Kashmir 2006

My two-week bicycle tour in Ladakh, India, started in Leh and ended in Manali. This is an extraordinary adventure through rugged terrain, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Biking through high mountain passes, visiting Buddhist monasteries, sleeping under the starry sky in tents, and savor the unique experience of drinking tea with milk from the yak ox.

After arriving to Leh, the capital of Ladakh, I took some time to acclimatize to the high altitude. Exploring the bustling streets of Leh, visiting the Leh Palace, and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Shanti Stupa. Resting and hydrating to ensure a smooth transition to the high-altitude environment.

There was also some time to experience Ladakh from the Indus River, with a day of river rafting!

My cycling adventure kicked off as I left Leh and pedaled towards Khardung-La, the world’s highest motorable pass. At an astounding elevation of 5,359 meters (17,582 feet), this mountain pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks. I took some time to absorb the awe-inspiring scenery before descending towards the Nubra Valley where camp was set up in a picturesque location to enjoy the unique experience of sleeping under the starlit Ladakhi sky.

In the enchanting Nubra Valley, I pedaled through the desert-like landscape and soaked in the tranquility of the surroundings. I Spent the nights camping amidst the serene ambiance of the Nubra Valley.Leaving the Nubra Valley behind, I continued my journey towards the iconic Pangong Lake. Pedaling through mesmerizing landscapes, passing by quaint villages and picturesque valleys. As you climb the Tanglang-La Pass, at an elevation of 5,328 metres (17,480 ft), you conquer another high-altitude challenge and enjoy breathtaking views. Spent the night camping near the tranquil shores of Pangong Lake, taking in the beauty of the surroundings.

Leaving Pangong Lake, I headed south, cycling through the remote and stunning landscape. As I made my way towards Sarchu, nestled at an elevation of 4,290 meters (14,070 feet), I encountered changing terrain and vast expanses. It’s lovely to enjoy the freedom of cycling amidst the towering mountains and to set up camp in Sarchu, savoring the remote beauty of the region.

Embarking on the journey from Sarchu, I biked the challenging Rohtang Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,051 feet). As I ascend and descend the pass, I was mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Biked onwards to Keylong, a picturesque town situated in the Lahaul and Spiti district.

Near the end of this bicycle tour, I rode from Keylong to Manali, experiencing the transition from the rugged mountains to the greener valleys. Pedaled through beautiful landscapes, passing by charming villages and terraced fields. Arriving in Manali, I concluded this epic journey through Ladakh with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories.

Throughout the tour, I took the opportunity to visit Buddhist monasteries along the way, immersing myself in the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. I savored the unique experience of drinking tea with milk sourced from yaks, a tradition that reflects the local way of life. This two-week bicycle tour in Ladakh gave me a thrilling blend of natural wonders, cultural exploration, physical challenges, and unforgettable encounters with the Ladakhi landscape and its people.