About the Manali to Khardung La Cycling Holidays in the Indian Himalayas
The Manali to Khardung La cycling tour is one of the most iconic and challenging cycling holidays in the Indian Himalayas. Designed for experienced riders, this high-altitude expedition takes cyclists across five major Himalayan passes, remote valleys and dramatic landscapes from Manali to Leh. This Manali to Khardung La cycling tour moves through the lush Kullu Valley, the rugged mountains of Lahaul and the high-altitude desert of Ladakh before reaching Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
Over 16 days, riders experience continuous altitude gain, long climbs, pristine campsites and deep cultural immersion. Ancient monasteries, Buddhist stupas, nomadic herders and mountain villages appear along the trail, making this journey a rare blend of physical endurance and Himalayan culture. The route includes Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La and Tanglang La, offering unmatched diversity in scenery and terrain.
Supported by expert guides, 4×4 backup vehicles, oxygen support, logistics assistance and nutritious meals, this Manali to Khardung La cycling tour is crafted for global cyclists seeking a bucket-list challenge in India and the Himalayas. With decades of experience, Into Wild Himalaya Expeditions ensures safety, structure and high-altitude expertise at every stage of the journey.
⭐ 16-day high-altitude cycling adventure in the Indian Himalayas
⭐ Conquer Khardung La (5,359 m), one of the world’s highest mountain roads
⭐ Cycle through Himachal and Ladakh’s most remote and scenic valleys
⭐ Cross five legendary Himalayan passes including Rohtang La and Taglang La
⭐ Stay in cozy mountain guesthouses and beautiful high-altitude camps
⭐ Encounter nomadic tribes, monasteries and Himalayan Buddhist culture
⭐ Fully supported expedition with vehicles, crew, meals and logistics
⭐ Ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a once-in-a-lifetime challenge
Pick up from New Delhi airport
Accommodation: Hotel
Sleep Altitude: 216m (709ft)
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to your joining hotel. Today is for briefing and connecting with fellow riders. Delhi’s vibrant chaos introduces you to India. Attend the group meeting in the evening where you’ll receive essential expedition briefings. Get a good rest before the adventure begins.
Total Driving Distance: 530 km (329 miles)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Sleep Altitude: 2,050m (6,398ft)
Depart early from Delhi for a scenic drive to Manali in Himachal Pradesh. The journey takes you through winding roads, river valleys, and mountain tunnels. Covering approximately 530 km, this long but beautiful drive introduces you to the gradual ascent into the Himalayan region. Upon reaching Manali, settle into your hotel and take in the crisp alpine air. This is your gateway to the Himalayas and the starting point of your high-altitude ride.
Cycling Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
Altitude Gain: 340m (1,115ft)
Sleep Altitude: 2,050m (6,398ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B)
Explore Manali by bike and ride to Vashisht village, famed for its hot springs and ancient temple dedicated to sage Vashisht. The short ride helps warm up your legs and adjust to cycling at altitude. You’ll cross the Beas River, get your first taste of Himalayan roads, and soak in rejuvenating sulphur waters.
Cycling Distance: 38 km (24 miles)
Total Climb: 1,506m (4,940ft)
Total Descent: 56m (183ft)
Sleep Altitude: 3,312m (10,866ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Begin your first major ascent toward Rohtang Pass. Ride through pine forests, apple orchards, and charming mountain hamlets. The route is a continuous uphill through switchbacks, waterfalls, and breathtaking alpine vistas. Camping at Marhi under the stars introduces you to the stark beauty of high-altitude life.
Cycling Distance: 51 km (32 miles)
Total Climb: 791m (2,595ft)
Total Descent: 1,088m (3,569ft)
Sleep Altitude: 3,120m (10,236ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Today you reach Rohtang Pass before descending into the cold desert landscape. Cross rivers and barren terrain as you enter Lahaul Valley. The change in scenery is dramatic, from lush greenery to rocky, windswept valleys. Camp at Sissu near the Pir Panjal range.
Cycling Distance: 57 km (35 miles)
Total Climb: 951m (3,120ft)
Total Descent: 685m (2,247ft)
Sleep Altitude: 3,350m (10,990ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Ride past Keylong into a more arid and rugged region. Climb steadily with a few rolling sections. The landscapes become drier and more dramatic. Descend into the village of Jispa and enjoy a night in a local guesthouse. This marks your entry into the truly remote Himalayas.
