Trans Himalayan Motorbike Tour

Introduction

This motorcycle tour includes unlimited fun and challenge in one of the remotest regions of Himachal Pradesh, via Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. You cross over two high mountain passes Kunzum La (4551m) and Rohtang Pass (3980m). Enroute you also get to see picturesque and isolated villages and get to meet the local people. The tour starts from Manali and then continues to the Trans Himalayan Regions of Kinnaur and Spiti. The tour has a combination of camps and guesthouse stays which is not available on some other routes.

Itinerary summary

Day 1: Arrive Manali

Day 2: Manali to Banjar

Day 3: Banjar to Sarahan

Day 4: Sarahan to Chitkul

Day 5: Chitkul to Kalpa

Day 6: Kalpa to Nako

Day 7: Nako to Kaza

Day 8: Kaza

Day 9: Kaza to Sissu

Day 10:Sissu to Manali

Day 11:Manali


Highlights
  • Two high Passes
  • Ride through some stunning lunar like landscapes
  • World’s highest Inhabited Village
  • Visit ancient monasteries in Spiti
  • Day 1
    Arrive Manali

    Arrive in Manali in the Morning. After breakfast, each individual will be provided with a motorbike, for you to explore Manali and its surrounding with a local guide. You will also visit Naggar Castle, Roerich Art Gallery, Hindu Temples and the hot springs in Vashisht.

  • Day 2
    Manali to Banjar

    The first day takes us South towards Banjar Valley to Shoja. From Manali we ride towards Kullu and further to Aut, from here we turn left and cross the river to get to Banjar. All the way we enjoy beautiful views until we finally reach Shoja Village.

  • Day 3
    Banjar to Sarahan over Jalori Pass (3134m)

    We aim to arrive into Sarahan around mid- afternoon enabling a tour of the stunning Bhimakali temple. This temple is a sacred temple of the Hindus and is an architectural marvel. It is believed to be atleast 800 years old.

  • Day 4
    Sarahan to Chitkul, 104km

    Today we have 104km to go, to get to the picturesque village of Chitkul, a beautiful little village in Sangla Valley. From Sarahan we ride till Karcham dam and from here we turn right for Sangla while the highway takes us to Rekong Peo. The road is in fairly good condition but after crossing the dam the road will get a bit challenging but the landscape around makes one forget all the trouble.

  • Day 5
    Chitkul to Kalpa

    Today we retrace our journey back to the Dam and then once again continue on the National Highway all the way to Kalpa. Kalpa is a beautiful village located in the backdrop of Kinner Kailash Mountain range. Rest of the day is free to explore the surrounding.

  • Day 6
    Kalpa to Nako, 132km

    Today we ride on our bikes to Nako enroute visiting the confluence of river Satluj and Spiti at Khab. From here we continue our climb up to Nako. On arrival check in at camp. Evening is free to explore Nako village which is located on the banks of Nako Lake. In the evening visit the village, the Buddhist temples with stucco images and murals and a rock where a finger print like impression is ascribed to Reopurgil- the deity protecting the village.

  • Day 7
    Nako to Kaza

    After an early breakfast at camp we ride on to Kaza along the Spiti River. Along the way we will stop at Tabo to visit the Tabo Monastery which was founded in 996AD by the great teacher Richensang- Po. Tabo is renowned for its breathtaking murals and stucco images and is often called “ The Ajanta of the Himalayas”. The largest monastic complex in Spiti, the old section has 9 temples, 23 chortens, a monk chamber and a nuns chamber. There are several caves adorned with frescoes and contemporary structures too. In trans Himalayan Buddhism Tabo’s sanctity is next only to Tibet’s Tholing Gompa. Later continue biking to Dhankar village and Monastery. This monastery at Dhankar rests high over the valley and is a stupendous example of local architecture. It is regarded to have once been a fort and was also the residence of the ruler of Spiti. Then we continue on for Kaza

  • Day 8
    Kaza

    After a leisurely morning visit the Ki Monastery, 12 kms from Kaza. This old gompa is a labyrinth of rooms and corridors and at one time also acted as a fort. It houses valuable Thangkas and offers a panoramic view of the area. Also visit the small gompa at Kibber, 9 kms further ahead. Kibber at 4205m has the distinction of being the highest permanently inhabited village of the region. Ride back to Kaza and evening free to explore the town.

  • Day 9
    Kaza to Sissu

    On our bikes from Kaza to Chandratal Lake enroute crossing some very beautiful villages of Spiti Valley and crossing over Kunzum Pass (4558m). Chandratal Lake is of exquisite beauty between a lower ridge and the main Kunzum range, the outlet being into Chandra River. Enjoy the charming view while havinge lunch by the lake side and then continue forward to Sissu.

  • Day 10
    Sissu to Manali

    Today we ride along the Chandra River views of ragged mountains. From Gramphu we climb our way up to Rohtang Pass (3980m) and them meandering our way down to Manali where the tour ends.

  • Day 11
    Manali

    Today you can enjoy a well- deserved rest day in Manali.


  • Manali - Leh Motorbike Tour

    This motorcycle tour includes unlimited fun and challenge in one of the remotest regions of Himachal Pradesh, via Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. You cross over two high mountain passes Kunzum La (4551m) and Rohtang Pass (3980m). Enroute you also get to see picturesque and isolated villages and get to meet the local people. The tour starts from Manali and then continues to the Trans Himalayan Regions of Kinnaur and Spiti. The tour has a combination of camps and guesthouse stays which is not available on some other routes.
    Over the course of the tour the scenery changes from verdant deodar forests and flower filled valleys to the barren lunar landscapes with towering peaks and hanging glaciers. In Kinnaur you pass through lush apple orchards and fields of Barley and Peas in Spiti.

    June to October

    Duration: 11 days

    Difficulty Level: Moderate

    Trip Detail

    All riders must have a motorbike license and some experience.

  • Included:

    • 350cc/500cc Royal Enfield
    • 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
    • Oxygen in the unlikely event of serious altitude sickness
    • Inner line permits for military controlled areas around Ladakh.

    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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