Zangla Village in Leh Ladakh: Hidden Jewel of the Himalayas & Complete Travel Guide to Umba La Pass

Ladakh—a land of dramatic landscapes, high mountain passes, and ancient monasteries—never ceases to amaze its travelers. While destinations like Leh, Nubra Valley, and Pangong Tso dominate most itineraries, there are still parts of Ladakh that remain largely untouched and off the beaten track. Among these is the quaint and mystical Zangla Village in Leh Ladakh, a place that feels frozen in time.

If you’re planning a trip to Ladakh, this detailed guide will help you explore not just Zangla but also one of the region’s lesser-known mountain passes, Umba La Pass Ladakh. Prepare for a journey full of rich history, raw nature, and the true essence of Himalayan solitude.

Introduction to Zangla Village in Leh Ladakh

Zangla is a tiny, peaceful village located at the far end of the Zanskar Valley. Surrounded by barren mountains, clear blue skies, and ancient heritage sites, Zangla is the kind of place where time slows down. Unlike the popular hubs of Ladakh, Zangla has managed to preserve its cultural and natural authenticity.

Approximately 35 kilometers from Padum (the administrative center of Zanskar), Zangla is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, culture, and scenic beauty away from touristy crowds.

How to Reach Zangla Village

From Leh:

• By Road: The most scenic and adventurous route is via Kargil and Padum. It usually takes 2-3 days by road from Leh.

• By Flight: Fly from Leh to Kargil (charter flights) and then proceed by road.

Best Time to Visit:

• May to September: These are the most favorable months with accessible roads and pleasant weather.

Things to Do in Zangla Village

1. Visit the Zangla Palace

A dilapidated yet majestic fort that sits atop a hill. Once the royal residence of the Zangla kings, it offers sweeping views of the Zanskar Valley.

2. Interact with Monks at the Zangla Nunnery

Home to several young and elder nuns, the Zangla Nunnery is a serene place that gives insight into the monastic life of Ladakh.

3. Go for Nature Walks and Village Hikes

Explore the surrounding hills and ancient pathways while soaking in the beauty of the region.

4. Volunteer at Local Schools

Some travelers choose to spend extra time in Zangla by teaching English or helping with basic school activities.

Cultural Insights

Zangla is predominantly inhabited by followers of Tibetan Buddhism. Expect to see colorful prayer flags, spinning prayer wheels, and stupas dotting the landscape. The locals are warm and welcoming, often inviting travelers for butter tea and traditional meals.

Accommodations in Zangla

Since the village is remote, accommodation is basic but cozy. Options include:

• Homestays with local families

• Basic guesthouses near the monastery

• Tented accommodations (during summer)

Travel Tips

• Carry Cash: No ATMs in or near Zangla.

• Pack Warm Clothes: Even summer nights can be cold.

• Connectivity: Very limited mobile and internet access.

• Fuel Up: No petrol stations nearby; carry extra if self-driving.

Exploring Umba La Pass Ladakh

If you're an adventure seeker or a seasoned rider, then Umba La Pass Ladakh is a must-experience route. Located between Dras and the Suru Valley, this high-altitude mountain pass stands at an elevation of over 4,400 meters (14,400 ft).

Unlike the more frequented Khardung La or Chang La, Umba La is rugged, raw, and rarely visited, making it a true gem for offbeat explorers.

Highlights of Umba La Pass:

• Offers panoramic views of the Suru and Dras valleys

• Perfect for off-roading and motorbike trips

• Crosses paths with glaciers and isolated villages

• An ideal spot for landscape photographers

How to Reach Umba La Pass

From Kargil:

• Travel toward Dras and then head towards the village of Umba. From there, a rugged mountain trail leads to the pass.

Best Time to Visit:

• June to September: The snow clears and the route becomes accessible. Always check local weather conditions before planning the ride.

Activities Around Umba La

• Trekking: The area is ideal for trekking, especially for those seeking less commercial trails.

• Camping: With proper gear, camping under Ladakh’s starlit sky near Umba La is a surreal experience.

• Photography: Snow-capped peaks, winding roads, and dramatic skies make for postcard-perfect shots.

Suggested Itinerary (Zangla + Umba La)

Day 1-2: Arrive in Leh and acclimatize

Day 3: Travel to Kargil via Lamayuru

Day 4: Reach Padum, explore the town

Day 5: Visit Zangla Village and Zangla Palace

Day 6: Explore nearby villages or volunteer at the nunnery

Day 7: Drive back to Kargil and take the route towards Umba Village

Day 8: Cross Umba La Pass and explore Dras Valley

Why Include These Destinations in Your Trip to Ladakh

Both Zangla and Umba La offer a more intimate and untouched version of Ladakh. Where Zangla shows you the region’s peaceful, cultural side, Umba La brings out its wild, untamed beauty. Together, they create a travel experience that captures the soul of Ladakh beyond the tourist trail.

Adding these gems to your trip to Ladakh not only diversifies your itinerary but also gives you bragging rights for exploring places few have seen. These regions are perfect for slow travel, cultural immersion, and personal discovery.

Final Thoughts

Ladakh is more than just Pangong Lake and monasteries; it’s about discovering hidden villages like Zangla and challenging high-altitude routes like Umba La. The Zangla Village in Leh Ladakh and Umba La Pass Ladakh together offer a fulfilling, enriching journey for any traveller looking to step beyond the ordinary.

Whether you're an explorer, biker, or a cultural enthusiast, pack your sense of adventure and head toward these hidden treasures in 2024. You won't just return with stunning pictures—you'll return with stories etched in your soul.