Lakes en-route: Dal Lake, Nagin Lake
Highlight: Lake houseboat stay, Shikara Ride, Mandatory briefing
Arrive at Srinagar International Airport (SXR) and check into a lakeside houseboat hotel. Enjoy the serene beauty of Dal Lake while sipping on Kahwa (local tea) from your room window. Get on a ‘Shikara’ boat ride & get immersed in the beauty of the lake. In the evening, attend a mandatory briefing to gear up for the adventure ahead.

Passes en-route: Zoji La (11,500 ft)
Highlight: Drass, Kargil War Memorial
Begin your journey towards Kargil while enjoying the meadows & valley road along the Sind river. Crossing the charming valleys & apple orchards around Sonamarg & Baltal, experience the adventure of crossing Zoji La Pass. Enjoy Kahwa/tea at Drass. Visit the War Memorial to pay homage to the heroes of the Kargil War. Arrive in Kargil and soak in the history and culture of this pivotal town, surrounded by rugged mountains and vibrant local markets.

Passes en-route: Namik La (12,139 ft), Fotu La (13,478 ft)
Highlight: Alchi Monastery, Lamayuru Moonland, Magnetic Hill
Continue your journey from Kargil to Leh, navigating through the dramatic landscapes and high-altitude passes of Namik La and Fotu La (the highest pass on Leh-Srinagar highway). Stop at the ancient Lamayuru Monastery, known for its striking location amidst “moonland” terrains. Experience the optical illusion of Magnetic Hill before reaching Leh, the heart of Ladakh, where you can explore bustling bazaars and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Highlight: Visit Monasteries, War Memorial, Magnetic Hill, Sangam (confluence point of River Indus and river Zanskar)
Jump on your motorcycle and explore Leh’s iconic spots. Visit ancient monasteries, pay tribute at the War Memorial, experience the gravity-defying Magnetic Hill, and marvel at the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers. Savor Ladakhi delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs at the vibrant Leh Main Market & Tibetian markets. Don’t miss trying food served at the German Bakery Cafes around the market.

Highlight: Army camps, Stargazing & Astrophotography at Hanle
Zoom through the black-top highway to Hanle. Be prepared to witness horses, mules, yaks grazing around nomadic huts by the highway. At Hanle, enjoy stargazing at India’s first ‘Dark Sky Reserve’ in one of the world’s darkest skies, perfect for spotting constellations, galaxies, and planets. Stay at a cozy homestay and soak in the celestial beauty. Do visit the Indian Astronomical Observatory which hosts many professional telescopes

Passes en-route: Umling La (19,024 ft) & Nurbu La (17328 ft),
Highlight: Highest Astronomical Observatory, Hanle Monastery
Ride to Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass at a staggering 19,024 feet. Experience the euphoria of standing higher than Everest Base Camp. Return to Hanle to visit the ancient Hanle Monastery to enjoy the sunset, Enjoy another chance to stare at the stars, planets, galaxies & more from the homestay at Hanle.

Lake en-route: Pangong Lake (14,270 ft)
Highlight: Chushul Village, Rezang La
Depart from Hanle and traverse the rugged landscapes towards the stunning Pangong Tso. En route, pass through the remote Tsaga La (15,000 ft), through a treacherous stretch that would test your skills very well. As you approach Pangong Tso, the brilliant blue hues of the lake will take your breath away. Settle into your lakeside accommodation and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset over this iconic high-altitude lake.

Highlight: River crossings, Shyok River, Diskit Monastery, White sand dunes
Embark on a scenic drive from Pangong Tso to Nubra Valley, following the rugged route through the Shyok River Valley. Upon arrival, explore the unique sand dunes and enjoy a ride on the famous double-humped Bactrian camels. Visit Diskit Monastery, the oldest and largest in the valley, and soak in the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes as you prepare for another adventure-filled day

Pass en-route: Khardung La (17,582 ft)
Highlight: Wanla Monastery
Travel from Nubra to Wanla, crossing the legendary Khardung La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes. Upon reaching Wanla, visit the historic Wanla Monastery, renowned for its unique architectural style and ancient frescoes. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the stunning views of the Indus Valley as you unwind in this charming village.

Passes en-route: Sirsir La (15,500 ft), Singe La (16,580 ft)
Highlight: Off-road riding through Zanskar Valley
Continue your adventure from Wanla to Padum, navigating through the rugged terrain of Zanskar Valley. Cross Sirsir La and Singe La passes, each offering breathtaking views of the  surrounding peaks and valleys. Upon reaching Padum, immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Zanskari people, exploring ancient monasteries and picturesque villages.

Highlight: Phugtal Monastery Trek
Journey from Padum to Purne, the starting point for the optional trek to Phugtal Monastery, a hidden treasure, founded in the 12th century. This trek offers an unparalleled experience as you hike through narrow gorges and dramatic landscapes to reach the cliffside monastery, one of the most spectacular sites in Zanskar. Spend some time exploring the monastery and enjoying the serenity of its remote location before returning to Purne.

Passes en-route: Shinku La (16850 ft)
Highlight: Mt. Gombo Rangjon, Atal Tunnel
Get ready for your final leg from Purne to Manali, traversing the stunning landscapes of Mt. Gombo Rangjon and Shinku La. Enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys as you descend into Himachal Pradesh. Experience the marvel of the world’s longest highway tunnel – Atal Tunnel which runs under the Rohtang Pass. Upon arrival in Manali, return your bikes, reflect on your unforgettable journey through the heart of the Himalayas, filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Head towards Delhi for onward travel. Reflect on the 1900+ kms. journey through several passes and lakes, marking an epic adventure of a lifetime.
This 14-day EPIC Ladakh trip on a motorcycle promises an adventure like no other, packed with high-adrenaline experiences, stunning scenery, and cultural immersion. Each day is crafted to challenge and excite, making it a truly unforgettable journey.