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About Junglam Trek

10 Days
17,250 FT
Challenging

The Junglam Trek, also known as the Junglam Traverse or Hemis to Padum Trek, is one of Ladakh's classic expedition routes connecting the Indus Valley with Zanskar. Crossing three high mountain passes, numerous glacier-fed rivers, and remote gorges, it is a physically demanding journey designed for experienced, well-acclimatized trekkers.

Trek Highlights

Kongmaru La Summit

17,250 ft viewpoint offering a massive panorama of the 21,000 ft Kang Yatse massif.

The Jhunglam Gorge

A claustrophobic, dramatic slot canyon where sheer rock walls drop directly into a raging river.

Zangla Fort

The ancient, ruined palace perched on a hill, marking your victorious arrival in the Zanskar Kingdom.

View Complete Trek Guide

Common Questions

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Absolutely not. This is an Expedition Grade trek. It requires crossing three passes above 16,000 ft and navigating deep, freezing, fast-flowing rivers. Prior high-altitude and river-fording experience is mandatory.
How many times do we cross the river?
On the stretch between Tilat Sumdo and Zangla Sumdo, you will cross the Jumlam river and its tributaries upwards of 50 to 60 times. You will spend entire days walking in wet footwear.
Why is the trekking window so short?
The window is restricted to roughly August 15th to September 30th. Before mid-August, the river levels from glacial melt are too high and dangerous to cross. By October, heavy snow blocks the high passes.
Are there any homestays on this route?
No. Once you leave the Markha valley junction (Tachungtse) and head toward Zalung Karpo La, you are in total wilderness until you reach Zangla in Zanskar. You must carry full camping and food supplies.
How is the AMS risk?
Very high. You cross Kongmaru La (17,250 ft) on day 3 or 4. You must be fully acclimatized in Leh for 3 days prior to starting.
What happens in a medical emergency in the gorges?
Evacuation is incredibly difficult. Satellite phones are required. If caught in the deep gorges between Zalung Karpo La and Charchar La, a helicopter rescue is the only viable option, weather permitting.
Is there phone network?
Zero connectivity from the moment you leave Hemis/Shang Sumdo until you arrive in Padum 10 days later.
Has road construction ruined this trek?
The core Jhunglam section remains untouched wilderness. However, the final days from Zangla to Padum now follow a motorable dirt road, so many trekkers choose to take a taxi from Zangla to end the trek early.
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
Absolutely not. This is an Expedition Grade trek. It requires crossing three passes above 16,000 ft and navigating deep, freezing, fast-flowing rivers. Prior high-altitude and river-fording experience is mandatory.
How many times do we cross the river?
On the stretch between Tilat Sumdo and Zangla Sumdo, you will cross the Jumlam river and its tributaries upwards of 50 to 60 times. You will spend entire days walking in wet footwear.
Why is the trekking window so short?
The window is restricted to roughly August 15th to September 30th. Before mid-August, the river levels from glacial melt are too high and dangerous to cross. By October, heavy snow blocks the high passes.
Are there any homestays on this route?
No. Once you leave the Markha valley junction (Tachungtse) and head toward Zalung Karpo La, you are in total wilderness until you reach Zangla in Zanskar. You must carry full camping and food supplies.
How is the AMS risk?
Very high. You cross Kongmaru La (17,250 ft) on day 3 or 4. You must be fully acclimatized in Leh for 3 days prior to starting.
What happens in a medical emergency in the gorges?
Evacuation is incredibly difficult. Satellite phones are required. If caught in the deep gorges between Zalung Karpo La and Charchar La, a helicopter rescue is the only viable option, weather permitting.
Is there phone network?
Zero connectivity from the moment you leave Hemis/Shang Sumdo until you arrive in Padum 10 days later.
Has road construction ruined this trek?
The core Jhunglam section remains untouched wilderness. However, the final days from Zangla to Padum now follow a motorable dirt road, so many trekkers choose to take a taxi from Zangla to end the trek early.

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