Beyond Phugtal the trail enters wild gorge that follows the Tsarap River. The trail winds above the course of the river for 6km to a small side gorge. From here the trail ascends and then descends back to the course of the river. Further the trail is hewn out of the scree slopes until it meets the side gorge leading to Thangstak. Crossing the wooden bridge after 2km and continuing further the gorge widens. The first view of Thangstak village (4100m) will greet you. Camp in the willow thicket just above the gorge. Visit the Thangstak village and appreciate the location of the Kontse La.

Ascending the Kontse La (4810m) will take you 3 hours. From the Kontse La the view towards the Zanskar Range provides a magnificent backdrop for the three-hour trek to the second pass. The trail then leads across a plateau to a short steep climb to the Gotunda La (5040m). Descending for two to three hours from the pass, you will reach the settlement of Homuch (3940m) alongside the Tsarap River. A demanding day by any standards but the commanding views across snow-capped peaks and ridges of the Zanskar Range compensates.

A day to explore the wild and remote reaches of the Tsarap River. The trail leads through deserted Khampa settlements who take their flocks of sheep, goats and yaks to the higher pastures of Rupshu in the summers.

Follow the course of the Tsarap River. After 8km it reaches the confluence of the Zara River. The river level in July and August may necessitate an early start. Beyond the confluence the gorge opens to a broad glacial valley and you will reach the settlement of Muneleh (3980m). The trail continues for 11/2 hours and you will reach Satok (4040m), the winter settlement in the valley. Camp along the side stream and beneath the willow trees.

The final stage becomes even more impressive with the peaks of the Baralacha Range looming above the head of the valley. Ascending gradually to a ridge (4400m), you will reach a commanding view of the Tsarap River and Tsok Mesik (4200m). The trail leads further three hours through willow trees and tiny streams alongside the river course to the trailhead. You will reach the Manali to Leh road.