SONMARG

Sonmarg, literally meaning “meadow of gold”, is one place that makes it to the ‘places you should visit before you die’ list of every travel enthusiast you’ll come across. Being more than just an alley of blue snow and golden sunshine, Sonmarg has glacial mountains against the blissfully ethereal skies as its backdrop, making it nothing less than a hidden paradise. The place witnesses a very high number of tourists during the bracing season, and shockingly enough a handful during the harsh burying snowfall as well because nowhere else would you encounter the brisk wind that sends chills down your bones and perforates every layer of protection while causing much mirth. It lies at an altitude of 2800 m above sea level inclusive of the great Himalayan glaciers of Kashmir Valley namely Kolahoi Glacier and Machoi Glacier in its vicinity, and not to forget Sirbal Peak, Kolahoi Peak, Amarnath Peak and Machoi Peak being above 5,000 m. Sonmarg, apart from being a prominent hinge for trekking, mountaineering, and hiking to locales, is well-received by families as a vacation destination as it is by adventure fanatics.

Sonmarg at a glance

Weather: Day time 5-10 °C night -5-0 °C

Elevation: 9,200 ft

Total Population: 392

Local Language: Urdu

When to visit?

With flora and fauna of the valley instilling a sense of tranquility, the months from April to June serve as the best time to visit, Sonmarg. During these months you can walk across endless lanes of wildflowers, breathing, capturing and admiring the scenic beauty of the place.

How to reach?

For frequent flyers, Srinagar Airport is around 70 kilometers away from Sonmarg. You can hire a taxi from Srinagar Airport to Sonmarg.

If you prefer traveling on trains, then the nearest train station is Jammu which is accessible by all major train routes of the country.

You can also board state-run buses from Jammu and Kashmir to Sonmarg.

For an authentic wanderlust experience during our Ladakh bike trip, we travel to Sonmarg by road from Srinagar. Jammu is about 400 kilometers away from Sonmarg. On your way, you can enjoy the local marvels of the state and make your trip a little more memorable.

What to eat?

For a traveler, food plays an important part in enjoying a trip and getting hold of the true essence of the place. Sonmarg leaves no stone unturned in this aspect as well with its wide variety of local flavors and cuisines.

Along with a cup of Kahwa, you can go for Yakhni, a traditional lamb based dish cooked in curd based gravy and deal with the cold and cravings at the same time.

Rogan Josh, another traditional lamb-based dish, when served with saffron rice, sets the tone for the entire day. For non-vegetarians, Sonmarg is no less than a food haven.

But if you are a vegetarian then also you don’t need to get disheartened, Dum Aalo will come to your rescue at any time of the day. 

Places to visit?

Thajiwas Glacier

Being situated near alpine forests, having a blanket of snow covering it in all seasons and the rays from the sun falling on its surface making a glitter like an effect, Thajiwas Glacier is a beauty to behold. You can trek all the way from Sonmarg to Thajiwas Glacier as the distance is only 3 km or you can hire a pony and enjoy the serenity of the place along the way. It’s one of the most famous tourist attractions and an important asset for the area. Did we mention the various waterfalls around the Glacier? Well, now you know where you should be heading in the next summer season.

Zoji-La Pass

If high altitude places offering a serene view of the world are your thing then you must stop by Zoji-La Pass while visiting Sonmarg. It boasts off an altitude of 3528 m above the sea level and acts as a bridge between the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. Given its geographical importance, this pass is quite famous among travelers from all over the country but it’s equally dangerous if not traveling with an experienced driver. So make a note of that. 

Vishansar Lake

Ever wondered about seeing a lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains in its backdrop? Well, if yes then Vishansar lake should surely find a place on your list. Nature did it’s the finest work in and around this lake. Also, keep an eye for the fish population it holds. 

Baltal Valley

The ever so quaint Baltal Valley lies at the foothills of the Zojila pass and sets out the entry for the famous Amarnath trek being just 14km away from the Amarnath Cave. The blue mountains laced with a white sheet of snow surrounding the green limitless meadows is what makes Baltal a major tourist attraction, not to forget that it is actually an extension of the ‘meadow of gold’. Within proximity of 15 km from Sonmarg, Baltal Valley is easily accessible from Jammu by road via Srinagar.  

