Ride the new trans-Himalayan axis connecting Zanskar to Lahaul via the towering 16,580 ft Shinku La Pass. This adventurous solo route features a trek to the secluded Phugtal Cave Monastery and camping beneath the holy Gonbo Rangjon peak. It is a raw off-road experience transitioning from the arid Zanskar gorges to the green Bhaga valley. Expect ongoing road widening and blacktopping by the BRO, with the Shinku La Tunnel project underway, expected to be completed by August 2028.
Fill up at the IOCL pump in Padum - this is the LAST fuel station for 190km. Head south towards Lungnak Valley.
0 km
Quick photo stop at this 17th-century monastery perched on a riverside cliff. The road is dusty and unpaved here.
12 km
Reach Purne bridge. Check into a homestay/camp, leave heavy luggage, and start the trek to Phugtal Monastery immediately.
60 km
Explore the spectacular cave monastery. Interact with monks. Modest food available at the monastery kitchen.
60 km
Return trek to Purne. Dinner at the homestay. Prepare for cold night.
60 km
Cross the bridge and ride towards Kurgiakh. The road is rough with potential water crossings.
0 km
Arrive at the base of the holy 'God's Mountain'. Iconic photo spot. The solitary peak towers over the valley.
30 km
Summit the pass at 16,580 ft. It can be windy and snowy. The descent towards Himachal is paved and smooth.
55 km
Register entry at the police check post. You are now on the main Manali-Leh highway.
93 km
Ride along the Bhaga river to reach Jispa. Check into a riverside camp or hotel like Padma Lodge.
100 km