Cycling Distance: 36.5 km (22.5 miles)
Total Climb: 1,158m (3,799ft)
Total Descent: 172m (564ft)
Sleep Altitude: 4,020m (13,188ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Ride through high-altitude streams and open wilderness as you ascend to Zing Zing Bar. The terrain grows harsher and more isolated. You’ll encounter nomadic herders and the grandeur of the Greater Himalayas. Camp beside rugged zigzag mountain roads.
Cycling Distance: 63.5 km (39 miles)
Total Climb: 969m (3,179ft)
Total Descent: 921m (3,021ft)
Sleep Altitude: 4,381m (14,373ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Climb the barren Baralacha La Pass, a windswept, rocky summit. Descend into a canyon landscape to reach Bharatpur and on to Sarchu plains. Camp under dramatic skies in one of the most iconic campsites of the ride, surrounded by Himalayan giants.
Cycling Distance: 54 km (34 miles)
Total Climb: 925m (3,034ft)
Total Descent: 522m (1,712ft)
Sleep Altitude: 4,750m (15,583ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Tackle the notorious Gata Loops—21 switchbacks that gain serious altitude. Ascend to Nakeela Pass and descend into Whisky Nullah. The route is one of dramatic elevation gain, extreme beauty, and a true test of stamina and spirit.
Cycling Distance: 73 km (45 miles)
Total Climb: 685m (2,247ft)
Total Descent: 816m (2,677ft)
Sleep Altitude: 4,610m (13,123ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Climb to Lachulung La, descend through gorges to Pang, then ascend to the Moray Plains—a surreal, windswept plateau. Ride past nomads with yaks and descend on sandy tracks to the salt lake of Tso Kar. Camp near its white shores.
Cycling Distance: 61 km (38 miles)
Total Climb: 725m (2,378ft)
Total Descent: 259m (849ft)
Sleep Altitude: 4,045m (13,271ft)
Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)
Climb Taglang La, the second-highest motorable pass on Earth. The paved road and jaw-dropping views make it unforgettable. Descend via switchbacks into the fertile Indus Valley. Camp at Lato, where steep cliffs and villages dot the horizon.
Cycling Distance: 73 km (45 miles)
Total Climb: 525m (1,722ft)
Total Descent: 1,056m (3,464ft)
Sleep Altitude: 3,500m (11,482ft)
Accommodation: Guesthouse (B,L)
Continue to Upshi and cross the Indus River. Ride past villages, monasteries and prayer wheels. The red mountains add drama to the final approach into Leh. Ride into the Ladakhi capital with a sense of triumph and peace.
Sleep Altitude: 3,500m (11,482ft)
Accommodation: Guesthouse (B)
Today is a rest and exploration day. Visit Leh Market, explore Leh Palace, or relax at Shanti Stupa. Enjoy the calm of Leh and prepare for the final challenge: Khardung La. The town offers culture, food, and stunning Himalayan views.
Cycling Distance: 76 km (47 miles)
Total Climb: 1,832m (6,010ft)
Total Descent: 1,832m (6,010ft)
Sleep Altitude: 3,500m (11,482ft)
Accommodation: Guesthouse (B,L)
Ascend to the top of the world: Khardung La (5,359m). This is the highest motorable pass in the region. The climb is tough, but the reward is immense. Stand above the clouds, surrounded by snowy peaks, then descend joyfully to Leh.
Sleep Altitude: 3,500m (11,482ft)
Flight Duration to Delhi: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Depart with unforgettable memories, deep camaraderie, and immense pride. You’ve cycled through some of the world’s toughest terrain. Adventure complete.
Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, and alpine tents (twin sharing)
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Backup support vehicle for baggage and rider support
Experienced English-speaking cycling guide
Local support team including cook, helpers, and driver
Inner Line Permits and environmental fees
First aid medical kit with oxygen support
Domestic flight: Leh to Delhi (Day 15)
Airport transfers in Delhi and Leh
All road transport during the tour as per itinerary
Bicycle (available for rent via Into Wild Himalaya rental shop)
International airfare to/from India
Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks
Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff
Personal expenses like laundry, phone calls, and internet
Extra nights before/after the tour outside included dates
Entry fees to monuments or museums not listed
For details on our cancellation policy, please refer to the following link:
https://iwhexpeditions.com/cancellation_policy/
