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Zanskar - The Bold Route

An All Women Self-drive Expedition

Trip Overview

Nestled in the heart of Leh-Ladakh, the Zanskar Valley stands as a concealed treasure, awaiting discovery by those seeking unparalleled beauty.

This pristine haven remains among the least explored destinations in the country, captivating adventurers with its enchanting landscapes. Majestic
snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan range create a breathtaking backdrop, while a crystal-clear river meanders gracefully at the foothills, enhancing
the serenity of this hidden gem.

Zanskar Valley beckons travellers to immerse themselves in a world of sublime scenic wonders, where every moment unveils a new facet of its aweinspiring charm.

About the trip

Travel Dates
24th to 31st May, 2025
Duration
8 Days
Trip Cost
1,80,000/- Per Person ( Considering 2 people in 1 car and stay on twin sharing)
Trip Style
Self-Drive Road Trip
Vehicle
4×4 SUV (suitable for the terrain)
Driving Distance
969 kms (approx.)
Landscapes
High Mountain Ranges, Glacial Valleys, Rugged Terrain, Cultural Oases, Snow-Capped Peaks, Lakes and Rivers

Route Map

Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Chandigarh

Arrive in Chandigarh, the vibrant capital of Punjab and Haryana. Settle into your accommodation and explore the city

Day 2 Winding Roads to Manali

Embrace the thrill of a scenic mountain drive as you journey from Chandigarh to Manali, a charming hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Ascend through lush valleys and witness breathtaking vistas unfold.

Day 3 Manali to Purne/Padum

Leave the familiar behind and venture deeper into the Himalayas. The road to Purne/Padum, a high-altitude village in the Zanskar Valley, offers stunning scenery and dramatic changes in landscape.

Day 4 Exploring Purne/ Padum & Phugtal Monastery

Acclimatize to the high altitude in Purne/Padum, a hidden gem steeped in Tibetan culture. Optionally, take a short day trip to the remote Phugtal Monastery, nestled amidst a breathtaking landscape.

Day 5 Rest & Explore Padum

Take a well-deserved rest in Padum to acclimatize fully to the high altitude. Explore the local markets, interact with the warm people of the Zanskar Valley, and soak in the breathtaking mountain views.

Day 6 Padum to Kargil

Bid farewell to Purne/Padum and embark on a scenic journey towards Kargil, a town steeped in history. The dramatic landscape continues to impress as you wind your way through mountain passes.

Day 7 Kargil to Leh

Known for its historical significance and stunning topography, Kargil has emerged from the shadows of the past to become a destination that beckons travellers with its captivating charm. Set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and nestled along the banks of the Suru River, Kargil boasts a unique blend of landscapes that transition from barren mountains to fertile valleys.

Day 8 Farewell from Leh

Depart from Leh, cherishing the memories of your adventure in the Himalayas. You leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and resilience of this remote region.

Contact Us: +91 88678 09433

Enquire Now

Inclusions
  • Receed routes
  • 4×4 SUV with fuel
  • All Stays on twin sharing basis
  • All internal sight-seeing and travel mentioned in the itinerary
  • Inner Line Permits throughout the drive Lead and Support Car
  • Taxes
Exclusions
  • Travel to and from Chandigarh & Leh
  • Individual Insurances
  • All personal expenses not mentioned
  • Any cost arising out of unforeseen circumstances

The Bold Route - Upcoming Trips

Tibet
5th to 15th July

Spain
6th to 14th Sept

Nagaland
6th to 15th Dec

Kutch to Kibithoo
20th Feb to 12th Mar, 2026

Testimonials

I have signed up for this expedition to test my endurance and
explore India's diverse landscapes. Most of all excited to embark on
this journey of self discovery.

Anuya Deshmukh

For me, Travelling is not just a passion, it's an opportunity to explore, connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.
I love to drive through new landscapes and to embrace the thrill of adventure.
Life is meant to be experienced to the fullest and this exciting bold route K2K journey tops my wishlist. Looking forward

Trupti Karnik

I love driving, always have ever since I got my Driver's License in my early twenties. And I thoroughly enjoy road trips.
Over the past years, i've heard a lot about the expanded and modern road network in India but have not been able to travel a lot. I'm looking forward to driving from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.

Savita Narayan

Hi, As someone who loves driving and the open road, this long drive is a dream come true for me. The best part? It's an all-women trip, which makes it even more special, and my family is fully supportive of my decision to join. I can't wait to explore new places, meet amazing people, and create unforgettable memories. This journey promises to be an incredible experience, filled with scenic routes, cultural discoveries, and the thrill of adventure.

Anitha Vinodh

Hi, this is Prachi! Just turned 40 last July! I have always been a travel buff and driving from Kashmir to Kanyakumari was just a wish in my bucket list! So when I saw this opportunity there was a ring in the heart that by doing this expedition it would be ticking it off my List ! I love to drive, I love road trips, I love meeting new people!
This is a combination of all three!

Prachi Mahaian

Photo Gallery

FAQs

What is a road trip?

As the name suggests, a road trip is a journey by road using a vehicle. It is the best way to experience different landscapes and terrains and soak in the culture of a place. Meant for those to whom the journey matters more than the destination.

What is an Embarq guided tour?

An Embarq guided road-trip is a premium fixed departure trip with a fixed itinerary. The trip is designed by the co-founders after a detailed recce of the destination and various routes ensuring the best curated experiences & activities are planned along the route. The stays and food are hand picked. The travellers move in a convoy led and tailed by the Embarq crew that provides personalised attention and support throughout the tour.

What are overland journeys/road-trips?

Overland Roadtrips are Self-Drive road trips that one does in his/her own vehicle where you experience the thrill of crossing India’s border and drive to other countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, Central Asia, Russia, UK, Europe etc.

These road-trips require a lot of planning, paperwork and permits, visas etc. Our co-founders have done multiple overland road-trips across continents and we can help you plan it all and experience this epic once-in a life time journey!

What are Embarq Bespoke Road-Trips?

Self-Drive Road-Trips that are customized for you at any of our listed destinations including overland journeys, considering your specific requirements.

You could be a solo traveler or group of friends & family, you can choose the dates suitable to you and the budget that makes you smile!

Our expert team will help you put the personalized itinerary together considering the dates, various routes, stay, food and rental car options to suit your needs!

We can also customize luxury road-tripping holidays for you.

What is the difference between your guided and self-guided tours?

SERVICE GUIDED-FIXED DEPARTURE BESPOKE
Rental Car YES YES
Lead Vehicle & Embarq Team YES NO
Local Guide YES Optional
Back-up/Escort Vehicle YES Optional
Breakdown Assistance YES YES (T&C apply)
Embarq Special Experiences YES Optional
Flexible Dates for Departure NO YES
Group size restriction YES NO
Tour Cost Standard As per individual budget
Planned Itineraries YES YES
Accommodation YES YES
Meals YES NO
Fuel YES NO

What is the distance that we travel every day?

The daily distance we cover depends on the terrain and the scheduled activities. It typically varies between five to seven hours on an average. Please refer to the brochure for detailed itinerary.

What happens if my vehicle breaks down during the trip?

Breakdown assistance is provided on all Embarq tours.

Do all of your road trips have tour leaders?

All guided tours have a tour leader and support crew.

Who are the tour leaders and how experienced are they?

Embarq guided tours are led by our co-founders themselves. They have more than five years of experience in organising road trips and have scouted the routes beforehand.

Do we have to follow the tour leaders on a guided tour?

Yes. To get the best experience on our guided tours, we expect you to follow the group leader/lead vehicle.

We Are Members Of

Trip Advisor Company
Adventure Travel

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