Welcome to Kargil, Ladakh — a land where history meets breathtaking landscapes!
In this video/blog, explore the top things to do in Kargil, one of the most underrated yet stunning regions of Ladakh.
🌄 Highlights:
Pay tribute at the Kargil War Memorial, Dras
Drive through the spectacular Suru Valley and Rangdum
Explore the remote beauty of Zanskar Valley
Visit traditional Brokpa villages near Batalik and Dah
Taste authentic Ladakhi and Balti cuisine
We started from Manali at 10 am and reached Gombo Rangoon at around 3 pm. Discover the mystical beauty of Gombo Rangjon, also known as the Kailash of Zanskar. Rising like a pyramid from the barren valley near Purne village, this sacred peak stands beside the Tsarap River and close to the famous Phuktal Monastery.
A journey through Shinkun La Pass into the heart of Zanskar takes you to this untouched and spiritual wonder, worshipped by locals and admired by travelers from across the world.
Road are in very good shape and are newly built, the down stretch from Shinkula to Gombo is a little rough and the work was ongoing.
Also we came across the highest tunnel being built under the Shinkula pass, and the work was in progress here as well.
After tea and light snacks we started our onward journey to Padum in Zanskar.
We reached Padum at around 5.30 in the evening and we had booked a homestay, run by our friend. The homestay was very neat and clean and also simple homely food was served. It was a very pleasant stay indeed.
Embark on an epic Himalayan road trip from Manali to Padum (Zanskar Valley) via the newly opened Shinku La Pass (16,580 ft) – one of the highest motorable passes in the region.
Later while on return also we stayed here for a night and the followed the following route.
The journey starts from Padum, the heart of Zanskar, and follows the rugged trail through remote villages and untouched valleys:
Padum to Raru (20 km) → Drive along the Zanskar River through small farmlands and traditional houses.
Raru to Purne (35 km) → The road hugs the Tsarap Chu River, with dramatic gorges and high cliffs. From Purne, trekkers can hike to the iconic Phuktal Monastery, built into a cliffside cave.
Purne to Kurgiakh (25 km) → Landscapes turn more barren and wild. Here, you’ll witness the sacred pyramid-shaped mountain Gombo Rangjon, also known as the Kailash of Zanskar.
Kurgiakh to Shinku La Pass (25 km) → The climb is steep and raw, with rough offroad tracks leading to the pass at 16,580 ft, surrounded by snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
Descent to Darcha (Lahaul) → After crossing the pass, the road winds down into the lush valleys of Lahaul, eventually connecting to the Leh–Manali Highway.
Darcha to Manali → A smooth drive through Atal Tunnel and Keylong brings you back to the bustling town of Manali.
This adventurous route is not just a road trip – it’s a journey through remote Zanskar culture, sacred monasteries, wild rivers, and some of the most barren yet stunning Himalayan landscapes.
While in Kargil,
Top Places to Visit in Kargil, Ladakh – Hidden Gems Beyond the War Memorial
Kargil is not just known for its brave history — it’s a land of raw beauty, ancient monasteries, and untouched valleys. Here are the best places to visit in and around Kargil, Ladakh:
Kargil War Memorial (Dras)
Located on the Kargil–Leh Highway, this memorial honors the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War. From here, you can see the famous Tiger Hill and Tololing peaks.
Suru Valley
Just 7–8 km from Kargil, this lush valley is surrounded by green fields, rivers, and the majestic Nun-Kun peaks (over 7000 m). Best visited in summer for its scenic beauty.
Mulbekh Monastery
Around 45 km from Kargil on the Leh road, this monastery features a 32-foot tall Buddha statue carved into a rock, dating back to the 9th century.
Rangdum
About 130 km from Kargil on the road to Zanskar, Rangdum offers a stunning barren landscape and a centuries-old monastery — a paradise for photographers and explorers.
Drang-Drung Glacier
Near Pensi La Pass, this is one of the largest accessible glaciers in Ladakh, offering breathtaking views of ice and snow formations.
Urgyan Dzong (Fort Monastery)
Located 70–80 km from Kargil in the Suru Valley, this ancient fortress-like monastery is often called the ‘Fort Monastery of Ladakh.’
Hunderman Village (LOC Border Village)
Situated near the Line of Control, Hunderman is home to the Museum of Memories, showcasing artifacts from the Indo-Pak wars and partition era.
Apati Buddha Statue
About 15 km from Kargil, this rock-carved ancient Buddha statue reflects the deep-rooted Buddhist heritage of the region.
Shargole Monastery
Located 35 km from Kargil, this small white monastery seems glued to a cliff face — an architectural marvel and a great spot for photography.
Batalik & Aryan Valley (Dah, Hanu, Batalik, Darchik)
Around 60–70 km from Kargil, this unique region is home to the Brokpa tribe, believed to be descendants of Alexander the Great’s army. Their distinct traditions, colorful attire, and festivals make this valley truly fascinating.
We stayed in Kargil Just for a day and covered the aryan valley and the war memorial in the grass sector.
on our return day to Manali, we were very tired.
⚠️ Note: Carry extra fuel, food supplies, and be prepared for altitude challenges, as facilities are minimal between Padum and Darcha.
Experience one of the most remote and thrilling drives in the Indian Himalayas – the Zanskar Valley road trip.
The 240 km route from Kargil to Padum crosses the mighty Penzi La Pass (14,400 ft), while the new road from Manali to Padum via Darcha and Shinkun La Pass (16,580 ft) is opening new horizons for adventure seekers.
Most of the road remains unpaved, rocky, and narrow, yet every turn rewards you with raw Himalayan beauty — barren mountains, frozen streams, and sudden patches of green villages.
The highlight is the Drang-Drung Glacier, visible from Penzi La, a breathtaking sight of endless ice and snow.
Driving along the Zanskar and Tsarap rivers feels surreal — a blend of silence, wind, and wilderness. Wooden bridges, small waterfalls crossing the road, and complete isolation for miles make this drive a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Along the way, you’ll find peaceful monasteries like Sani and Karsha, and traditional villages like Pibiting, where locals welcome you with warmth and simplicity.
⚠️ Challenges:
Rough roads, landslides, and water crossings are common.
Fuel is available only at Kargil and Padum – carry extra.
High altitude (14,000–16,000 ft) means thin oxygen levels.
Sudden snow or rain can block the road.
✅ Driving Tips:
Best suited for SUVs or 4x4 vehicles with good ground clearance.
Carry spare tyre, fuel, and repair kit.
Avoid night drives; travel in daylight.
Keep water and snacks — barren stretches are long and empty.
This is not just a road trip — it’s an adventure through silence, snow, and timeless mountains.
Experience peaceful moments along the Indus River
🗓️ Best Time to Visit: May to September
📍 Location: Between Srinagar and Leh, Ladakh
🎒 Perfect For: History lovers, bikers, and offbeat explorers
Discover a side of Ladakh that goes beyond Leh — Kargil, where every mountain tells a story.
We started from Manali at 10 am and reached Gombo Rangoon at around 3 pm.
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