Leh to Zanskar, Hanle & Umling La Expedition
Overview
Embark on a heart-pounding 10-day expedition traversing the rugged terrains of Ladakh and Zanskar. Starting from Leh, this journey takes you to Kargil and deep into the Zanskar Valley, riding through dramatic landscapes like Padum, Purne, and the 16,500 ft high Shinku La Pass. Experience the thrill of climbing out of the Zanskar region towards the high-altitude plains of Sarchu before pushing towards the stunning turquoise waters of Tso Moriri. The real adventure peaks as you head into the remote Changthang region to reach Hanle, the home of India's largest Astronomical Observatory. Prepare to conquer the mighty Mig La or Umling La—among the highest motorable passes in the world—testing your endurance and offering unmatched views of the Himalayan wilderness. This comprehensive circuit loop challenges the bravest bikers, delivering raw off-roading, starry night skies, ancient monasteries, and pure, unfiltered biking adrenaline.
Day-wise Itinerary
Arrival in Leh | Acclimatization Day
• Welcome to the breathtaking Land of High Passes. • Upon arrival at Leh Airport, the group will assemble and be transferred to the hotel in a designated vehicle. • After check-in, the day is reserved for rest and acclimatization to help your body adapt to the high altitude. • Travelers are advised to stay hydrated, avoid physical exertion, and take proper rest. • In the evening, meet your trip captain for a detailed briefing about the journey ahead. • Dinner will be served at the hotel, followed by an overnight stay in Leh. Note: Airport pickups are scheduled at 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM only. Please plan your arrival accordingly, as timings are fixed. Note: Standard check-in time is 11:00 AM
Leh to Kargil (215 km)
• After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive from Leh to Kargil. • En route, visit Sangam, the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar rivers, followed by a stop at the Hall of Fame, a war memorial maintained by the Indian Army. • Experience the curious phenomenon of Magnetic Hill and seek blessings at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. • Drive through the stunning Lamayuru landscape and cross Fotula Pass (13,479 ft) and Namika La (12,198 ft). • On reaching Kargil, check in to the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Kargil. Highlights of the Day: Sangam, Hall of Fame, Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Lamayuru, Fotula Pass, Namika La
Kargil to Padum (Zanskar Valley) (230 km)
• Start early after breakfast for an adventurous drive towards Padum, the heart of Zanskar Valley, famous for its ancient heritage and rock carvings. • Travel through Rangdum, a culturally rich village nestled in the Suru Valley. • Cross the spectacular Pensi La Pass (14,000 ft), the gateway to Zanskar Valley. • From the pass, enjoy views of Statso and Langtso Lakes. • Witness the magnificent Drang Drung Glacier, one of Ladakh’s largest glaciers. • Arrive in Padum, check in to the hotel, followed by dinner and overnight stay. Highlights of the Day: Padum, Rangdum, Pensi La Pass, Drang Drung Glacier
Padum to Purne (56 km)
• After breakfast, proceed towards the scenic village of Purne. • En route, visit the iconic Phuktal Monastery, which is built into a cliff in the Lungnak Valley. • Explore the monastery’s natural caves, believed to have been used by sages over 2,500 years ago. • Continue the journey through rugged Zanskar terrain. • Upon arrival in Purne, check in to a cottage/homestay. Dinner and overnight stay. Highlights of the Day: Purne village, Phuktal Monastery
Purne to Sarchu (159 km)
• Post breakfast, begin the journey towards Sarchu, crossing some of the most scenic stretches of the expedition. • Pass through Kargyak, the last village of Zanskar Valley. • Witness Gombo Rangzan, a sacred mountain revered by locals. • Cross the high-altitude Shinku La Pass (16,500 ft), connecting Zanskar with Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh. • After joining the Leh–Manali Highway near Darcha, pass Deepak Tal, followed by Suraj Tal, located just below Baralacha La Pass. Continue the ascent to cross Baralacha La, one of the most scenic high-mountain passes on the route. • Post crossing Baralacha La, descend gradually towards the vast high-altitude plains of Sarchu. On arrival, check in to your camps. Enjoy a warm dinner followed by an overnight stay. Highlights of the Day: Kargyak village, Gombo Rangzan, Shinku La Pass, Deepak Tal, Suraj Tal, Baralacha La, Sarchu
Sarchu to Tso Moriri (220 km)
• After an early breakfast, we ride towards the serene Tso Moriri Lake. • Drive through Puga Valley, known for its natural hot water springs with medicinal properties. • Navigate the famous Gata Loops with 21 hairpin bends. • Ride across the vast More Plains, a stunning 40 km stretch of open plateau. • Cross Nakee La (15,547 ft) and Lachung La (16,600 ft). • Make a brief stop at Tso Kar, a lesser-known saltwater lake. • Reach Tso Moriri by evening, check in to cottages, have dinner, and overnight stay. Highlights of the Day: Puga Valley, Gata Loops, More Plains, Nakee La Pass, Lachung La Pass, Tso Kar Lake, Tso Moriri Note: Due to its altitude and location, Sarchu, Tso Moriri & Hanle do not have electricity at night. Travelers are recommended to be prepared for the same.