Nilagrad River

Nilagrad river is not just a tourist attraction but is a water body of importance for the locals. It is believed to have healing powers hence it attracts a lot of people every day. It supports a wide variety of flora and fauna around it as well.

KARGIL

Kargil at a glance

Weather: Summers are hot while in winters temperature can drop as low as -20 °C

Elevation: 8780 ft

Total Population: 16,338

Local Language: Purki

When to visit?

With the sun shining bright during the day (don’t forget to apply sunscreen) and a cold breeze from mountains making its way on the streets of Kargil, the summer months from April to June serve as the best time to visit the place. It’s not recommended to visit Kargil during the winter season because of the harsh weather conditions. Winter does come for Kargil.

How to reach?

For frequent flyers, Srinagar Airport is around 70 kilometers away from Sonmarg. You can hire a taxi from Srinagar Airport to Kargil.

If you prefer traveling on trains, then the nearest train station is Jammu which is accessible by all major train routes of the country.

You can also board state-run buses from Srinagar and Leh to Kargil.

But the real essence of Kargil comes with a road trip. Bikers from all over the country make their way to Kargil and enjoy its aura before heading towards Ladakh or Kashmir.

What to eat?

Main Bazaar serves as one of the prominent attractions for food lovers visiting Kargil. With its wide variety of local and cross border flavors and cuisine, Kargil is truly a delight.

You can choose from Thukpa, Sugu and Meat Chawal to Kashmiri, Indian and continental cuisines.

Places to visit?

Mulbekh Monastery

With a 9 meter tall idol of Buddha and scenic views at its backdrop, Mulbekh Monastery enchants every visitor in a unique way. Although it is 36 km away from Kargil but considering its history and various theories around its origin, Mulbekh Monastery manages to garner enough footfall. If getting gripped by a sense of calm is your thing then Mulbekh Monastery is the place for you. 

Drass war memorial

Who isn’t in awe of the Indian army and the way they won the Kargil war of 1999 but it came at a cost. So in order to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Kargil War, a war memorial was set up in Drass village. With pink sandstone enhancing the structural beauty of the memorial and a gallery showcasing the relics from the war, Drass war memorial is a must for everyone who visits Kargil. 

Main Street

Kargil not being a major tourist attraction doesn’t offer much on some fronts but it tries to compensate in its own unique way. Same is the story with the Main street market, though it’s not swamped with brands and fancy outlets still, it offers enough to be considered by the tourists. You can buy dry fruits or local folk music and take a part of the culture with you. 

Lamayuru Monastery

Lamayuru Monastery is quite famous among seasoned travelers because of its architectural marvelousness and the way it instills a sense of peace in one’s mind. With typical Ladakhi mountains around it and the teachings of Budha floating in its air, Lamayuru Monastery wouldn’t disappoint you. Also, it allows cars to come close to the premises so less walking!

Suru Basin

Best places to visit are either the ones that attract a lot of people or a place that is underrated yet spell-bounding. Suru basin falls in the latter category. With the Suru river flowing through the valley and mighty Himalayan mountains looking over it, the Suru basin reflects serenity like no other. Still, it garners less footfall owing to the dirt track like roads that lead to it. But if you look for adventures and places that make it worth your while then you should surely visit the Suru valley.

LEH

LEH at a glance

Weather: Cold desert climate for the most part of the year. Summers are warm.

Elevation: 3500m

Total Population: 30,870

Local Language: Ladakhi and Tibetan

When to visit?

Considering the harsh winter season, the best time to visit Leh is from April to June. Days are warmer while nights serve as an adventurer’s delight with a perfect blend of the mountain breeze. Although there are some trek activities are only available during winters but extreme snowfall blocks all roads. But you can surely take a plane and satisfy your adrenaline rush. You go, traveler!

How to reach?

Frequent flyers will be happy to know that Leh has its own airport.

