Sightseeing at Padum
About Padum
The administrative centre of Zanskar Sub-division of Kargil and the most populated town of Zanskar with about 2000 people living in the heart of Padum which was named after Padmasambhava. It served as one of the two capitals of Zanskar Kingdon the other being Zangla. Padum is about 240 km from Kargil and is famous among tourists. Padum has become famous as a major trekking base and a popular tourist destination.
The Darcha -Padum trek provides spectacular views of landscapes around. It is not an easy trek and takes around 8-10 days to complete which involves crossing Shingo La Pass. The town of Padum is to relax after the long trek of Darcha-Padum or visiting Monasteries. This little hamlet has beautiful scenic backdrop of mountains.
A one way taxi from Padum to Zanskar costs Rs 900
Places to see in Padum:
Sani Gompa
The monastery dates back to 2nd century A.D making it the oldest Buddhist monument in Ladakh and Zanskar. It is about 6 km North from Padum. It practices Tibetan Buddhism. This Gompa is built on flat surface unlike others on hill or mountain.
Khar(Palace) of Padum
The hilltop of Padum was crowned with a Khar meaning Palace for the royal dynasty of Padum, overlooking the city in the 13th century until it was invaded and destroyed by raiders from Lahaul and Kullu. The palace is now in ruins with two Chaitya’s(Chortens) still standing amidst the ruins of shrines and old building of Khar.
Gyalwa Ringna
Gyalwa Ringna is a set of huge rocks with Buddhist sculptures on it. Situated southeast of Padum above the Lungnak Riverbank, the set of Buddhist sculptures are placed in the Gandharan style.
Shilla Waterfall
Heading southeast of Padum, on the east bank of Lungnak river, from amidst the prehistoric carvings of ibex hunting nomads in Zanskar, and the ruins cascade a beautiful waterfall to provide you a mesmerizing scenic beauty of pool where you are allowed to get a dip in its refreshing cold waters.
Tagrimo Monastery
Also known as Kagyupa Monastery, Tagrimo monastery dates back to the 17th century. Located at a distance of only 1 km from Padum, it is home to 30 monks who learn Buddhism Religion and culture. It consists of a small library and old paintings of Buddhism including of Nawang Namgyal founder of the Bhutanese theocracy.
Pibiting Monastery
Located around 2 km Northeast from the main market of Padum, Pibiting Monastery is a famous tourist attraction of Padum for its ancient Chaityas(Chortens), which were said to be constructed by Emperor Kansihka. The view of the Gompa offers beautiful scenic views around of its village.
Accommodation at Padum
Tariff:
- Rs 4,250 inclusive of Breakfast and Dinner for 2 and Rs 1500 for extra bed
- Breakfast: Rs. 100 per head.
