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Bike Tour Zanskar – A

Tour Difficulty

  • Road
  • Adventure
  • Extreme

Distance: 2400 Km (1500 miles)

Days

13

Nights

12

Price

On Request

 

 

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Name

Zanskar - A

Embark on a thrilling odyssey to the high passes of Ladakh, where you’ll encounter some of the most stunning panoramas our planet has to offer. Our route will take us off the beaten path, navigating through challenging terrain that few dare to explore. Your journey will be dotted with awe-inspiring stops, the serpentine Gata Loops, the serene Kyon Tso Twin Lakes, the majestic Thit Zarbo La Pass, the sky-touching Umling La, the historic Siachen Base Camp, the tranquil Tso Moriri Lake, and many more hidden treasures.

TOUR OVERVIEW

Feel the sacred aura as you visit ancient monasteries and temples, where spiritual energy permeates the air. The landscape unfolds like a dramatic painting, a never-ending tapestry of colors rarely seen in city-life, with remote villages emerging from the stark beauty of this lunar-esque terrain. The turquoise-grey streak of the river remains your faithful guide, sometimes a distant glimmer in the depths of sheer gorges.

Rest assured, your adventure will be intense and exhilarating under the sun’s bright gaze, while your nights will be steeped in the most comfort and luxury this land has to offer.

Join us for an unforgettable journey where each day unfolds as an adventure waiting to be written on the blank page of life…

ITINERARY

Day # Source Destination  Altitude
Day 1 Delhi Manali  
Day 2 Manali Jispa  
Day 3 Jispa Padum  
Day 4 Padum Padum  
Day 5 Padum Lamayuru  
Day 6 Lamayuru Leh  
Day 7 Leh Manali  
Day 8 Manali Delhi  

INCLUSIONS AND EXCLUSIONS

INCLUSIONS:

  • Experienced & Expert Motorcycle Instructor as tour guide.
  • Guide internationally certified in wilderness medicine as a first responder.
  • Full Medical & Trauma kit/Supplies onboard. Oxygen cylinder where appropriate.
  • Accommodation on Double sharing basis.
  • Buffet Breakfast and dinner.
  • Fully equipped support vehicle.
  • Luggage transport in the support vehicle. *
  • Ride memorabilia.

 

EXCLUSIONS:

  • Anything not specifically mentioned in the inclusions above such as flights, gasoline, tolls, etc.
  • Airport transfer on arrival/departure day.
  • Personal expenses of any kind (drinks, lunches, souvenirs).
  • Entry tickets to monuments, monasteries, etc.
  • Gratuity for service beyond expectations.
  • Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond organizer’s control.
  • Emergency evacuation insurance  / Motorcycle insurance / Trip Interruption Insurance

*  – riders can put their bike-mountable luggage in the backup vehicle. To be taken out and mounted on bikes only if we need the backup vehicle to carry an unrepairable motorcycle.

MAP

HIGHLIGHTS

Day 1 – Tirthan Valley

Nestled in the serene Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley presents a picturesque beginning to an adrenaline-fueled motorcycle tour to Ladakh. As the first overnight stop, it offers riders a tranquil retreat by the Tirthan River, where the gentle murmur of the water and the cool mountain air provide a soothing contrast to the day’s ride. Surrounded by lush forests and the promise of adventure, Tirthan Valley is not just a stopover; it’s a place where riders can attune themselves to the rhythm of the road ahead. The valley serves as a gateway to the rugged landscapes that await, ensuring that the journey to Ladakh starts on a note of natural beauty and peaceful respite.

 

Day 2: Tirthan Valley - Keylong

On the second day of our thrilling motorcycle tour to Ladakh, we kick-started our morning with the sun’s first rays, bidding farewell to Tirthan Valley. The day’s ride promises new heights of excitement with an optional airsport activity awaiting us at Solang Valley. After the exhilaration of this activity, we throttle onwards, navigating through the the Atal Tunnel. The Atal Tunnel is a rider’s rite of passage, a winding path cut through the very heart of the majestic mountain that connects ambitions to the vast landscapes of Ladakh. It’s where the roar of engines echoes against the backdrop of engineering prowess, marking the threshold to the land of high passes. Our journey unfolds towards Keylong, where the evening culminates around a warm bonfire, the camaraderie of fellow riders, and a hearty dinner under the starlit sky, setting the stage for the adventures that lay ahead.