There’s no rail route connectivity but you can hop on a bus or private transport and find your way to Leh. Along the road, you can enjoy the local marvels of the area.

During our trip, we travel to Leh on our bikes passing through the mountains and valleys of Ladakh mesmerized by the wonders that nature has to offer.

What to eat?

The cuisine of Leh is slightly influenced by foreign delicacies from China, Tibet, and Korea. You can try local dishes like Thukpa, Skyu, and Ngamphe. Momos are also a typical delicacy of the areas with a blend of authentic local flavors. We especially recommend you try, Chang-an alcoholic beverage associated with the area.

Places to visit?

Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill has been a place of interest for people from all over the world owing to the fact that it offers something unique and unbelievable. Some consider it to be a geological wonder others brush it off as an illusion but nevertheless, the fame and fantasy around the Magnetic Hill, only grows. It is believed that vehicles when parked at a marked spot, defy gravity and start moving uphill. Sounds sci-fi, right? Well, you can only know after seeing it with your own eyes. So go ahead, maybe you are the one who can crack this code!

Khardung La Pass

Often referred to as the highest motorable road in the world by many, although debatable yet doesn't affect the marvelousness of the Khardung La pass. Apart from being one of the major tourist attractions in the Leh region, Khardung La pass is also a place of importance for the Indian army as it is used to transport supplies to the Siachen Glacier. Khardung La offers a panoramic view of the Karakoram range and offers the tourists an experience like no other. It is said that your bike tour to Leh is not considered complete until you have been to Khardung La pass. 

Shanti Stupa

Since its inception, Shanti Stupa has managed to become and remain the most famous tourist attractions in Leh, having religious sentiments and the relics of Buddha at its base. With a picturesque backdrop, that is most likely to take your breath away, this place offers serenity and calm to everyone who comes along. To catch the best view of this astonishing location, be sure to be around during the sunrise and sunset, and catch a panoramic view of the city and Changspa village in the distance.

Leh Palace

As soon as we hear the word palace we know a place is worth visiting for. Who can not be attracted to these royal structures and the history surrounding them? Leh Palace is not different. It was built by King Sengge Namgyal of the Namgyal dynasty in the 17th century and is currently run by the Archaeological Survey of India who strives to restore its lost grandeur from a 19th-century invasion. Still, it is a place of importance for locals as they gather around it to celebrate the festival of Galdam Namchot. If you are looking to get a panoramic view of the city then Leh Palace will serve as the right spot for you. 

Hall of Fame Museum

Indian army is known for its discipline, might and glorious history all over the world. Hall of Fame museum was built to honor the soldiers of the Indian army who lost their lives in the Indo-Pakistan war. It features various relics of the war and also houses a section for Siachen showcasing the life of soldiers posted on the Siachen Glacier. The museum is located 4 km away from the city and definitely deserves to be on your list to visit.

Gurdwara Pathar Sahib 

Gurdwara Pathar Sahib with its astonishing history, religious importance and stories of inception is placed unconventionally from the rest of the region. With Sikhism in its roots and Indian army managing its day to day functioning, Gurdwara Pathar Sahib has become a major tourist and religious attraction for people visiting Leh.

NUBRA VALLEY

Nubra Valley at a glance

Weather: Cold desert climate for the most part of the year. Summers are warm.

Elevation:3084m

Total Population: 22,443

Local Language: Nubra Skat 

When to visit?

With warmer days and clearer skies, it’s advisable to visit Nubra Valley during summers. A trip during the winter season should be avoided unless you are looking for some snow-clad adventures. 

How to reach?

For frequent flyers, Leh airport will serve as the nearest airport (168 km). You can take a taxi or a bus from Leh to Nubra Valley.

Nubra Valley doesn’t have proper rail route connectivity but the nearest train station is Udhampur at 298 km. 

What to eat?

Owing to the fact that Nubra Valley is not a major tourist destination, there are only a limited number of options for restaurants. You can enjoy local dishes like Thukpa and momos. 

Places to visit?

