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The pristine and picturesque valley of the Himalayas for centuries has been called 'heaven on earth' and invites to an exciting Srinagar to Leh Bike Trip. Ladakh is like the realisation of a dream come true. Here the brown rolling mountains break into a palette of colours - as you look closer at the bright green oasis around villages in the river valleys. Century-old monasteries, perched atop rocky cliffs, cradle the ancient traditions of deep Buddhism, exquisite frescoes and priceless thangkas.
This highest cold desert in the world is a journey of self-discovery at altitudes exceeding 12000 ft above mean sea level. You pass the deep river gorges as you explore the world's highest motorable pass- the Khardung La. For many riders, the highlight of bike tours to Leh Ladakh is Khardung-La, the highest motorable road in the world. To pass from Leh into the Nubra Valley, you will need to drive your motorcycle along a road that sits at 18,380 feet. It is surely an exhilarating experience.
Begin your Srinagar to Leh road trip along the Leh highway which is a beauty in itself and runs through the awe-inspiring Kashmir valley and scenic towns of Sonamarg and Drass. It is usually considered easier in comparison to Manali Leh highway because of better connectivity and availability of basic facilities. It is a longer road than the Manali Leh highway and you never really get too far from civilization. As you ride on, you come across several small towns and villages after regular intervals and the chances of getting stranded are lesser here. Amenities like a fuel station and accommodation choices too are better on the Srinagar to Leh road.
With that being said, this road trip is still no walk in the park. When it comes to adventure, thrill and difficulty; Srinagar to Leh highway stand no less than the Manali Leh road. You will need to ride and swerve through some narrow steep ascents, badly broken stretches, through water streams, handle slush and climb three high altitude passes before you finally get to Leh. This road will definitely test you; your riding/driving skills and your vehicle’s capabilities.
Offering scenic vistas of one of the best landscapes in India, a trip to from Srinagar to Leh is all about the feel of snow-clad mountains, rugged landscape, soaring peaks, dangerous routes, and roaring bike engines. In short, going on a Ladakh bike tour is all about the good vibes and the undying spirit of a ride.
On the way from Srinagar to Leh-Ladakh by road, you will cover approximately 434 Km. There is only two ways to reach Ladakh, one is from Manali to Leh and the other is from Srinagar to Leh.
Your Road trip will commence from Srinagar, the highway is called the National Highway – 1D (NH – 1D) and is one of the most dependable ways to reach Ladakh.
Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil – Mulbek – Lamayaru – Saspol – Leh
1) Once you commence your journey from Srinagar, it will be around 85kms to reach Sonamarg.
2) From Sonmarg you would head towards Drass, via the Zoji La pass, which is another 62kms.
3) One can choose to stay at Drass or travel another 58 kms and reach Kargil, which also proffers decent accommodations.
4) This is then followed by a 110 kms drive from Kargil to Lamayuru via Mulbek, Namika La and Fotu La. From Lamayuru, Leh is approximately 125km that passes through Hangro Loops and Nimmu.
Srinagar – Sonmarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil - Batalik - Dah – Leh
1) Once you commence your journey from Srinagar, it will be around 85kms to reach Sonamarg.
2) From Sonmarg you would head towards Drass, via the Zoji La pass, which is another 62kms.
3) One can choose to stay at Drass or travel another 58 kms and reach Kargil, which also proffers decent accommodations.
4) After which drive for about 53kms and reach Batalik and then reach Leh via Dah. One needs to have an inner line permit to travel from Kargil to Leh, via Batalik and Dah.
1) Private Cars and Bikes
One can choose to commute this journey in their personal car or bike. In this case they have to take into consideration factors like petrol cost and vehicle maintenance.
2) Srinagar Leh JKSRTC Bus
The buses from Srinagar to Leh start at 8 AM and halt at Kargil for one night and reach Leh the next day.
In case you choose a Deluxe bus, then the cost is about Rs. 1058 per person and for semi deluxe the cost is approximately Rs 670 per person.
These timings are subject to change based on timing of Zojila Pass.The
charismatic Dal Lake that stretches across a 26 sq km is a major tourist
attraction. It is filled with narrow water canals, beautiful lotus and
vegetable gardens and shops. Experience living in the middle of a lake, wake up
to the glistening pearls and watch the sun submerge in the water, as you spend
a day on a houseboat in the Dal lake.
One can enjoy a entire day trading
through the lake, by booking a Shikara for a day. Admire the varied attractions
like the Nishat Garden, Nasim Bagh, Hazratbal Mosque, Pathar Masjid and Shah
Hamdan's Shrine while sailing in the Shikara. If you are with family and
friends, Shikara makes an awesome picnic spot.
The 30ft tall, Maitreya Buddha sculpted
on a limestone, is the popularity of the Mulbekh Monastery. The reason to visit the Mulbekh Monastery is to admire the wonderfully
carved Buddha on the rock. This sculpture of Buddha overlooks the National
Highway 1D between Leh and Kargil.
It is also well-known for its two gompas. The Mulbekh Monastery with its gompas is located on a peak and can be witnessed from the Srinagar-Leh highway.
