Darcha – Sarchu Trek – 20 days
Day 01. Arrive in Manali (Himachal Pradesh)
By your own arrangements.
Day 02. Drive from Manali – Darcha (3350m)
The trip is 148 km and approximately 10 hours driving time, depending on traffic and road conditions.
We drive northward over Rohtang Pass (4114m) and into the predominantly Buddhist area of Lahaul.
Following the Chandra river towards Keylong, we will then stop at Keylong for lunch. Beyond Keylong, we continue on to Darcha.
We will have dinner at Darcha and drive on to our first camp Zanskar Sumdo (3860m) where we meet the rest of trekking crew.
Overnight in tents Zanskar Sumdo.
Day 03. Acclimatization Day
This day is for acclimatizing due to the high altitude before we commence our long trek.
After breakfast go for a short hike to get used to the thinner air.
Spend the afternoon relaxing in camp or play cricket with camp crew as this is a beautiful green, open area.
Be sure not to over exert yourself.
Overnight at camp.
Day 04. Zanskar Sumdo to Rumzak (4380m)
Approximately 6hrs trekking.
There is a gradual ascent along the Singo Chu River before we climb up toward the high peaks of Zanskar and camp at the base of Singo La Pass.
Day 05. Trek to Lakhong (4400m) via the Singo La Pass (5050m)
Approximately 7hrs.
This is a demanding days walk up to the Singo La Pass gateway to the Zanskar valley.
After crossing this pass we descend down in to Zanskar valley and camp in Lakhong.
Day 06. Trek to Tangze (3800m)
Approximately 6 hours. Early morning you will cross the Singo river and walk along the grassy meadows.
Camp at Tangze.
Day 07. Trek to Purne (3660m)
Approximately 6 hours.
You finally reach the main Zanskar valley and pass through the village of Tabla, before a steep descent takes us to a bridge crossing to your camp site at Purne.
There are a few shops in Purne selling soft drinks, chocolate, and a few other select items.
Day 08. Trek to Phuktal
Approximately 4 hours.
You will walk up a very deep and impressive gorge with a fast flowing river to a remarkable and remote monastery.
The 500 year old Gompa is built literally on the side of the cliff.
Here you can visit the inner temple and see the stone tablet left by the Hungarians, Alexander Csoma De Koros one of the first explorers in Tibet, 1826-27.
Overnight at Purne camp.
Day 09. Trek to Thaple
Approximately 6 hours.
You will trek back through Tista and Tabla village to camp outside of Thaple village.
Afternoon visit to typical Zankari village and barley and black cumin fields.
Overnight at Thaple camp.
Day 10. Trek to Pritse La base (4750m)
Approximately 7 hours walk to the camp site.
Early morning enter the narrow gorge before a steep ascent to the ridge.
Magnificent views of Kargiak river and valley and huge yak grazing plains.
Cross the Phitse River before entering the camp site.
Over night base camp.
Day 11. Trek to Chumik Marpo over Phritse La Pass(5250m)
This is the most demanding day of the trek. Start early morning, crossing a little river and continue a windy ascent to Pritse La Pass. You will see the high snow covered ranges and peaks of Zanskar.
Descend down through the glacier and boulders to the plains of Chumik Marpo.
Camp at Chumik Marpo grazing area.
Day 12. Trek to Lingti
Approximately 6 hours.
Walk along huge yak grazing plains.
Today we cross an icy cold river called, Khala Meera and few small streams.
Meet Champa nomads before camp.
Camp at Lingti Plains.
Day 13. Trek to Kelong Sarai
Approximately 5 hours.
Today, the walk is easier.
We enter the plains of Spiti Valley.
Today we can see the Leh highway.
We will cross a little river before camp.
Camp at Kelong Sarai.
Day 14.
This morning after breakfast, we say our farewells to our trusty cook, helpers and horsemen.
We drive from Kelong Sarai to Leh, approx 10 hours drive through stunning scenery and crossing the world’s second highest pass.
We arrive in the evening and check into our hotels for much anticipated hot showers and warm, comfy beds.
Day 15.
After breakfast at the hotel you may need to get acclimatized to both the weather and the altitude of Leh.
Best to rest in the morning.
Spend your afternoon at leisure.
Suggested sightseeing: visit the Sankar Gompa, Shanti Stupa and the Leh Palace.
Day 16. Leh to Pangong (150 kms 6 to 7 hrs) 4350m
Drive to Pangong Lake in jeeps.
When you first look at the lake you can’t help but marvel at its beauty.
Your camera will not remain idle for long.
Return to your hotel and again spend the night in Leh.
Day 17. Leh local sightseeing
After breakfast at your hotel, proceed to Shey.
See the Shey Palace.
Later proceed to Thiksey and see the Thiksey monastery and the Maitreya Temple.
In the evening back to hotel & stay overnight in Leh.
Day 18. Free day
Shopping.
More sightseeing.
Rooftop restaurant hopping.
Enjoy the laidback vibe of Leh however you choose.
Day 19.
After breakfast, we take you on a half day trip to the World’s Highest Motorable Road/Pass! Kardung La!
Spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 20.
Our trip ends after breakfast today.
We say our goodbyes, hoping to see you again some day.
Your departure by way of flight, bus, private car etc is by your own arrangements.
Please let us know if we can assist you with this planning.
