Trans Himalayan Expedition

Introduction

This motorcycle tour in the Indian Himalayas takes you on a predominantly Buddhist circuit of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. This route takes you across several high passes into diverse valleys not just in landscape but culturally as well. We start the motorbike trip from Manali. Ride through the lush green Banjar valley into Kinnaur valley and then cross over from Nako into the cold desert land of Spiti Valley also famously known as Little Tibet.

Itinerary summary

Day 1: Arrive Manali (2050m)

Day 2: Manali to Banjar (1356m) 92kms

Day 3: Banjar to Sarahan (2313) 139kms

Day 4: Sarahan to Kalpa (2960m) 85kms

Day 5: Kalpa to Nako (3662m) 117kms

Day 6: Nako to Kaza (3650m) 110kms

Day 7: Kaza

Day 8: Kaza to Chandertal (4250m), 115km

Day 9: Chandertal to Jispa (3200m) 142kms

Day 10: Jispa to Tsokar (4530m) 225kms

Day 11:Tsokar to Leh (3500m) 152kms

Day 12:Leh

Day 13:Leh to Pangong (4250m) 170kms

Day 14:Pangong to Khardung La and back to Leh (5359m) 250kms)

Day 15:Departure


Highlights
  • Ancient Monasteries
  • World's Highest Motorable Passes
  • Camping at High Altitude Lakes
  • World's Highest inhabited Villages
  • Stunning Mountain Vistas
  • Day 1
    Arrive Manali (2050m)

    After breakfast you will get to try out your bikes Royal Enfield 500cc. Today we will visit some popular sights in and around Manali. This will help you to get familiar with your bike and also the Himalayan road and its turns. For Lunch we will stop at Naggar Castle, Naggar once used to be the capital of Kullu hence the Castle. The castle is now converted into a Heritage hotel and has a Museum. After lunch we head back to Manali and prepare for the days ahead.

  • Day 2
    Manali to Banjar (1356m) 92kms

    After breakfast we will set out towards Banjar. The road condition today is good and we will ride across some beautiful villages. We ride on to good metalled road up to Aut and from there we cross the Parvati River and start riding on the left bank and ride into the Banjar Valley. Here onwards the ride can be a bit bumpy and the road is narrow.

  • Day 3
    Banjar to Sarahan (2313) 139kms

    Today sees us crossing the first mountain pass on this Epic motorcycle tour. Just a few kilometres above our campsite is the Jalori Pass, 3,120m. From here we ride down shady and windy Himalayan roads to Ani. We aim to reach Sarahan by the early afternoon so that we have enough time to visit the famous 1500 year old Bhima Kali Temple.

  • Day 4
    Sarahan to Kalpa (2960m) 85kms

    Sangla Valley is the most beautiful Valley in Kinnaur. We ride on the main highway up to Karchham Dam and keep riding on the left side of the River. The road is about 90% metalled and some small stretches where the roads are being widened would be dusty and there would be some loose stones on the road. On some occasion you might have to wait for the road workers to signal that you can move ahead. For Kalpa we turn left from the main road and there is steep descent of around 7kms up to Reckong Peo which is the district Headquarters. From here Kalpa is about 15kms further climb. It is a beautiful stretch that is mostly riding through pine forest and lots of tight bends. The air feels much crisper and fresher up here and the cool breeze is a relief after long hours on the hot dusty road.

  • Day 5
    Kalpa to Nako (3662m) 117kms

    Enroute we cross a check post at Jhangi where we have to stop for a routine permit and passport check. Nako is the last village of Kinnaur; it is an idealic little Buddhist village. Dotted around the village are tiny shrines and at the very entrance of the village is an old Monastery believed to have been founded by the Great Translator Rinchen Zangpo. The monastery has very interesting and fascinating mural works.

  • Day 6
    Nako to Kaza (3650m) 110kms

    Today’s motorbike ride sees us entering the Spiti Valley. We ride through an amazing landscape and glimpses of the cold desert of the Spiti Valley will start from the beginning of the journey today. Initial leg of the journey is up the hill and then we cross the famous Mulling Nala and then start our journey downhill towards the valley floor. Once again today we will cross a military check post at Sumdo; from here the Tibet Border is only a few kilometres away. Enroute we will visit the Tabo Monastery and the Dhankar Monastery.

  • Day 7
    Kaza

    A well-deserved break, after all the long motorbike rides and early starts every day. After a leisurely breakfast we will ride to Key Monastery and then Kibber Village, which is one of the highest inhabited villages accessible by road in the world. On the way back we can ride through the village and ride down for a few kilometre from a different route, the gorge that you see while coming down from this route is just amazing and on this gorge is under construction the World’s highest bridge (in term of altitude). Afternoon is free for relaxation, wondering around town for souvenir shopping.