Day 3: Keylong – Tsokar (“The White Lake”)

Day three of our Ladakh motorcycle saga begins with the aroma of breakfast at Keylong, fueling us for the ride ahead. We throttle out towards Tsokar, pausing to soak in the charm of this Himalayan hamlet. The journey ascends to Zingzing Bar, a high-altitude haven which offers the perfect pit stop for adventure riders seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the rugged beauty of the mountains. This is a prelude to the majestic Baralacha La pass, where at 16,000 feet, the confluence of three valleys unfolds like a grand canvas. The Gata Loops beckon next, with their 21 hairpin bends spiraling us to the heights of Nakee La—one of Ladakh’s loftiest passes. Our quest finally leads us to the serene Tso Kar, also known as the “White Lake”. It is a high-altitude hypersaline lake situated in the Rupshu Plateau, recognized for its fluctuating size and depth, and it’s also celebrated as India’s 42nd Ramsar site, highlighting its significance as a wetland of international importance. The area around Tso Kar is a critical habitat for wildlife such as the kiang (Tibetan wild ass), Tibetan gazelles, Tibetan wolves, and foxes. It’s also a breeding ground for various bird species, including grebes, brown-headed gulls, and the iconic black-necked cranes.

 

As dusk falls, we gather for dinner, sharing tales of the day’s ride, before the tranquility of Tsokar lulls us into a restful night.

Day 4: Tsokar to Tsomoriri lake through the Nomadic Land of Karzok

The sun rises, casting a golden hue over our campsite. After a hearty breakfast, we mount our adventure motorcycles and set off into the vast expanse of the Changthang plateau. Today, we’re bound for Karzok—a nomadic land that beckons with mystery and rugged beauty.

 

Our path takes us along a dirt road, winding through rocky terrain. The Polokongka pass looms ahead, its altitude reaching a staggering 4,940 meters. As we ascend, the air thins, and the wind bites at our cheeks. But the view—it’s worth every bone-jarring bump. The Changthang plateau stretches out before us, a canvas of barren beauty. Snow-capped peaks punctuate the horizon, and the vastness of the landscape humbles us.

 

The road isn’t steep, but it’s treacherous. Loose gravel threatens to send us skidding, and potholes yawn like hungry mouths. We navigate carefully, our tires gripping the earth as we inch higher. At the pass, we dismount and catch our breath. The wind whips our hair, and we gaze down at the world below. It’s a moment of triumph—a communion with nature’s grandeur.

 

Descending from the pass, we reach Puga—a tiny hamlet nestled in the folds of the mountains. Here, a hidden gem awaits: the Puga hot springs. Locals swear by its healing properties, and we eagerly dip our tired limbs into its steaming waters. The sulfur scent hangs heavy in the air, but our our spirits lift as our muscles relax.

 

Back on our bikes, we follow the trail to Sumdho. The village is a cluster of mud-brick houses, their roofs adorned with prayer flags. We join the road that leads to Tso Moriri lake—a jewel cradled by the mountains. Its brackish waters shimmer in the sunlight, reflecting the azure sky. Twenty-six kilometers long and five kilometers wide, it’s a sanctuary for migratory birds and a testament to nature’s resilience.

 

As we ride along the lake’s edge, you can’t help but marvel at the raw beauty of this untamed land.

Day 5: Tsomoriri - Hanle

The morning sun kisses the rugged terrain as we kickstart our engines. Today’s destination: the remote village of Hanle, home to just 200 families.

 

Our wheels churn up dust as we leave civilization behind. The route winds through Nyoma and Rhongo, each turn revealing a new vista. Our motorcycles dance with the landscape, and our hearts race in sync.

 

As the sun dips below the horizon, we arrive in Hanle. The air is thin, the silence profound. And then, the night sky unfurls—a cosmic tapestry of stars. Away from city lights, the Milky Way blazes across the heavens. Hanle is India’s first Dark Sky Reserve and has the world’s second-highest optical telescope. As shooting stars streak by, and constellations tell ancient stories, this stargazer’s paradise makes you wax philosophical about your place in the universe.

 

Dinner awaits at a Luxury Homestay—a cozy refuge in this remote outpost. The aroma of home-cooked food fills the air, and tired muscles relax. We swap tales of the day’s ride, laughter echoing off the walls. Outside, the stars keep watch, their brilliance undimmed by time.

 

Day 6: Hanle – Umlingla Top – Hanle

The sun peeks over the rugged Himalayan peaks, casting a golden hue on our motorcycles in Hanle. The air is crisp, and anticipation hangs thick.