Admire and
find peace at the age old Lamayuru Monastery.
Take time and stopover to be in awe of the mesmeric vistas of Lamayuru,
which are also known as the ‘Moonland’ Hills. The Lamayuru
monastery was established by Mahasiddhacharya Naropa and belongs to
Red-Hat sect of Buddhism. It is also known as Yung-Drung. The essence of the
monastery is that it is an abode to almost 150 monks.
It showcases a variety of artifacts, wall paintings, thangas, statues and carpets. The 11-headed, 1000 eyed image of Chenzing here is very impressive. Moreover, Lamayuru is amidst a picturesque landscape and thus attracts a lot of photographers and trekkers.
The District of Leh encompasses around 45100 Sq. Kms and is one of the largest Districts in India. The Leh district is a mountainous region and has three parallel ranges of the Himalayas, the Zanskar, the Ladakh and the Karakoram. The mountains and the valleys of Leh make it a hub for several adventure activities. The Shayok, Indus and Zanskar rivers flow between these ranges making the vistas even more pleasing. Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa, Magnetic hills and Thikse monasteries are top attractions of the Leh one cannot afford to miss.
The place is renowned as the land of monks and the pristine monasteries are major attractions in this land. When in Leh, savour some scrumptious cuisines at places like the Lamayuru Restaurant, the Gesmo Restaurant, Shubh Punjabi, Little Italy Restaurant and many more.
Top Things To Do in Leh
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A road trip to Leh is incomplete without experiencing the adventure of driving in the Magnetic Hills. It is a small stretch of road located approximately 30 kms from Leh towards Kargil and known as Magnetic Hill of Ladakh. The Magnetic Hill is also known as the gravity hill and is located near Leh in Ladakh.
The specialty of the hill is that it seems to have magnetic properties that pull cars uphill, but the reality is the effect of an optical illusion created by the gravity hill. For several years the mystery of the Magnetic hills has enticed the tourists.
The nine
storeys high, Leh Palace is a former royal palace built by King Sengge Nemgyal in the 17th century. The Leh Palace is situated at the edge
of the Namgyal hill, from where one can see the Leh town below. It is now being
utilized as an office for Indian Government's archaeological conservation organization.
The medieval Tibetan architectural style, used while making the palace is very
attractive.
The walls of the palace are massive and also have wooden balconies. The old wall paintings of Leh Palace showcase the former magnificence of the ruined apartments. The fourth story of the palace is the Dukhar temple. This temple preserves thousand-armed image of its deity, Goddess Tara.
Pangong Tso is one of the biggest salty lakes in Ladakh and Asia located 154 kilometres southeast of Leh. It stretches for a 134 km, from eastern Ladakh to Tibet. Around 60% portion of the lake lies in China. The Pangong Lake is approximately five hours away from Leh.
The drive towards the lake is extremely exciting as you travel through the fascinating mountainous region. There is a camping sites near the lake, you can also check-in into the camp for an overnight stay and entice yourself with the scenic beauty of the Ladakh.
Top Things To Do in Pangong Lake
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The Alchi monastery which based on the banks of the river Indus is the most important Buddhist centres in Ladakh. It is also regarded as the monastic jewels of Ladakh. If you are an admirer of art and culture then you should surely visit this monastery in Ladakh. You will fall in love with the wall paintings made in the Choskor temple complex.
One of its walls has thousands of miniature sized pictures of the Buddha. The Gompa offers a very healthy atmosphere for its visitors; there are several restaurants, tea stalls and as well as souvenir shops around.
The
Khardung La pass, which is also known as the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’, is a
gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valley. The Border Road Organization has declared
the Khardung La pass as the utmost traversable pass in the world. It is a very
enticing and challenging drive.
The Khardung La pass is approximately 40km away from Leh and is situated at an altitude of 18,379 ft. When you drive through this mountain pass in Ladakh, you will be fascinated by the breathtaking view of the valleys.
Top Things To Do in Khardung La
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The Nubra valley is situated 3048 meters above the sea level and is around 150 km north from the town of Leh. It is mandatory for a tourist to have an Inner line permit for entering Nubra. The region is named, Nubra because of the river Nubra that flows above and below their amalgamation point.
Explore the captivating Wari La- Nubra Valley and take time to experience the camel safari through the sand dunes. Camping sites in Nubra Valley is also very famous.
One of the important Buddhist stupas, Shanti Stupa was built by a Japanese Buddhist. Located in Chandspa in the Leh district, this structure was built to promote world peace and harmony. As a testimony to the completion of Buddhism’s 2,500 years on earth, it has now become a major and popular tourist spot in Ladakh.
From this stupa, you can view most of the Leh town. The best and the most prized views are the sunrise and sunset views from the stupa.
On your Leh Ladakh tour, this is another spot which is definitely a must visit for you. Hemis Monastery is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery (gompa) of the Drukpa Lineage, situated in Hemis, Ladakh, India. Arranged 45 km from Leh, the cloister was re-set up in 1672 by the Ladakhi ruler Sengge Namgyal. Hemis Gompa is the biggest religious community in Ladakh.