Diskit Monastery

Diskit Monastery also known as Deskit Gompa, is much more than just the largest and oldest Buddhist monastery of Nubra Valley. Founded by Changzem Tserab Zangpo in the 14th century, it holds the popular festival known as Dosmoche or the "Festival of the Scapegoat" within its province attended by the locals from the villages of Nubra in the month of February.

Panamik Village

Owing to its altitude and geographical importance, Panamik Village, although is a place to be mesmerized by but bars foreigners on its lands. It lies on the banks of the Nubra river and is close to the Siachen base camp. It houses a hot water spring and the signature pashmina goats and Bactrian camels. Due to its harsh weather conditions and altitude, it doesn't boast of a significant number of inhabitants. But if you are up for some adventure and road trip through the ever curvy mountain roads then the Panamik Village is the place for you.  

Yarab Tso

Yarab Tso, located near the Sumur village is often referred to as the hidden lake because of its location. One needs to trek upon a rough terrain for about twenty minutes in order to reach the Yarab Tso. This lake is of religious importance to the locals so you will see a lot of prayer flags around its banks. Continuing the trend of the state, Yarab Tso offers its own set of scenic views and tranquility. 

Samstanling Monastery

A flurry of prayer flags weaving a holy atmosphere, mountains looking upon it and mountain flora covering its lands and minds of its visitors, Samstanling Monastery is as serene as a place can be. It was founded 140 years ago and hasn’t lost a bit of its radiance ever since. If you are looking for some peace and scenic views on your trip then you should definitely consider visiting the Samstanling Monastery. 

Maitreya Buddha

This 32-meter statue of Buddha doesn’t boast off a historical past but is a modern structure of importance. It was sanctified by Dalai Lama and is believed to protect the village from conflicts of any sort. Did we mention it was made with 8kg gold? Sparkle eyes!

SARCHU & JISPA

Sarchu & Jispa at a glance

Weather: The average temperature during summers is 10.9 °C while in winters it drops to  -12 °C in Sarchu. 

While in Jispa, average summer temperature is 15 °C and in winters it drops to -4 °C

Elevation: 4290 meters for Sarchu and 3200m for Jispa

When to visit?

Harsh winters accounting for heavy snowfall forces the camping sites to stay closed. May to September serves as the best time to visit camping sites. 

How to reach?

While traveling on Manali-Leh highway, Sarchu serves as a major stopover point. It lies 252 kilometers from Leh and 222 kilometers from Manali. So it’s only accessible by road and that too in the summers as during winters, snow blocks the highway. 

Jispa is 20 kilometer from Keylong along the Manali-Leh highway and the banks of river Bhaga. 

What to eat?

As Sarchu serves as an overnight stopover point, there are a number of campsites that cater to the accommodations and needs of the tourists. Different camps offer different cuisines like Indian, Chinese and Continental. There are no restaurants present in the area other than what the camps offer.

Jispa is a village so there are a few eateries around where you can find local food and other cuisines to some extent.

Places to visit?

Sarchu offers a serene view and acts as a gateway for the people traveling by Leh-Manali highway as to what the state offers. Barren land, clear sky, and mountains in its backdrop account for Sarchu’s serenity. If you are into stargazing then like any other part of the state, Sarchu won’t disappoint you as well.

Sarchu also acts as a popular trekking point in the Zanskar region of Ladakh.

For Jispa, you should definitely visit the Jispa Rural Housing Museum to get a glimpse of the life of residents of the Lahaul District.

PANGONG TSO

If you are a fan of Bollywood then there’s no way you already don’t know about the Pangong lake. Although two-thirds of it lies in Tibet yet Pangong lake serves as the major tourist attraction of the state. Surrounded by mountains, this crystal clear lake is a sight to behold. And did you know that the water appears to be changing its color throughout the day? Well well! Don’t forget to take your camera though, Pangong is no less than a paradise for a photographer. 

Pangong Tso at a glance

Weather: -5 °C to 10 °C

Elevation: 4350 meters

Total Population: 977

Local Language: Ladakhi

When to visit?

Owing to its altitude, the lake freezes during the winter season and it's not advised to visit the lake during that time. Months from June to September serves as the best time to visit Pangong Lake.

How to reach?

