Zanskar has been a popular trekking and cultural tour destination for the last 15 years. However, the majority of the money invested in these activities has remained with trekking/tour operators based in Manali (Himachal Pradesh) or Leh (Ladakh/Jammu & Kashmir). Whilst many of these operators offer a reliable service, the majority of treks and cultural tours travelling through Zanskar do not significantly benefit the local economy. Furthermore, the majority of the trekking or tour staff are often from other Himalayan regions, and through no fault of their own the experience they offer when working in Zanskar is unlikely to be as rich as that offered by Zanskari staff.
The problem for Zanskaris who work in the tourist industry is that they are geographically removed from the main trekking portals of Leh and Manali; the towns where the majority of treks and tours going through Zanskar are organised. It is comparatively expensive for Zanskaris to have a permanent presence in these towns and hence their ability to look for business is limited.
However, with improved global communications a number of Zanskaris now have access to comparatively reliable methods of communication, including email and international telephone. Although a dash of patience is still required it is now possible to organise your visit to Zanskar by contacting Zanskari guides and horsemen directly. trekzanskar.org provides you with these contact details.
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