The gigantic architectural structure of Hemis Monastery is remarkable and speaks to a particular style of engineering from the other critical cloisters of Ladakh. Hemis festival is one of the biggest festivals celebrated in Ladakh. An essential yearly celebration of Ladakh recognizing the birth commemoration of Guru Padmasambhava is held at this religious community successively for two days in June-July.
So if you are wondering where to feed fuel to your vehicle. You don’t have to worry much, because on this route, it is easy to find fuel. As you drive through, you will come across several petrol pumps. On the Srinagar to Leh highway there are petrol pumps at the following places:-
1) Srinagar
2) Kangan
3) Sonamarg
4) Kargil
5) Mulbekh
6) Wakha
7) Khaltsi
No matter how well we pre plan the expenditure, money always finds its way in and out of our pockets. On the road trip from Sringar to Leh route, you will find ATMs at the following places.
1) Srinagar
2) Ganderbal
3) Drass
4) Kargil
5) Leh
A mechanic is a messiah in times of need; let’s not waste time hunting for one, when required the most. In case of emergency, one can find many mechanics and puncture shops on the Srinagar to Leh route. They are available at
1) Ganderbal
2) Sonamarg
3) Kargil
4) Lamayuru
5) Mulbekh
6) Nimmu
Mobile connectivity has become priority in today’s fast paced life. So be well informed about the mobile networks that function perfectly in these hilly areas.
BSNL and Airtel are the two service providers, having
good coverage in Ladakh. Another thing to be considered is that only post paid
works in Ladakh. None other mobile network will find connectivity here.
1) Hotel Greenland KargiL
2) Hotel PC Palace Kargil
3) Hotel D'Zojila
4) Panorama Guest House
1. A sudden change in climate and atmosphere can hamper your health. Hence, it is sensible to stay at least for a day before you begin your journey. If you are with children or elderly, you may extend your stay a bit longer. This will help everyone get accustomed to the surroundings.
2. Try and maintain a cordial atmosphere when you visit the local villages, religious centres or other such places.
3. Rules and regulations are imposed for your own safety. They help your journey be peaceful and joyous. Do not break any rules, while on this road trip.
4. The locals define the culture of a place, befriend them and enhance your knowledge. Treat them with harmony and respect and avoid hurting their sentiments in anyway.
5. Exploring a new place becomes easier with proper guidance from experienced people. Feel free to take assistance from tour guides or organizers.
6.
Preferably,
eat less oily but healthy food like boiled veggies and meat.
Rules for Inner Line Permits for Indian Nationals
The inner line permit (ILP) rules for Ladakh tourism have been simplified. There are certain requirements to be considered like a valid photo ID and attested photocopies that act as a proof of Nationality (Passport, DL, Voters ID etc.).
No inner line permits are now required to travel to places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. However, there are some exceptions. In case one plans to cover a direct Stretch from Tso Moriri to Pangong Tso via Chushul route with a visit to Hanle, then one needs to give detailed information.
It is important to mention Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Chushul, Tsaga, Loma, Nyoma, Mahe, Hanle and Tso Moriri in the permit application. Similarly, it is mandatory to apply for an Inner Line Permit, if you are planning to visit Pangong directly from Nubra via Shyok, Darbuk, Tangtse.
Inner Line Permits for Foreign Nationals
The foreign nationals must obtain the inner line permits, if they plan to visit areas like Turtuk, Panamik, Khaltse, Pangong, Changthang, Hunder, Tso Kar and Tso Moriri and few others. Also, to visit Hanle, Chusul, Tsaga, beyond Loma bend, Chumur, Marsimik La and Batalik Sector, they must have the inner line permits.
Foreign nationals, with exception from Bhutan, Burma, Nepal and Pakistan, also need to obtain PAP or the Protected Area Permit to visit the above-mentioned places. This permit is issued at the Leh DC Office and is allowed only to a group of four or more foreign nationals and is valid for 7 days.
While travelling Suru and Zanskar valleys, inner line permits are not required. However, this permit doesn't allow them to beyond Merek Village in the Mahe or Pangong village.
1) Lack of appetite
2) Nausea or vomiting
3) Fatigue or weakness
4) Dizziness
5) Swelling of hands , feet, and face
6) Insomnia
7) Shortness of breath upon exertion
8) Nosebleed
9) Persistent rapid pulse or drowsiness.
10) It is advisable that you carry certain medication and stay hydrated. If your health doesn’t permit, kindly go down to a lower altitude and take rest.
Departure Dates
April 28 May 11 June 15 July 14 August 15September 1
Group size- 12
About the Destination:
Ladakh, the dream destination for many has been luring its admirers from every corner of the world and for a long time now. This time head out on this 6 Days and 5 Nights Leh Ladakh local sightseeing group tour and get a chance to come close to the ethereal beauty of Ladakh. Blessed with the beauty of the mountains, valleys, and monasteries, this region is considered synonymous with heaven
Ladakh will not only bring you close to heavens, it will also make you feel heavenly. The monasteries, markets, palaces and high mountain passes are some of the things that you will not find anywhere else in the world, all of them set in such unparalleled sceneries. It is always a delight to see some of nature's and man's wonders, all of which you will have no shortage of in Ladakh, be it Pangong and Nubra Valley, or Diskit and Thiksey Monasteries.
