Ridelah Expedition: Dharamshala to Leh

Prepare for an unparalleled 13-day Himalayan expedition that starts in the serene foothills of Himachal Pradesh and climbs relentlessly through the remote gorges of the Pangi Valley, the ancient kingdom of Zanskar, and the captivating landscapes of Ladakh.

This multi-terrain expedition is a spiritual, cultural, and physical test, culminating in the stark, high-altitude beauty of Leh.

The Journey Highlights:

  • Spiritual Start: Begin in the tranquil, forested hills of Dharamshala, the home of the Dalai Lama.

  • Himachal's Highlands: Traverse the picturesque Chamba Valley, moving through the charming hill stations of Dalhousie and Bairagarh.

  • The Pangi Plunge: Ride the legendary Kishtwar to Sach Pass stretch, one of the most demanding and dramatic routes in the Himalayas, carved through the formidable gorges of the remote Pangi Valley.

  • Zanskar's Isolation: Immerse yourself in the austere grandeur of Padum, the heart of the secluded Zanskar region, with a well-deserved rest day to soak in its unique culture.

  • Ancient Ladakh: Explore the culturally rich Aryan Valley and the iconic Lamayuru Monastery, journeying through the captivating valleys of Ladakh.

  • The Grand Finale: Conclude your epic adventure in the vibrant, high-altitude desert of Leh, the gateway to the Greater Himalayas.

  • Altitude: 1,457 m (4,780 ft)

    Highlights: McLeod Ganj, Dalai Lama Temple, Tibetan Culture.

    Description: Arrive at Gaggal Airport (DHM) and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is for acclimatization and meeting the ride team. In the evening, explore the vibrant streets of McLeod Ganj and visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex (Dalai Lama’s residence).

  • Distance: ~30-40 km
    The Ride: A short loop to get comfortable with the Royal Enfields and the Indian traffic conditions.

    Highlights: Norbulingka Institute, HPCA Stadium, or tea gardens.

    Description: After a safety briefing, you will take a short ride through the Kangra Valley. This is crucial for checking your gear and bike ergonomics before the real ascent begins.

  • Distance: 120 km | 4-5 Hours
    Altitude: 1,970 m (6,460 ft)
    The Ride: Tarmac twisties.

    Highlights: Jot Pass, Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India). 

    Description: You leave the busy towns behind and head towards the colonial hill station of Dalhousie. The route via Jot Pass offers incredible panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and winding tarmac roads that are a joy to ride.

  • Distance: 135 km | 5-6 Hours
    Altitude: 2,800 m (9,186 ft)
    The Ride: Mix of good tarmac and narrowing mountain roads.

    Highlights: Chamera Lake, entering the Pangi Valley gateway.

    Description: The ride descends to the banks of the Ravi River and Chamera Lake before climbing again. You will pass the town of Chamba and Tissa. Bairagarh is the last settlement before the mighty Sach Pass; accommodations here are basic homestays/guesthouses.

  • Distance: 85 km | 5-7 Hours
    Altitude: 4,420 m (14,500 ft) at Sach Pass
    The Ride: Extreme. Steep ascents, water crossings (nallahs), slush, and snow walls.

    Highlights: Conquering Sach Pass, Glacial walls, Descent into Pangi Valley.

    Description: Today is one of the toughest riding days. You ascend steeply to Sach Pass. In early July, you will likely ride between high walls of snow. The descent into the remote Pangi Valley is rough, rocky, and technically demanding. Killar is the headquarters of the Pangi region.

  • Altitude: 2,600 m (8,530 ft)
    Highlights: The "Cliffhanger" Road.

    Description: A day to explore the Pangi Valley. Many riders choose to ride a short section of the Kilar-Kishtwar road, famously known as the "Cliffhanger"—a narrow road cut into a sheer vertical cliff face above the Chenab River. It is terrifyingly beautiful.

