Begin the journey from Leh to the beautiful Markha Valley via the scenic Zanskar Valley Road. Enjoy stunning Himalayan landscapes, remote villages, and gradual acclimatization before an overnight stay under pristine mountain skies.

Travel deeper into Markha Valley through colorful autumn scenery, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Overnight at Hankar with opportunities to photograph the ancient Hankar Fort and the night sky.

Journey into the heart of Zanskar through rugged valleys and vibrant autumn landscapes. Arrive at the historic village of Zangla, offering excellent opportunities for landscape and night-sky photography.

Travel to Abran before heading to the spectacular Pensi La Pass and Drang-Drung Glacier region. Photograph dramatic glacial landscapes, alpine lakes, autumn colors, and pristine night skies during a dedicated overnight photography session.

Spend the day exploring and photographing the magnificent Drang-Drung Glacier region. Capture glacier views, high-altitude landscapes, changing mountain light, and exceptional astro-landscape opportunities before returning to Abran.

Drive to the iconic Gonbo Rangjon, one of Zanskar’s most striking and sacred mountains. Photograph this legendary peak during golden hour, blue hour, and under the star-filled Himalayan sky.

After a final morning photography session, begin the scenic journey to Manali. Experience dramatic mountain passes, changing landscapes, and some of the most spectacular Himalayan scenery along the route.

The expedition concludes after breakfast in Manali. Depart with unforgettable memories, new skills, and a portfolio of images from one of the Himalayas’ most remote and photogenic regions.

1. Photographers who seek immersive experiences beyond typical travel.
2. Beginners eager to learn practical photography in real conditions.
3. Intermediate and advanced photographers looking to refine their vision.
4. Anyone passionate about landscape and astro-landscape photography.
5. Skill Level: Suitable for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced photographers.

1. Expert mentorship in both landscape and astro-landscape photography.
2. Personalized guidance with the freedom to ask and learn at any time.
3. Real shooting experiences across diverse and dramatic locations.
4. A journey combining adventure, learning, and creative growth.

1. This is not a leisure or luxury holiday focused on relaxation.
2. Expect long shooting hours and travel across challenging terrain.
3. Weather and conditions can be unpredictable in high-altitude regions.

1. Strong interest in landscape and astro photography with an adventurous mindset.
2. Basic fitness for short walks and outdoor shooting sessions.
3. Ability to adapt to high-altitude conditions, cold nights, and dry air.
4. Preparedness for temperature fluctuations, especially during night shoots.
5. Consultation with a doctor if you have any medical concerns.

1. Designed by photographers, specifically for photographers.
2. Focus on real-world conditions rather than staged or tourist-centric experiences.
3. Emphasis on learning, creativity, and developing your personal vision.
4. A collaborative environment with like-minded participants passionate about photography.

This Zanskar expedition takes place at high altitudes ranging from approximately 3,500 meters to over 5,000 meters, where oxygen levels are lower and conditions can be physically demanding. A basic to moderate level of fitness is recommended to comfortably manage long travel hours, short walks on uneven terrain, and extended landscape and astro-landscape photography sessions in cold conditions.

Moderate trekking is involved at certain locations, but the expedition is designed with gradual acclimatization to help participants adapt safely to the altitude. Participants should also be prepared for changing weather conditions, thin air, and significant temperature variations between day and night. If you are in generally good health and comfortable with light physical activity in mountain environments, you will be well-suited for this journey. Participants with any pre-existing medical conditions are strongly advised to consult a doctor before joining the expedition.

• Registration opens on 1st June 2026 and will remain open until all seats are filled.
• Only 7 photographers will be selected for this tour, ensuring individual attention and a focused learning experience.
• Participation is confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis, upon receipt of email confirmation and advance deposit.

To confirm your participation, a non-refundable deposit of INR 29,000 is required. This can be paid in two installments of INR 14,500 each, with the full deposit to be completed at least 60 days before the tour start date.

Your seat will be confirmed only after the full deposit amount is received in EXPOSURE’s account.

The remaining balance of INR 30,000 must be paid either online at least 30 days before the tour start date.

Payment Methods: PayPal, UPI, QR Code, or bank transfer (details will be shared on request). Kindly share the payment proof after the transaction for verification.

Important Notes:

• All transaction, conversion, and gateway charges must be borne by the participant
• Confirmation will be shared only after receipt of the deposit along with official tour details
• The deposit is strictly non-refundable under any circumstances

For any assistance, feel free to contact us directly at +91 9432824306, +91 9830705550

By registering for the Zanskar Photo Tour with EXPOSURE, you agree to the following terms and conditions regarding cancellations, payments, and refunds. These terms are binding for all participants without exception.