About the Tour:
Departure Dates
June 7,12,13,19,20,27 July 4,8,11,18,25 August 1,8,15,22,29 September 5
Price Variants
Double Rider(2 people sharing 1 bike): INR 27950 per person
Single Rider(1 person on 1 bike): INR 34950 per person
Group Size- 18 to 20 Participants/ 10 Bikes | Open for Solo or Groups
About the Destination
The land of high passes, Ladakh is a true beauty and a gift of nature to the already beautiful land of Kashmir in India. Known for being the land of adventures and mysteries, Ladakh has a lot of tricks up its sleeve and reveals them all to its visitors in due time. Home to Ladakhi culture and people, surrounded by some of the most beautiful mountain ranges of the world, and gifted with stunning landscapes like the Dunes of Hundar and Pangong Lake, Ladakh will beckon to you to visit again when you leave. So might as well listen to it
About the Trip
About the Destination:
The names Leh and Ladakh often bring forth to the imagination a land that is still untouched by the hand of commercialisation and urban culture. 6 Days Leh Ladakh Tour Package gives you that perfect adventure outing that you have been waiting for. Nestled within the protective covers of the Himalayas and adorned with magnificent landscapes, Leh-Ladakh is a belt that must be explored!
Leh is a comprehensive town jotted with a number of religious and aesthetic attractions. Nature has been kind to the Nubra Valley and the Pangong Lake. The former seems like a carpet of exotic flowers while the latter is a sight to behold in all its glory. The Khardungla Pass and Chang La Pass offer panoramic views of such beauty and mystique that they have thus far, only been imagined!
About the Tour:
-Get ready to taste the adventure in Ladakh with this thrilling 6 Days Leh Ladakh Tour Package.About the Destination:
Ladakh or the land of high passes is situated in the picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir. Leh Ladakh tour package from Delhi by air will definitely make your vacation a special one. It has always been regarded as an exotic tourist destination, filled with breath-taking natural beauty and mystery!
The charming town of Leh will leave you smitten with its spectacular views of the majestic snow-capped Himalayan ranges, lush greenery, mystic monasteries and sparkling rivers. The town also boasts of an amazing trekking trail which attracts enthusiastic trekkers from all over the world. Get ready to be awed by the scenic beauty of this region while you head out on this tour. And yes, don't forget to take your camera with you.
About the Tour:
-Explore the wonders of mystical Ladakh, on a 7nights/8daysLeh Ladakh Tour Package from Delhi by air which kicks starts from the charming town of Leh.Note: Flight tickets are not included in the package. Tickets can be booked at an additional cost
Fixed Departure Dates:
June 7 July 28, 26 August 20
About the Destination
Ladakh, the jewel in the crown of Jammu and Kashmir, is blessed with the fascinating Himalayan Range. Embraced with the captivating beauty of the scenic meadows, rivers, cold deserts and enchanting trails, the region boasts of being an adventure hub in the country.
Be it for the trekkers, bikers, skiers or any other adventure sports, Ladakh is one hotspot for all! In addition, the option to explore the stunning beauty and appeal of the region through Ladakh bike trip always add an extra amount of fun and excitement to a tour to this ‘Land of High Passes’.
About the Trip
This bike trip to Leh-Ladakh from Delhi will take you to Ladakh, Srinagar, and Manali. Over the course of your bike trip to Ladakh, you will be introduced to various challenges, extremely uneven routes, narrow passes and much more! This apart, you can also expect to make stops and ride through fascinating landmarks like Khardung-La, the highest pass in the world, Tanglang La (17,600ft), Lachulung La (16,680ft), BaralachaLa (16500ft), the beautiful Zojila Pass as well as Pangong Lake.
The mesmerizing beauty of Pangong and the alluring charm of Nubra Valley will leave you spellbound and wanting for more. Add to that the feeling of being on top of the world. Why sit and enjoy the facts, when you can actually go and see the ‘World’s Highest All Weather Motorable Road’: Khardung La Pass! Because it is better to experience a place once than to read about it a thousand times
About the Tour
Departure Dates
June 9,14,15,21,22,29 July 6,10,13,20,28 August 3,10,17,24,31 September 7
Price Variants
Self Drive (own bike & fuel): INR 30800 per person
Double Rider(2 people sharing 1 bike): INR 38800 per person
Single Rider(1 person on 1 bike): INR 47800 per person
Group Size- 18 to 20 Participants/ 10 Bikes | Open for Solo or Groups
About the Destination:
Bestowed with natural formations and heaven like ambience the regions of Ladakh and Leh are beautified with immense natural diversities. On the other hand, Kashmir is a land that is utterly beautiful and has inspired many love affairs and art pieces!
Decorating the crown of the subcontinent of India, literally, the landscapes of this area are richly embellished with sights of every kind imaginable.
