Phugthal is a beautiful Buddhist town located near Padum, in the Zanskar region of Ladakh. It is at an altitude of 3850 m. A major tributary of the southern Lungnak (Lingti-Tsarap) River flows through this mountainous town. This unique monastic establishment is inhabited by a resident community of about 40 monks.
The prime attraction is the Phugthal Monastery. Zanskar (about 70 km) and Stongdey (about 50 km) are the nearby cities. The summer season is the ideal time for the trekking enthusiasts to make their adventurous trips. The best time to visit is during mid July to early November.
The trekking route on the Padum - Manali way, through a 7 km long trail that branches off from the Purney Bridge on the main trail leads to Phugthal. Local transportation is available from Kargil. Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation operates a thrice weekly B-class bus service from Kargil.
