Great Himalayan Motorbike Trip | Spiti Valley & Ladakh Motorcycle Tour

• Welcome to India! Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, our team will greet you and assist with a smooth transfer to your hotel.
• After check-in, the day is kept easy and relaxed to help you recover from long international flights and adjust to the new time zone, climate, and surroundings.
• Take some time to rest, freshen up, or enjoy a short walk around the hotel area. This is your first taste of India — vibrant, colorful, and full of life.
• In the evening, we’ll have a brief orientation session where you’ll meet your trip leader and fellow travelers. You’ll receive an overview of the journey ahead, safety guidelines, cultural tips, and practical advice for traveling in India.
• Dinner will be served at the hotel or a nearby restaurant, offering a gentle introduction to Indian cuisine, with options suited to European palates.

Overnight stay in Delhi.
Rest well — the adventure truly begins tomorrow.

• After an early breakfast at the hotel, we begin our journey towards the Himalayas.
• We transfer to New Delhi Railway Station and board a comfortable train to Chandigarh (Train distance: approx. 245 km | Duration: 3.5–4 hours).
• The train journey offers a glimpse of India’s changing landscapes — bustling cities slowly giving way to greener countryside.
• On arrival in Chandigarh, known as India’s cleanest and most well-planned city, we take a short break before continuing our journey by bus to Shimla.
• The drive from Chandigarh to Shimla (Road distance: approx. 115 km | Duration: 5–5.5 hours) is scenic and relaxing. As the road climbs higher, the air turns cooler, and pine forests begin to appear. Rolling hills, mountain villages, and winding roads mark your first real experience of the Himalayas.
• By late afternoon or early evening, we arrive in Shimla, the former summer capital of British India. After hotel check-in, the evening is free to rest or take a gentle walk nearby, enjoying the cool mountain weather.

Overnight stay in Shimla.

• After breakfast, we head out to explore Shimla, a relaxed hill town with old-world charm, colonial architecture, and beautiful mountain views.
• Our first stop is Jakhoo Temple, set on the highest point in Shimla. Surrounded by cedar forests, it offers lovely views over the town and the distant Himalayas.
• We then spend time around The Ridge and Mall Road, Shimla’s main promenade, where you can stroll past heritage buildings, small cafés, and local shops. A short walk brings us to Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India and a quiet reminder of Shimla’s colonial past.
• Later, we visit the elegant Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study), once the residence of the British Viceroy, now set in peaceful gardens overlooking the valley.
• The afternoon is free to enjoy lunch, relax at a café, or wander around Mall Road at your own pace.
• In the evening, motorcycles are allocated to all riders, followed by a trip orientation session. We’ll walk you through the journey ahead, riding conditions, safety tips, and give you time to get comfortable with your bike.

Overnight stay in Shimla.

• Today, we begin our journey along the historic Old Hindustan–Tibet Road, built by the British to improve access to Tibet. This legendary route will guide us through some of the most remote and least explored regions of the Indian Himalayas over the coming days.
• Leaving Shimla behind, the road winds past verdant Himalayan peaks, apple orchards, and cedar forests, gradually descending towards the Sutlej River, which will accompany us for much of the journey ahead.
• As we drive deeper into the Kinnaur region, the scenery becomes quieter and more dramatic, offering a glimpse into a slower, mountain way of life.
• By late afternoon, we arrive in Sarahan (Approx. 190 km | 7–8 hours), a small Himalayan village dominated by the impressive Bhimakali Temple complex, known for its unique wooden architecture and twin towers set against the backdrop of snow-covered mountains.
• We spend the evening at leisure, soaking in the peaceful surroundings and fresh mountain air.

Overnight stay in Sarahan.

• After breakfast, we continue along the Sutlej River and, at Karcham, enter the scenic Baspa Valley, leaving the Old Hindustan–Tibet Road behind.
• We pass through Sangla, the largest village in the valley, overlooked by the historic Kamru Fort, a five-storey tower known for its traditional wooden carvings and striking mountain setting.
• Continuing along the Baspa River, the landscape becomes quieter and more remote.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Chitkul (Approx. 110 km | 4–5 hours), the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border, is surrounded by high mountains and open meadows.
• Evening at leisure to explore the village or relax by the river.

Overnight stay in Chitkul.

