Ridelah Expedition: Manali to Leh

Trans Himalayan Ride | Two ancient kingdoms. One epic journey.

The Trans Himalayan Ride is the grand tour of the Western Himalayas. This 14-day expedition bridges the gap between the rugged, cliff-hanging roads of the Spiti Valley and the wide-open, high-altitude deserts of Ladakh.

Riding in late September and October offers a unique reward: The Golden Season. As the monsoon recedes, the Poplar and Willow trees turn a brilliant amber and gold, creating a stunning contrast against the stark brown mountains and deep blue skies.

This route is a test of endurance and versatility. You will tackle the steep inclines of Jalori Pass, navigate the "world's most treacherous road" in Kinnaur, cross the wild Kunzum Pass, and finally ascend to the roof of the world at Umling La. From the apple orchards of Shoja to the nomadic plains of Changthang, this is the complete Himalayan experience.

The Journey Highlights

  • The Golden Season: Experience the Himalayas at their most photogenic. The autumn colours of Spiti and Ladakh provide a breathtaking backdrop that few summer riders get to see.

  • The Spiti Circuit: Ride the legendary "Hindustan-Tibet Highway," carved into sheer cliffs along the Sutlej River, and explore the ancient Tabo Monastery (the "Ajanta of the Himalayas"), founded in 996 AD.

  • Kunzum La: Cross the 4,551 m gateway between Spiti and Lahaul, a pass steeped in local legend and surrounded by massive glaciers.

  • Three High Lakes: Visit Tso Kar (the White Lake), Tso Moriri (the Mountain Lake), and pass near the glistening waters of the Chandra river, witnessing the diverse ecosystems of the high altitude wetlands.

  • Umling La (19,300 ft): Cap off the journey by summiting the world's highest motorable pass, a feat that defines extreme motorcycling.

  • Kinnaur Valley: Ride through the dramatic precipices of Kinnaur, home to the imposing Kinner Kailash mountain range and lush pine forests.

  • Altitude: 2,050 m (6,726 ft)

    Highlights: Old Manali, Hadimba Temple.

    Description: Arrive at Bhuntar Airport (KUU) or drive in. Transfer to the hotel in Manali. The air is crisp in late September. The day is reserved for checking gear, meeting the team, and settling in.

  • Distance: ~30-40 km

    The Ride: Short loop to Naggar Castle or Solang Valley.

    Description: A relaxed day to get used to the bikes. We will ride to the historic Naggar Castle to get a feel for the winding roads and heavy traffic, ensuring everyone is comfortable with their machines before the long journey begins.

  • Distance: 110 km | 4-5 Hours

    Altitude: 2,692 m (8,832 ft)

    The Ride: Lush green valleys, river crossings, and dense forests.

    Highlights: Tirthan Valley, Great Himalayan National Park views.

    Description: We head south along the Beas River, turning off into the pristine Tirthan Valley. The climb to Shoja is steep and narrow. Shoja is a quiet hamlet nestled in the forests, offering a peaceful start before the terrain turns rugged.

  • Distance: 150 km | 6-7 Hours

    Altitude: 2,960 m (9,711 ft)

    The Ride:Steep & Technical. Crossing Jalori Pass (3,120 m).

    Highlights: Jalori Pass descent, Karcham Dam, Kinner Kailash view.

    Description: The day starts with the challenging ascent of Jalori Pass—not high, but notoriously steep and often broken. Descending into the Sutlej valley, we join the old Hindustan-Tibet highway. The road takes us to Kalpa, famous for its apples and the looming view of the sacred Kinner Kailash peak.

  • Distance: 150 km | 6-7 Hours

    Altitude: 3,280 m (10,760 ft)

    The Ride: "Cliffhanger" sections. Tarmac turns to rock/gravel.

    Highlights: Nako Lake, Malling Nallah, Entering Spiti Valley.

    Description: The landscape transforms from green to the barren brown of the cold desert. We cross the treacherous Malling Nallah (prone to rockfall) and stop for lunch at the serene Nako Lake. We end in Tabo, home to the oldest continuously operating monastery in India.

  • Distance: 50 km | 2 Hours

    Altitude: 3,800 m (12,467 ft)

    The Ride: Short, scenic ride through the Spiti canyon.

    Highlights: Dhankar Monastery (optional detour), Pin Valley confluence.

    Description: A short riding day allowing for exploration. We ride deep into the Spiti Valley to its headquarters, Kaza. The afternoon is free to explore the local market or relax at the hotel.

