The Junglam Trek (also spelled “Jung La”) is a lesser-known, high-altitude route that links Hemis Monastery near Leh to Padum, the cultural capital of Zanskar. It traverses the remote heart of the Markha Valley, entering wild, uninhabited gorges, alpine deserts, and unstable riverbeds. With no human settlement for long stretches, this trek is ideal for those who crave solitude, challenge, and raw natural beauty.
Though rarely used today, the Junglam route once served as an alternate link between Buddhist centers in Leh and Zanskar, especially when traditional routes were blocked. Hemis Monastery, the trek’s starting point, is one of Ladakh’s most revered spiritual centers, while Padum represents Zanskar’s rich monastic heritage.
The trek encapsulates centuries of Buddhist pilgrimage, isolation, and perseverance. Along the trail, you’ll encounter ancient meditation caves, mani walls, and silent testimonies to the region’s spiritual past.
Start at the magnificent Hemis Monastery, perched in a serene gorge
Trek through the pristine Markha Valley before diverting into Junglam
Cross multiple passes: Zalung Karpo La (~5,200 m), Charcharla (~4,900 m)
Navigate tight gorges, high-altitude plateaus, and braided rivers
End the journey in Padum, surrounded by Zanskari monasteries like Karsha and Stongde
Begin with prayers and rituals at Hemis Monastery, steeped in Drukpa lineage
Traverse areas that once hosted wandering monks and pilgrims
End in Zanskari villages, where traditional mud homes, butter lamps, and centuries-old monasteries preserve a timeless lifestyle
Engage with locals in Padum, who reflect the unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture and Himalayan resilience
This route demands fitness, preparation, and love for isolation.
Advanced multi-day high-altitude trek with wild terrain
Unmarked trails, frequent river crossings, and scree slopes
Wild camping under vast skies—zero light pollution, no human presence
Potential encounters with Himalayan wildlife: blue sheep, foxes, snowcocks
Ideal for off-the-grid photography and true wilderness exploration
Altitude Range: ~3,600 m to ~5,200 m
Best Time to Visit: Late August to early October (once rivers are manageable)
Duration: 9–12 days depending on conditions
Stay Options: Camping only; no homestays on most of the route
Permits: Inner Line Permit for Hemis region and entry registration in Padum
Starting Point: Hemis Monastery (accessible via Leh by road)
Ending Point: Padum (Zanskar)
Exit Route: From Padum, drive to Kargil via Pensi La or take onward trekking routes
Transport: Private vehicles from Leh to Hemis; jeeps or shared taxis from Padum to Kargil
Day 2–3 – Trek into Markha Valley, reach Nimaling
Day 4 – Cross Zalung Karpo La into Junglam Valley
Day 5–7 – Trek through gorges and cross Charcharla
Day 8–10 – Enter Zanskar plains, arrive near Zangla or Padum
Day 11–12 – Rest and explore Padum’s monasteries
Itinerary may vary depending on water levels and trail conditions.
Not suitable for beginners—requires strong fitness and trekking experience
Hire a qualified Ladakhi guide and mule support team
Cross-check water levels in Junglam—route is inaccessible during high floods
Carry trekking poles, waterproof footwear, and extra food supplies
No phone connectivity or rescue access for days—carry satellite communication if possible
Stakna and Thiksey Monasteries (en route to Hemis)
Markha Valley (if you extend the trek’s initial phase)
Karsha Monastery: Largest in Zanskar, near Padum
Stongde and Sani Gompas: Historic spiritual sites in Zanskar
Drang Drung Glacier & Pensi La (scenic drive out from Padum)
The Hemis to Padum via Junglam Trek is not just a path—it’s an expedition. Few treks in Ladakh offer this level of isolation, raw challenge, and spiritual backdrop. If you’re drawn to untouched trails, ancient corridors, and Himalayan soul-searching, this is the trek that will leave a permanent imprint on your memory.
