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Zanskar - Introduction
A tour to the hill resort of Zanskar is a celebration of joie de vivre. A veritable Shangri-La, the hill resort of Zanskar in the state of Jammu and Kashmir conjures up images of snow-capped mountains and spectacular gompas (monasteries). Literally meaning the Copper Star thanks to the copper sediments in the waters of the rivers flowing through this land, Zanskar attracts tourist for the sheer magic and mystery of the land. It is a chance to discover the soul-stirring landscape; to experience the exceptional, stunning natural environment; to become acquainted with the customs and lifestyles of the local people.
Location 
Situated 235 km away from Kargil, Zanskar valley is situated across the Suru Valley and over the Pensi La in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir. The Zanskar River remains the only access route to the Zanskar's valley. As a matter of fact the ice freezes thick on the river and it becomes a highway known as the Chador Road.
Sight Seeing
Far from the madding crowd, Zanskar is a travel destination that deifies description. A scantly populated region perched on the lap of the Himalayan ranges, this hill resort is home to two amazing alpine lakes. Added to this, the view of the "Drang-Drung" glacier is awe-inspiring.
An important place in the Zanskar Valley is Panikhar, which lies on the border of the Suru Valley. The Dogra Fort for built by Zorawar Singh is a major tourist attraction.
Dividing the Zanskar valley and the Suru Valley is the Penzella Pass, which serves as a vantage point for a breathtaking view of the mountains and the fascinating countryside.
Situated at an altitude of 3610 meters, Karsha is inhabited by the people where you can get a glimpse of the customs and traditions of the people and to share with them their holiday celebrations and popular traditions. The Gelugpa monastery at Karsha is the largest in the Zanskar Valley and must be visited to know the centrality of religion to the lives of the people of Zanskar. The roof of the monastery commands impressive views of the main Himalaya and the Zanskar Valley. And not to be missed is the beautiful mural art displayed at Labrang in Zanskar. Apart from these the hill resort of Zanskar is home to several centers of the Tibetan Buddhists that deserve visit.
Zanskar - Adventure sports
The hill resort of Zanskar offers to the thrill seekers plenty of adventure activities to indulge in. You can try river rafting from Serchu to Nyimu via Padam. Trekking can be undertaken to Panikhar or Rangdum over the Pentse La, into the Zanskar Valley from Lamayuru, Leh or Darcha, from Padum to the Markha valley et al. It is advisable for the visitors to keep the climatic conditions in mind while choosing the trek.
Weather
Thanks to the high altitudes, which cause heavy snowfall during winter season, Zanskar remains inaccessible for nearly 8 months a year. As a result all the passes are closed.
Getting there
You will have to cross several high passes to reach Zanskar. Padum in the Zanskar valley may be joined but the track is not really smooth.
Road & Rail
The road connecting Zanskar with Kargil is open from mid July to early November. Buses, jeeps, gypsies and taxis are readily available for transport to Zanskar from Kargil.
Accommodation
Zanskar offers you a lot of accommodation options. Tourists may stay at the Tourists' complexes. Opt for the camps in the tents. You can also stay at the monasteries and village houses. Added to these, Zanskar is also home to a few hotels where you can get basic facilities.
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