Kanji to Padum Trek – A High-Altitude Journey Through Zanskar’s Wild Beauty

The Kanji to Padum trek in the Zanskar region of Ladakh is one of the most spectacular and rewarding high-altitude adventures in the Indian Himalaya. Renowned for its remote landscapes, rugged gorges, and dramatic mountain passes, this route is an excellent alternative to the classic Lamayuru to Padum trek—offering equally breathtaking scenery with far fewer trekkers. Beginning in the quiet village of Kanji, the trail leads across stark, moon-like terrain reminiscent of the Lamayuru region, gradually opening into the vast expanses of Zanskar. Along the way, trekkers pass through isolated hamlets and ancient cultural sites, including a visit to the remarkable Phugtal Monastery, a 10th-century marvel carved into a cliff high above the Phugtal River.

The region is also home to towering Himalayan giants such as Nun and Kun, both soaring above 7,000m, and natural wonders like the 23 km–long Drang Drung Glacier and the lush Suru Valley, making every stage of the journey visually stunning.

Note for trekkers: Between July and October, the ascent to the Kanji La Pass from the northern side can be particularly demanding. Deep snow often blankets the route, posing challenges for horses transporting gear and supplies—even though trekkers themselves can cross with caution. This adds an additional layer of adventure and makes the trek especially suited for experienced hikers seeking a true Himalayan challenge.

Day on the Trek

Each morning, you’ll be gently awakened around 6:30 am with a cup of tea brought to your tent, followed by a small bowl of warm water for washing. Before breakfast, you'll pack your gear into your kit bag, which will be taken by pack animals or porters, and you won’t have access to it until you reach camp later in the afternoon. After a hearty breakfast, we usually hit the trail between 7:30 and 8:00 am, depending on the day’s trek. We’ll typically walk for 3 to 4 hours before breaking for a one-hour lunch, with some staff walking ahead to select a good spot for our rest. The afternoon walk is usually shorter, and we typically reach camp between 3:30 and 4:30 pm. Once camp is set up and the kitchen is ready, afternoon tea will be served. You’ll then have time to rest or explore the surrounding area until dinner, which is usually served between 6:00 and 7:00 pm. Be sure to bring your headlamp and water bottles to the dining tent so they can be filled with boiling water. Evenings on the trek offer some of the most memorable moments, whether it's chatting with fellow trekkers, playing cards, engaging with the local crew, or even joining in some singing and dancing. Much of the joy of an expedition lies in the journey itself.

Trip Highlights

•Leh Acclimatization & Local Exploration
Arrive in Leh and spend the day adjusting to the altitude; visit Shanti Stupa, Tsemo Monastery, and the bustling Leh Market in the evening.

•Iconic Monasteries of Indus Valley
Explore the grand Hemis Monastery and picturesque Thiksey Monastery, both offering deep insight into Ladakh’s Buddhist traditions and stunning valley views.

• Alchi & Moonland Landscapes
Drive to the ancient Alchi Monastery and continue to Lamayuru, famous for its dramatic Moonland terrain, with stops at the Indus–Zanskar confluence.

• Kanji Village & Acclimatization Walk
Travel to remote Kanji Village, passing Fotula Pass, and take a gentle acclimatization hike through scenic valleys before camping near the river.

• Trek to Kanji La Base Camp
Begin the trek with multiple river crossings and encounters with shepherd settlements, ascending to the high-altitude Kanji La Basecamp.

• Crossing High Passes: Kanji La to Pigdong La
Tackle challenging high passes including Kanji La (5,250m) and Pigdong La (5,000m), experiencing snow sections, scree trails, remote gorges, and spectacular mountain panoramas.

•Remote Villages & Cultural Immersion
Visit the isolated villages of Dibling and Hanamur, explore centuries-old monasteries, and trek through wildlife-rich valleys with chances to spot Ibex or Blue Sheep.

TOURS

DZO JONGO EAST

ICE CLIMBING WEST - LADAKH

KANJI - PADUM TREK

LADAKH SAFARI

MENTOK KANGRI

UT KANGRI

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

KANG-YASTE I

KHARNAK VALLEY TREK

LADAKH SPRINGS

NOMADIC TRAILS

ZANSKAR INDUS TRAVERSE

ICE CLIMBING IN LEH

KANG-YATSE 2

KUN (7070M)

LADAKH WINTER TOUR

PHYANG - HUNDAR TRAVERSE