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Manali to Khardungla
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This ain't no touristy stuff! Manali to Leh Cycling is that once in a lifetime event that cyclists around the world dream of. The expedition starts at Manali : door to the heaven of Himalayas which has ironically become honeymoon spot! The expedition makes you cross 5 passes with a maximum altitude of Khardung La (5359 mts). Each one of these passes is unique in their own stature: Bara Lachha La - one of the most loopy passes, Naki La & Lachu lung La are like Twin brothers standing just next to each other, Rohtang Pass is the most unpredictable and moody of them all, and last but not the least & the toghest to cross - Tanglang La (5360 mts). Overwhelming..right? Well there is much much more. Gata loops with 21 curves can send a fine chill up your spine when you see it from the top, Moray plains is one of the highest & coldest deserts in the world, snow laden peaks, rivers like Chandra-Bhaga & Indus, and more. The destination city of Leh needs no intro which culminates your expedition in a perfect way. Well, its just not possible to explain the beauty of the expedition in words! One has to do it to feel it. Stay on this page for details like Manali Leh cycling route map, detailed itinerary, photos, videos and reviews. Scroll down to the end to read Manali to Leh Cycling blogs.
Arrival in Manali
Check-in to the booked hotel or orientation camp set up by Bikat Adventures. Proceedings will start after lunch with a round of introductions for the participants and organizers. The tour leader will brief about the expedition and after that fellow cyclists will be free to explore around Manali.. Overnight at the hotel/ camp.
Manali to Marhi - 37.5 km
The first ascent of the trip prepares up for the tough ride ahead and takes you through the panoramic view of pine and deodar trees. We will take an early start to beat the traffic rush destined for Rohtang Pass. One has to negotiate many hairpin bends to reach Marhi. Marhi offers picturesque camping sites and prepares up for the muddy ascent of Rohtang Pass. Overnight in camps.
Marhi to Sissu via Rohtang La - 49.5 km
We start the day by finishing the 18km ascent to the Rohtang pass (3980m) and there are some lovely scenic views on the horizon of snow covered peaks and glaciers of Spiti valley. After a refreshing halt at Rohtang, a steady descent takes us to Gramphu on the highway along Chandra river. From here we will encounter some unmetalled stretches of flat road as we cross the raging torrent of the river at Khoksar and continue a short and easy ride to Sissu in the foothills of the Pir Panjal. Sissu (also known as Khagling) is a small town in the Lahaul valley and located on the right bank of Chandra river.
Sissu to Jispa - 55 km
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 that later becomes known as Chenab downstream in Jammu and Kashmir . We cross the towns of Tandi and Keylong and ride on a low gradient all the way up till Jispa, where the river opens out into a wide valley. We camp on the banks of the Bhaga River.
Jispa to Zing Zing Bar - 36 km
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. The steep ascent to Baralacha-La starts at Zing Zing bar.
Zing Zing Bar to Sarchu via Baralacha La - 50 km
The day starts early and participants ascend the mountains up to the Baralacha La at 5030m. We cross Deepak Tal situated at 14,000 ft with the snow-capped Mulkila peaks forming a scenic backdrop. The pass is arid with no vegetation, the sides of the mountains looking more like a quarry covered with loose rocks and scree. The route descends gradually to the wide Sarchu Plains.
Sarchu to Whisky Nala via Nakee La - 47 km
The day starts with some relatively easy cycling but soon we are negotiating ‘21 loops of Gata’ that zigzag all the way to the summit of Nakila at 5050m. A short downhill section and you reach Whisky Nala. Camp here for the night.
Whisky Nala to Debring/Tso Kar via Lachung La - 81 km
We start the day with a 7km ascent to Taglang La at 5150 followed by a long descent along a steep gorge to reach Pang. From Pang, an 8 km switchback climb leads us to the flat top of the Moray Plains at 4700m. This barren area is known for its extreme temperatures in the morning and evening, fast winds and sandstorms. The only sign of life is the hardy Nomadic Changpas who can be seen tending their yaks in this most desolate place. Our first choice for camping will be Tso kar lake which is short detour from Main highway. In case this route is closed due to some reason we will camp at Debring which is Just before the ascent of Tanglang La ,world's second highest motorable pass at 5,360m.
