Route of High Passes






Duration
11 Nights & 12 Days
Highlights
A thrilling ride awaits you for an experience packed with gripping adventure, breath-taking views and much more. Allow the treacherous paths to take you across
rivers, lakes, valleys, and mountains. Cross some of the highest motorable passes in the world and relax beside some serene water bodies. Biking on Manali-Leh route is considered one of the most adventurous biking tours of the world.
Guidance of our experts makes this most adventurous tour of the world cheering and unforgettable experience. Riding close to the glaciers, negotiating hundreds of hairpin bends, visiting high altitude lake and monasteries, meeting locals and nomads and experiencing Himalayan flora and fauna is an unforgettable experience.
Destinations Covered
You will be met and assisted on arrival at Kullu Airport and transferred to your pre-booked hotel in Manali.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (Altitude 6730 ft. / 2050 m).
Post breakfast, morning at leisure to relax.
Later in the afternoon, our biking guides will conduct an introductory session for guests who are new to biking or unfamiliar with the local terrain and traffic rules. This session will cover basic biking techniques, safety protocols, and an overview of the biking routes planned for the trip. Guests will be able to familiarize themselves with the bikes provided for the tour, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable biking experience.
Following the orientation, proceed for a sightseeing tour of Old Manali and explore this charming town’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. Highlights of the sightseeing tour may include visits to Hadimba Temple, an ancient temple surrounded by cedar forests; Manu Temple, offering panoramic views of the valley; and the vibrant Old Manali market, where guests can immerse in local culture by browsing through shops and cafes.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (Altitude 6730 ft. / 2050 m).
Route: Manali – (25km) South Portal Atal Tunnel – (9km) North Portal – (8km) Sissu – (25km) Tandi – (9km) Keylong – (22km) Jispa
Post breakfast, ride towards Jispa venturing through Atal tunnel. Renowned as the longest tunnel above 10,000 feet, Spanning an impressive 9km, this tunnel’s construction has notably truncated the travel duration between Manali and Keylong.
Continuing ride towards Jispa, traverse through prominent villages and quaint mountain towns such as Sissu and Keylong.
On arrival in Jispa, check into the hotel.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (Altitude 10500 ft. / 3200 m).
Route: Jispa – (6km) Darcha – (25km) Zingzing bar – (22km) Baralacha pass – (33km) Sarchu- (76km) Pang (66km) Taglangla – (61km) Upshi – (14km) Karu – (34km) Leh
Post early breakfast, let the adventure and perhaps a few backaches ) begin! Riding on a thrilling journey traversing some of the most awe- inspiring landscapes in the world. Along the way, you’ll stop at Suraj Tal, the 3rd highest lake in India, nestled at an altitude of 16,020ft. The route then winds through three significant mountain passes: Nakee La at 15,646ft, Lachulung La at 16,597ft, and Tanglang La at 17,480 ft., Brace yourself for the infamous Gata loops, a series of 21 hairpin bends notorious for being among the most challenging stretches in the world. Rest assured; your safety is our priority. Following the Gata loops, you’ll encounter Tanglang La pass at a staggering 17,480ft, ranking as the 12th highest motorable pass globally. This pass is the final pass before reaching Leh.
After an exhilarating 10–11-hour road trip, arrive Leh. On arrival in Leh, check – into the hotel.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (11562 ft. / 3524 m).
Post breakfast, morning at leisure to relax.
Later in afternoon, meander through the bustling lanes of Leh market, engaging with local artisans and discovering unique treasures amidst the vibrant atmosphere.
Evening at leisure to relax.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (11562 ft. / 3524 m).
Route: Leh – (4km) Hall of fame – (19km) Gurudwara Pattar Sahib – (2km) Magnetic Hill – (3km) Sangma – (37km) Alchi.
Post breakfast, explore Leh, the city of mountains, on a motorbike and visit attractions such as the Hall of Fame, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers, Alchi Monastery, Shanti Stupa and Leh Palace.
