Padum Town Campground — Zanskar Valley Road Terminal Basecamp

Padum is the administrative headquarters of Zanskar subdivision and the logical endpoint — and recovery point — for anyone who just survived the Suru Valley and Penzi La. The town campground sits near the main bazaar and is used by motorcyclists, jeep expeditions, and occasional overlanders who make it this far. Expect basic tent pitches, a shared toilet block, and access to dhaba food, fuel, and a small market within walking distance. It gets busy in July and August when the road is theoretically open. No frills, but after the Penzi La, you won’t be complaining.

Access is via the Suru Valley Road from Kargil — a long, rough, partially paved route that can take 8–12 hours depending on conditions and army convoys. The campground is in Padum town itself, so navigation is straightforward once you arrive. Road conditions deteriorate sharply with early snowfall; mid-June to mid-October is the reliable window. Fuel available in town — verify quantity before leaving Kargil.

End of the road. Sleep it off in Zanskar.