Tso Kar to Lato via Taglang La - 53 km
A challenging climb that leads to the World’s second highest motorable pass in the world- Tanglang- La at 5360m. More vast openness and isolation from the rest of the world. This is a challenge indeed, but truly satisfying when you reach the top, before we set off down the exhilarating descent to the village of Lato. The first view of Lato will mesmerize you as you will watch the beautiful green patches of small Ladakhi farms, the Gompas, and barren mountains in the backdrop
Lato to Leh - 70 km
As we continue 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. Crossing the Indus River the road improves dramatically as we follow the road towards Leh. 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 480 kms.
Leh to Khardung La - 40 km; Return to Leh by vehicle
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 5359 m! 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. After a small celebration the trip will end by the evening.Hotel stay on this day is included in the fee. You can return from Leh as per your convenience. Please book your return flight accordingly.
Departure from Leh
Check-Out from the hotel/Guesthouse.
Are you an avid biker or even a regular cyclist? If yes, then Manali-Leh Cycling Expedition is just the adrenaline boost for you. Manali-Leh Cycling expedition is a 10-day challenging expedition, consisting difficult terrains and uphill riding conditions. Factors like high altitude, difficult passes and hairpin bends make it completely different from cycling in plains.
If you are a regular cyclist and have enough stamina to undertake this 10-day strenuous challenge, then give no second thoughts before signing up for this. Make sure you stick with the practice schedule for Manali-Leh Cycling Expedition to maintain a good stamina and physical endurance for the ultimate challenge.
However, if you are a newbie and still want to take up the challenge, it is advised that you start preparing for the expedition well in advance. You will need to invest in a good bike and follow a strict exercise regimen before the final showdown. Have a few warm-up rides like Dehradun-Mussoorie Ride or Kufri-Solan Ride to boost up your confidence.
Click here for packing list.
Manali is well connected to Delhi with through road and air. There are no direct trains from Delhi though. By Road The road distance from Delhi to Manali is 536 km. There are overnight HPRTC buses and Volvos available from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi for Manali. It is a 14 hour journey by bus. You can book your bus tickets online through hrtchp.com or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi. By Rail To reach by train, take a direct train from Delhi to Pathankot. Some of the trains that run on this route are Delhi-Pathankot Express, Jammu Tawi Express, Delhi-Dhauladhar Express. You can then take a bus from Pathankot to Manali. Or you can take a connecting train from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar which is the nearest station to Manali. There are buses running frequently between Joginder Nagar and Manali. By Air The nearest airport is Bhuntar airport which is located 50 km from Manali. There are taxis available at the airport which will take you to Manali. You can also take local buses that keep running from Bhuntar to Manali at a very regular frequency. Buses are decent and very cheap compared to a taxi that can cost you around INR 2000 to 2500 depending upon the season.
Taking a flight from Leh is the most convenient option in case you are carrying your own bikes. You will be charged with an extra nominal fee for the bike. You will be asked to dismantle your bike and pack the parts properly inside the box. To get back from Leh to your respective destinations, please book your flights from Leh to New Delhi well in advance due to low frequency of flights and for cheaper price. In case you are not carrying a bike and looking for travel options from Leh to New Delhi, you can take a shared taxi from Leh to Srinagar which will cost you around INR 3000-4500. Take an alternate flight from Srinagar to New Delhi. Flights from Srinagar to Delhi are generally cheaper than Leh-Delhi. And the drive from Leh to Scenic is breathtaking. You can also take buses from Leh to Srinagar, Manali, or New Delhi depending upon your comfort and number of days you are willing to invest in commutation. The bus ride can be long and exhausting. It is better to take halts in between if you decide to come back by road.
When you reach Manali, you will have day to explore the tourist place. Manali is the gateway to Solang Valley where you can participate in adventure activities like paragliding, and zorbing in the summer months when the snow melts. This famous tourist hill station has so many places to visit in Manali. Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple which has an interesting mythological tale associated with it. Walk through the charming lanes of Old manali. Visit the bazaar to buy some souvenirs. Jogini Fall and Vashisht Temple are other famous attractions in Manali. You can also visit Rohtang pass while you are in Manali. There are so many enchanting places to visit in Leh-Ladakh when you complete your expedition. During your acclimatization period, you can roam around the town and visit the monasteries; Diskit Gompa, and Lamayuru Monastery. Drive up to the Magnetic Hill and experience the crazy magnetic phenomenon on the hill. The picturesque Nubra Valley will take your breath away. The green oasis villages, the monasteries, the ruined palaces- Turtuk and Bordang; there is a whole different culture in this place. It is 150 km away from Leh. You can take a shared taxi to this route. How can you leave Ladakh without seeing Pangong Lake, the sapphire blue lake? Also, visit Gurdwara Pathar Sahib and Leh Royal Palace.
