Overview
This 11-day motorcycle journey through Ladakh is a thrilling adventure across some of the world’s highest motorable passes, stunning valleys, and cultural landmarks. Ladakh, often called the “Land of High Passes,” is known for its challenging roads, Buddhist monasteries, high-altitude lakes, and spectacular Himalayan landscapes. This trip offers motorcyclists an exhilarating ride through remote regions, including the breathtaking Nubra Valley, serene Pangong Lake, and historic monasteries, while connecting with Ladakh’s rich culture and resilient spirit. This tour is ideal for those seeking a unique blend of adventure, cultural discovery, and incredible scenery.
Highlights
Rohtang Pass - A scenic high-altitude pass with sweeping mountain views.
Khardung La - One of the world’s highest motorable passes at 5,359 meters.
Nubra Valley - Known for its sand dunes, monasteries, and double-humped camels.
Pangong Lake - A high-altitude lake with striking blue hues.
Chang La Pass - Another challenging high pass, en route to Pangong Lake.
Diskit Monastery - The oldest monastery in Nubra Valley with a giant Buddha statue.
Tso Moriri - A stunning saltwater lake in the Changthang Plateau.
Magnetic Hill - A gravity-defying natural wonder where vehicles appear to roll uphill.
Hemis Monastery - A significant monastery known for its cultural heritage and festivals.
Leh Market - A vibrant hub for local handicrafts, artifacts, and traditional cuisine.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Manali
Arrive in Manali and meet your guide and fellow riders for a trip briefing and bike inspection. Spend the rest of the day exploring Manali, a charming hill town, or resting to prepare for the days ahead. Visit Hidimba Temple or the vibrant Manali Market if time permits. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 2: Manali to Jispa (150 km via Rohtang Pass)
After an early breakfast, begin the ride over the famous Rohtang Pass (3,978 meters), a scenic route with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and valleys. Descend toward Jispa, passing through small villages, green valleys, and rivers. Arrive in Jispa by evening and check into a riverside camp. Overnight stay in Jispa.
Day 3: Jispa to Sarchu (80 km)
Continue your journey towards Sarchu, known for its rugged terrain and vast plains. En route, you’ll cross Baralacha La Pass (4,890 meters), a high-altitude pass with scenic views. The route is challenging yet exhilarating, with changing landscapes from lush valleys to barren plains. Arrive at your Sarchu camp by evening. Overnight stay in Sarchu.
Day 4: Sarchu to Leh (250 km)
After breakfast, embark on a full day’s ride toward Leh, crossing some of the highest passes, including Nakee La (4,739 meters) and Lachulung La (5,059 meters). This stretch also features the famous Gata Loops—21 hairpin bends that are a thrilling ride for motorcyclists. Arrive in Leh by evening and check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 5: Leh - Acclimatization and Local Sightseeing
Spend the day acclimatizing to Leh’s altitude and exploring its sights. Visit Leh Palace for panoramic views of the town, the Shanti Stupa for a peaceful setting, and the Leh Market for local handicrafts. Use this day to rest and prepare for the upcoming high-altitude routes. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 6: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (125 km)
Today’s ride takes you over Khardung La (5,359 meters), one of the world’s highest motorable passes. Descend into Nubra Valley, where you’ll explore Hunder’s sand dunes and have a chance to ride a Bactrian (double-humped) camel. Continue to Diskit Monastery to see the towering Buddha statue and panoramic valley views. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.
Day 7: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake via Shyok River (160 km)
After breakfast, embark on a scenic ride along the Shyok River toward Pangong Lake. This remote and rugged route provides stunning views of rivers, mountains, and valleys. Arrive at Pangong Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters that change hues throughout the day. Overnight stay in a lakeside camp at Pangong Lake.
Day 8: Pangong Lake to Leh via Chang La Pass (150 km)
Witness sunrise at Pangong Lake before heading back to Leh via Chang La Pass (5,360 meters), another challenging but exhilarating route. En route, stop at the Druk White Lotus School, known from the Bollywood film 3 Idiots. Arrive in Leh by evening, where you can rest or explore more of Leh Market. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 9: Leh to Tso Moriri (220 km)
Today’s ride takes you to Tso Moriri, a stunning high-altitude lake located in the Changthang Plateau. Ride through remote, scenic routes passing small villages and the saltwater Tso Kar Lake along the way. Arrive at Tso Moriri by evening and enjoy the serene surroundings. Overnight stay at a lakeside camp near Tso Moriri.
Day 10: Tso Moriri to Leh (220 km)
After breakfast, begin your return ride to Leh, taking in the pristine landscapes of the Ladakh region. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a final evening in Leh. Consider revisiting your favorite sites or relaxing at the hotel. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 11: Departure from Leh
After breakfast, transfer to Leh Airport for your departure, concluding an unforgettable motorcycle journey through the high-altitude passes, serene lakes, and vibrant culture of Ladakh.