  • Distance: 140 km | 6-7 Hours
    Altitude: 3,200 m (10,500 ft)
    The Ride: Mostly off-road/gravel track ("The Pangi Dust"). 

    Highlights: Chenab River Valley, Triloknath Temple (optional detour).

    Description: You ride deeper into the Himalayas along the Chenab River, connecting Pangi Valley to Lahaul Valley. The road is often unpaved and dusty but offers raw, rugged scenery. You eventually hit the Manali-Leh highway at Tandi and cruise on smooth tarmac to Jispa.

  • Distance: 85 km | 4-5 Hours
    Altitude: 5,091 m (16,703 ft) at Shinku La
    The Ride: Steep climb, potential construction zones, entering Zanskar.

    Highlights: Shinku La Pass, Mt. Gonbo Rangjon (The Holy Mountain).

    Description: You leave the Manali-Leh highway at Darcha and climb towards Shinku La, the gateway to Zanskar. The view of Gonbo Rangjon, a massive standalone rocky peak, is the highlight of the descent. You end the day in Padum, the capital of Zanskar.

  • Altitude: 3,669 m (12,037 ft)

    Highlights: Karsha Monastery, Sani Gompa, Zanskar scenery.

    Description: A well-deserved break for bike maintenance and rest. You can visit the majestic Karsha Monastery, perched on a hill overlooking Padum, or ride to Sani Lake.

  • Distance: 170 km | 7-8 Hours
    Altitude: ~5,000 m (Singge La)
    The Ride: High adventure. Two major passes (Singge La & Sirsir La).

    Highlights: Lingshed Monastery, Photoksar village, "Moonland" landscapes.

    Description: This route was a trekking trail until recently. You will cross Singge La (Lion Pass) and Sirsir La. The landscape changes from the green Zanskar valley to the arid, lunar-like landscapes of Lamayuru.

  • Distance: 70 km | 2-3 Hours
    Altitude: 2,900 m (9,500 ft) 

    Highlights: Brokpa culture, Indus River, Apricot orchards.

    Description: A short ride descending towards the banks of the Indus River. You enter the restricted Aryan Valley (Dha-Hanu), home to the Brokpa community who claim descent from Alexander the Great’s army. The altitude is lower here, making it warmer and greener.

  • Distance: 160 km | 4-5 Hours
    Altitude: 3,500 m (11,500 ft)
    The Ride: Smooth tarmac along the Indus.

    Highlights: Alchi Monastery, Sangam (Confluence of Indus & Zanskar), Magnetic Hill.

    Description: The final leg of the ride follows the Indus River upstream. You will rejoin the main Srinagar-Leh highway at Khaltse. Visit the ancient Alchi Monastery and witness the Sangam (confluence) before rolling into Leh to celebrate the completion of the journey.

  • Description: Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) for your flight home.

1 July to 13 July 2026

  • Duration: 13 Days
    Capacity: 6 (Min.) to 12 Riders (Max.)

  • Cut-off Date: 2 May 2026
    Mandatory Pre-ride Briefing: 30 May 2026

  • Total Distance: Approx. 900 – 1,000 km

  • Highest Altitude: ~5,091 m (Shinku La Pass)

  • Terrain: Mix of tarmac, slush, water crossings, loose gravel, and "cliffhanger" dirt tracks.

  • Adventure Level: Moderate to Extreme

    Tour Price*: RM14,999
    (Ridelah members only.)

* Exclusions:

  • Return airfare

  • India visa (if applicable)

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Incidentals/Gratuities

What you’ll get (Tour Inclusions)

  • Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 motorcycle rental.

  • Petrol for the motorcycle.

  • All tolls and entry fees.

  • Accommodation (twin-sharing).

  • Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.

  • Daily bottled water (X2).

  • Experienced Road Captain.

  • Mechanic throughout the ride.

  • Support vehicle (for luggage & other essentials).

  • Dainese Explorer WP Upbag 19L.

  • Exclusive ride merchandise.

  • Ridelah vouchers*

View Other 2026 Rides.