Leh to Padum

Ride from the Indus Valley into the heart of Zanskar via the spectacular Suru Valley. This 3-day motorcycle adventure traverses the moonscapes of Lamayuru and offers front-row views of the massive Drang Drung Glacier. Experience the raw isolation of Rangdum and the ancient monastic culture of Padum on this trans-Himalayan odyssey. The Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road is an alternative route and is operational 7 days a week, with the Leh to Padum section via Nimmo being about 99% complete. However, the Manali-Zanskar section (including Shinku La pass) was temporarily closed due to snowfall on September 28, 2026, and a 4x4 vehicle is best tackled near Shinku La pass due to rough surfaces. The Manali-Leh highway, which connects to the Zanskar valley route, becomes unreliable after October 10 and was also temporarily closed due to snowfall on September 28, 2026. The Srinagar-Leh highway is generally open, but Zojila Pass has experienced multiple fresh snowfalls and temporary closures in September 2026, and remains closed on Fridays for maintenance work. Early October in Ladakh brings crisp, sunny days but nights drop to freezing, and the possibility of early snowfall increases as the month progresses, especially at high passes like Pensi La, which can close without warning in October. For Indian citizens, the traditional Inner Line Permit (ILP) has been replaced by a mandatory Environment & Development Fee (EDF) as of 2026, required to visit restricted areas beyond Leh. Foreign travelers still need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for some restricted areas, however, Zanskar Valley is permit-free for foreign nationals. Travelers should check current road and weather conditions before travel, especially for high passes.