Tso Moriri to Hanle (180 km)
• After a restful night, continue your journey towards Hanle. • Ride through expansive grasslands, colorful mountains, and endless blue skies. • Keep an eye out for rare wildlife, including black-necked cranes and bar-headed geese. • Hanle is one of Ladakh’s highest villages, located on the ancient Silk Route. • Visit the region famous for housing India’s largest Astronomical Observatory. Check into cottages or homestays upon arrival. Dinner and overnight stay in Hanle. Highlights of the Day: Scenic high-altitude drive, wildlife sightings, ancient Silk Route, Hanle village, Indian Astronomical Observatory Note: A hot bucket of water will be provided for freshening up in the morning at Sarchu, Tso Moriri & Hanle.
Mig La / Umling La Excursion
• After breakfast, gear up for an unforgettable high-altitude adventure to Mig La / Umling La, among the highest motorable passes in the world. • Experience an adrenaline-filled ride through remote terrain, sharp bends, and vast open landscapes. • As you ascend, enjoy surreal panoramic views of Ladakh’s untouched wilderness. Spend time at the top soaking in the breathtaking surroundings and capturing photographs. • After the thrilling excursion, return to Hanle by evening. • Dinner and overnight stay in Hanle. Highlights of the Day: Mig La Pass, Umling La Pass, world’s highest motorable roads, extreme high-altitude adventure, panoramic Ladakh views Note: We will visit Mig la, depending on the road conditions at the time of travel. If Mig la is inaccessible or roads are not constructed by then, Marshall will take the final call, and we will visit Umlingla then.
Hanle to Leh (260 km)
• After breakfast, begin your return journey to Leh. • Ride through scenic landscapes that make the journey as memorable as the destination. • Pass through Chumathang Village, famous for its natural hot springs. • En route, visit Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery to explore Ladakh’s royal and spiritual heritage. • Reach Leh by late afternoon and relax at the hotel. • In the evening, explore local cafés and markets for souvenirs. • Dinner and overnight stay in Leh. Highlights of the Day: Chumathang hot springs, Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Leh market exploration
Departure from Leh
• Enjoy your final breakfast in Ladakh, reminiscing about the incredible journey. • With unforgettable memories and new friendships, transfer to Leh Airport for your onward journey home. Note: Airport drop is scheduled at 9:00 AM. Please plan flights accordingly. Note: Standard checkout time is 8:00 AM
Inclusions
- Accommodation in 3-star hotels/camps on double sharing
- Breakfast and Dinner (MAP Plan)
- Airport pick-up and drop
- Inner Line Permits and Environmental fees
- Dedicated Innova/Xylo for sightseeing
- Oxygen cylinder in the vehicle for emergencies
Exclusions
- Airfare to and from Leh
- Lunches
- Monastery entrance fees
- Camel ride or ATV ride charges
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
₹52,000
Save ₹6,500 per person!
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2 Adults