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Phugtal Monastery Trek Itinerary — Day by Day Route & Camps
A 3-day excursion from Padum. Drive to the roadhead, trek into the gorge to stay in a traditional homestay in Purne, and do a day-hike to the incredible cliffside monastery.
Standard RouteThis is the standard mountain pacing for this trek. Specific operators may add an acclimatization day or alter the starting point. Check individual operator schedules for their exact logistics.
Duration
3 Days
Total Distance
14.0 KM
Max Altitude
12,630 FT
Trek Type
circuit
Day by Day Breakdown
Camp Alt
12,300 ft
Day Gain
+500 ft
Drive to Anmu & Trek to Purne
Drive from Padum deep into the Lungnak valley. The motorable road currently ends near the villages of Anmu or Cha (this changes yearly due to construction). From the roadhead, shoulder your daypack and begin a highly scenic 2 to 3-hour trek along the turquoise Tsarap river to the tiny, beautiful hamlet of Purne.
Key Landmarks
Staying At
Tree line disappears as the valley broadens into a spectacular high-altitude alpine meadow basin, replacing the dense forests with expansive grazing pastures.
Camp Alt
12,300 ft
Day Gain
0 ft
Today's Objective
💧 Reach Phugtal Monastery
Leave your main luggage at the homestay. The trail crosses a suspension bridge and follows the right bank of the river. The path is spectacular, cut into the limestone cliffs. Suddenly, the gorge opens to reveal the incredible Phugtal Monastery clinging to the cave mouth. Spend a few hours exploring the prayer halls and interacting with the monks before returning to Purne.
Key Landmarks
Staying At
The route ascends to an exposed ridge line. The route follows the river valley.
Field Notes
KEY ACTIONHelmet Mandatory
Helmet mandatory. Move quickly and quietly through the rockfall zone without stopping to rest.
Camp Alt
11,800 ft
Day Gain
-500 ft
Trek to Roadhead & Drive to Padum
After breakfast, retrace your steps from Purne back to the current roadhead at Cha or Anmu. Meet your taxi and enjoy the 2-hour drive back to the comforts of Padum.
Key Landmarks
Staying At
Tree line disappears as the valley broadens into a spectacular high-altitude alpine meadow basin, replacing the dense forests with expansive grazing pastures.
Trek Extensions & Add-ons
Gonbo Rangjon via Shingo La
+2 DaysAfter returning to Padum, drive south over the Shingo La pass to witness the majestic, standalone rock monolith of Gonbo Rangjon.
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