Manali Leh Manali Bike Expedition: Hanle & Umling La

Route: Manali – Atal Tunnel – Sissu – Tandi – Jispa – Darcha- Deepak Tal- Suraj Tal- Baralacha la – Sarchu

Fuel Options: Tandi – Keylong- This is the last major petrol pump on the Leh–Manali route.

Your ride blasts out of Manali and straight into adventure as you throttle through the legendary Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest high-altitude tunnel, before rolling into Sissu, where the waterfall welcomes every rider like a curtain of mist. The road opens wider as you fuel up at Tandi-Keylong, the last petrol point before the wild Himalayas take over. Past Jispa and the Darcha check post, the terrain turns raw and dramatic, guiding you to the glass-like calm of Deepak Tal and the majestic altitude of Suraj Tal, one of India’s highest lakes. The climb to Baralacha La hits you with rugged landscapes and icy winds, a true test of grit, before descending into the vast open plains of Sarchu, where your high-altitude campsite waits under a sky full of stars.

Experiences:

• Riding through changing landscapes from green valleys to barren high-mountain desert.
• Crystal-clear alpine lakes - Deepak Tal & Suraj Tal offering pure serenity.
• High-altitude thrills at Baralacha La Pass.
• Camping at Sarchu, famous for its silence, starry skies, and rugged Himalayan energy.

Activities:

• Long-stretch Himalayan riding.
• Photography stops at waterfalls, lakes, and passes.
• Fueling & prepping your bike at Tandi/Keylong.
• High-altitude acclimatisation at Sarchu.
• Stargazing at night camp.

Route - Sarchu- Gata Loop- Lachulung la- More Plains- Tanglang La- Upshi - Leh

Fuel Options: only in Leh

Road Conditions: Mixed terrain, hairpin bends, High-altitude rough sections with gravel and loose stones, & Good roads with long,

Leaving Sarchu, the ride instantly punches into adventure as you climb the legendary Gata Loops, 21 tight hairpin bends that twist sharply up the mountains, with the mysterious Ghost Temple watching over riders. The ascent continues toward Nakee La and drops briefly into Whisky Nala before climbing again to the raw, windy heights of Lachulung La, where the altitude hits hard, and the landscapes turn lunar. Continuing to Pang, riders refuel their energy with hot tea and a much-needed restroom break before blasting across the surreal, endless stretch of the More Plains, a dream ride for every biker. The climb to Tanglang La, the world’s 2nd-highest motorable pass, brings pure riding glory before descending through Upshi and cruising into Leh, the legendary dream destination that every biker aims to conquer.

Experiences:

• Conquering the 21 hairpin bends of Gata Loops.
• Visiting the mysterious Ghost Temple.
• High-altitude landscapes at Nakee La & Lachulung La.
• Endless flat riding across More Plains.
• Standing atop Tanglang La, the second-highest motorable pass.
• Rolling into Leh after one of the world’s most iconic rides.

Activities:

• Mountain climbing rides & switchback navigation.
• Photography stops at passes, plains & loops.
• Tea break & rest stop at Pang.
• High-altitude acclimatization.
• Final celebratory ride into Leh market.

Route: Leh City - Shanti Stupa - Leh Palace - Sankar Monastery - Hall of Fame - Gurudwara Pathar Sahib - Magnetic Hill - Sangam Viewpoint – Leh

Road Condition - Excellent

Fuel – Leh city

Start your morning with a refreshing bike ride to Shanti Stupa, best experienced during sunrise or sunset for panoramic views of Leh, From here, cruise down into the city lanes and explore the historic Leh Palace and peaceful Sankar Monastery. After soaking in the views, throttle towards the inspiring Hall of Fame Museum for a dose of history and army pride.

Post lunch, hit the highway as the roads open wide-ride along the Leh–Kargil route towards Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, roll past the gravity-defying Magnetic Hill, and continue until you reach the stunning Sangam Viewpoint, where the Indus and Zanskar rivers paint a dramatic landscape. By evening, ride back to Leh, park your bike, chill at your hotel, or unwind at a local café. Overnight stay.

Experiences:

• Witness a stunning sunrise/sunset from Shanti Stupa.
• Explore ancient Ladakhi architecture & culture.
• Feel Ladakh’s army pride at the Hall of Fame.
• Experience the strange optical illusion of Magnetic Hill.
• Capture beautiful landscapes along the highway.
• Enjoy the magical blend of two rivers at Sangam.
• Relaxed riding day to build confidence before higher altitudes.

Food:

• Breakfast at the hotel before the morning ride.
• Light snacks or tea at roadside cafés on the Leh–Kargil highway.
• Lunch at a local dhaba near Sangam.
• Evening café experience in Leh (Tibetan/Ladakhi snacks, momos, thukpa, butter tea).

