This is one of the most sought after route for mountain biking in the Indian Himalayas. It is a challenging route not just because most of the day you are cycling on some of the worst road conditions but also the altitude. Physical fitness is a must for this challenge. You cycle over several high passes en route the highest being Taglang La at 5360m but on the last day you’ll also have the opportunity to cycle to the top of Khardung La Pass (5602m) which is the world’s highest motorable pass.
Day 1: Arrive Manali
Day 2: Manali to Marhi (3320m), 38km
Day 3: Marhi to Sissu (3120m), 53km
Day 4: Sissu to Jispa (3310m), 54km
Day 5: Jispa to Zing Zing Bar, 38km
Day 6: Zing Zing Bar to Brandy Nallah (4120m), 58km
Day 7: Brandy Nallah to Pang (4530m), 57km
Day 8: Pang to Tsokar Lake (4660m), 57km
Day 9: Tsokar Lake- Lato, 77km
Day 10:Lato to Leh (3505m), 70km
Day 11:Leh to Khardung La (5602m) and back, 90km
Day 12:Leh
Day 13:Departure
Arrive in Manali in the morning. You will get to meet your guide today and also check out your bikes for the tour. Once you have thoroughly checked the bikes we will leave for Naggar, visit the Naggar Castle and Roerich Art gallery. This would be a good practice for the Himalayan roads and traffic and also for acclimatization. Evening is free.
Altitude: 2050m
Cycling Distance: 45km
Set off from Manali early in the morning and start the climb up the Rohtang pass stopping at our destination for the day- Marhi and camp for the night.
Altitude: 3320m
Cycling Distance: 38km
We start the day by finishing the 18km ascent to the Rohtang Pass at 4060m. From here there are some fantastic scenic views of snow covered peaks and glacial summit of Spiti, and the mountains of Ladakh.
Altitude: 3120m
Cycling Distance: 53km
The day starts with a steady climb up to Gondla, 244m above Sissu. From Gondla there’s a fast descent to Tandi which is situated at the confluence of the Chandra River (flowing down from the north) and Bhaga River, which merge to form the Chandra- Bhaga River.
Altitude: 3310m
Cycling Distance: 54km
The road climbs steadily to Darcha some 10km from Jispa and then the climb to Patseo begins. The terrain is much more arid and the road is dusty and rocky. We can now sense the isolation of the area, with a few sheep dotted around and begin to enter the territory of the Lamas. In the far horizon you can see the bleak and awesome spectacle of the Higher Himalayan ranges.
Altitude: 4270m
Cycling Distance: 38km
It is a hard long climb to the Baralacha La, but the rewards are great as you travel through this wild and scenic country. Now we feel like we are alone. The pass is arid with no vegetation, the sides of the mountains are covered with loose rocks and scree, but the scenery is awe inspiring. As we descend the gorge area of Bharatpur we will cross Mountain Rivers before reaching our destination Brandy Nallah.
Altitude: 4120m
Cycling Distance: 58km
The day starts with some relatively easy cycling but we are awesome 22km long Gator Loops that zigzag all the way to the summit of Nakila at 5050m. A short downhill section; and then another ascent that brings you to the second highest pass on the Manali Leh highway- Lachulung La Pass 5150m. We then have a long descent down to Pang which is our campsite for the night. Another day in the barren openness of this Himalayan range. Once again the scenery is stunning and breathtaking.
Altitude: 4530
Cycling Distance: 57km
After breakfast you start slowly with a short ascent to the Morai plains at 4700m with road conditions that ranges from excellent asphalt for a long stretch, turning into rough sandy tracks. Just before the ascent of Taglang La we take a left and head for the remote Tsokar Lake where we camp for the night.
Altitude: 4660m
Cycling Distance: 57km
A challenging climb that leads to the World’s second highest motorable pass in the world- Taglang La at 5360m. More vast openness and isolation from the rest of the world. The descent from Taglang is a thrilling ride. The road is in good condition and the views breath taking. After the descent you will start crossing small Ladakhi villages.
Altitude: 4084m
Cycling Distance: 77km
As we continue the descent to Upshi the scenery changes dramatically, we arrive in a fertile valley
that is dotted with pretty villages and Stupas. The awesome red and green coloured mountains that
stretch for miles add to the beauty of the spectacular scenery. You can actually see the tectonic
forces at work.
This is an easy ride as we pass the Thiksey Monastery and the Chortens Garden entering Leh itself.
Back to civilization and all its home comforts. Congratulations you have just crossed four major
mountain passes and ridden over 293 miles.
Altitude: 3505m
Cycling Distance: 70km
We will set of for Khardung La early morning just as the sun comes up. Cycling 45km and gaining 2000m, this is the ultimate challenge of the trip. It is the highest motorable road in the World taking you to a dizzy 5602m! the view from the top is spectacular, stretching from the Indus valley in the South over the endless peaks and ridges of the Zanskar range to the giants of the Saser Massif in the North. You can feel proud of the true achievement as you finish the trip with your final satisfying descent.
Altitude: 3505m
Cycling Distance: 90km
Finally it is the day to relax, enjoy the markets and colourful sights of Leh or get a massage to relax the aching muscles.
Altitude: 3505m
Take an hour long flight to Delhi.
| Dates | Availability | Trip Guaranteed? | price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26th June - 8th July 2020 | Available | Yes | INR 1,10,000/- pp | Book Now |
| 17th July - 29th July 2020 | Available | Yes | INR 1,10,000/- pp | Book Now |
| 3rd August - 15th August 2020 | Available | Yes | INR INR 1,10,000/- pp | Book Now |
| 21st August - 2nd Sept. 2020 | Available | Yes | INR INR 1,10,000/- pp | Book Now |
Manali - Leh
This is one of the most sought after route for mountain biking in the Indian Himalayas. It is a challenging route not just because most of the day you are cycling on some of the worst road conditions but also the altitude. Physical fitness is a must for this challenge. You cycle over several high passes en route the highest being Taglang La at 5360m but on the last day you’ll also have the opportunity to cycle to the top of Khardung La Pass (5602m) which is the world’s highest motorable pass.
Mid June- September
Duration: 13 days
Difficulty Level: Demanding
Included:
Excluded:
ABOUT THIS TOUR
A Typical dayFor cyclists unfamiliar with our Himalayan organisation you will be very well catered for. While our expedition follows the main Manali to Leh road, there are few vehicles on the road and for most of the time you are sharing the highway with other cyclists. We will select camps away from the road where you will sleep in comfortable two-man tents and be looked after by our crew who accompany us. They will prepare all meals including bed-tea in the morning and will look after all the camping arrangements. You will be expected to pack your gear into your kitbag each day. Of course any help you offer when setting and breaking camp, when there are many tasks is always welcome. During the day you will be accompanied by a support vehicle which is available if you should not wish to cycle at some stage. You will also be accompanied by an experienced cycle leader who will also assist you in maintaining your bike.
Acute mountain sicknessWhen we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process, you may experience some of the following symptoms.
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience then it does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive training and experience and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you believe you have any symptoms in order that we can efficiently monitor your symptoms. The only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend. Please note that you group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if the symptoms persist.
Clothing list for trekking in India
ABOUT THIS TOUR
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.
1) Insurance: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.
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:
(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:
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) AccommodationRoom 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.