The Northern frontier of India has always been home to a rich and prosperous culture. Navigate the toughest passes on a trip of Manali to Leh on the bike, the empty stretches of highways and rock-strewn pathways in the mountains all of which reward you with gorgeous vistas that make the ride worthwhile!
About the trip
Fixed departure dates: Multiple dates open to Join a Group departure in June, July, August and September and can be customized on request for separate group also.
About the Activity:
About the Activity:
From the pleasantly hospitable town of Manali, the Manali to Leh Jeep expedition takes you on a roller coaster drive through distinct geographies portraying diverse geographies. From hill town to high altitude arid desert, this safari is one mega experience.
The Manali to Leh by road traverses over five high altitude Himalayan passes such as Rohtang (3,978m), Keylong (3,350m), and Tanglang La (17,585ft) showcasing an ever changing dynamic landscape that alters from barren lands to lush green pastures. A drive through Skyangchu Thang, the biggest and highest plateau on earth on a stretch of 42kms leaves you breathless. For you to capture moments like these, the safari also includes a brief photography workshop to help arrest high altitude frames with more panache.
By the end of the journey multi-hued prayer flags, Tibetian chortens, and friendly locals would be etched in your memories for a very long time to come.
About the Activity:
Duration of the Tour: 7D/6N
Highest Altitude: Khardung La Pass (18,380 feet).
Paying Pax Standard Deluxe Super Dlx Premium
02 Pax with innova/xylo Rs. 19,900 Rs. 22,000 Rs. 28,400 Rs. 37,000
04 Pax with innova/xylo Rs. 13,800 Rs. 15,900 Rs. 22,900 Rs. 31,200
06 Pax with innova/xylo Rs. 11,900 Rs. 13,900 Rs. 19,600 Rs. 29,100
6 pax with tempo traveller Rs. 13,700 Rs. 15,700 Rs. 21,500 Rs. 31,200
8 pax with tempo traveller Rs. 12,300 Rs. 13,900 Rs. 20,200 Rs. 29,700
10 pax with tempo traveller Rs. 11,400 Rs. 13,000 Rs. 19,300 Rs. 28,900
Extra Adult With extra bed Rs. 8,800 Rs. 10,800 Rs. 15,400 Rs. 22,400
Child without bed Rs. 6,200 Rs. 7,900 Rs. 12,800 Rs. 19,500
Group Size- 6
About the Destination:
The crown of India is beautified by Ladakh, the land of high passes, situated in the picturesque state of Jammu and Kashmir. Regarded as an exotic tourist destination, it is a land filled with breath-taking natural beauty and mystique.
From majestic mountain passes and tranquil monasteries to magical lakes, Ladakh is sure to take your breath away. During summer, this beautiful region is adorned with a plethora of vibrant colors, but come winter time it is transformed into a snowy white wonderland, often cut off from the rest of the world.
As a destination, Ladakh is replete with every sight imaginable; from sapphire blue lakes to jade green meadows and even dry and arid grasslands serve to make this land of extremes a must-go destination on every traveler's bucket list, and that is the very reason that no one should ever miss the chance of visiting this Paradise. That is why this tour is here to bring everyone on an equal pedestal by bringing together women of a different metal and organizing a women-only tour to the land of high passes, Ladakh
About the Activity:
Treat yourself to 6 nights 7 days of mystery with the women-only tour to Ladakh. Start your trip from the charming town of Leh, which will woo you with its quaint markets and charming palaces. Visit the beautiful Sham valley and the ancient monasteries.
Take a trip down to enchanting Nubra valley and visit the famous Diskit monastery and the Hall of Fame, to experience local culture at its best.
Lose yourself in the hypnotizing beauty of the colorful Pangong Tso and enjoy a memorable sunrise and sunset by the lake. A thrilling camel safari and drive through the highest motorable road in the world, seems just too good to be true!
About the Destination
Ladakh is the emergent favorite of travelers, not just from India, but from the entire world. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains on all sides, the beauty of this place is unparalleled, and you will agree to that as soon as you set foot here. And despite being so far off and on the rain shadow side of the Himalayas, Ladakh is very well connected, especially the capital city of Leh. Apart from the main airport in the capital, you can arrive in Ladakh via road too, with highways coming in from Srinagar and from Manali, the latter being one of the most beautiful highways in the country.
And this is another reason why Ladakh is a favorite of adventure junkies. You can ride a bike till here, or can even cycle up to this beautiful land of Leh, some 11,400ft above sea level.
About the Trip
Manali to Leh cycling expedition is a scenic ride traversing through some of the highest passes in the world making it one of the most challenging rides to beat. Cutting across beautiful trails with the Himalayas serving as the perfect backdrop, one can cross Tanglang La standing at 5328m before entering Leh. The route from Manali to Leh is straightforward with the roads either being completely dirt or tarmac.
In the Manali Leh cycling tour explore rougher dirt tracks while making some tough climbs along with gut-wrenching descents. Everyday the distance covered ranges from 40 to 80 km traversing altitudes over 4000 m. Not only will this invigorating route comprise cycling from Leh in the Indus Valley to the alpine Kullu Valley covering a total of 470 km, but it also cuts across three mountain ranges of Zanskar, main Himalayas and Pir Panjal Range. Altogether one exceeds 29000 feet in altitude crossing passes like the Khardung La, Tanglang La and Baralacha La (4890m).