Activities:

• Early morning ride to Shanti Stupa.
• Visit Leh Palace & Sankar Monastery.
• Explore the Hall of Fame Museum.
• Bike ride on the Leh–Kargil highway.
• Stop at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib.
• Experience Magnetic Hill.
• Enjoy the Indus–Zanskar Confluence Viewpoint.
• Return ride to Leh town.

Route: Leh - Khardung La - Nubra Valley – Diskit – Hunder

Gear up early and begin your thrilling ascent from Leh towards Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. The ride is a perfect blend of sharp hairpin bends, cold winds, and jaw-dropping Himalayan views- an iconic achievement for every biker. After celebrating your summit moment at Khardung La, descend carefully into the greener landscapes of Nubra Valley and ride toward Diskit Monastery, home to the towering 32-meter Maitreya Buddha overlooking the valley. Continue your ride to Hunder, where the day ends with a peaceful sunset over the sand dunes, giving the perfect cool-down after a high-altitude biking day.

Experiences:

• Conquer one of the world’s highest motorable passes.
• Feel the adrenaline of high-altitude riding.
• Enjoy sweeping views of the Shyok River valley.
• Experience ancient monasteries & local culture.
• Relax at Hunder while watching a golden Himalayan sunset.
• Pure biker joy: changing landscapes, crisp air, and open roads.

Activities:

• Early morning bike ride from Leh.
• Iconic ascent to Khardung La Pass.
• Photo stops at high-altitude viewpoints.
• Visit Diskit Monastery & Maitreya Buddha.
• Ride through Nubra Valley’s scenic villages.
• Evening visit to Hunder Sand Dunes.

Route: Hunder – Turtuk – Thang Village - Hunder

Road Condition Excellent except for a few rough patches before Turtuk

Kickstart the day from Hunder, throttle open along the Shyok River, chasing glacier-fed streams and snow-capped peaks. Stop at the river viewpoint for killer shots, then ride into Turtuk — hit the wooden suspension bridge, roam the village, check out the Turtuk Museum, and explore the Royal Palace. Refuel at Balti Kitchen with local Grangthur and Tsamik before rolling 2 km to Thang, the last Indian village on the border, spying across the Shyok at Pakistani bunkers with binoculars. Twist the throttle back to Hunder and finish the day riding up the sand dunes, spotting double-humped camels, and soaking in the sunset over Nubra , pure adventure from sunrise to sunset.

Experiences:

• Ride along the Shyok River from Hunder to Turtuk, sunlight reflecting off the mountains and river.
• Wooden suspension bridge in Turtuk sways while walking, offering a bird’s-eye view of the stream.
• Thang village, standing near the India-Pakistan border, uses binoculars to see distant villages and bunkers.
• Sand dunes of Hunder in the evening; double-humped camels and desert-like scenery against snowy mountains.

Food:

• Grangthur – Buckwheat roti with curd & herbs, mildly undercooked if not prepared well.
• Tsamik – Curd-based sauce with chopped/pickled herbs, slightly spicy.
• Dining Tip: Eat fresh local food at cafes by the river; food is traditional, flavorful, and tied to Balti culture.

Activities:

• Stop at the Shyok River viewpoint for photography and a short walk.
• Visit the Turtuk Museum century-old artifacts and traditional Balti utensils.
• Visit the Royal Palace guided tour, learn about the Balti rulers, architecture, and local history.
• Ride back to Hunder and walk/climb sand dunes; see camels and enjoy sunset views.

Route Hunder - Sumur Sasoma Bridge - Siachen Base Camp - Panamik - Sumur (Night Stay)

Road Condition: Mostly good

Fuel Availability: None (Use fuel from Diskit / carry extra)

Begin your day with a smooth ride from Hunder to Panamik, enjoying open roads, soft curves, and the changing textures of the Nubra landscape. Stop at the Panamik Hot Springs for a relaxing, natural warm soak that bikers love after long rides. Continue your journey deeper into the valley toward the legendary Siachen Base Camp, riding along the same route used by the Indian Army on the world’s highest battlefield, truly a proud and emotional moment for any biker. After exploring and paying respect at Siachen, gear up for the return ride toward Sumur, where you can unwind with peaceful sand dunes and stunning monastery views. Later, ride towards Shyok via the scenic villages of Khalsar and Agham, experiencing some of the most beautiful rural roads in Ladakh.

Experiences:

• Relaxing at Panamik Hot Springs
• Emotional & proud moment at Siachen Base Camp
• Witnessed the harsh environment of high-altitude glaciers.
• Learned about soldiers’ sacrifices, life at 22,000 ft, and Indian Army history.
• Enjoyed peaceful Nubra river views on the return trip; felt completely disconnected from the chaos of civilization.

