The Kanji Rangdum Trail – Zanskar

You’ll embark on an early morning flight from New Delhi to Leh. Nestled between the majestic Himalayas and the formidable Karakoram ranges, Leh boasts an altitude of 3500m. Upon landing, our team leader will welcome you at the airport, presenting you with the traditional Ladakhi silk scarf called “Khatak.” Subsequently, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you’ll be based for the next two days. The remainder of your arrival day is dedicated to acclimatizing to the altitude. You’ll spend the night at a hotel in Leh.

Today kicks off with an exploration of Leh City, delving into its rich historical heritage. We’ll embark on a guided tour of Leh Fort, Tsemo Castle & the Old City, immersing ourselves in ancient lore. A visit to Leh market offers insight into its vibrant trading history along the Silk Route & its strategic location on the banks of the Indus River, once the heartland of the Indus Valley Civilization. As dusk sets in, enjoy an enchanting stargazing session at over 11,000 feet, followed by a visit to the venerable 800-year-old Phyang Monastery. Conclude the day with a delectable feast of Ladakhi cuisine. Rest comfortably overnight at a Leh hotel.

Post breakfast, we set out from Leh for a 4-hour drive to the secluded village of Kanji, located in the western reaches of Ladakh, near the border of the remote Zanskar region. This area remains one of the least explored parts of Ladakh, known for its stark beauty, deep gorges and timeless high-altitude culture.
Kanji, situated at an altitude of around 3,850 meters, lies at the confluence of three valleys and serves as a natural entry point into the dramatic canyon systems that define Zanskar’s landscape. The village is perched across rolling hills beneath towering cliffs, with stone houses and barley fields scattered across the slopes.
Our first camping experience will be just below the village, beside a riverside tea house, a perfect spot to adjust to the altitude and take in the crisp mountain air. This serene setting offers a striking contrast to the bustling streets of Leh and a glimpse into the isolation and beauty that make Zanskar so captivating.

The day begins with a visit to the charming Kanji Monastery, a small yet spiritually significant site nestled within the village. Kanji is a unique trekking hub, with trails branching out in three distinct directions making it a natural starting point for expeditions into the lesser-trodden valleys of Zanskar.
After exploring the monastery, we begin our first day on foot with a gentle trek to Kanji La Base Camp. The trail is mostly flat and ideal for easing into the rhythm of trekking. Along the way, you’ll come across traditional Doksa (nomadic summer settlements) where yaks and sheep graze freely across the high-altitude pastures. These settlements once served as permanent summer homes for many villagers from Kanji.
We’ll camp tonight at the scenic Kanji La Base Camp, surrounded by silence, stars and the raw beauty of the mountains.

Today marks one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the expedition. After an early breakfast, we begin a steep ascent to Kanji La Pass, located at an altitude of 5,246 meters. The climb takes around 3.5 hours, testing your stamina as you gain elevation and approach the high-altitude pass.
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Ladakh and Zanskar ranges, including a breathtaking glimpse of the twin peaks of Nun and Kun which are the tallest mountains in the Ladakh region, rising above 7,000 meters.
The descent from Kanji La is equally dramatic, taking 3–4 hours down to the River Junction camp, where we’ll rest for the night surrounded by the sound of glacial streams and open mountain wilderness.

We begin the day at our scenic River Junction Camp (4,150m), where the Kanji and Pigdong rivers meet. The morning trek follows the river downstream, crossing glacial waters and deep gorges along a trail that spans about 4 hours. Along the way, dramatic views of unnamed peaks and changing rock formations accompany us as we approach the vast Rangdum Valley.
Soon, the striking silhouette of Rangdum Monastery comes into view, a solitary 18th-century gompa perched above the valley, marking the gateway to Zanskar.
Instead of staying overnight at Rangdum, we continue our journey by road toward Padum, crossing the high-altitude Pensi La Pass (4,400m). The drive from Rangdum to Padum takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, offering jaw-dropping views of Drang Drung Glacier, one of the largest in Ladakh. We arrive in Padum, the main town of Zanskar, by evening. Overnight stay at a comfortable guesthouse or homestay in Padum

Today is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the rich cultural and spiritual tapestry of Zanskar, one of Ladakh’s most secluded and captivating regions. We begin the day with a visit to Sani Gompa, considered one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. The site is home to ancient chortens and a revered statue of Guru Padmasambhava, believed to date back to the era of Emperor Ashoka, offering a profound sense of history and sanctity.
Next, we travel to Karsha Monastery, the largest and most influential monastic complex in Zanskar. Perched dramatically on a hillside, Karsha commands panoramic views of the Stod River valley and is a vital spiritual hub for the region.
A short scenic drive brings us to the Sheela Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic cliffs which is perfect for photography and a refreshing break amidst nature. Overnight stay in Padum.

After five incredible days in the remote wilderness of Zanskar, today we begin our return journey toward the comfort of Leh. Post breakfast, we travel via Zangla, a lesser-known trail steeped in history and raw Himalayan beauty. This ancient path was once part of the traditional Zanskar route used by monks and traders before modern roads connected these valleys. En route, we stop for lunch at Wanla village, followed by a short visit to the serene Wanla Monastery, known for its centuries-old frescoes and spiritual charm.
From Wanla, a scenic three-hours drive brings us back to Leh. We’ll spend the night in a cozy local homestay, offering an authentic and restful end to a day filled with cultural heritage and scenic beauty.

As our journey amidst the majestic Himalayas draws to a close, it’s time to bid adieu and head back to the airport for our early morning flight to Delhi. Rest assured, our Team Leader will be there to assist you and ensure your safe departure.