• After breakfast, we leave Chitkul and drive back through the scenic Baspa Valley, retracing our route past Sangla and Karcham.
• Rejoining the Old Hindustan–Tibet Road, we continue along the Sutlej River, with changing views of deep gorges, terraced fields, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Kalpa (Approx. 100 km | 3–4 hours), a peaceful Himalayan village known for its apple orchards and stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.
• The rest of the day is free to relax, explore the village, or enjoy the sunset over the snow-covered peaks.

Overnight stay in Kalpa.

• After breakfast, we continue north along the Old Hindustan–Tibet Road, following the Sutlej River as the landscape becomes drier, more rugged, and increasingly dramatic.
• The green valleys slowly fade into a high-altitude desert, with stark mountains, deep gorges, and wide open skies guiding the way.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Nako (Approx. 110 km | 4–5 hours), a small and remote village that feels like stepping back in time. Set at an altitude of 3,660 meters, Nako is built around a serene turquoise lake and surrounded by barren yet striking scenery.
• The rest of the day is kept relaxed to allow time to settle in and adjust to the altitude. Gentle walks around the lake or through the village are recommended.

Overnight stay in Nako.

• After breakfast, we set off on a short but scenic drive towards Tabo. At Sumdo, we leave the Sutlej River and turn into the Spiti Valley — welcome to Spiti.
• By late morning, we arrive in Tabo (Approx. 80 km | 2–3 hours), a quiet village set at an altitude of 3,050 meters. Tabo is best known for the historic Tabo Monastery (Tabo Gompa), founded over a thousand years ago and believed to have been established by Rinchen Zangpo, the Great Translator.
• The monastery complex is the oldest continuously functioning monastery in India and the largest in Spiti, known for its remarkable murals, ancient statues, nine temples, numerous stupas, and meditation caves.
• The afternoon is free to explore the monastery and the surrounding village at a relaxed pace.

Overnight stay in Tabo.

• After breakfast, we leave Tabo and set out on what is normally a short drive, but one we extend with a rewarding detour through the heart of the Spiti Valley.
• Our first stop is Dhankar Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff at over 3,800 meters. Once a guard fort of the Spiti kingdom, the monastery offers phenomenal views across the Spiti Valley and is known for its traditional architecture and beautiful thangkas.
• From here, those who wish can take a short trek to Dhankar Lake
  (Approx. 2 km one way | 1–1.5 hours). The trail leads to a quiet high-altitude lake set above the valley, offering stunning views and a peaceful break amidst the stark Spiti landscape.
• After the visit and trek, we continue our drive towards Kaza.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Kaza (Approx. 50 km | 2–3 hours), the main town of Spiti Valley.
• The rest of the day is free to relax, explore the local market, or enjoy the calm rhythm of life in Spiti.

Overnight stay in Kaza.

• Kaza, the largest town in the otherwise vast and empty Spiti Valley, is the perfect base for exploring the remarkable high-altitude villages around it.
• After breakfast, we drive to Key Monastery, dramatically perched on a hill overlooking the Spiti River. Home to over 300 resident lamas, this is the largest monastery in Spiti. Inside, a maze of corridors and rooms reveals ancient thangkas, murals, and traditional musical instruments, all set against breathtaking valley views.
• We then continue to the high villages of Langza and Komic, recently connected by road and still deeply rooted in traditional Tibetan-Spiti culture. These quiet settlements offer a rare glimpse into life at extreme altitude. Enjoy time to walk through the villages, interact with locals, and perhaps share a warm cup of local tea.
• The area is also known for its wildlife, including ibex, red fox, and griffon vultures, often seen along the slopes and ridgelines.
• By afternoon, we return to Kaza (Approx. 60–70 km total | 3–4 hours).
• Evening at leisure to relax or explore the local market.

Overnight stay in Kaza.

• After an early breakfast, we leave Kaza and begin one of the most scenic and adventurous drives of the journey.
• The road takes us through the rugged landscapes of Spiti, crossing Kunzum Pass, where we pause to take in the dramatic high-altitude views before continuing towards Chandratal Lake.
• From the road head, we take a short walk to reach Chandratal Lake (Approx. 14 km off-road + 1 km walk | 45–60 minutes walk), a stunning high-altitude lake set against barren mountains. Known as the “Moon Lake,” its clear blue waters and peaceful surroundings make it one of the most beautiful spots in the Himalayas.
• After spending time at the lake, we continue our journey towards Manali, descending gradually from the high-altitude desert into greener valleys and forests.
• By late evening, we arrive in Manali (Approx. 200 km total | 8–9 hours).

