Confluence Of The Indus And Zanskar Rivers Leh Ladakh

One is the shining blue river whereas another one is dirty green. Both of the Rivers originate in the high Himalayas. While the Zanskarriver originates in Zanskar region, Indus is in the Changthang Cold Desert. Both of the Himalayan rivers join near the Nimmu town which is in Ladakh.

If you plan to visit the place in the months of summers, you’ll get to see the fast turgid river in the region of Zanskar and the calm river in Indus. But, if you plan your trip in winters, it is going to be completely opposite.

Instead of being the fastest river in mountains, Zanskar is the one which slows down and freeze, this it makes the flow of a river less moving. On the other hand, Indus moves fast with a lot of ice on it. While the Zanskar freezes entirely during some parts of winters, it also enables the Chadar Trek, Indus keeps on flowing though it toll start to freeze in some of the patches. Be it a winter or summer, the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers makes a great sight to see.

You can enjoy the full view of confluence from NH 1. You may also go down up to the river bed by taking a left turn from NH 1. The road will take you further by the side of Zanskarriver. The 14 Km stretch of river in the upstream direction is famous as the area for rafting.

River rafting in Zanskar River

The total 14 Km length is divided into 2 parts, the upstream 8 Km is the primary rapid rafting area whereas the downstream 6 Km water is still and only flows down ending at the confluence point at Nimmu. The area of rafting is from Chilling to Nimmu.

The rafting time is of 2 hours, however, it takes a lot of time in reaching rafting point as well as changing dress and using the accessories which are necessary. Therefore, it will take a half day to complete rafting.

You’ll be changing your shoes, dress as well as helmet and life jacket for safety before starting the rafting. The cost for 14 Km rafting is 1200/- and if you want to go for the last stretch, it will cost you 600/-.

In the month of winters, Zanskarriver gets frozen and form the path for trekking for adventure lovers. The trek is called Chadar trek.

How to reach the place in Leh?

The Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Riversis located about 35 Km from the town of Leh before Nimmu village. On your way, you may also explore the beautiful and famous Magnetic Hill and Gurudwara Sri Pathar Sahib. You can either take a taxi or local bus which entirely depend on your budget.

Try to reach the place in first half of the day if you want some memories and click more pictures as the sun sets early and then you won’t be able to click pictures.