This unforgettable Himalayan road trip takes you from the green valleys of Manali into the dramatic cold deserts of Lahaul and deep inside the remote Zanskar Valley. Crossing high mountain passes, sleeping in quiet villages, and visiting centuries-old monasteries, this journey is perfect for travellers who want real mountain experiences rather than crowded tourist towns.
Every day is carefully planned to balance long scenic drives with comfortable stays, time to explore, and moments to simply stop and admire the Himalayas
Day 1: Chandigarh / Delhi – Manali
Your adventure begins early morning with a warm welcome from our experienced mountain driver. As you leave the plains behind, the road slowly climbs along rivers, forests, and apple orchards.
Breaks are taken for tea and lunch along the way before you reach Manali by evening. After check-in, relax at your hotel or enjoy a gentle riverside walk.
Overnight stay: Manali
Day 2: Manali Local Sightseeing
Wake up to cool mountain air and pine-covered slopes. Today is relaxed and all about enjoying Manali’s charm. Visit the beautiful Hadimba Devi Temple, stroll through Old Manali, soak your feet at the Vashisht hot springs, and explore local markets.
If the weather allows, drive to Solang Valley for snow play or adventure sports like paragliding.
Return to the hotel by evening and enjoy dinner.
Overnight stay: Manali
Day 3: Manali – Atal Tunnel – Sissu – Udaipur
After breakfast, the scenery changes dramatically as you cross the famous Atal Tunnel, emerging into the wide, open landscapes of Lahaul Valley.
Stop at Sissu Waterfall for photos and tea, then continue through villages, glacial streams, and barley fields to reach Udaipur, one of the prettiest settlements in Lahaul. Visit the ancient Mrikula Devi Temple and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Overnight stay: Udaipur
Day 4: Udaipur – Darcha
Enjoy a slow morning surrounded by towering mountains and river views before driving to Darcha, the gateway to Zanskar Valley and a well-known trekking base.
The route is short but stunning, with crystal-clear rivers and dramatic cliffs lining the road. Evening is free to relax, take short walks, and prepare for the adventurous days ahead.
Overnight stay: Darcha
Day 5: Darcha – Shinku La Pass – Purne
This is one of the most thrilling days of the entire trip. Leave early and climb steadily toward the mighty Shinku La Pass, often surrounded by snow even in summer.
From the top, enjoy breathtaking views of endless Himalayan ranges before descending into Zanskar Valley. The road follows deep gorges and roaring rivers until you finally arrive at the quiet riverside village of Purne.
Settle into your homestay or camp, enjoy simple local food, and gaze at star-filled skies far away from city lights.
Overnight stay: Purne
Day 6: Purne – Padum – Zanskar Monasteries
After breakfast, continue deeper into Zanskar toward Padum, the heart of the valley. Along the way, stop at dramatic viewpoints and prayer-flag-covered ridges.
Visit famous monasteries such as Karsha Gompa, the largest in Zanskar, or Stongde Gompa, known for its cliff-top setting.
Spend the evening exploring Padum’s small market or resting after the long drive.
Overnight stay: Padum
Day 7: Padum – Rangdum
Today’s drive feels like entering another world. Vast plains, braided rivers, and glacier-fed streams stretch out in every direction as you head toward Rangdum.
Visit the striking Rangdum Gompa, sitting alone in the middle of the valley, and enjoy the raw, untouched beauty of this high-altitude region.
As night falls, the silence and stars make this a truly magical place.
Overnight stay: Rangdum
Day 8: Rangdum – Baralacha La – Sarchu / Keylong
Begin the return journey through classic Himalayan landscapes, climbing slowly toward the legendary Baralacha La Pass, a crossing long used by traders and explorers.
Weather permitting, stop for photos at the top before continuing toward Sarchu or Keylong for a well-earned rest.
Overnight stay: Sarchu / Keylong
Day 9: Keylong / Sarchu – Manali
Drive back toward Manali, watching barren cold-desert mountains slowly turn into green forests again.
Reach Manali by evening and enjoy your final night with café hopping, souvenir shopping, or simply relaxing by the river.
Overnight stay: Manali
Day 10: Manali – Chandigarh / Delhi Drop
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Chandigarh or Delhi with cameras full of photos and memories that will stay with you for life.
