Imagine standing at 16,580 feet, surrounded by jagged rocks, where a silence befriends you in a way that feels like the whole wilderness is whispering nicknames to you.
This is exactly how it is at Shinkula Pass—a high-altitude region developing into an exceptional adventure opportunity in the Indian Himalayas.
It isn’t a road, it is a journey that leads you to the untouched raw landscape of Zanskar, from the Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the otherworldly Zanskar region within Ladakh.
I will never forget my first sight of Shinkula Pass as my heart started racing whilst we climbed in our jeep and the air thinned, revealing one of the most remarkable landscapes as we ascended.
Shinkula Pass is a point where the travel for thrill collides with the journey to discover your soul, and in 2025, it’s calling your name.
Shinkula Pass (also referred to as Shingo La) is a rugged marvel at the border of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. It connects the soft green meadows of Lahaul with the harsh, unearthly landscape of Zanskar.
So, if you were looking for the ‘road less traveled,’ you found one!
Shinkula Pass Location & Altitude
Shinkula Pass is located at 32.7586°N, 77.1517°E and is located on the Nimmu-Padum-Darcha motorable road. Shinkula Pass height is 5,050 meters (16,580 feet), and is one of the tallest passes in this region.
For context, Baralacha La on the Manali-Leh highway stands at 4,850 meters and Rohtang Pass is 3,978 meters.
Considering Shinkula’s altitude, it poses a challenge to climbers due to lack of oxygen. However, the breathtaking views make every moment worth it.
I’ll never forget reaching the pass after hours of winding roads. The prayer flags fluttered wildly, and I felt like I’d conquered something monumental.
Unlike Baralacha La’s never-ending crowds worsened by knee-deep traffic or Rohtang’s overloaded touristy vibe, Shinkula truly feels like a private audience with the pristine, unfiltered Himalayas.
How to Reach Shinkula Pass
Let’s start with the full journey and how it will work for you. In the next sections, I will write down all the exact distances between markers, things to remember, and all of the day’s itinerary for you to use as a quick reference!
Old Route portion of Manali Leh Highway: Manali – Darcha
Manali – Atal Tunnel – Sissu – Tandi – Keylong – Gemur – Darcha
Experienced riders familiar with the Manali-Leh highway wouldn’t struggle with this route. The journey still stems from the standard one, now inclusive of the Atal Tunnel, which saves us time and provides easy access to the journey ahead.
As soon as you enter the Lahaul Valley, right after the 10 km stretch of the Atal Tunnel, you will feel yourself entering a unique world waiting to be explored, while every corner offers mind-boggling beauty that truly feels unreal.
Always remember this spot when we are navigating around Tandi because it’s extremely crucial for us. Tandi is the last stop on the Manali – Leh highway that has a petrol pump.
So make sure to fill your tank (and bring extra fuel if traveling by motorbike) for the rest of the journey. That said, we can also access one more petrol station when we come from the Zanskar side (at Padum).
The final familiar stop on the Manali-Leh highway, from which our course diverges in Darcha. There is a construction signboard with directions pointing to Shinkula Pass, indicating a newly built road.
New Route, entering Zanskar: Darcha – Shinkula Pass – Padum
Darcha – Shinkula Pass – Lakhang – Gonbo Rangjan – Kurgaik – Purne – Phutkal Monastery – Padum
All right lets hit the fresh unexplored paths. No one can be seen for miles and, yes, for miles beyond. In the tribal areas of Lahaul Valley, you get this feeling of sheer wonder and, equally, crystal clear reality of being oh-so-insignificant.
The Shinkula Pass is an awe inspiring 16580 ft pass. Baralacha la, Lachalung la et al comes nowhere close. So get ready for some harsh conditions.
I opted for the Manali route during the last summer, and trust me, the transition from Lahaul’s plush valleys to Zanskar’s desolate, barren cliffs feels as if you are shifting to a different planet.
This road is being expanded and widened by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and the Shinkula Tunnel, which has been under construction since July 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2028, will turn this road into an all-weather road.
6-Day Manali to ShinkuLa Pass Zanskar Road Trip Itinerary
Here is a six-day Manali to Shinkula Pass road trip itinerary.
Day 1: Manali to Jispa (140 km, 5-6 hours)
- Route: Manali → Atal Tunnel → Sissu → Keylong → Jispa
- Highlights:
- Start early from Manali, a vibrant hill station at 2,050 meters.
- Cross the Atal Tunnel (9.02 km, world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet), which bypasses Rohtang Pass and leads to Lahaul Valley.
- Stop at Sissu to see the Sissu Waterfall and enjoy the lush greenery of Lahaul.
- Visit Keylong, the administrative hub of Lahaul and Spiti, for a quick lunch and to explore Kardang Monastery.
- Arrive in Jispa (3,200 meters), a serene village by the Bhaga River, ideal for acclimatization to high altitudes.
