Roof of Ladakh

11 DAY TOUR

Roof of Ladakh: High Altitude Adventure

ROOF OF LADAKH 11 Days Guided Tour

Summit Experience

Ladakh, known as the Land of High Mountain Passes, boasts stunning high-altitude desert plains dominated by the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Indian Himalayas. This region is rich with ancient Buddhist monasteries and is still traversed by nomadic communities. The majority of Ladakhis are Buddhists with ancestry from Mongolian, Aryan-Indo, and Tibetan origins. Historically, trade along the Silk Route has been vital for their sustenance. Additionally, agriculture and shepherding contribute to their livelihoods. With borders to Chinese-controlled Tibet and Pakistan closed, tourism has emerged as another significant source of income.

Ranked as the second coldest inhabited place on Earth after Siberia, Ladakh experiences harsh winters with temperatures dropping as low as -35°C. However, summers are relatively mild, ranging from 15°C to 30°C during the day and possibly dropping to 5°C at night. The presence of the Great Himalayas to the east creates a rain shadow, shielding the region from monsoons and heavy snowfall, enabling the construction of roads crucial for transportation.

Our journey begins with a flight into Leh, the capital of Ladakh, which remains inaccessible by road from mid-October to late May due to heavy snowfall and landslides. From here, we embark on a thrilling Himalayan motorcycle expedition to explore the pristine, turquoise lakes and rare wetlands of the Indo-Tibetan borderlands in Changthang, known as the homeland of Tibetan nomads. Venturing onto some of the world’s highest motorable roads, we’ll traverse landscapes few dare to explore.

Tour Difficulty

Medium

This tour is suitable for Riders who have experience touring on two wheels.
 Roads condition is about 60% is tarmac road. About 40% is broken roads, tackling challenging sections, navigating tight switchbacks, and conquering twisty mountain passes. This adventure promises an adrenaline-fueled journey for motorcycle enthusiasts, pushing the limits of skill and providing an unforgettable ride on the most demanding and rewarding terrains.

Skill Level Required
Intermediate riders (3 years riding experience).
Road Condition
GRIT
Accomodation
Hotels***
Guided Tour
Fully Guided Tour with Backup Luggage Vehicle
Activities / Excursions
Exceeds Expectation
Food/ Dining
Exceptional

GUIDED MOTORCYCLE TOUR

Per Person On Twin Sharing Basis
$2500
$ 1900 Per Person
  • 11 Days Accomodation on Twin Sharing
  • Backup Vehicle with Oxygen Cylinder and First Aid Kit
  • Special permits for restricted areas
  • Flight tickets from Delhi to Leh and Leh to Delhi
  • 500cc Motorcycle and fuel for the entire trip
  • Mechanics with all necessary spare parts items
  • All meals - Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
  • Tea/Coffee with Mineral water through out the journey
  • All monument entrance fees during the tour excl. camera fees

Tour at a Glance

Region of CountryLeh & Ladakh (the land of high passes and lakes)
PeriodJune – September
Duration11 Days 10 Nights
Riding Days9 Days
AccommodationHotels, Guest Houses and Permanent Tented Camps
MotorbikeBmw Gs 310, Ktm ADV 390, Royal Enfield ‘Bullet’ 500cc / Himalayan 410cc
Level of DifficultyChallenging
Max. Altitude Reached5602m
Max. Sleeping Altitude4572m
Average Daily Distance157km
Total Distance1260km
Fitness LevelModerate to Tough

Tour Highlights:

- Embark on a thrilling ride aboard the iconic Royal Enfield "Bullet"
- Conquer the formidable Khardung La, scaling the world's highest motorable pass on two wheels
- Explore the ancient tranquility of Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples
- Trace the footsteps of traders along the historic Silk Route
- Revel in awe-inspiring panoramas and enjoy accommodations near mesmerizing high-altitude lakes
- Connect with the fascinating culture of rare Tibetan nomadic tribes

DATES: 2024

Start & End: Delhi, India

Petrol: Included

Mileage: +-1300 km

Daily Distance: 125- 170 km Average

Countries: India

Road Surfaces: 60% Tarmac, 40% Dirt Road

Difficulty: Medium with a bit of challenging sections, tight switchbacks, twisty mountain-passes

Accomodation: Hotels***

Backup Vehicle: Pickup Truck for luggage

Group Size: 4 Pax Minimum

– Ground transportation throughout India, from airport to airport
– Domestic flight tickets for Delhi to Leh and Leh to Delhi (flight fares subject to seasonal changes)
– Special permits for access to restricted areas
– Motorcycle rental of your choice with fuel provided for the entire journey
– Accommodation in comfortable twin-sharing arrangements, including hotels, camps, and guesthouses, maintained to high standards of cleanliness
– Breakfast and dinner at hotels, with lunch at local restaurants during travel
– Provision of mineral water during the expedition
– Professional English-speaking road captain
– Comprehensive medical kit, including an oxygen cylinder for emergencies
– Experienced mechanics equipped with all necessary spare parts
– Support vehicle available for riders needing a break from motorcycling
– Entrance fees to all monuments during the tour (excluding camera fees)

 

– Visa fees
– International flight tickets
– Expenses related to medical or travel insurance, as well as personal expenditures
– Charges for telephone calls and internet usage
– Tips for the guide, driver, and mechanic (recommended at $100)
– Any items not specifically mentioned in the included services section
– Alcoholic beverages
– Full responsibility for any damage incurred to the motorcycle rests with the rider
– Costs arising from natural disasters, strikes, vehicle breakdowns, and other unforeseen events beyond the control of Motorcycle Expeditions Adventure Tour Pvt Ltd and its affiliates (force majeure)
– Itinerary extensions will incur additional charges.