1. PARTICIPANT-INITIATED CANCELLATION

All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email or registered post. The effective date of cancellation is the date your request is received by EXPOSURE. Cancellation charges are calculated on the total tour fee (not just the deposit), regardless of the reason for cancellation:

• 91 days or more before the tour start date: Full refund, minus any banking or transaction charges.
• Between 90 and 61 days before the tour start date: 80% of the total tour fee will be charged.
• 60 days or less before the tour start date: No refund; 100% of the total tour fee will be charged.

Once the tour has started, no refunds will be provided for unused services, including accommodations, meals, transport, guiding, or missed segments of the tour.

Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 14 working days of written confirmation of cancellation and will be made using the original payment method, minus any bank or payment gateway charges.

2. NON-PAYMENT OR LATE PAYMENT

A non-refundable deposit of 29,000 INR is required to secure your booking.
The remaining balance must be paid in full at least 30 days before the tour start date. Failure to complete payment may result in cancellation of your booking without any refund.

3. TRIP CANCELLATION BY EXPOSURE

In the unlikely event that EXPOSURE must cancel the Zanskar Photo Tour due to insufficient participants or unforeseen circumstances:

• A full refund of all payments, including the deposit, will be issued.
• Participants will be informed well in advance if a cancellation is being considered.
• EXPOSURE is not responsible for any other expenses incurred, including airfare, visa fees, extra hotel bookings, or equipment rental/purchases.

For this reason, participants are strongly advised to purchase travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage.

4. GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

• All transactions, currency conversion, and bank charges for payments and refunds are to be borne by the participant.
• Participants must purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and trip interruptions.
• Participation becomes official only after confirmation is issued by EXPOSURE upon receipt of your deposit and acceptance of these terms.
• By submitting your payment, you agree to all terms outlined in this Cancellation & Refund Policy, which are final and non-negotiable.

Zanskar experiences a cold high-altitude mountain climate, characterized by dry air, strong sunlight, low humidity, and significant temperature variations between day and night. During September, the region transforms into a spectacular autumn landscape, with golden poplar trees, clear skies, and crisp atmospheric conditions, making it one of the best seasons for landscape and astro-landscape photography. Daytime temperatures generally range between 10°C to 20°C in lower valleys, offering pleasant conditions for travel and photography. However, temperatures drop significantly in higher-altitude regions such as Pensi La and the Drang-Drung Glacier area, especially after sunset.

Night temperatures can range between -2°C to 8°C depending on altitude and weather conditions, and may feel colder due to strong winds and wind chill during night photography sessions. At elevations above 4,000 meters, weather conditions can change rapidly, with cold winds and occasional snowfall possible in exposed regions. The skies in Zanskar are usually exceptionally clear during September, with minimal light pollution and excellent atmospheric transparency, creating ideal conditions for Milky Way and nightscape photography.

• Participants should be prepared for:
• Strong sunlight and dry conditions during the day
• Cold temperatures during early mornings and night shoots
• Sudden weather changes in high-altitude areas
• Windy and dusty conditions in exposed mountain landscapes

Proper layering, thermal clothing, sun protection, and adequate hydration are essential for staying comfortable throughout the expedition.

Our Zanskar Autumn Photo Tour will begin from Leh and conclude in Manali, offering an unforgettable journey through the dramatic landscapes of Ladakh, Zanskar, Lahaul, and Himachal Pradesh during the beautiful autumn season.

BY AIR (RECOMMENDED):
The most convenient way to join the tour is by flying to Leh via Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). Regular flights operate from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. Since Leh is situated at a high altitude, participants are strongly advised to arrive at least one day before the tour begins to allow proper acclimatization and rest before the expedition starts.

BY ROAD (OPTIONAL):
Participants who prefer a road journey can also reach Leh via two scenic Himalayan highways:

• Manali to Leh Highway
• Srinagar to Leh Highway

Both routes are generally open from June to October, depending on weather and road conditions. Traveling by road provides gradual acclimatization and offers breathtaking mountain scenery, although it involves long travel hours and challenging terrain.

RETURN JOURNEY FROM MANALI:
The photo tour will officially conclude in Manali. From there, participants can begin their onward journey to Delhi or Chandigarh by overnight Volvo bus or private/shared cab, depending on their preference.

MANALI TO DELHI:
Overnight Volvo buses are the most popular and economical option. The journey generally takes around 12–15 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Multiple buses operate daily during the evening and night from Manali to Delhi.
Participants who prefer a more comfortable and flexible journey can also hire a private cab from Manali to Delhi. This journey usually takes around 10–13 hours.

MANALI TO CHANDIGARH:
For participants planning onward flights or train journeys, Chandigarh is another convenient exit point. Overnight and daytime buses are available from Manali to Chandigarh, with travel time generally ranging between 8–10 hours. Private cabs can also be arranged for a faster and more comfortable transfer.

We recommend participants book their return flights from Delhi or Chandigarh with sufficient buffer time, as weather and mountain road conditions in the Himalayas can occasionally cause delays.