Activity:

• Visit Panamik Hot Springs
• Walked on suspension bridges- fun for bikers to stretch legs.
• Clicked photos of glaciers, rivers, and rugged terrain.
• Pay tribute at Army memorials
• Souvenir shopping at Base Camp shop: T-shirts, jackets, mugs, and more.

Food:

Lunch at base camp cafeteria: fried rice, Maggi—simple but satisfying at 12,500 ft.

Route: Sumur – Shyok – Durbuk – Pangong

Option - Agham - Sakti - Wari La - Chang La - Durbuk (100 km extra)

Road Condition: Challenging route toward the Pangong side, Landslide-prone patches

Fuel Availability None (Carry fuel from Nubra/Leh (mandatory)

Start your ride from Sumur towards Shyok, cruising through the remote stretches of Nubra with almost zero traffic and pure Himalayan silence. This route gives bikers a raw adventure feel- narrow roads, river bends, and dusty valleys. Continue riding along the dramatic Shyok River until you reach Durbuk, a key junction towards Pangong. From here, the ride becomes smoother and more scenic as you approach the magical blue waters of Pangong Tso,

Experiences:

• Pure biker terrain - gravel patches, river curves & open valleys.
• Transition from dusty Nubra landscapes to the blue Pangong basin.
• First view of Pangong Lake, ultra-clear water, blue shades.
• Peaceful lakeside evening at one of the world’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes with Crystal clear water visibility.
• Movie spots (3 Idiots & JTHJ).

Activities:

• Morning ride through the Nubra interior.
• Scenic photo stops along the Shyok River.
• Evening arrival at Pangong Lakefront.
• Explore the lake edge, water tasting (salty), and glacier melt explanation.
• Lakeside walk and photography.

Network Availability:

• Jio is available only till 3 Idiots Point.
• After that: No Jio, No BSNL, No network for a 50-60 km stretch.

Route - Pangong – Chushul – Rezang la – Hanle

Road Condition: Pangong - Merak: Good Merak - Chushul: Rough terrain, not recommended after dark

Fuel Availability: None

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed ride from the serene waters of Pangong to the high-altitude adventure of Hanle! Starting from Pangong, pedal through the scenic Mann Village with mesmerizing lake views before reaching the historic Chushul Memorial, paying homage to the 1962 Indo-China war martyrs. Next, it’s a short but powerful stretch to Rezang La, where the valor of Charlie Company (13 Kumaon Regiment) comes alive at the memorial. After soaking in the history, gear up for a longer ride to Loma, crossing dramatic landscapes, before finally pushing through to Hanle. Here, the day ends under a breathtaking night sky, perfect for stargazing at one of the highest observatories in the world. After the tour, back to Hanle for, overnight stay.

Experiences:

• Remote, untouched villages - Maan, Spangmik, Chushul.
• Chushul War Memorial - Tribute to 1962 Indo-China war martyrs.
• Viewpoint showing India & China's mountain boundaries.
• Rezang La memorial (Indo-China border insights).
• 13 pillars - symbol of the regiment.
• Adventure drive with water crossings.
• Hanle night sky – perfect for stargazing.

Activities:      

• Lake views at Mann Village.
• Historical visits: Chushul Memorial & Rezang La Memorial (Charlie Company story).
• Adventure riding with multiple water crossings en route to Hanle.
• Stargazing at Hanle, one of the clearest night skies in the world.

Route – Hanle – Foti la- Nurbula – Umling la

Road Condition: Hanle - Nurbula - Umling La (Mix of smooth + Dirt tracks)

Fuel Availability None

This day takes you on an epic loop from Hanle to Nurbula and back, blending high-altitude adventure with astronomical wonders. Start with a 57 km ride to Nurbula, passing the world’s second-highest Hanle Indian Astronomical Observatory and crossing Foti La. From Nurbula, tackle the challenging ride over Uming La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, before returning to Hanle. The day culminates with mesmerising night sky observation, capturing the Milky Way and countless stars- perfect for astro photography enthusiasts.

Experiences:

• Thin air - low oxygen - shortness of breath even while walking slowly.
• Ride through high-altitude terrain with panoramic views.
• Strong cold winds near Umling La.
• Sense of achievement standing near the “Higher than Everest Base Camp” board.
• Witness the Milky Way and clear night skies at Hanle.

Activities:

• Photography & videography throughout the route.
• Visit to the Hanle Indian Astronomical Observatory.
• Cross Foti La and Uming La (high-altitude passes).
• Night sky observation at Hanle.
• Astro photography session.

Food:

• Local Ladakhi dish made of barley flour + butter.
• Aloo paratha served with thick curd.
• Local spicy powder (chilies, cumin).
• Butter Tea (tea leaves + butter + milk + water).
• Lunch (Near Umling La Climb) Rajma-Chawal (ready-made, tasty, hot).