The minimum age limit is 13 years. However, minors aged between 13 to 17 should be accompanied with their parents or guardians. If you are above the age of 60, kindly carry a medical certificate from your doctor that deem you fit for adventure activities like trekking.
Are you an avid biker or even a regular cyclist? If yes, then Manali-Leh Cycling Expedition is just the adrenaline boost for you. Manali-Leh Cycling expedition is a 10-day challenging consisting of difficult terrains and uphill riding conditions. Factors like high altitude, difficult passes, and hairpin bends make it completely different from cycling in plains. However, if you are a newbie and still want to take up the challenge, it is advised that you start preparing for the expedition well in advance. You will need to invest in a good bike and follow a strict exercise regimen before the final showdown.
Manali is well connected to Delhi with through road and air. There are no direct trains from Delhi though.
By Road
The road distance from Delhi to Manali is 536 km. There are overnight HPRTC buses and Volvos available from ISBT Kashmere Gate, Delhi for Manali. It is a 14-hour journey by bus. You can book your bus tickets online through hrtchp.com or any other bus services available. You can also hire a private taxi or an outstation cab from Delhi.
By Rail
To reach by train, take a direct train from Delhi to Pathankot. Some of the trains that run on this route are Delhi-Pathankot Express, Jammu Tawi Express, Delhi-Dhauladhar Express. You can then take a bus from Pathankot to Manali. Or you can take a connecting train from Pathankot to Joginder Nagar which is the nearest station to Manali. There are buses running frequently between Joginder Nagar and Manali.
By Air
The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport which is located 50 km from Manali. There are taxis available at the airport which will take you to Manali. You can also take local buses that keep running from Bhuntar to Manali at a regular frequency. Buses are decent and very cheap compared to a taxi that can cost you around INR 2000 to 2500 depending upon the season.
Taking a flight from Leh is the most convenient option in case you are carrying your own bikes. You will be charged with an extra nominal fee for the bike. You will be asked to dismantle your bike and pack the parts properly inside the box.
To get back from Leh to your respective destinations, please book your flights from Leh to New Delhi well in advance due to a low frequency of flights and for a cheaper price.
In case you are not carrying a bike and looking for travel options from Leh to New Delhi, you can take a shared taxi from Leh to Srinagar which will cost you around INR 3000-4500. Take an alternate flight from Srinagar to New Delhi. Flights from Srinagar to Delhi are generally cheaper than Leh-Delhi. And the drive from Leh to Scenic is breathtaking.
You can also take buses from Leh to Srinagar, Manali, or New Delhi depending upon your comfort and number of days you are willing to invest in commutation. The bus ride can be long and exhausting. It is better to take halts in between if you decide to come back by road.
You will get a good connectivity till Rohtang Pass. Beyond Rohtang pass, BSNL network is available on some other campsites like Sissu and Jispa but not on the trail. There would be long stretches beyond Keylong where there would be no connectivity but Army personnel can arrange for a satellite phone call, if urgently required, at Pang. Only postpaid connection works in Leh and nearby areas. BSNL has the best connectivity in Leh-Ladakh region followed by Airtel. However, all the mobile networks like Idea and Vodafone also work in Leh. Please note that only postpaid numbers work in J&K state, prepaid connections will cease to work as soon as you enter Ladakh region, post Baralacha La.
You will be free by around 1600 Hrs on the last day when we would go for Khardung La. Usually, there are no means to go back from Leh in the evening. So, most people leave from Leh on the next morning. Your hotel stay for that night is also planned by us.
Your luggage would be in the support vehicle but you should carry you day pack with you with your nutrition bars, dry fruits, and hydration packs.
There will be a Lead cyclist and an expedition leader with you on the expedition.
Manali is the last point where you can buy anything related to the expedition. Once we move from Manali, you would not find anything before Leh. Leh is a decent town where you can buy stuff but you just have one evening there before going for Khardung La.
