In the north of India, on the northern flank of the gigantic Himalaya, there is a high altitude mountain range called Zanskar, a piece of untouched nature and a place of silence (...if you imagine the place without the noise of the donkeys). No streets, no big cities, no cell phone reception - just loneliness in the midst of the beautiful Zanskar moutains.

The Trans Zanskar Trek is a long distance walk of 350 kilometers within 17 days from Lamayuru to Darcha (or the other way around) at a height of between 3,500 and 5,100 metres.
While the technical level of the hike is low you have to be as fit as a fiddle to manage the long stages especially in the first seven days of the trek from Lamayuru to Hanamur, where six passes have to be climbed (see altitude profile). The second part of the trek is stretched but therefor not steep, as the route follows the grey Zanskar river through a semi-dessert area before a path over the Shingo La pass leads down to Darcha. This trek is really exhausting but one or two sparedays can help to recharge one's batteries and make it more easy to reach the final destination.
Due to the extreme hight on the whole Trans-Zanskar trek it makes sense to spend two or three more acclimatisation days in the interesting mountain village Leh at the beginning of the adventure. This is the last chance for a refreshing shower, a night in a more or less comfortable bed and also the last possibility to send a sign of life to the family for the next 17 days.
Another important think that shouldn't be underestimated is the cruel sun. The Zanskar area is a semi-dessert, what means that there are hardly any affording shade trees and the risk of sunburn is extraordinarily large.

Because of the many different pathes through the Zanskar region, the need for a tent and other heavy equipment, a knowledgeable Zanskari guide and horsemen are recommended, so that nothing can get in the way of a breathtaking unforgettable trek.