Overnight stay in Manali.

• Today is a longer but rewarding drive as we leave Manali and head north along the legendary Manali–Leh Highway.
• After passing through Solang Valley, we cross the Atal Tunnel, emerging into the stark and beautiful landscapes of Lahaul Valley. The scenery changes quickly — green forests give way to wide open valleys, rocky slopes, and snow-dusted peaks.
• The road follows the Chandra River, winding through small, scattered hamlets and quiet mountain terrain. Along the way, we stop at a local roadside tea shop for a simple Himalayan break — tea or coffee and light snacks, a classic experience on these routes.
• By late afternoon, we arrive in Jispa (Approx. 150 km | 5–6 hours), a peaceful riverside village set at high altitude and surrounded by dramatic mountains. Jispa is an ideal place to slow down, rest, and acclimatize before the higher passes ahead.
• Evening at leisure to relax or take a gentle walk along the river.

Overnight stay in Jispa.

• After breakfast, we set off along the Manali–Leh Highway, now on the main route linking Manali to Ladakh. Compared to the quiet valleys of the past few days, the road feels a little busier, a clear sign that we’re moving closer to Ladakh.
• The drive gradually climbs higher as we cross Baralacha La Pass (4,890 meters), one of the major high-altitude passes of the journey. Snowfields, wide valleys, and open plains mark the transition into a more rugged Himalayan landscape.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Sarchu (Approx. 100 km | 4–5 hours), a remote high-altitude plateau sitting at 4,100 meters, accessible only for a few months each year.
• We stay in a tented camp set up specially for travelers on this route, with proper beds and basic comforts. Those who wish can take a short walk around the area, while others may prefer to rest and acclimatize.
• In the evening, a warm meal is prepared by the camp kitchen, followed by a clear night sky filled with stars.

Overnight stay in Sarchu.

• Today is a long and memorable travel day as we leave Himachal Pradesh and officially enter Ladakh, now a Union Territory of India.
• The road climbs steadily across several high-altitude passes, including Nakee La and Lachulung La, before opening out into the vast More Plains — an endless, otherworldly high-altitude plateau.
• We then ascend to Taglang La (5,328 meters), the second-highest motorable pass in the world, offering our first wide views of the dramatic Ladakh landscape.
• Descending from the high passes, we drive through rugged, sparsely inhabited terrain, passing small villages, stupas, and remote monasteries along the way.
• By late afternoon, we arrive in Leh (Approx. 250 km | 8–9 hours).
• After check-in, the evening is free to rest and recover after the long journey.

Overnight stay in Leh.

• Today is a relaxed day to explore Leh at your own pace and soak in its unique atmosphere.
• After breakfast, ride to the beautiful Thiksey and Hemis Monasteries. They are famous for their 12-story structures and large Maitreya Buddha statues.
• Return to Leh and visit the Shanti Stupa for a wide view of the city and wander through Leh Old Town, with its narrow whitewashed lanes and traditional houses, and spend time in the local market, where Ladakhi women in traditional dress sell handicrafts, jewellery, and local produce.
• Above the town rises Leh Palace, the former royal residence, built in the same architectural style as the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Though timeworn, it remains an important symbol of Ladakh’s history and offers wonderful views over the valley.
• Throughout the day, you’ll feel the calm Buddhist presence that defines Leh — monasteries, stupas, prayer wheels, and the warm smiles of the locals, greeting visitors with a cheerful “Julee!”.
• The afternoon is free to relax, explore further, or enjoy a quiet café in town.

Overnight stay in Leh.

• After breakfast, we leave Leh and begin our drive toward the stunning Nubra Valley. The road climbs steadily through stark mountain scenery until we reach Khardung La Pass (5,359 meters), one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The views from the top are vast and unforgettable, a real reminder of how wild and remote Ladakh is.
• From here, the road descends into Nubra, and the landscape slowly softens into greener valleys and braided rivers — a surprising contrast to the barren mountains above.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Nubra after a scenic drive of around 120 km (5–6 hours). We visit Diskit Monastery, home to the towering Maitreya Buddha statue, which looks out peacefully over the valley below. Later, we explore the sand dunes of Hunder, where the unusual double-humped camels add a touch of desert magic to the mountains.
• In the evening, we check into our accommodation, enjoy a relaxed dinner, and unwind after a long but rewarding day on the road.

Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

• After breakfast, we set off deeper into the Nubra Valley, following the Shyok River toward the remote village of Turtuk, close to the Pakistan border. The drive itself is a highlight, with wide valleys, poplar-lined villages, and views that feel very different from the rest of Ladakh.
• Turtuk is one of Ladakh’s most unique villages, known for its Balti culture, stone houses, apricot orchards, and warm, welcoming locals. We take time to walk through the village, interact with residents, and soak in a way of life that feels both peaceful and timeless.
• In the afternoon, we retrace our route and drive back toward Panamik, famous for its natural hot springs. After a day of exploration, this is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Overnight stay in Panamic.

• After breakfast, we leave Panamik and begin one of the most adventurous drives of the journey, crossing from the Nubra Valley toward Pangong Lake. The route winds through remote valleys and high mountain terrain, far from the busy roads of central Ladakh.
• En route, we stop at a marmot viewpoint, where these curious Himalayan animals are often seen standing guard near their burrows — a small but memorable wildlife moment along the way.
• By afternoon, we arrive at Pangong Lake, a vast high-altitude saltwater lake shared between India and Tibet. Historically, Pangong has been part of ancient trade routes across the Tibetan Plateau and today remains a sensitive border region. Nearly one-third of the lake lies in India, while the rest extends into Tibet, giving it both geographical and political significance.
• Sitting at an altitude of over 4,200 meters, Pangong is famous for its ever-changing shades of blue, influenced by sunlight, clouds, and wind. Despite its size, the lake never freezes completely in winter due to its saline nature.

Overnight stay in Pangong.

• We begin early, riding along the calm shores of Pangong Tso, before heading deeper into the remote Changthang region. The route crosses Chushul, where wide open valleys and dramatic high-altitude scenery stretch in every direction.
• We climb to Kaksang La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the area, offering sweeping views of mountains and endless plains.
• En route, we stop at two beautiful lakes — Mirpal Tso, known for its bright blue waters and untouched surroundings, and Yaye Tso, a turquoise lake famous for its reflections and occasional wildlife sightings.
• Continuing through quiet, barren landscapes with grazing yaks and wild kiangs, we finally reach Hanle, a peaceful village home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, set beneath some of the clearest night skies on Earth.

Overnight stay in Hanle.

• We start early from Hanle, setting out for one of the most thrilling rides of the trip — to Umling La (5,913 m), the highest motorable pass in the world. Built as part of strategic efforts to improve connectivity in the remote Changthang region, Umling La is a remarkable feat of engineering at an extreme altitude, linking isolated villages and military outposts.
• The climb takes us through sparse, high-altitude landscapes, winding mountain roads, and patches of snow. Every turn offers sweeping views of the Changthang plateau and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
• At the top, we pause to take photos, marvel at the vastness, and reflect on the achievement of reaching such a remote and historic pass.
• The ride back to Hanle winds down the mountains through quiet valleys, ending the day with a relaxed evening in the village, surrounded by the calm of the high Himalayas.

Overnight stay in Hanle.

• After breakfast, we leave the quiet village of Hanle and begin the drive back to Leh, retracing the scenic high-altitude route through the Changthang plateau.
• The journey offers one last chance to enjoy the vast, open landscapes, grazing yaks, and distant Himalayan peaks, with plenty of opportunities to pause for photos along the way.
• By afternoon, we arrive in Leh (Approx. 230 km | 7–8 hours), where the evening is free to relax, explore the town, or reflect on the remote beauty of the past few days.

Overnight stay in Leh.

• Today is dedicated to experiencing one of Ladakh’s vibrant monastic festivals, offering a rare insight into the region’s living culture and traditions.
• Depending on the departure date, the trip includes a visit to one of the following festivals:
  Hemis Festival (Departure: June 3, 2026)

• These festivals take place at historic monasteries and feature masked dances, traditional music, colorful costumes, and religious rituals, creating a lively and deeply spiritual atmosphere.
• We travel from Leh to the festival site and spend the day observing the celebrations and interacting with locals.

• By late afternoon, we return to Leh, where the evening is free to relax and reflect on the day’s cultural experiences.

Overnight stay in Leh.

• After breakfast, check out of the hotel.
• Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh, for your onward journey.
• Say goodbye to the stunning views of Ladakh and hold on to the memories of your 14-day motorbike adventure.

Trip ends.