- Activities: Take short walks in Jispa, enjoy the scenic peaks, and prepare for the off-road adventure ahead.
- Tips: Fill up fuel in Manali, carry snacks, and ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Check for Inner Line Permit (ILP) requirements for Ladakh (obtainable in Manali or Keylong).
Day 2: Jispa to Darcha to Shinku La Pass (60 km, 4-5 hours)
- Route: Jispa → Darcha → Shinku La Pass
- Highlights:
- Drive to Darcha (3,360 meters, 23 km from Jispa), the last major stop on the Manali-Leh highway before the Shinku La route diverges. Darcha is a picturesque village by the Bhaga River, popular for camping.
- From Darcha, follow the signboard for Shinku La Pass. The 25-km stretch to the pass involves off-roading, steep ascents, and small river crossings. The road is partially paved but expect rough patches.
- Reach Shinku La Pass (5,091 meters), the gateway to Zanskar Valley. Enjoy panoramic views of barren mountains, snow patches, and the Sinkula Lake, a shallow pool 20 meters below the pass.
- Activities: Spend time at the pass for photography and to soak in the high-altitude solitude. Check road conditions with locals or the Darcha security checkpoint.
- Accommodation: Camp at Shinku La or return to Darcha/Jispa for a guesthouse stay, as facilities beyond the pass are sparse.
- Tips: Start early to tackle the challenging climb. Carry extra fuel, water, and warm clothing, as temperatures drop significantly at the pass. Be cautious of altitude sickness; hydrate and rest if needed.
Day 3: Shinku La Pass to Kargyak (83 km, 5-6 hours)
- Route: Shinku La Pass → Lakhang → Kargyak
- Highlights:
- Descend from Shinku La into Zanskar Valley. You can choose to follow the Zanskar River. The road is rugged, with multiple river crossings. Especially near Kurgiakh, there are many off-road sections.
- Pass Lakhang, a remote camping ground, and marvel at the stark, barren landscapes and yaks grazing in meadows.
- Arrive in Kargyak, one of the highest villages in Zanskar, known for its Buddhist culture and isolation.
- Activities: Interact with locals, visit small gompas (monasteries), and enjoy the surreal Himalayan scenery.
- Accommodation: Stay at a homestay in Kargyak (basic facilities) or camp near the village.
- Tips: The Kurgiakh section involves driving on riverbeds for ~20 km, so ensure your vehicle is equipped for water crossings. Carry spare tires and tools.
Day 4: Kargyak to Padum (70 km, 4-5 hours)
- Route: Kargyak → Purne → Ichar → Padum
- Highlights:
- Drive through Zanskar’s remote villages, passing Purne, the base for trekking to Phugtal Monastery, a stunning cave monastery (optional 2-3 hour trek).
- Stop at Ichar to explore traditional Zanskari homes and local culture.
- Reach Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar Valley, offering basic amenities and a glimpse into Buddhist heritage.
- Activities: Visit Bardan Gompa near Padum, try Zanskari cuisine (e.g., thukpa), and rest after the off-road journey.
- Accommodation: Stay at a guesthouse or homestay in Padum.
- Tips: Refuel in Padum (only one unreliable petrol pump, ~88 INR/liter). Stock up on supplies, as connectivity and ATMs are limited.
Day 5: Padum Exploration or Optional Excursions
- Highlights:
- Spend a day exploring Padum and its surroundings or take a short excursion.
- Visit Karsha Monastery, one of Zanskar’s largest, or drive to Drang Drung Glacier (via Pensi La, ~50 km), the largest glacier in Ladakh.
- Alternatively, relax in Padum, engage with locals, or visit smaller villages like Raru.
- Activities: Photography, cultural immersion, or light trekking. For adventure seekers, consider kayaking or hiking tours (available via local operators).
- Accommodation: Stay in Padum.
- Tips: Plan your next day’s route (return to Manali or continue to Kargil/Leh). Check road conditions for Pensi La if heading to Drang Drung.
Day 6: Padum to Manali (273 km, 10-12 hours) or Extend to Kargil
- Option 1: Return to Manali
- Route: Padum → Shinku La → Darcha → Jispa → Manali
- Retrace the route via Shinku La Pass, stopping briefly at Darcha or Jispa for rest. The journey is long, so start early.
- Enjoy the now-familiar but still breathtaking views of Lahaul Valley and the Atal Tunnel.
- Tips: Break the journey in Jispa if tired. Ensure vehicle maintenance before the return.
- Option 2: Extend to Kargil (240 km, 9-10 hours)
- Route: Padum → Pensi La → Rangdum → Kargil
- Continue to Kargil via Pensi La Pass, visiting Drang Drung Glacier en route. This completes the Keylong-Kargil loop via Zanskar.