By road, it takes about 5 hours to reach Pangong Lake from Leh. The drive accounts for surreal mountain routes and natural wonders along the way. 

The nearest airport is Leh and you can take any public transport from there to reach Pangong Lake. 

What to eat?

There are a few places and stalls around the lake that offer local delicacies like Thupka and a limited number of dishes from different cuisines. It is advised to carry your own food because of the limited options available at the lake.

Tso Moriri

One of the lesser-known places of the region and a twin to the famous Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, houses a variety of flora and fauna around it. Being surrounded by snow-capped mountains and barren hills, Tso Moriri is the place less traveled. If you are a fan of stargazing then you should surely give Tso Moriri a visit. It was declared a wetland reserve hence is a place of importance for the region and its tourism.

MANALI

It's no news that Manali is one of the most famous hill stations of India, but did you know that every local owns at least one apple tree. Curled up in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Manali makes for a celebrated resort town with more than a dozen sight-seeing spots in the vicinity. Something as simple as taking a walk among the apple orchids, or staying at a hotel and just clinging to the balcony, or a stroll across old Manali in an effort to explore every little corner and space available is fulfilling to put it simply. Manali is one place where you’ll never run short on accommodations or adventure. 

Manali at a glance

Weather: The temperatures range from −7 °C (19 °F) to 30 °C (86 °F) over the year

Elevation: 2050m 

Total population: 8096

Language: Hindi

When to visit?

 Manali is one place that doesn't discriminate and truly has its own charm in every season. 

Summer kicks in during March maintaining pleasant weather which makes it a good time for outdoor activities like trekking, rafting, paragliding.

For people who would want to get their hands dirty with snowballs and snow fights September to February is a perfect time; that's when snow covers the place from tip to toe.

How to reach?

In case, flight works for you the best, the nearest airport is Bhuntar approximately 50km from Manali. From the airport, you can easily get pre-paid taxis to your hotels. Manali is very much accessible by bus, having an active private bus and state-run systems. Having connectivity with a number of major tourist destinations like Kullu, Shimla, Leh, Manali offers perfect road routes.

What to eat?

 Like every other place, Manali has its own eminent street food that makes it a place-you-must-eat-at. Khatta, Sudu, Babru, Patande, Trout, Aktori, and if you've watched Yeh Jawani hai Diwani then you already know about Lugdi, makes for the best local food you can get your hands on. And while you're here, try the momos. Thank us later!

 

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Routes For Ladakh Bike Road Trip

 

Manali - Tso Moriri - Srinagar

Day 1: Departure to Manali from Delhi 

On the first day, we start our dream trip! Arrive in Delhi and explore the capital if time permits. Report to the Volvo pickup point in the evening and meet your fellow travelers. Board the bus and travel overnight in an AC Volvo from Delhi to Manali. Tomorrow, you’ll wake up to the fresh lush greens and mesmerizing mountains in the Land of Gods - Himachal Pradesh.

DAY 2: Stay in Manali

Upon arrival in Manali, get transferred from the bus stand to the hotel. Check in to our hotels and gear up for exploring the beautiful city! In the evening, our tour manager will brief you about the various safety measures, riding tips, and gear checkups. The group would have an opportunity to get acquainted with the fellow riders at dinner time. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 3:  Manali to Jispa 

After Breakfast, we will start our Ladakh bike trip journey! We will ride across our first pass - the Rohtang Pass at 13,058ft. as we continue our journey towards Jispa. We will be riding via Chandra Valley before we reach our destination. Dinner and overnight stay at our campsite in Jispa.