 

The route ahead is both thrilling and daunting. We trace the ancient trade route, following the winding path carved by centuries of travelers. Navigating the Nurbu-La pass, we feel the altitude tugging at our breath, but the adrenaline keeps us going. The wind whispers secrets of distant lands, and the prayer flags flutter in approval.

 

As we ascend toward Umling La, the world seems to shrink. The air thins, and the landscape transforms into a lunar expanse. At 5,798 meters (19,024 feet), Umling La stands as the highest motorable road on Earth. Our bikes conquer the challenge, tires gripping the terrain, and we reach the summit—a triumphant moment which will be forever etched in our memory.

 

The view from the top is surreal—a panorama of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and endless sky. We catch our breath, savoring the achievement along with a steaming hot cup of chai at the World’s highest Café . But time waits for no adventurer. We descend, wheels skimming the edge of the abyss, back toward Hanle via Photi-La. The thrill of the ride, the camaraderie of fellow riders—it’s a symphony of freedom and courage.

 

If we are mindful of our timing, we will arrive before the closing time of the Observatory which houses the second highest Optical Telescope and take a tour to marvel at its construction.

Day 7: HANLE TO MERAK

As the sun creeps above the horizon, Our engines roar to life, and we set off toward Merak—a Hidden Gem in Pangong. The route takes us across rugged terrain, winding through valleys and over rocky passes.

 

Chagga-La tests our mettle, but the thrill of conquering each twist and turn fuels our spirits. As we descend toward Merak, the world shifts. The hustle and bustle of Touristy Spangmik Spots fade away, replaced by tranquility. The hidden gem of Pangong Lake awaits—a serene oasis nestled in the mountains.

 

Merak’s pristine shores invite us to linger. We dismount, feeling the earth beneath our boots, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Prayer flags flutter, carrying our wishes to the heavens. Here, time slows, and the lake mirrors the azure sky. We share stories by the water’s edge, grateful for this moment of solitude.

 

Tomorrow, new adventures beckon, but today, in the embrace of Merak, we find solace. Our motorcycles stand as silent witnesses to our journey—a testament to the freedom of the open road and the magic of discovery .

Day 8: HANLE TO PANAMIK

The first light kisses the peaks as we leave Merak behind. Our motorcycles tackle off-road stretches and smooth tarmac alike, weaving through valleys and across bridges. The thrill of the ride keeps us going.

 

Panamik awaits—an oasis in the Nubra Valley. The promise of a hot sulphur bath beckons weary muscles. We arrive, dismounting with anticipation. The springs bubble, releasing their healing warmth. Riders immerse themselves, sighing in relief.

 

As the sun dips below the horizon, we gather for dinner—a feast of stories and laughter.

Day 9: Siachen Base Camp and Camels from the Old Silk Route

We start the day, bound for Siachen Base Camp. The air thins, and the road winds through stark landscapes. Our motorcycles carry us toward the icy heart of the world—the Siachen Glacier. The sheer magnitude humbles us, and we pay silent homage to the brave souls who guard this frozen frontier. We breathe in the rarified air, knowing we stand where few have ventured.

 

As we descend, the desert beckons. Hunder’s sand dunes emerge—a surreal sight against the mountain backdrop. Here, the Bactrian camels reign, their double humps a testament to a time gone by. We dismount, feeling the warm sand beneath our boots. The camels eye us with ancient wisdom, guardians of the Silk Route, as we take in the majesty of their form and the history of their intercontinental travels.

Day 10: PANAMIK – LEH

As the sun rises over the rugged Himalayas, our motorcycle convoy revs up for an epic journey. Breakfast done, we tackle the legendary Khardung La Pass— formerly the highest motorable road on Earth at 18,380 feet. The thin air bites at our lungs, but the thrill of the ride drowns out any discomfort. The snow-capped peaks surrounded us, and the wind whispered tales of ancient caravans and daring explorers.

 

By dusk, we roll into Leh, weary but exhilarated. Our bikes find refuge at a hotel with all the creature comforts of home, and we swap stories of hairpin bends, prayer flags, and the sheer audacity of our adventure over some yak-cheese pizza at Leh’s oldest restaurant.

