The Lama – Darcha and Manali Trek is an extraordinary 22-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh, Zanskar, and Himachal Pradesh. Starting from Leh, this trek takes you through remote mountain passes, ancient monasteries, and picturesque villages before concluding in Manali. Experience the rich Buddhist culture, stunning high-altitude terrain, and the thrill of crossing challenging passes such as Shinkun La (5090m). This trek is perfect for seasoned trekkers looking for a challenging and immersive adventure in the Himalayas.
The flight over the Himalayas and the landing in Leh is an adventure in itself and even when you are tired from your long journey, that experience will wake you right up. Our guide is already waiting for at the airport in Leh and will bring you to your guesthouse/Hotel. On the first day you can relax and only relax to better acclimatize to the high altitude. (It is a conscious decision not having planned any activities on the first day, it is crucial for your adaptation to the high altitude!) Overnight : Hotel Meals : BB Elevation : 3500 m
After a leisurely breakfast, we drive to visit Hemis Monastery situated 45km west of Leh; Hemis is the largest and the wealthiest monastery in Ladakh. From Hemis, you are driven back taking the same route to visit Thiksey Monastery, located on a hill-lock with formidable views of the Indus valley. After that we continue to drive shey palace. Shey Palace the former summer palace of the King of Ladakh and back to hotel for overnight stay. Overnight : Hotel Meals : BB Elevation : 3500 m
Sightseeing of Liker monastery and the world famous Alchi Choskor shrines on the first day drive till Lamayuru, where overnight stay in camp or guest house is arranged a day before before starting the trek. Overnight : Hotel Meals : BLD Elevation : 3500 m
A beautiful day hiking in terms of scenery. Colours rocks changes depending daylight and contrast with the green of the village of Lamayuru. Climb up Prinkiti la pass (3750 m) Continue walk until Wanla where we find the motorabla roads. Short transfer by car to Photoksar via Sirsir la, to avoid walking on the roads . Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 4120 m
On the walk down the village keep the stream on your left, and you approach a few Pulu (herders’ shelters). Cross the stream to move towards the base of Singay la. The base, which is the campsite for the day, is not a very long walk from the herders’ shelters. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 4300 m
Climb up the Singay La pass (5050m), and on the way down a trail leading to left goes to Yulchung Nerags village. Take the right trail to get to Kyukpa la (4430). After crossing Kyukpa la pass take the right trail to the same direction down to a hamlet. Cross the stream and walk upwards to Margo la (4500m). The Lingshet village is reached after the descent of the pass. The campsite is near the school and there is a monastery is above the village on the left hand side. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3950 m
Walk down the stream through the fields and an easy ascend starts after crossing the stream. At Hanuma la (4800m) has the first and good view of Lingshet valley. Walking down along a stream leads you to the campsite before the village next to a tree. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3800 m
The day’s journey begins with crossing the stream and leaving it on the left to walk upwards. After a curve start walking up to the stream, cross the bridge and then a steep ascent takes you to Parfi la (3950m). Walking down to the Zanskar River and the trail along it leads to Hanamur, which has herders’ shelters. The campsite is close to the fields along the River. is near the field and the river Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3450 m
A day of walking without difficulty. A few small climbs and descent take us to the village of Pidmo Village, a green oaisis on the edge of the Zansker River.we continue our trek to Pishu. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3470 m
Continue walking along the Zanskar River towards Karsha passing through Rinam village. The campsite for the day is below the majestic monastery perched on the mountain. Before retiring for the day, visit to this huge monastic heritage with many monks is worthwhile. Overnight :- Camp Meals :- B.L.D Elevation :- 3650 m
The day also has in store for you visits to religious monuments in Pibiting village and in Padum, which is also headquarter of Zanskar region. Check in Hotel Ibex and visit Sani and Stakrimo monasteries after having lunch. Night stay in the hotel with good basic facility is refreshing. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3610 m
This is a less interesting day for walking along the roads, so we take car till Raru, on the way we pass through the Villages of Shila, Pipcha and Bardan Monestry. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3700 m
There are many up and down traverse along the river after crossing it to get the Pepu la pass close to a stream. The campsite is near the teashop. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3750 m
Cross the stream and walk up to the next bridge near Tantse. Cross the Lungnak River and walk towards north for Purne, where you have to camp. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3775 m
Walk towards Phugtal Monastery and walk back to the Camp at Purne. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 3775 m
Walk towards south and cross the same bridge. Walk southward through a valley to get the camp. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 4130 m
Walk towards Kargyak and the camp site is just across the bridge. Overnight stay in the camp. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 4550 m
Again walk along the river and the ascend starts after a few miles walk. Reach Shinkunla (5090m) top and other side of the pass is little bit difficult. Long descent on the roads ,Arrive at Zanskar sumdo after passing by Ramjak. Overnight : Camp Meals : BLD Elevation : 4000 m
Transfer to Manali via Darcha by car. Overnight : Hotel Meals :- BL Elevation : 2050 m
Overnight : Hotel Meals :- BL Elevation : 2500 m
Long day drive to Chandigarh by car, in the evening night train to Delhi. Overnight : Train Meals : B Elevation : 320 m
The Lama - Darcha and Manali Trek is considered moderate to difficult due to its high altitude, multiple days of trekking, and demanding terrain. Good fitness and prior trekking experience are recommended.
The best months for this trek are June to September, when the trails are open and weather conditions are stable.
Accommodation includes hotels in Leh and Manali, while during the trek, you will stay in campsites with tents and basic facilities.
Yes, permits may be required for certain regions, especially for foreign trekkers. It’s best to check regulations before your journey.