- Stay overnight in Kargil (hotels available) and return to Manali via Leh or Srinagar later.
- Tips: Kargil to Padum roads are rough; allow extra time. Book transport in advance for Kargil-Leh/Srinagar.
Shinkula Pass Road Status & Conditions (Updated 2025)
Starting from April 2025, the road from Manali to Darcha, Shinkula to Padum is open for local residents, with tourists allowed under strict conditions. The BRO clears snow by mid-April, but avalanches and slippery patches make it risky until May. The pass opens in May and closes in October due to heavy snowfall.
July to September is the best time to visit because the weather is clear and dry, and the roads are (mostly) stable. My jaunt in July was unforgettable, and I would do it again.
Moreover, the breathtaking view, along with the river crossing and unpaved sections around Kurgiakh were an adventure if not a challenge. Regardless of the reason, the drive is not for the faint-hearted because of how severe the landscape can get.
A sturdy 4×4 vehicle with high ground clearance is needed. Bikers should get a tough Royal Enfield Himalayan along with amazing off-roading skills. During the early or late season, anti-skid snow chains are extremely helpful.
Weather at Shinkula Pass
Shinkula’s weather is as wild as its terrain. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- May-June: Daytime temps hover around 5-10°C, dropping to -5°C at night. Roads are opening, but snow patches linger.
- July-August: The sweet spot—10-15°C during the day, 0-5°C at night. Clear skies, perfect for driving.
- September: Crisp and cool (5-10°C day, -5°C night). Light snow possible toward the end.
- October-April: Snowbound and closed. Temps plummet to -20°C, with heavy snow at the pass.
I got caught in a sudden snow shower in September once—beautiful but terrifying! Check weather updates at official social media profiles or local contacts for real-time road conditions. No live cams exist yet, so rely on local knowledge.
Places to Visit Near Shinkula Pass
The Shinkula Pass route is rich with scenic beauty. In Lahaul, make sure to visit Jispa for its calm riverside camps or Keylong for a swirl of local culture. I spent an evening in Jispa sipping tea by the banks of the Bhaga River, which made me feel as if the time had stopped.
In Zanskar Valley, Padum is poised in the center of the region. You can trek to Phugtal Monastery, a spectacular cave monastery carved into the mountainside. Purne, a calm village along the way is ideal for those looking for solitude.
A mountain silhouetted against the horizon that amazed me with its enormity not too far off is Gonbo Rangjon. For sheer magnitude, Drang Drung Glacier located northeast of Rangdum is insurmountable.
Are you looking for a breathtaking, hidden gem? I know a spot! The area around Kurgiakh, where I watched the yaks so surreally grazing beneath the cloud-shrouded sapphire skies so blue it hurt my eyes!
Tips for Travelers and Bikers
- Fuel: Fill up in Manali or Keylong. Padum has a pump, but carry extra fuel in jerry cans. I learned this the hard way when my tank ran low near Purne.
- Stay Options: Jispa has guesthouses (try Ibex Hotel). Kurgiakh and Padum offer homestays—basic but warm. Book in advance during peak season.
- Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize in Manali or Jispa. Carry Diamox, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion. I popped a Diamox before ascending, and it saved me from a splitting headache.
- Packing: Warm layers, waterproof jacket, gloves, sunglasses, and a first-aid kit. A sleeping bag is handy for homestays.
- Network: BSNL works sporadically in Jispa and Padum. Don’t expect 4G at the pass. Download offline maps!
- Essentials: Carry cash, snacks, and a power bank. ATMs are rare beyond Keylong.
Bikers, check your brakes before descending from Shinkula—the 10 km drop is steep
FAQs About Shinkula Pass
Is Shinkula Pass open now?
As of May 2025, it’s likely open for tourists, but check with BRO or local contacts for updates. It typically opens in May and closes by October.
Is it safe to drive a bike on this route?
Yes, but only for experienced riders. The unpaved roads, river crossings, and high altitude demand skill and a reliable bike. I saw a biker slip on a muddy patch—luckily, he was fine, but it was a wake-up call.
Can tourists cross into Zanskar from Himachal?
Absolutely! The Darcha-Shinkula-Padum road is open to tourists in season, connecting Himachal to Zanskar. Permits aren’t required for Indian nationals, but check for foreign travelers.
Conclusion
Shinkula Pass is not just a route, it is a tale you will tell for years to come. From the exhilaration of crossing freezing cold streams, to the tranquility of Zanskar’s monasteries, it is a journey of love to the Himalayas.
I still have the best dream about the moment I stood at Shinkula Top where the wind was howling and the world stretched on to infinity.
In 2025 with the tunnel under way and roads improving, Shinkula Pass is destined to be the future of overland journeys to Zanskar.
So pack your bags, fuel your spirit, and get on the road, you won’t regret it!
Also read: Is It Safe To Travel Spiti Valley Now?
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