Trending in Ladakh
Attractions
Rather, the most sought after tourist destination is Pangong Tso in Ladakh region. It is the highest among the high altitude lakes in India which is filled with saline water but provides some awe-struck moments to the visitors with the unbelievable phenomenon of changing colours quite a number of times a day.
The reflections of the towering Himalayan peaks in the water add more charm to the lake. Currently, Pangong Tso is the favorite location for tourists as the banks of the lake give soothing bed to relax and the nearby places are enhanced by the beauty of this particular lake. The quiet lake is 134 km in length and 5 km in width is situated at an altitude of 14270 meters. But the major share of the lake lies in the area of China. Now, its recognition is spread everywhere in the world because it is termed as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
The highly saline water does not accommodate any water species not even micro-organisms. But the banks of the lake give space for several birds and animals very rarely seen in the other parts of India. It is an important breeding ground for many migratory birds as well.
Height: The lake is located at an altitude of 4250 meters above the sea level.
Location: Pangong Tso is easily accessible as it can be reached after a five hour drive from Leh and the travel would be on a rough and dramatic mountain road. You will cross the villages of Shey and Gya during the tour and go through Chang La as well.
Best time to visit: The months from May to September are the ideal time to visit the lake as the other seasons may cause challenges due to the heavy snowfall.
Something divine makes Nubra Valley close to heart and it is not an exaggeration but a fact that experienced and shared by the countless tourists visited the paradisiacal location in Jammu and Kashmir. Without touching the spectacular roads of Nubra Valley, a Ladakh tour will not be complete. The tri armed valley has Diskit Village as its capital. Ldumra, a magnificent name is the original name of the valley as the local scholars insist. Ldumra means Valley of Flowers. The large valley is formed after the merging of Shyok River with Nubra or Siachen River causing the separation of the Ladakh and the Karakoram Ranges. The valley is located 10000 feet that is 3048 meters above mean sea level and those who cross the Khardung La Pass can easily come to Nubra Valley from Leh.
Except the river beds, every other place in the valley shows scant vegetation and low precipitation levels. Most of the villages in the valley are occupied by Nubra skat speakers and in the villages, one can find lush greenery and farming which happen through the regular irrigation. Diskit is the place where native people are seen in abundance and Diskit Monastery is the entre of attraction as well. The Shyok River flowing on one side of Diskit has a captivating effect on the visitors. Nubra Valley unwinds a lot of surprising sights when you visit it and an unbelievable fact is that the valley was open to the public till Hunder until 2010. Beyond Hunder, it was the greener region in the lower altitude where the Turtuk village exists. Till 2010, the Government did not allow tourists to mesmerize themselves in the magnificent beauty of Turtuk where numerous apricot trees and other vegetation along with the tribal community were preserved as a virgin.
Height: 3048 meters above the sea level
Location: The paradisiacal Nubra Valley is located at a distance of 140 km from Leh and the main road access to the valley is through Khardung La pass where you have to show the photocopies of your travel permit to the soldiers camping.
Best time to visit: The months from June to September is the perfect period to visit Nubra Valley
Controversies regarding the proclamation that Khardung La is the highest motorable pass in the world is not yet diminished but Ladakh travelers still believe that it is the highest and most adventurous pass in the world. Despite the controversies, Khardung La keeps on attracting hundreds of adventure seekers every year, be it bikers, trekkers or visitors. Nestled amidst the most reverberating surrounding, the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’ is located at an altitude of 17582 feet. Near to the pass, the collection of awesome valleys will lure you and along with the natural extravaganzas, the Tibetan prayer flags are an additional charm.
The pass was constructed in the year of 1976 and later in 1988, it was opened to public and from then on, the pass was inviting uncountable bikers, trekkers and tourists. It is maintained by the Border roads Organization as the pass is highly significant and important to India because it was once used to carry supplies to the Siachen Glacier. Recently, Khardung La became the hot potato of the town with a happy news that a ten member team of visually impaired people is going to conquer the pass through cycling in 2017.
Height: Khardung La is located at an altitude of 5359 meters. But there is an incorrect proclamation on the signboards appear here saying that the height of the pass is 18379 feet.
Location: The highest motorable pass in Ladakh is lying about 39 kms away from Leh. By road, one can reach the pass. The first 24 kms of the road are paved and from there to the North Pullu check post, the 15 kms of the road are filled with loose rock, dirt and occasional rivulets formed after the melting of snow.
Best time to visit: The season between May to October is the best time to visit Khardung La.
It won’t be exceeding at all how much you describe the beauty of Tso Moriri in Ladakh, a highly protected lake in Changthang Region and a significant portion of Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. It is the largest of all high altitude lakes in India especially in Ladakh and is located at an altitude of 4522 meters above the sea level. The length comes to 26 km north to south and 3 to 5 km is the width and the water is wholly brackish.
