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LadakhAccessible

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About Phugtal Monastery Trek

3 Days
12,630 FT
Accessible

The Phugtal Monastery Trek follows the Lungnak Valley to one of the Himalayas' most remarkable Buddhist monasteries. Built into the mouth of a natural cave above the Tsarap River, the trek combines dramatic canyon scenery with the unique cultural heritage of remote Zanskar.

Trek Highlights

Phugtal Cave Exterior

The iconic view of the whitewashed monastery buildings spilling out of a massive natural cave.

Tsarap Gorge

The deep, narrow canyon with sheer limestone walls and a bright turquoise river.

Purne Hamlet

A picturesque, isolated village with lush green fields hidden in the barren gorge.

View Complete Trek Guide

Common Questions

How long is the actual trek?
With the new road extending past Ichar and Anmu, you can now drive very close to the villages of Cha or Purne. From Purne, the actual walk to the monastery is only about 7 kilometers (2 to 3 hours one way).
Is the trail dangerous?
The trail is not technically difficult, but there are sections between Purne and the monastery that are very narrow, cut directly into the cliffside with a sheer drop down to the Tsarap river. Those with severe vertigo may find it intimidating.
Can I stay inside the monastery?
The monastery has a very basic guesthouse attached to it. However, most trekkers prefer to use the excellent homestay network in the nearby village of Purne and do the monastery as a day-hike.
Do I need camping gear?
No. This is a classic 'tea-house' style trek. You can rely entirely on local homestays in Anmu, Cha, and Purne for bed and meals.
Are there altitude issues on this trek?
While it lacks massive 16,000 ft passes, you are still sleeping at 12,300 ft in Purne. If you have just arrived in Zanskar, you must ensure you are properly acclimatized before starting.
Is there phone connectivity?
There is currently no reliable mobile network beyond Padum. Consider yourself completely off the grid.
Is it open in winter?
The trek is theoretically possible as part of a deep winter expedition, but homestays shut down and the access roads from Padum are often blocked by heavy snow. The practical season is summer.
Is the water safe to drink?
Do not drink directly from the streams. Always ask your homestay to boil water for your bottles, or use a Lifestraw/purification tablets.
How long is the actual trek?
With the new road extending past Ichar and Anmu, you can now drive very close to the villages of Cha or Purne. From Purne, the actual walk to the monastery is only about 7 kilometers (2 to 3 hours one way).
Is the trail dangerous?
The trail is not technically difficult, but there are sections between Purne and the monastery that are very narrow, cut directly into the cliffside with a sheer drop down to the Tsarap river. Those with severe vertigo may find it intimidating.
Can I stay inside the monastery?
The monastery has a very basic guesthouse attached to it. However, most trekkers prefer to use the excellent homestay network in the nearby village of Purne and do the monastery as a day-hike.
Do I need camping gear?
No. This is a classic 'tea-house' style trek. You can rely entirely on local homestays in Anmu, Cha, and Purne for bed and meals.
Are there altitude issues on this trek?
While it lacks massive 16,000 ft passes, you are still sleeping at 12,300 ft in Purne. If you have just arrived in Zanskar, you must ensure you are properly acclimatized before starting.
Is there phone connectivity?
There is currently no reliable mobile network beyond Padum. Consider yourself completely off the grid.
Is it open in winter?
The trek is theoretically possible as part of a deep winter expedition, but homestays shut down and the access roads from Padum are often blocked by heavy snow. The practical season is summer.
Is the water safe to drink?
Do not drink directly from the streams. Always ask your homestay to boil water for your bottles, or use a Lifestraw/purification tablets.

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