Once
the capital of the ancient kingdom of Zanskar, Padum (3505 m) is the present
day administrative headquarters of the region. With a population of nearly
1500, Padum can be described as the most populous settlement of Zanskar,
otherwise a very scarcely inhabited valley. Incidentally, it is only in
Padum that there is a community of Muslims constituting nearly half the
township's population, its origin in the area dating from mid 17th century.
Lately, Padum has become a famous as a major trekking base and a popular
tourist destination. Several places of tourist interest in the vicinity of
the township can be visited in the course of entertaining walks. The nearest
monument is a set of ancient rock carving on a huge boulder near the river
bank, just below the old township. These dates from the 8th century and
provide epigraphic evidence that the region was under the influence of North
Indian Buddhism since ancient times. The Starrimo Monastery with about 30
resident monks clings to a tree-covered ridge above the old town. Across the
expanse of cultivation lies the old village of Pibiting, dominated by its
picturesque hilltop monastery, a superb manifestation of stupa architecture.
How
to Reach? The 240 km long
Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved, remains opened
from around mid July to early November. The J&K SRTC operates a thrice
weekly B-class bus service from Kargil. However groups can charter A-Class
or even Super-Deluxe buses to visit Zanskar, including the interior places
of interest like Stongdey, Zangla and Karsha. Jeeps and Gypsy taxis can also
be hired at Kargil. During June and early July, prior to opening of the
road, it is recommended to walk into Zanskar from panikhar or Parkachik
onwards. In June, the summer is at its height in the region and the climate
is ideal for trekking along the route free from vehicular traffic of any
kind and when the countryside is freshly rejuvenated into life after months
of frigid dormancy.