  • Day 8
    Kaza to Chandertal (4250m), 115km

    A beautiful ride once again. Today we ride past some magnificent looking villages, the entire ride is very scenic. After crossing the last village of Spiti Valley ‘Losar’, the road would be entirely off roading- dusty and rocky. Once riding down from Kunzum La Pass 4551m, we will take a detour on the right towards Chandertal Lake.

  • Day 9
    Chandertal to Jispa (3200m) 142kms

    We will start the day early as today involves tackling a few stream crossing and in the mountains it is best to do that before noon as the water level rises dramatically after noon. Almost half the journey today would be on rough rocking and dusty road. We get some amazing glimpses of glaciers and snow covered mountain and the road is challenging yet inviting. After reaching Gramphu we will get good tarmac covered road all the way to Jispa.

  • Day 10
    Jispa to Tsokar (4530m) 225kms

    After a relaxed and easy day yesterday, today will be a long day and we will start early. At Darcha we stop at the police check post and then continue up the winding road to Baralacha La (4890m) and then descend to Bharatpur for a quick chai break. Then we ride on one the most beautiful stretch of road on this journey towards Sarchu. After Sarchu we ride up to cross two more high passes the Lachulung La (5050m) and Nakeela Pass (4740m)

  • Day 11
    Tsokar to Leh, (3500m) 152km

    From Tsokar we retrace our route back to the main Manali- Leh Highway. Once on the highway we begin our accent of the Taglang La Pass (5328m). Then begins a wonderful curvy descent. Now onwards you will keep crossing Ladakhi villages and the road is smooth all the way to Leh.

  • Day 12
    Leh (3500m)

    After the long days ride yesterday today is a welcome break. After lunch you can go for some local sight- seeing or explore the different markets of Leh.

  • Day 13
    Leh to Pangong (4250m) 170kms

    Pangong Lake is an endorheic lake situated at a height of about 4,350m long and extends from India to China. Enroute to Pangong Lake we cross Chang La Pass which is known as the third highest motorable pass in the world. On the way we come across the Changspa people as well, who might have set camp here for the summer to graze their livestock. The road is a mix of good tarmac and some dirt track.

  • Day 14
    Pangong to Khardung La and back to Leh (5359m) 250kms)

    Today we retrace our route all the way back to Leh and then we ride 30kms extra towards Khardung La pass, which is one of the highest motorable pass in the World. The ride up this road is beautiful as you get to see the entire Leh city below you and the view keep getting better and better. The ride up to Khardung La is via lots of hairpin bends. We stop at the pass for a hot cup of chai and then make our way back to the city.

  • Day 15
    Departure

    Early morning transfer to the Leh Airport.

Dates Availability Trip Guaranteed? price
10th July- 24th July 2020 Available Yes INR 1,40,000/-pp Book Now
30th July - 13th Aug 2020 Available Yes INR 1,40,000/-pp Book Now
21st Aug - 4th Sept 2020 Available Yes INR 1,40,000/-pp Book Now
11th Sept - 25th Sept 2020 Available Yes INR 1,40,000/-pp Book Now

  • Trans Himalayan Expedition

    This motorcycle tour in the Indian Himalayas takes you on a predominantly Buddhist circuit of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. This route takes you across several high passes into diverse valleys not just in landscape but culturally as well. We start the motorbike trip from Manali. Ride through the lush green Banjar valley into Kinnaur valley and then cross over from Nako into the cold desert land of Spiti Valley also famously known as Little Tibet. Then we cross over Kunzum La to enter Lahaul valley and after crossing five more passes we enter the famous Ladakh. Also during this motorcycle journey in the high Himalaya you will get to see three of the most beautiful High Altitude Lakes- Tsokar, Tsomoriri and the popular Pangong Lake. On the last day of this brilliant motorcycle adventure you will ride to the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable pass in the World. This motorbike journey is one of the best ways to see Himachal and Ladakh. One thing that you will see in abundance on this journey is loads and loads of cheerful happy and smiley Himalayan people. This is an Epic Motorbike tour in the Indian Himalayas.

    June to Early October

    Duration: 15 days

    Gradient: Moderate

    Trip Detail

    All riders must have a motorbike license and some experience.

  • Documents:

    You must bring with you appropriate travel insurance and document as follows.