Absolutely. We have many single women who have traveled with us for this expedition. You would be provided tents either to share with another woman or in case there is no one to share, then alone. Proper toilet tents are pitched at all camp sites.
Yes, e-certificates will be given at the end of each trek provided that you completed it. It will bear your name, the trek, and the maximum altitude you achieved on the expedition.
Twin sharing hotel stay would be provided both, in Leh & Manali. Please note that hotel meals are not included in the stay. On all other days during the expedition, we would set up camps with toilet tents, sleeping tents, and dining tents.
We provide 4 seasons tents by Gipfel for higher altitudes which can easily withstand heavy snowfall and storms. They are spacious enough to accomodate 3 people at once with a vestibule to place the backpacks. Our sleeping bags are made up of Heatseeker Pro synthetic insulation that can provide you comfort in -10 degrees celsius. We also use additional fleece liners to have thermal efficiency even in the extreme temperatures of -17 degrees Celsius.
Vegetarian food will be served throughout the trek. The only non-vegetarian item served on our treks are eggs. Our kitchen staff follows a proper menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner which has been designed in order to fulfill the nutritional requirements of the participants. There will be milk, poha, eggs, muesli/corn flakes, and bread butter served in breakfast. Rice or simple roti sabzi will be packed for lunch. In dinner, you will have dal, egg curry or any other vegetarian dish along with rice, roti, and a dessert item. Packed lunch will be provided to you on the days you are cycling. You are requested to carry your own tiffin box and a mug to consume food.
Toilet tents will be provided to you on the trek. These are portable toilets tents where a deep pit will be dug. A shovel will be provided inside the tent to cover the waste after you have made your business. You can take a toilet roll inside. Make sure you dig used toilet paper along with the waste. Though water is recommended in place of toilet paper. Please refrain from using wet wipes as they are non-biodegradable. There will be no facility for bathing on the trek. Go to our blog section for tips on how to maintain personal hygiene on treks/expeditions.
During the day, the temperature will range from 13-18 degrees Celsius. The nights will get cold dropping the temperature to 0-7 degrees Celsius. The higher the altitude you gain, the colder it gets. Lahaul and Ladakh, both are arid regions. So, the probability of rainfall during the expedition is very low after you cross Rohtang La but till then, you can expect some rains.
One can see snow at the passes during June and early July batches but post that you can only see snow in patches around the passes (Tanglang La & Khardung La).
Late June till Early October
Toiletries
Bike Spares- In case you are not renting from us
When you reach Manali, you will have a day to explore the tourist place. Manali is the gateway to Solang Valley where you can participate in adventure activities like paragliding, and zorbing in the summer months when the snow melts. This famous tourist hill station has so many places to visit in Manali. Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple which has an interesting mythological tale associated with it. Walk through the charming lanes of Old Manali. Visit the bazaar to buy some souvenirs. Jogini Fall and Vashisht Temple are other famous attractions in Manali. You can also visit Rohtang pass while you are in Manali.
There are so many enchanting places to visit in Leh-Ladakh when you complete your expedition. During your acclimatization period, you can roam around the town and visit the monasteries; Diskit Gompa, and Lamayuru Monastery. Drive up to the Magnetic Hill and experience the crazy magnetic phenomenon on the hill. The picturesque Nubra Valley will take your breath away. The green oasis villages, the monasteries, the ruined palaces- Turtuk and Bordang; there is a whole different culture in this place. It is 150 km away from Leh. You can take a shared taxi to this route. How can you leave Ladakh without seeing Pangong Lake, the sapphire blue lake? Also, visit Gurdwara Pathar Sahib and Leh Royal Palace.
Our community is an integral part of us and we take pride in our trekkers and climbers. When you complete at least three days on any trek or expedition with us, you become eligible for our membership and referral programs.
For us, a successful summit is not about reaching the highest point of a mountain but about making it safely back to base.
Cancellations up to 30 days prior to departure date
5% Deduction
Between 30 days to 15 days prior to departure
50%
deduction
Less than 15 days of departure
No Cash Refund
Cancellations up to 5 days prior to departure date
No Deduction
Cancellations less than 5 days prior to departure
No Refund
Cambria Sawyer 04 September 2017
If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that it’s okay to ask people for help.
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