 

Day 1 – Arrival in New Delhi, India

Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Care My Tours. From there, you’ll be transported to your hotel in New Delhi for an overnight stay via private taxi.

Day 2 – Flight to Leh (3500m, 1-2hrs)

After breakfast, you’ll board a short yet breathtaking flight from Delhi to Leh, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Upon arrival in Leh, the CMT team will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Rest and light activities are recommended to acclimate to the altitude. In the afternoon, you’ll receive your motorcycle and embark on an introductory ride. Dinner and overnight stay will be provided at a hotel in Leh.

Day 3 – Leh to Lamayuru (3390m, 150kms, 3-4hrs)

Today’s journey takes us over several small passes, through desert plains, and past striking rock formations, culminating in the serene ambiance of the ancient Lamayuru Monastery. Spend the evening exploring the monastery, admiring the ancient Stupas, or simply relaxing amid the captivating scenery. Dinner and overnight stay will be arranged at a hotel near the monastery.

Day 4 – Lamayuru Monastery to Leh via Alchi (3500m, 150km, 3-4hrs)

Following breakfast, we’ll ride back to Leh, making a stop at the Alchi Monastery for a visit and lunch. Upon reaching Leh in the afternoon, you’ll have leisure time to explore the local markets for souvenirs, visit landmarks such as Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, or Shanti Stupa. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Leh.

Day 5 – Leh to Hunder Sand Dunes in Nubra Valley (3048m, 125km, 6-7hrs) Khardung La (pass at 5602m)

Today’s adventure takes us to the majestic Khardung La, the highest motorable road in the world, where we’ll pause for tea and marvel at the breathtaking views from an altitude of 5602m. Descending into the scenic Nubra Valley, we’ll reach Hunder, where a comfortable overnight stay awaits.

Day 6 – Nubra Valley, Hyunder to Pangong Tso (4350m, 180km, 7-8hrs)

Today’s journey leads us from the captivating Nubra Valley to the equally enchanting Changthang Valley, following a route often undergoing reconstruction due to harsh winter conditions. As we navigate sinuous roads, the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Pangong Tso come into view. Dinner and overnight accommodation await at a permanent tented camp by the lakefront. Please note that electricity is available for limited hours in the evening.

Day 7 – Pangong Tso to Leh (3963m, 200km, 7-8hrs) Chang La (pass at 5360m)

We commence the day with a gradual ascent to Chang La, the second highest pass of our journey, standing tall at 5360m. With fewer visitors than Khardung La, Chang La offers a more remote and serene experience while matching its altitude. After traversing a wonderfully winding road and soaking in surreal vistas, we arrive at our destination for the day. Dinner and overnight stay are arranged at a hotel in Leh.

Day 8 – Leh to Tso Moriri (4485m, 215km, 8–9hrs)

Following the Indus River on tarmac for most of the day, we eventually veer off-road at Chumathang, embarking on an exhilarating journey through sand and dirt trails scattered with small stones. Our efforts are rewarded with a breathtaking view of Tso Moriri, where we spend the night in the village of Korzok at a guest house. Electricity and hot showers are available for limited hours in the evening.

Day 9 – Tso Moriri (Korzok) to Tso Kar (4485m, 90km, 6hrs)

Departing from Korzok, we return to the Sumdo junction before taking a diversion towards Tso Kar. This route offers another thrilling off-road adventure, surrounded by the protected area of the Tso Kar wildlife sanctuary. Dinner and overnight accommodation are provided at a lodged camp, with electricity available for limited hours in the evening.

Day 10 – Tso Kar to Leh (3500m, 150km, 7hrs) Tanglang La (pass at 5300m)

Our journey continues with a stretch of gravel leading us to the renowned More Plain. Keep an eye out for Tibetan Nomads along the way. We conquer the world’s third highest motorable pass, Tanglang La, before descending to Rumtse. Spectacular scenery guides us past the Hemis and Thikse Monasteries as we return to Leh for dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 11 – Flight from Leh to Delhi and Departure

It’s time to board the early morning flight back to Delhi and onward to your final destination. May you carry with you the fondest memories of this epic and grand adventure!

Period Before Start DatePercentage of Total
45 +20%
45 – 35 days25%
34 – 25 days30%
24 – 15 days50%
14 – 8 days75%
7 – 0 days100%

PHOTO GALLERY