    • Valid motorcycle license
    • Valid International driving license
    • You are required to bring your travel insurance policy with on tour. Please print off photos and keep it safe.

    Included:

    • 350cc/500cc Royal Enfield
    • Fuel
    • Basic Spare parts for the Bikes
    • Mechanic
    • Tour Guide
    • Support Vehicle
    • First Aid Equipment
    • Breakfast Lunch and Dinner as mentioned in Itinerary
    • Accommodation as mentioned in Itinerary
    • Support Staff- Cook and helpers

    Excluded:

    • Flights- International or Domestic, taxes, surcharges and handling fees
    • Travel and Cancellation insurances
    • Meals that are not mentioned in the program
    • Personal Expenses
    • Fuel
    • Cost of Major bike repairs in case of any damage.
  • ABOUT THIS TOUR

    In fact we only expect you to bring

    • Good crash helmet
    • Goggles
    • Sunglasses
    • High Factor sun cream 30+ minimum
    • Lip Balm
    • Waterproof bike boots, shin and ankle protection
    • Protective trousers
    • Protective Jackets
    • Protective gloves
    • Wind proof and water proof trousers and jackets
    • Scarf or bandana to keep dust out of your nose and mouth
    • Warm Fleece
    • 10’c sleeping bag
    • Lots of thin layers
    • Warm hat
    • 6 pass port size photos

    In the Himalayas the weather can change at any time. During the daylight the temperature can be as high 30’c. But at night it can dip down to -5’c although it will most likely be around 0’c. It is important to bring layers rather than one big warm fleece.

  • BOOKING CONDITIONS

    Himalayan Challenges (HC) is an operator of all Adventure Travel and sports shown on our website. HC is registered with the Department of Tourism and Civil aviation, Government of Himachal Pradesh, India.
    In respect of these Booking Conditions, “We/ Himalayan Challenges” and “You/ Participant(s)”- will be the person(s) whose name and details appear on the online booking form.

    1) Insurance:

    Before joining the tour we recommend that you take out travel insurance. This should include adequate cover for baggage, medical expenses, cancellation, helicopter evacuation and emergency repatriation. You must supply documentary proof of it to us before starting the trip. If you do not have travel insurance you must have a credit card with at least a US $5000 limit.

    2) Booking Confirmation:

    Your booking will be confirmed by email once we have received a deposit of 50% and the signed copy of booking form and contract. The balance is due no later than two months prior to departure. If you book a tour less than 2 month prior to departure, you must send the full payment within 7 days of confirmation by us.

    3) Terms of Cancellation:

    (a)All cancellations must be made in writing and signed by the person who signed the booking form and will be taken into account by the agency upon receipt of that letter.

    If you cancel, the following scale of charges will apply:

    DATE OF CANCELLATION CHARGE INCURRED
    2 months before departure Loss of deposit
    29 days to 2 months before departure departure 30% of total trip cost
    10 to 28 days before departure 60% of total trip cost
    Less than 10 days before departure 100% of total trip cost

    (b)If you do not show up at the meeting point specified on the agreed date, we will assume you have been delayed and will wait for you to contact us with your new expected arrival date. If you do not contact us within 48 hours we will assume you have cancelled the tour. There is no refund of any money paid.

    (c) The tour will not be cancelled unless we are forced to do so because of unusual or unforeseen circumstances, such as a major natural disaster, major political unrest or war. If we cancel the tour we will promptly refund all payments made to us including the deposit (less the unrecoverable costs such as air tickets cancellations). We shall not be liable to refund any additional expenses that you may have incurred (such as insurance, visas, vaccinations and other incidental costs).

    4) Refunds:

    (a)In case the journey is broken off early upon the client’s own wish or causes, Himalayan Challenges shall not be liable to any refund of the days not utilized. Clients will have to pay for hotel or any extra costs incurred after leaving the itinerary.

    (b)The trek information sheets and the dossier give information and conditions relating to the tour and are deemed to be part of the contract and so you should be fully aware of their contents. However, the itinerary is an indication of what the group should accomplish, but is not a contractual obligation- changes may be made because of exceptional weather, flight cancellations, sickness or other unforeseen circumstances. No refund will be given for unused services or unrealized dreams.

    (c)Himalayan Challenges shall not be liable to refund of any Bank charges deducted while making the bank transaction.

    5) Your Responsibility

    (5.1)Acknowledgement of Risk:

    It is a fundamental condition that you acknowledge that this is an adventure tour. This requires some flexibility. The day to day itinerary is taken as a guideline only. We cannot be held responsible for any delays caused by International or domestic flights, Strikes, Government regulations, weather or natural casualties. In such cases, Wild Himalayan Challenges shall be responsible for suitable alternatives which could be decided upon mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be made, Wild Himalayan Challenges shall be responsible for refund after deducting expenses already incurred.

