Shopping in Kargil, Ladakh |Did you know Kargil,known for Shilajit! Suru Valley, Padum|Zanskar Drive

Join us on an incredible road trip from Kargil to Zanskar, exploring the local markets of Kargil, Suru Valley, and Pad. Discover unique local products, traditional handicrafts, warm interactions with locals, and the breathtaking landscapes along the way!


👉 Don’t miss the hidden gems and shopping tips for travelers in this remote high-altitude region.
📍 Places Covered:
✅ Kargil Local Market
✅ Suru Valley Shopping Experience
✅ Pad Market Exploration
🌄 Plus:
✔️ Scenic Drive through Zanskar Valley
✔️ Authentic local food & souvenirs
✔️ Travel tips for Ladakh region

We see that most of the products here are made from or related to apricots:

✅ 1. Fresh Apricots
Naturally consumed as a fruit, high in vitamins A & C.
✅ 2. Dried Apricots
Popular for snacking, baking, and cooking
Long shelf life, rich in fiber and nutrients
✅ 3. Apricot Jam / Preserves
Sweet spread for bread, pancakes, and desserts
✅ 4. Apricot Kernels
✅ 5. Apricot Oil
Extracted from apricot kernels
Used in cosmetics (skin moisturizer, hair oil, massage oil)
Rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants
✅ 6. Apricot Juice / Concentrate
Refreshing beverage or used in smoothies and cocktails
✅ 7. Apricot-based Confectionery
Apricot candies, dried apricot bars, fruit leathers
✅ 8. Apricot Vinegar
Used in cooking and salad dressings
✅ 9. Apricot Soap / Body Care Products
Natural apricot extract-based soaps, body scrubs, lotions
✅ 10. Apricot Wine / Apricot Liqueur
Fermented apricot wine or apricot brandy popular in some regions
✅ 11. Apricot Flour
Made from dried apricot kernels, used in gluten-free baking
✅ 12. Apricot-based Pickles / Chutneys
Popular in Himalayan and Central Asian cuisine
Used in cosmetics and some traditional medicines (caution advised due to amygdalin content)

Shilajit, a potent natural resin known for its health benefits, is sourced from the high-altitude regions of Ladakh, including Kargil. In Kargil, Shilajit is typically harvested from elevations around 16,000 feet above sea level, places that are, renowned for its apricots and apples. The extraction process involves collecting Shilajit from rock crevices, often found in the feces of the Himalayan marmot, which consumes and deposits the resin. This traditional method has been practiced since the early 1970s

For those interested in purchasing Shilajit from Kargil, several options are available:
Local Markets in Kargil: Shilajit can be found in local markets, with prices varying based on purity and packaging. For instance, pure Shilajit extract is priced at ₹1,200 per gram. But the price here are much cheaper, watch our video to know the exact price.

When purchasing Shilajit, it's essential to ensure its authenticity and purity. Opting for products that are lab-tested and sourced directly from Ladakh can help guarantee quality. Additionally, traditional forms like resin are often preferred for their potency and effectiveness.

Later, we drive from Kargil towards the Zanskar valley, on our return back to Manali.