Distance: 140 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

DAY 4:  Jispa to Sarchu

Gear up for the day and start the journey towards Sarchu post breakfast. En route, we will visit Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal. We will also cross the famous Baralacha Pass located at 16,616ft. which connects Lahaul district in Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh. Upon arrival, we would settle down in our campsite taking in the beauty of our starting point in Ladakh and revamp for our ride tomorrow. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 80 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 4-6 Hours

Day 5: Sarchu To Tso Moriri

With the energy revamped and the heart ready to take in more, we begin our day amidst the beautiful mountains and fill up on the breakfast. The journey from Sarchu to Tso Moriri will challenge us, amaze us, and leave us asking for more. We will visit the Tsokar lake before we reach Tso Moriri. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 220 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 8-10 Hours

Day 6: Tso Moriri to Hanle

After breakfast, we start our ride to the remote location of Hanle that inhabits a mere 200 families. The village has recently been opened for tourists and travelers. We see the landscapes change throughout the ride before reaching Hanle. We will trace the ride till Puga Sumdo before taking a turn for Hanle. Puga gives us beautiful views of the hot water springs there, making one realize the untapped beauty of mother nature. We will also see the world's second-largest observatory. The night sky view in Hanle seems almost unreal as one can see the Galaxy with naked eyes. We sum up the day after a hearty meal and retreat in the cozy homestay.

Distance: 160 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-8 Hours

Day 7: Hanle to Pangong Tso

After an early breakfast, we start our ride towards the Pangong lake. The journey is a heaven for an adventure junkie with all the offroading journey that would take us through Maan, Merak, and Chushul. We will be crossing the Rezang-La, 1962 Indo-China War Memorial to paying homage to the Martyrs and continue our ride. For the last 30 Kms, we would ride along the blue waters of the Pangong Tso. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 160 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 7-8 Hours

Day 8: Pangong Tso to Nubra Valley

After enjoying the beauty and the captivating views of the beautiful Pangong Lake, we get ready to check another location that would leave us awestruck off our list - Nubra Valley! We begin our ride post-breakfast as we bid adieu tods the ink blue lake, taking the unexplored and untouched Shyok village route, as we proceed to the Nubra Valley. This route is famous for its waterfalls, and the beautiful scenic view. We will be visiting the Diskit Monastery. You can also take a ride on the Double humped camels in the valley. Today, we will be staying in a Campsite amidst the Beautiful Mountains.  Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 200 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

Day 9: Nubra Valley to Leh

Post breakfast, we get geared up and start our ride towards to heart of Ladakh - Leh. Today, we will ride past the highest accessible motorable pass in the world – Khardung La at 18,380 ft. We would witness the change of landscape as we keep proceeding on this route. A sumptuous dinner with a chit-chat session would bring an end to the day. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 180 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

Day 10: Leh to Kargil

After Breakfast, we leave for Kargil. En route, we visit the famous Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, and Hall of Fame museum. We will be left in awe of nature as we ride past the Moon Landscape near Lamayuru Monastery, enjoying the magnificent view. We also witness Sangam - the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus River on our way. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Distance: 220 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 11: Kargil to Sonmarg

After breakfast leave for Sonmarg, all set and ready to enjoy the last stretch of bike riding of our circuit. We will cross the famous Zoji La (11,575 ft) and Drass Village (2nd Coldest Inhabited Place in the World) on our way to Sonmarg. We have a magnificent view of the famous Kargil war Peaks - Tiger and Tololing from the Vijay War Memorial, where we stop to pay homage to the martyrs. We leave our bikes upon arrival in Sonmarg. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Distance: 124 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 4-5 Hours

Day 12: Departure 

After the successful completion of an adventurous and memorable circuit, we would depart for the Srinagar Airport post breakfast, where we catch our flights to head back to our homes taking with us memories worth a lifetime and friendships to cherish forever! 

Distance : 102 Km
Approx. Duration : 3-4 Hours

 

Srinagar - Tso Moriri - Manali

Day 1: Arrival at the Srinagar Airport

Arrive at the Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar, to begin a once in a lifetime journey! You'll be meeting our representative post which we will move towards our hotel in Sonmarg. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.  