    (5.2)Physical Fitness:

    You confirm that you are in proper physical and mental condition before going on a Challenge/trek/tour with Himalayan Challenges. You confirm that it is your own responsibility to determine the ability to participate. If you are going on an Expedition a Doctors Certificate would be required stating that you are fit for such a tough and demanding experience. You also confirm that you will notify us about any medical condition or the use of prescribed medication that we should know about. It is your duty to notify us beforehand and is your responsibility to obtain medical advice as regards to vaccinations required for the trip.

    (5.3)Documents (just a guide)

    All participants must bring with them the following paperwork without which Himalayan Challenges may refuse them from joining their expedition:

    • Passport with at least six months validity.
    • Full driving license for your country of residence (if participating in Motorcycle Tour)
    • International Driving License (if participating in Motorcycle Tour)
    • Personal Travel Insurance (Copy should be brought on travel).

    Himalayan Challenges will take no responsibility if you are not allowed to fly due to inappropriate paperwork.

    In alliance with your expedition booking with Himalayan Challenges you agree to give authority to your expedition leader during your travels, where decisions may be needed for the benefit and safety of everyone.

    (5.4)Respect:

    (a)You agree to abide by the authority of the leader. Signing the booking form implies your acceptance of the tour leader’s decisions which could affect the group or individuals. The tour leader will give you a complete briefing at your arrival about your journey with Himalayan Challenges. The guide or group leader designated by the agency reserves the right to expel at any time a group of person or an individual whose conduct may be regarded as affecting or endangering the safety or well-being of the group. No compensation or refund will be due to such individuals.

    (b)The client agrees to behave responsibly in environmental and cultural matters and agrees to follow proper hiking and camping etiquette while in the mountains and to act respectfully towards the people and customs of the region.

    6) Accommodation

    Room allocations are as per same sex twin-room sharing- double room for couples. Where a single room has been requested, a single room supplement will apply.

    7) Our Responsibility:

    (7.1)It is our duty to ensure to we deliver the trip you have booked with us to the best of our ability and the it precedes in accordance with the itinerary as stated on our website/ tailor made to your requirement, thereafter making sure as reasonable as possible your journey is unhindered en-route. Our itineraries have been designed with consideration to the environments in which we travel its people and its cultures. Participants’ should therefore realize that hygiene and safety standards in countries which you journey are far different to the standards of your own. However, Himalayan Challenges take care when booking locations, should offer the best of the area in which you stay and dine.

    (7.2)Any Participant(s) portraying acts of negligence on the expedition will not only risk their own life, but also that of their fellow participant(s) and will be cautioned. Repeated actions of the Participant(s) in question will have their trip terminated immediately and no refunds will be given. No refunds will be given to participant(s) who leave an expedition en-route. Himalayan Challenges will not be responsible for any traffic accidents caused through carelessness.

    (7.3)Due to the nature of our adventures and their locations- Himalayan Challenges reserve the right if deemed necessary, to divert the course of an already commenced expedition away from events (deemed harmful) to the safety of an alternative route.

    (7.4)Force Majeure- if for any unforeseen reason interruptions cause delay(s) en-route, preventing Himalayan Challenges from fulfilling their expedition obligations. Any additional expenditure incurred during the interruptions will have to be borne by the participant(s). However, we will do our utmost to rectify the situation into continuing on with the adventure.

    8) Complaints:

    Himalayan Challenges endeavors to supply you the best possible service on your journey, ensuring you have a great time. However, if you have a complaint during your expedition, please notify your expedition leader immediately in order to rectify the situation. If your complaint was unresolved, then a written letter should be sent within 25 days from the expedition completion date to: Himalayan Challenges, Hillco Building, Vill. Shuru, P.O. Prini, Manali, Distt. Kullu, H.P.

    9) Law and Jurisdiction:

    The Contract shall be construed in accordance with the Indian Law and the parties irrevocably submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Indian Court; Manali, District Kullu, H.P. to settle any disputes, which may arise out of or in connection with this Contract.

    10) Currency conversion:

    All our prices are coated in US dollars. For Client comfort, we forward quotes in their local currency on request. This also depends on the Current Exchange Rate. We will Quote the Exchange rate on the Bill.

    11)When making your booking it is implied and accepted that you have read and understood all these booking conditions and agree to abide by them.


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