommodation 

We understand the need to relax in a comfortable ambience. That’s why we choose deluxe accommodation as they are hygienic, safe and comfortable. So, after riding your bike for 250-300 km straight you will be welcomed into a peaceful environment where you can be yourself and unwind.  

So, this was all about the Ladakh bike trip with Zanskar. If you need any further assistance in knowing about the tour packages and more, give us a call and we will be happy to assist you. Happy Travelling!