DAY 11: LEH TO JISPA - Gata Loops & the Baralacha Adventure

At the crack of dawn, our engines roar to life. The day marks our relentless journey back to Jispa. The Gata loops await—a dizzying dance of 21 narrow hairpin switchbacks spiraling down into the valley. Each curve revealed a new vista—the Bhaga River snaking through rugged terrain, snow-capped peaks standing sentinel, and the wind whispering secrets of ancient travelers and the folklore that goes with it.

 

At the top, we pause for a photo—a testament to our conquest. But the day has more in store. We push onward, crossing Sarchu and ascending to the Baralacha Pass. The landscape shifts—small lakes shimmer like sapphires, rivers carve their way through rocky canyons, and the air thins as we climbed higher.

 

As the sun dips below the horizon, we reach Jispa—a haven nestled in the Himalayan embrace. Our motorcycles finally find respite, and tired but elated, we settle in for the night, having etched our tire tracks into the rugged canvas of adventure.

DAY 12: JISPA to MANALI – The Himalayan Odyssey Continues

We refuel at the newly opened Keylong Petrol Pump ready for the day’s journey. Today, we carve our path through the majestic Rohtang Atal Tunnel, where the heart of the Himalayas unfolds before us in a spectacle of emerald peaks and cascading waterfalls—nature’s own masterpiece.

 

Emerging from the tunnel’s embrace, we descend into Manali—the jewel of the Himalayas. Here, amidst the whispering pines and the tranquil air, a cozy hotel awaits to offer respite from the long journey. Freshen up and prepare to immerse yourself in the local charm of Manali. As evening draws near, indulge in culinary delights at Café 1947or Johnson Café, where the aroma of freshly baked pizzas and crispy schnitzel fills the air. For those seeking a different taste of the mountain, the Himalayan Fish Farmbeckons with its promise of succulent grilled trout.

 

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Day 13: Manali – Delhi

A final breakfast in the mountails as we head back to delhi, carrying the memories of the trip of a lifetime not only in our cameras but in our hearts.

SAFETY MEASURES

RIDING GEAR & SAFETY POLICY:

  • Wearing full riding gear is mandatory at all times while riding.
  • Helmet, riding jacket, riding pants, riding boots and gloves constitute complete riding gear.
  • A Hydration bladder is strongly recommended.
  • Riding in a safe and organized fashion is mandatory for safety of all participants.

FAQ

FAQ – Health Precautions & Staying Healthy on your trip

What are the things that you need to plan before the trip?

  1. Up-to-date vaccinations: do not wait until the last minute
    1. See your family doctor a few months before the trip to verify the vaccination record and get any missing shots.
    2. Check you have your yellow fever vaccination card if you have been in a country where yellow fever is endemic.
  1. Check your general health with your physician
    1. If you are currently being treated for a condition:
      1. Make sure you have the needed amount of medication for the length of the trip. Keep a copy of your prescription with the generic name of the drug.
      2. Get the tests requested by your physician to ensure you can complete the trip without incident.
      3. If recently hospitalized, bring and have your hospitalization report in case it is need for any unforeseen medical reasons.
      4. Disclose the relavent details to your Trip Leader.

What are the things that you need to plan during the trip?

  1. Optimize your energy right from the start (rest, stress, etc…)
  2. Conciously practice public hygiene): frequently wash your hands to avoid any gastrointestinal problems from the beginning!
  3. Never set off without water – you can end up by yourself having to make considerable efforts in high tempratures and/or high altitudeputting you at risk for heat stroke and dehydration
  4. Monitor your urine output (it must be copious and clear)
  5. It is advisable to mix water with an isotonic flavored hydration mix. adding flavoring changes the feeling of thirst and may save your life. Use ORS if hydration mix is not available.
  6. In the rare case that you get separated from the group, do not abandon your vehicle unless in imminent danger.
  7. Protect yourself from mosquito bites (by always having strong mosquito repellent with you)
  8. Altitude sickness – usually starts with a headache and nausea. Avoid intense physical efforts at altitude until properly acclimated. If your doctor approves and you do not have any known allergies, you can use Diamox (Acetazolamide). Remember that it results in increased urination, so you have to drink additional water to compensate!
  9. Know when to stop – talk to the trip leader as soon as fatigue, overheating, thirst or altitude sickness symptoms are felt.
  10. When arriving at the rest-stops, you must hydrate – neither beer nor caffeine-based drinks are acceptable hydration. Both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics which means that they aggravate dehydration.
  11. Do not skip meals. Adequate nutrition is important to having a good time on the trip. Keep some emergency calorie-dense rations on your person for emergencies.

GALLERY

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