Distance: 102 Km
Approx. Duration: 3-4 Hours

Day 2: Sonmarg to Kargil

After breakfast leave for Kargil, marking the start of our adventurous and fun-filled bike trip. We will be crossing the famous Zoji La (11,575 ft) and Drass Village (2nd Coldest Inhabited Place in the World) on our way to Kargil. We have a magnificent view of the famous Kargil war Peaks - Tiger and Tololing from the Vijay War Memorial, where we stop to pay homage to the martyrs. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Distance: 124 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 4-5 Hours

Day 3: Kargil to Leh

After Breakfast, we leave from Kargil and proceed to Leh. We will be left in awe of nature as we ride past the Moon Landscape near Lamayuru Monastery, enjoying the magnificent view. We also witness Sangam - the confluence of the Zanskar and Indus River on our way. En route, we visit the famous Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, and Hall of Fame museum. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Distance: 220 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 5-6 Hours

Day 4: Leh to Nubra Valley

Post breakfast, we start for Nubra Valley. Today, we will ride past the highest accessible motorable pass in the world – Khardung La at 18,380 ft. We would witness the change of landscape as we keep proceeding on this route. We will be visiting the Diskit Monastery. You can also take a ride on the Double humped camels in the valley. Today, we will be staying at a Campsite amidst the Beautiful Mountains. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 180 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso

After enjoying the beauty and the captivating views of the Nubra Valley, we get ready to check another location that would leave us awestruck off our list - the Pangong Lake! We begin our ride post-breakfast towards the ink blue lake, taking the unexplored and untouched Shyok village route. This route is famous for its waterfalls, and the beautiful scenic view. The first view of the lake will leave you spellbound and as we breathe that in, we continue towards our campsite near the lake. A sumptuous dinner with a chit-chat session would bring an end to the day.

Distance: 200 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

Day 6: Pangong Tso to Hanle

After breakfast, we start our ride to the remote location of Hanle that inhabits a mere 200 families. The village has recently been opened for tourists and travelers. For the first 30 Kms, we would ride along the blue waters of the Pangong Tso. The journey is a heaven for an adventure junkie with all the offroading journey that would take us through Maan, Merak, and Chushul. We will be crossing the Rezang-La, 1962 Indo-China War Memorial to paying homage to the Martyrs and continue our ride. We will also see the world's second-largest observatory. The night sky view in Hanle seems almost unreal as one can see the Galaxy with naked eyes. We sum up the day after a hearty meal and retreat in the cozy homestay.

Distance: 160 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 7-8 Hours

Day 7: Hanle to Tso Moriri

Post breakfast, we will retrace the ride till Puga Sumdo before taking a left for Tsomoriri. Puga gives us beautiful views of the hot water springs there, making one realize the untapped beauty of mother nature. We see the landscapes change throughout the ride before reaching the lake. Dinner and overnight stay at the Campsite.

Distance: 160 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-8 Hours

Day 8: Tso Moriri to Sarchu

With the energy revamped and the heart ready to take in more, we begin our day amidst the beautiful mountains and fill up on the breakfast. The journey from Tsomoriri to Sarchu will challenge us, amaze us, and leave us asking for more. We will visit the Tsokar lake before we reach Sarchu. We will also be crossing Naki la (15,647 ft), and Lachung la (16,616 ft) and ride across the famous More plains and Gata Loops! Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 220 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 8-10 Hours

Day 9: Sarchu to Jispa

Gear up for the day and start the journey towards Jispa post breakfast. En route, we will visit Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal. We will also cross the famous Baralacha Pass located at 16,616ft. which connects Lahaul district in Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh. Upon arrival, we would settle down in our campsite taking in the beauty of our ending point in Ladakh and revamp for our ride tomorrow. Dinner and overnight stay at the campsite.

Distance: 80 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 4-6 Hours

Day 10: Jispa to Manali

This is the final leg of our ritual road trip. We start our day early as we leave for Manali. The route is slightly rough, so this day we shall try and cover the maximum distance with minimum stopovers. We arrive in Manali by the evening, followed by hand over of the bikes and gear. Later, we all celebrate the completion of our epic road journey. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Distance: 140 Km
Approx. Ride Duration: 6-7 Hours

Day 11: MANALI TO DELHI

After breakfast, we check out of the hotel at 10 AM and explore the nearby cafes with our fellow riders, reliving and relishing the beautiful journey that was once a dream and how it has become not just an achievement, but a chronicle! Leave for Delhi in the evening via an overnight Volvo bus, taking with us memories worth a lifetime and friendships to cherish forever!