Route: Hanle – Loma – Mahe – Sumdo – Tso Moriri - Sumdo

Road Condition - Hanle – Loma: Excellent, Loma - Mahe: Smooth

Fuel Availability - Nyoma (new petrol pump, limited availability)

The journey from Hanle to Tso Moriri is a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Kickstart the ride from Hanle to Loma, making a short halt at the picturesque bridge where a stream joins the mighty Indus- ideal for some quick photo ops and fresh mountain air. From Loma, pedal onwards to Mahe, crossing the iconic Mahe Bridge and stopping for a hearty lunch at a local eatery. Next, continue to Sumdo and then reach the stunning Tso Moriri, exploring its pristine lakeshore, gentle waves, and crystal-clear waters. After a day full of riding and lakeside exploration, wind down with an overnight stay at Sumdo.

Experiences:

• Admire the confluence of the mountain stream and the Indus River.
• Ride across high-altitude terrain with changing landscapes.
• Feel the calm and serenity of Tso Moriri’s pristine lake waters.
• Enjoy the unique high-altitude night atmosphere at Sumdo.

Activities:

• Short halt at scenic bridge near Indus stream.
• Crossing Mahe Bridge.
• Lakeshore walk and light exploration at Tso Moriri.
• Overnight stay at Sumdo.

Road Condition: Mix of good tarmac & occasional rough patches near lake sections and high-altitude riding with reduced oxygen

Fuel Availability: Debring (hand-pump/local vendor - unreliable)

Your ride kicks off from Sumdo, rolling into the surprising greenery of Puga Valley, where lush meadows burst out of the dry Ladakhi landscape like a hidden gem. From here, the throttle opens wide toward Tso Kar, a stunning high-altitude salt lake shimmering in white and turquoise, followed by a peaceful en-route lunch at Rumste as the mountains surround you from every side. Riding toward Debring, the valley stretches into wide-open horizons, a dream zone for bikers who love speed, wind, and endless photography moments. The road toughens as you push on through Pang, climbing toward the rugged heights of Lachulung La and Nakee La, where altitude and terrain demand focus. The descent drops into the legendary Gata Loops, a thrilling set of tight switchbacks spiraling down the mountain, before finally reaching Sarchu, your high-altitude night halt surrounded by raw Himalayan wilderness.

Experiences:

• Lush, surprising greenery at Puga Valley.
• White salt-crusted shores of Tso Kar Lake.
• Long open valley rides near Debring.
• High-pass thrill at Lachulung La & Nakee La.
• Iconic descent through Gata Loops.
• High-altitude camping vibes at Sarchu.

Activities:

• Photography at lakes, meadows & high passes.
• Scenic long-valley cruising for drone-like views.
• Lunch break at Rumste village.
• Technical riding on switchbacks at Gata Loops.
• Evening rest & acclimatization at Sarchu camp.

Route: Sarchu- Keylong- Tandi- Sissu- Atal Tunnel- Manali

Road Condition: Roads improve with mixed tarmac and a few broken sections, manageable traffic depending on the season

Your final Himalayan morning begins at Sarchu, rolling through cold winds as you climb once again toward the mighty Baralacha La, a pass that feels like nature’s farewell handshake. From there, the road descends into familiar yet comforting terrain, Jispa’s peaceful riverside, flowing quietly beside you, and the calm mountain energy of Keylong, where you stop for a warm, satisfying lunch. With your tank and spirit full, the journey continues through Tandi, past the green frames of Sissu, and straight toward the engineering marvel of the Atal Tunnel that guides you back to Manali. This final stretch isn’t just a ride, it’s your last throttle through the Himalayan region, a moment where every curve, cold breeze, roaring engine, and high-altitude silence turns into a memory that stays with every rider long after the journey ends.

Experiences:

• Riding through the grand farewell landscapes of Sarchu and Baralacha La.
• Peaceful riverside views of Jispa, perfect for those final Himalayan reflections.
• The calm, lived-in mountain vibe of Keylong, ideal for a relaxed lunch halt.
• Rolling through Tandi & Sissu as the terrain shifts from high desert to lush greenery.
• The dramatic transition from rugged mountains into the Manali plains via the Atal Tunnel.
• That special feeling of your last Himalayan ride, where every kilometre becomes a memory stamped in your riding soul.

Activities:

• Scenic photography at Baralacha La, Jispa & Sissu.
• Relaxed lunch break at Keylong town.
• Fuel top-up at Tandi (major petrol pump) for the final leg.
• Smooth valley cruising through Lahaul’s changing landscapes.
• Riding continuously through the Atal Tunnel- a must-have experience for every biker.
• Final group ride or solo reflection as the mountains fade behind.