The Hall of Fame, located near the Leh Airfield, is a museum constructed as well as maintained by the Indian Army in the memory of the soldiers who had lost their lives during the India-Pakistan wars. It is also termed as a memorial for the war heroes.
Magnetic Hill-Then ride to Magnet Hill, a “Gravity Hill” The layout of the area and surrounding slopes creates an optical illusion that the downhill road is actually an uphill road.
Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers (Sangam) – 3km ride from Magnetic Hill to the confluence of the Rivers Indus and Zanskar. The view of Sangam Valley from the road above can make you swoon in ecstasy. The colours of the two rivers can be distinctly seen at the confluence.
Alchi Monastery -This is a beautiful learning centre just 68 km from Leh city. You can spot it on the Southern banks of the Indus River via the Leh-Kargil road from Saspol. You shall be amazed by the murals which belong to the 11th century and all of the excellent paintings that are an inspiration derived from the Buddhist Kashmir. Afterwards, ride to Shanti Stupa, located on the hilltop at Changspa, was constructed by a Japanese Buddhist Organisation, known as ‘The Japanese for World Peace’ the aim behind the construction of the Stupa was to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism and to Promote World Peace.
Visit Leh Palace, built in the17th century, as the presidential Palace for King Singee Namgyal. It was the home of the royal family until them were exiled to Stok in 1830s.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (Altitude 11562 ft. / 3524 m).
Route: Leh – (40km) Khardung La Pass – (34 km) Khardung Village – (23km) Khalsar – (19 km) Diskit – (7km) Hunder
Post breakfast, start an exhilarating journey from Leh (3,524 m) towards the enchanting Nubra Valley, nestled in the Northern region at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level. Route ascends through the winding roads, conquering the renowned Khardung La Pass, standing tall at an altitude of about 5,602 meters and often hailed as the highest motorable pass globally.
From the summit of Khardung La, marvel at the panoramic vistas stretching southward over the Indus Valley, revealing a mesmerizing panorama of the Zanskar Range’s peaks and ridges. At the same time, to the North, the colossal Saser massif dominates the horizon.
As you descend from the pass, the landscape transforms, offering glimpses of quaint villages like Khardung and Khalsar. Stop for a delightful lunch break at Khardung, immerse in the tranquil surroundings and savouring the region’s flavours.
Continuing the journey and traverse through the charming village of Diskit, a prominent settlement in the heart of Nubra Valley (3,250 m). Prepare to be captivated by the valley’s vibrant hues and diverse flora, creating a picturesque setting against the backdrop of rugged mountains.
Upon reaching Hunder, your final destination for the day, check into a cosy hotel or a campsite, and unwind amidst the serene ambience of Nubra Valley.
In the evening, seize the opportunity to encounter the famed Double Humped, Hairy, and Bactrian Camels, adding a touch of adventure to our memorable stay in Nubra Valley.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel / campsite in Hunder (3,000 m).
Route: Hunder – (15km) Thoise (Airbase) – (33km) Changmar – (15km) Bogdang – (25km) Turtuk
Post breakfast, ride to Turtuk (2,846 m). Located on the India-Pakistan border, it is a small village on the banks of the Shyok River with unparalleled natural beauty. The place is culturally, linguistically and historically different from what you’ve seen till now in your Ladakh holiday as it falls under the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Even the landscape is different with dramatic narrow valleys and steep mountains, unlike Central Ladakh and Nubra. Comparatively, situated at a lower altitude than Leh, you’ll see green pastures here that yield fresh products like apricots and apples. Spend rest of the day walking around and interacting with the locals.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel / campsite in Hunder (9842 ft. / 3000 m).
Route: Hunder – (7 km) Diskit Village – (21 km) Khalsar Village – (26 km) Agham – (46 km) Shyok Village – (16 km) Durbuk – (9 km) Tangtse – (40 km) Pangong Tso
Post breakfast, checkout from hotel / campsite in Hunder and ride towards Diskit along the sand dunes where you can enjoy a ride on a Bactrian camel (double-humped) amidst the sand dunes of this high-altitude desert with snow-capped mountains on the horizon.