The water to feed the lake comes from the springs and melted snow from the nearby mountains. There are two major stream systems to lead the water to the lake. One in the north part of the lake and the other comes in the southwest part. Huge, extensive marshes are seen at both the entrances of the lake. Rupshu Valley, a breathtaking area is the guardian of Tso Moriri along with an array of the lofty Himalayan Mountains in the surrounding.
The number of people come to witness the beauty of this splendid lake is lesser when compared to that of Pangong Lake. It is because of the secluded location of the lake. Hence, it is a favorite home town for many migratory birds. They come to breed here especially birds like great- crested grebe, the brown-headed gull and the Brahmin duck. The rare Himalayan hares are also abundantly seen near the lake. Thus, the declaration of the lake as a reserved area is a right option to protect these species from extinction. Less human interference would keep their lives strong.
Height: The lake is situated at an altitude of 4522 meters.
Location: You can reach Tso Moriri via road from Leh. It is 150 kms away from Leh Airport. Kalka Railway station is the nearest one to the lake. You will get buses and taxis from the station as well.
Best time to visit: May, June, July and August are the peak season when tourists come to Tso Moriri in large numbers and other months will be filled with snow and have extreme cold conditions.
The white dome of Shanti Stupa is clearly visible from a far distance when you are on a tour of Leh. Peace Pagoda got its name like that because of many reasons mainly the silence persists in and around the pagoda always. This Buddhist prayer center is the most beloved attraction in Jammu and Kashmir. At a height of 4267 meters, the two storied stupa stands holding its head high and overlooks the bustling Leh town. The uneven mountain terrains in the surrounding gives the pagoda a remarkable shining. It is at a location which is 5 km away from Leh town and one who visits the stupa has to climb five hundred steps. The exotic view of the Himalayan peaks turns the beauty of the stupa also, a peace lover would dedicate his life to have such overjoying moments.
History
The stupa was constructed by both Japanese and Ladakh Buddhists. The construction was started in 1983, many Buddhists and Indian Government officials have supervised the procedures throughout.
Structure of the stupa
Among the two structures of the pagoda, the first level depicts the central relief of Dharmachakra which has deer on each side and the turning wheel of Dharma also has a golden image of Buddha at the center. The second level displays images which show the birth of Budhha and the death as well. In addition, both the level have smaller images of Buddha meditating. The stupa came into existence in order to spread the word of peace and harmony among people and it came into establishment as a commemoration of the valuable 2500 years of Buddhism.
Location: Any one can reach the stupa via road from Leh, only 5 kms from the town, a walk of fifteen minutes would require.
Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm
Highlights: The sunset and sunrise views from the stupa are inevitably beautiful
Magnetic Hill is still a mystery yet a famed attraction that pulls the adventure lovers on a large scale toward it. A mystifying phenomenon which stunts the science and fiction together and exists as a magic to the normal people visiting here. Magnetic Hill is a trump card of every Ladakh tour because of the awe-struck moments it would promise the travelers. There is a sign board placed which says that the hill defies gravity completely and inviting everyone to experience the magical phenomenon.
If you keep your vehicle in neutral at a position marked on the road and wait, you will be surprised to see the vehicle starts moving uphill at 10-20 km per hour. And this is the unexplainable feature of Magnetic Hill that confuses the world of science. It is located on Leh-Kargil-Baltic Highway and on the east, the beautiful Sindhu River is flowing calmly. Near the hill there is a Sikh Gurudwara maintained by the Indian Army. Due to the natural attraction as well as the human architectural brilliance, the hill has gained popularity in a short term.
Not just the vehicles hitting the road but the aircrafts and helicopters crossing the radius which Magnetic Hill comes in would feel the same magnetic effect. If the aircrafts are going on a slow pace, then it starts jerking while they are in the circumference of the hill. So the only solution to escape from the clutches of this phenomenon is that the crafts should move at a greater speed.
Height: Magnetic Hill is located at an elevation of 14000 feet above the sea level.
Location: To reach the hill, you can hit the Leh-Kargil-Baltic National Highway and it is situated at a distance of just 30 kms from Leh town.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Magnetic Hill is from June to October.
For some years, adventure seekers all around the world have been talking about Chadar Trek in the Zanskar Region. Until this year, hundreds of people have experienced the thrill hidden and the mind blowing sights around Chadar frozen river. In fact, Chadar Trek is the most sought after and one of the breathtaking treks in the Himalayas. The winter trek is so special for those who are ready to have adventure at the maximum level.
The river trek starts from Chilling where the river begins to freeze and mostly, travelers choose February as the best time to cross the frozen river as the ice sheets will be comparatively stable. The precarious snow-flakes would pose severe threats during the trek but in some other time, the challenges would be kind to the trekker. The surrounding of the river are completely vertical cliffs tall up to 600 meters. The Zanskar River is a tributary of the Indus and is 5 meters long.
A trekker would have to cover 16 kms per day to complete the Chadar Trek. Usually, people opt for 10-15 days of trek depending on the climatic conditions persisting here. The temperature at Chadar will come to the lowest at -35 degree Celsius during winter and thus Chadar Trek becomes more intimidating. Approximate trekking distance one would have to cover in total is 75 kms.
