• • Distance: Approx. 120 km | Travel Time: 4-5 hours
  • Highlights: Kullu Valley, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Lahaul Valley

  After a refreshing morning in Manali, it’s time to get on your bike and hit the road to Jispa. The route takes you through Kullu Valley and Solang Valley, famous for their pine forests, alpine meadows, and flowing rivers. You’ll then ascend to Rohtang Pass (3,978 m), one of India’s most popular mountain passes, offering mesmerizing views of the Pir Panjal range.

  Descending from Rohtang, you’ll enter the arid, starkly beautiful Lahaul Valley. Continue your journey along the Bhaga River until you reach Jispa, a tranquil village surrounded by rugged mountains and known for its beautiful riverside campsites. Rest and acclimate to the altitude, preparing for the high passes ahead.

• Distance: Approx. 150 km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours
• Highlights: Shinkula Pass, wilderness of Zanskar, remote trails

Today’s journey takes you through Shinkula Pass (5,091 m), a thrilling high-altitude pass connecting Lahaul Valley to Zanskar. The ride through Shinkula is challenging, with narrow trails, unpredictable weather, and rocky terrain. However, the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, barren landscapes, and deep valleys make the effort worthwhile.

As you descend from the pass, you’ll enter Zanskar Valley, one of India’s most remote and untouched regions. Continue your ride toward Padum, the administrative center of Zanskar, known for its unique culture, stunning vistas, and warm hospitality. Settle into Padum for the night, appreciating the peaceful beauty of the valley.

• Highlights: Karsha Monastery, Sani Monastery, ancient villages, landscapes

Spend the day exploring Padum and its surroundings. Begin with Karsha Monastery, the largest in Zanskar and home to a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts and intricate wall paintings. The monastery is perched on a hill, providing panoramic views of the Zanskar Valley.

Next, visit Sani Monastery, one of the oldest monastic sites in Ladakh, with a fascinating history and serene atmosphere. You’ll also have the chance to explore nearby villages, where you can interact with locals, observe traditional Zanskari life, and experience the valley’s rugged beauty.

Wrap up the day by soaking in the untouched landscapes and capturing the sunset as it illuminates the mountains and rivers surrounding Padum.

• Distance: Approx. 200 km | Travel Time: 7-8 hours
• Highlights: Stunning mountain roads, Kargil town, Lamayuru Monastery, “Moonland” landscape

Today, embark on a scenic journey from Padum to Lamayuru via Kargil. This route presents spectacular mountain roads, where rugged cliffs, winding rivers, and traditional villages highlight Zanskar’s wild charm.

After reaching Kargil, continue toward Lamayuru, famous for its Lamayuru Monastery. Founded in the 10th century, the monastery is one of Ladakh’s oldest and most revered. Lamayuru is also known for its unique “moonland” landscapes—curious rock formations and terrain that appear otherworldly. Capture some memorable photos, explore the monastery, and experience the mystical aura of this remote place.

Spend the night in Lamayuru, surrounded by its magical, moon-like scenery.

• Distance: Approx. 150 km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours
• Highlights: Sir Sir La Pass, views of Zanskar Valley

After breakfast, gear up for an exhilarating ride over Sir Sir La Pass (4,802 m). This high mountain pass offers a challenging ascent with breathtaking views of the valley below. As you climb, you’ll encounter the raw beauty of Ladakh’s landscapes, including stark mountains, deep gorges, and endless open skies.

The descent toward Padum offers a different perspective of the Zanskar Valley’s landscapes, giving you time to absorb the rugged beauty that surrounds this secluded region. Upon arrival in Padum, you can relax and share stories of the day’s adventures with fellow riders.

• Distance: Approx. 200 km | Travel Time: 8-9 hours
• Highlights: Return through Shinkula Pass, farewell to Zanskar

Today, begin your journey back to Manali, retracing your path through the incredible Shinkula Pass. Take a last look at the Zanskar Valley and the pristine landscapes you’ve come to know over the past days. This return ride will allow you to fully appreciate the challenging terrain, rugged cliffs, and high-altitude passes that make Zanskar such a unique and demanding adventure.

As you descend back into the familiar roads of Lahaul and Kullu Valleys, you’ll feel a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to this awe-inspiring region. Arrive in Manali and enjoy a well-deserved evening of rest and relaxation.

• Distance: Approx. 550 km (Overnight journey)

After a day in Manali, board the overnight bus back to Delhi. Reflect on the incredible landscapes, thrilling rides, and memorable experiences you’ve had over the past week. Your journey through the remote and rugged Zanskar Valley has offered not only challenging rides but also a deep sense of exploration and adventure.