  • Distance: 50-60 km Loop

    Altitude: ~4,400 m - 4,587 m

    Highlights: Key Monastery, Kibber, Komic (highest village connected by motorable road), Hikkim (highest post office).

    Description: We leave our luggage behind for a loop around the high villages. The iconic Key Gompa is a must-visit. We ride up to Komic and send a postcard from Hikkim. The views of the chau chau kang nilda peak are spectacular.

  • Distance: 150 km | 6-8 Hours

    Altitude: 3,120 m (10,235 ft)

    The Ride:High Adventure. Gravel, water crossings, high pass.

    Highlights: Kunzum Pass (4,551 m), Chandra Tal view, Atal Tunnel (North Portal).

    Description: We exit Spiti via the mighty Kunzum La. The descent towards Batal is rough and rocky (the "moonscape"). We follow the Chandra River to Sissu, located just north of the Atal Tunnel in the Lahaul Valley.

  • Distance: 140 km | 5-6 Hours

    Altitude: 4,530 m (14,860 ft)

    The Ride: Manali-Leh Highway. Smooth tarmac, high altitude.

    Highlights: Baralacha La (4,890m), Gata Loops (21 hairpins), More Plains.

    Description: We join the legendary Manali-Leh highway. We cross Baralacha La, passing the frozen Suraj Tal lake. After the Gata Loops and the wind-swept Pang, we ride across the vast More Plains before diverting right to the salt flats of Tso Kar. Accommodations here are basic canvas tents/homestays.

  • Distance: 90 km | 3-4 Hours

    Altitude: 4,522 m (14,836 ft)

    The Ride: Narrow tarmac/gravel mix.

    Highlights: Puga Hot Springs, Polokongka La, Kyagar Tso.

    Description: A short but stunning ride deeper into the Changthang Plateau. We pass the sulphur vents of Puga and the turquoise Kyagar Tso before arriving at the pristine Tso Moriri. The shades of blue here are unmatched.

  • Distance: 150 km | 5-6 Hours

    Altitude: 4,500 m (14,760 ft)

    The Ride: Remote border roads.

    Highlights: Riding along the indefinable border, vast open plains.

    Description: We backtrack slightly and head east towards Hanle. This is one of the most remote regions in India open to civilians. The silence and the scale of the landscape are humbling.

  • Distance: 150 km Round Trip

    Altitude:5,883 m (19,300 ft)

    Highlights:Umling La (World Record).

    Description: The climax of the trip. In October, the temperatures at the top will be well below freezing. We ride the well-paved road to the summit, take our photos with the signboard, and descend quickly to the warmth of Hanle.

  • Distance: 255 km | 7-8 Hours

    Altitude: 3,500 m (11,500 ft)

    The Ride: Long endurance ride on good tarmac.

    Highlights: Chumathang, Indus River Valley, Thiksey Monastery.

    Description: The final leg. A long ride following the Indus River all the way back to Leh. It’s a day to reflect on the journey as we transition back to the comforts of the city. Farewell dinner in Leh.

  • Description: Transfer to Leh Airport (IXL) for your flight home.

29 Sep to 12 Oct 2026

  • Duration: 14 Days
    Capacity: 6 (Min.) to 12 Riders (Max.)

  • Cut-off Date: 31 Jul 2026
    Mandatory Pre-ride Briefing: 29 Aug 2026

  • Total Distance: Approx. 1,250 – 1,300 km

  • Highest Altitude: 5,883 m / 19,300 ft (Umling La)

  • Average Altitude: ~3,800 m (High exposure)

  • Terrain:

    • Himachal (Days 1-4): Green valleys, steep tarmac, forest roads.

    • Spiti (Days 5-8): "Cliffhanger" roads, loose gravel, rockfall zones, dusty tracks.

    • Ladakh (Days 9-14): High-speed military tarmac, vast open plains, sandy trails.

  • Difficulty: Extreme. This is the most technically demanding of the three tours due to the variety of terrain (slush, sand, rock) and the sustained time spent above 4,000 m.

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

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* Exclusions:

  • Return airfare

  • India visa (if applicable)

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Incidentals/Gratuities

What you’ll get (Tour Inclusions)

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 motorcycle rental.

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    Petrol for the motorcycle.

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    All tolls and entry fees.

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    Accommodation (twin-sharing).

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    Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.

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    Daily bottled water (X2).

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    Experienced Road Captain.

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    Mechanic throughout the ride.

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    Support vehicle (for luggage & other essentials).

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    Dainese Explorer WP Upbag 19L.

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    Exclusive ride merchandise.

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    Ridelah vouchers*

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