Zanskar Valley in February

Zanskar's weather window is brutally short. June through September offers the only reliable road access, with July and August providing the warmest temperatures — though 'warm' here means daytime highs around 20°C. April and May bring unpredictable conditions; some years the passes open early, other years snow lingers until June. September and October deliver crisp, clear days perfect for photography, but night temperatures drop fast. Winter transforms Zanskar completely — the famous Chadar Trek happens January through March when the frozen Zanskar River becomes a highway. But winter travel requires serious cold-weather gear and local guides. Monsoons barely touch this high-altitude desert, so rain isn't a major concern. The real enemy is altitude sickness; spend at least two days acclimatizing in Leh before attempting the journey to Zanskar.