Trans-Himalaya Zanskar Range
South of the Ladakh Range, on the other side of the Indus River, the Zanskar Range separates the Ladakh region from the Zanskar region of Jammu and Kashmir. Its peaks are higher than that of the Ladakh Range, with many rising more than 19,500 feet above sea level. The tallest are the twin peaks of Nun, at 23,409 feet, and Kun at 23,218 feet. It's possible to climb them, although the trek is challenging. Adjacent to these peaks, in the Shafat Glacier, Pinnacle Peak is the third highest mountain in the range at 22,736 feet above sea level. White Needle and Z1 are other significant peaks in the same area.
The Zanskar climate is harsh. Snowfall blocks the range's mountain passes during winter, effectively cutting residents of the Zanskar Valley off from the rest of the country. During this time, the only way in or out is by walking along the frozen Zanskar River, which has cut a sharp gorge through the range. This trek, popularly known as the Chadar Trek, is one of the most difficult in India. Should you undertake it, your accommodations will be in caves along the route. In July and August, it's possible to go rafting down the river on Grade 4 and 5 rapids. Buddhist monasteries are another attraction in Zanskar. The most incredible one is Phugtal, halfway between Padum and Darcha. It can't be reached by road, so you'll have to trek (or ride a pony) to it. Himalayan Homestays, a community-based tourism initiative of the Snow Leopard Conservancy, arranges treks and accommodations in several villages in Zanskar.
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Purvanchal Range
The Purvanchal Range lies south of the Brahmaputra (Dihang) River in Arunachal Pradesh and forms the boundary between India and Myanmar. It extends along the Northeast Indian states and has a relatively low elevation that decreases towards the south. The average height of peaks in this range is about 9,845 feet above sea level. The highest is Dapha Bum, in the Mishmi Hills at the northeastern tip of Arunachal Pradesh. It stands at 15,020 feet above sea level. In Nagaland, the highest peak is Saramati in the Naga Hills at 12,550 feet above sea level. In the hills of Manipur, the elevation is generally less than 8,200 feet above sea level. The highest peak in Mizoram is Phawngpui, also known as Blue Mountain, at 7,080 feet above sea level in the Mizo Hills. However, the elevation of the Mizo Hills is generally less than 4,920 feet.
The Northeast region is largely tribal. Its remoteness, poor roads and lack of infrastructure have kept tourists away, although this is slowly changing. In addition to tribal culture, nature and wildlife are top attractions, including Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh and Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur. Pangsau Pass, on the Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh, provides a superb view across the Purvanchal Range.