Maximum altitude: 11123 feet is the height at which Chadar Trek would lead you to.
Location: To take part in Chadar Trek, one should arrive in Leh and from Leh, the journey starts and goes to Chilling, the beginning of the Zanskar River in the frozen state. From Leh it would take about 65-70 kms to reach Tilad via Chilling, the base camp of the trek.
Best time to visit: January end to February is the best time suitable for trekking in the frozen river of Chadar. Quality and safe trekking gears and highly warm clothes are required.
The biggest monastery in the North India is Hemis Monastery, one of the must visit attractions in Ladakh region. Set on the foothills of Indus, Hemis Monastery has 200 branches and over 1000 monks are staying there. It belongs to the red sect Brokpa of Buddhist order. Here the young Lamas are trained for the royal monasteries at Leh, Shey and Basgo.
History
Hemis Gompa came into existence 17th century and it was built by Chapgon Gyalshas and from then on the gompa was getting the royal patronage of Ladakh till now. But there is a saying that the monastery was founded by the first incarnation of Stangsang Raspa Nawang Gyatso. After the missing of the head Lama in 1956, a young 12 year old boy from Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh has been recognized as the head Lama of the gompa.
Structure of the monastery
The biggest monastery in the region has a surprising architecture and the building is quite appreciable. There are a lot of big statues and stupas decorated with stones and also the splendid collection of thankas. The collection of thankas is believed to be the largest and it would be shown to the public once in 11 years.
Location: Hemis Village is located 43 km south of Leh town and it is very easy to reach the monastery by bus or jeep.
Timing: 08:00 am to 01:00 pm and 02:00 pm to 06:00 pm
Entry fee: INR 100
Highlight: Hemis Festival is the prime attraction at the monastery which celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Rinpoche. The tenth day of the Tibetan lunar month every 12th year is the date of festival.
Adventure lovers always had an affection to Markha Valley and still it fulfills the dreams of a trekker or adventure seeker with the unrivalled collection of natural spectacle. Long day trekking tours are offered by a lot of tour providers all over India which promise a journey through the most scenic locations and villages. The awesomely exciting feature of this trek is that it will let the trekker cross two high altitude passes in Ladakh; Gandala La at 4980 meters and Kongmaru La at 5276 meters.
Being one of the diverse treks in Ladakh region, Markha Valley trek offers a lot of adventurous moments throughout. The barren land of Ladakh and the Buddhist temples found throughout the journey make the trek special. The route winds past the Ladakhi villages and it goes to Hemis National Park where the chances to spot some rare wildlife species are comparably high. The nomadic groups of people will be a unique picture to keep in heart. The symbols of Buddhism like ‘chortens’, stupas, multi colored prayer flags and numerous monasteries narrate the story of Buddhist culture embraced Markha centuries ago. Another interesting fact heard about Markha Valley trek is that it is also called ‘tea house trek’ due to the accommodation provided in parachute tents in most of the villages during the tour.
Maximum altitude: 15000 feet is the maximum altitude the trek will cover.
Location: In most of the cases, the trek starts from Leh. The trail usually goes through Chilling, Skyu and then to Markha. From Markha it would take the trekker to reach Hankar and Nimaling and finally return to Leh. The ideal trekking distance is 75 kms and it would be graded as difficult.
Best time to visit: The months of June, July, August, September and October are recommended as the best time to do Markha Valley trek.
Stok Kangri, Ladakh is one of the most popular places for high altitude trekking in India. Although the beauty of Ladakh draws in innumerable tourists and trekkers from all over the country and the world, the Stok Kangri trek isn’t really suited for anyone and everyone.
It is advisable that only experienced trekkers set out on this expedition as the climatic and geographical conditions of the place may not suit novice or amateur trekkers. Nonetheless, Stok Kangri is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the country. It is for this reason that the Stok Kangri trek forms an inevitable experience while trekking in India.
The trek begins from Leh, which is noted for its natural beauty as well as the warm and hospitable people. During the first couple of days of the trek, you can move around Leh, go sightseeing and get acclimatized to the weather of the region. These couple of days will prepare you for the trek ahead. You will next be taken to Chang Ma via Stok Village by road.
The journey from Leh to Stok Village takes you to witness the amiable yet fictional setting which includes lush greenery, glistening snow peaks and scenic splendor of the region in this stretch. On reaching Chang Ma, you reach a snow covered region and begin trekking. You will need to climb on for about three hours. From here you will head on to Manokorma, which is at an elevation of 14200 feet.
During the trek, you will be able to view some very beautiful peaks such as the Gulap Kangri, Parcha Kangri, etc. The base camp of the trek is at an elevation of 16, 300 feet. From here, the journey continues till you reach the Stok Kangri. The rewarding scenery from the top is what draws trekkers from all over the world to high altitude trekking in India. The trek back to Leh is a bit arduous and you may need to be careful while climbing down the mountainous terrain.
Best Season: June - October
Difficulty Level: Medium
Max. Elevation: 5000 m
Number of Days: Maximum 10 days of trek can be done here
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