Stopover at Diskit, which is the headquarters town of Nubra Valley. Stroll around the bazaar, observing the shops and local people doing daily chores. Diskit is famous for the old Buddhist Monastery, situated magnificently on a hilltop, facing the entire Valley. Later, resume riding towards Pangong Tso via Agham & Shyok Valley.
Some road patches in areas are extremely tough (towards the Nubra side – regarding road conditions), but no doubt the journey is very scenic.
Ride further towards Durbuk for Pangong. Pass through a few small villages of Changthang, and finally, you can enjoy the fantastic view of Pangong Lake at 14,000 feet (4 267 m). This famous blue brackish Lake of Pangong is 5/6 km wide and over 133 km long, with half of it running on the other side of the China Border”.
On arrival in Pangong, check-into a camp or cottage near Pangong Lake. It’s magical to see the changing hues of Pangong Lake with the variation in the sun’s intensity. Listen to the waves lapping the shores, watch the migratory birds, and see the sun fade away at the horizon. Whether it is a moonlit night or a star-studded night, the night sky is brilliant in Pangong. One can spend hours looking at the sky. (Loose fuel is available in the market.) Pangong Lake, the highest saltwater lake in the world, is shared by two countries, India (25%) and China (75%); enjoy the beauty of the Lake from the banks.
Dinner & overnight stay at the Pangong, Camp / cottage (14270 ft. / 4350 m).
Route: Pangong – (40 km) Tangtse – (38 km) Changle – (43 km) Karu – (17 km) Thiksey – (4 km) 3 Idiot school – (2 km) Shey Palace – (12 km) Leh
Post breakfast, morning at leisure to relax.
Later, checkout and continue with a scenic ride back to Leh via the majestic Changla Pass standing tall at 5486 meters above Sea level.
On the way, stopover to explore Thiksey, an awe-inspiring complex that seems to rise tier upon tier on a hill overlooking the charming village below. After a delightful 5km ride through picturesque landscapes, arrive at Shey Palace, the ancient capital of Ladakh.
Afterwards ride towards Leh, on arrival in Leh, check-into the hotel. Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (11562 ft. / 3524 m).
Post breakfast, day at leisure to relax.
Explore the Leh market, where you can shop for souvenirs and indulge in delicious Ladakhi cuisine. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and flavours before heading back home.
Dinner & overnight stay at the hotel (11562 ft. / 3524 m).
Post breakfast, transfer to Leh Airport for flight to onward destination.
Price Per Person in Euro – Valid until 30 Sep 2024 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
4Pax | 6Pax | 8Pax | 10Pax | 12Pax |
2350 | 2230 | 2100 | 2000 | 1950 |
Single Room Supplement | 1011 |
Hotels used | ||
---|---|---|
City | Hotel | Website |
Manali | Sun Park Boutique & Spa or similar | www.sunparkresorts.com |
Jispa | Ibex Jispa or similar | www.hotelibexjispa.com |
Leh | Ladakh Retreat or similar | www.ladakhretreat.com |
Nubra | Urth Home Boutique or similar | www.urthhomeboutique.com |
Leh | High Lake Retreat Camp & Cottage or similar | www.highlakecamppangong.com |
Inclusions
- 11 Nights’ Accommodations at specified hotels with Breakfast &
- Room on Double / Twin Sharing basis (1 Room – 2 Pax)
- 1 Bike Per Person (Royal Enfield from day 2 to day 11)
- Back up vehicle from day 2 to day 11
- Airport Drop at Leh
- Tour guide, Mechanic, Fuel
- Oxygen cylinder
- Inner line Permit / Wild life Fees
- Monument fee
Exclusions
- Expenses of personal nature such as Tips, Laundry, Telephone, Table Drinks & Portage etc
- Any other sightseeing tours not mentioned in the programme
- International & Domestic Airfare
- Any kind of Insurance
- Any commission
- Any joy rides