2,900 m
Turtuk
A Balti village of stone lanes, apricot orchards and glacial streams, among the last villages before the Line of Control.
Zanskar
Phugtal Monastery, Ladakh
A monastery built into the mouth of a cliff-side cave above the Tsarap river, reachable only on foot.
- Altitude
- 3,850 m
- From Leh
- Via Padum; 2 days by road, plus a hike
- Best time
- June to September
- Permit
- No special permit for Indian nationals; foreign nationals should check current rules
Phugtal is one of the most remote monasteries in the Himalaya. The hike in from the road head takes a few hours along the river gorge. Monks still live here year-round, and visitors are welcome to join prayers.
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2,900 m
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Home of the Brokpa people, known for flower-crowned headdresses, vineyards and a distinct culture.
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