Cycling Manali to Zanskar Valley

Start - End

Manali - Padum - Leh

Duration

7 N - 8 D

Difficulty Level

Moderate - Challenging

Best Season

May to September

Recommended For

Experienced cyclists

Price

From USD $1,500 (approx. ₹1,25,000 per person)

Overview

Distance: 280 km
Max Altitude: 5,091m (Shingo La Pass)
Starting Point: Manali
Ending Point: Padum (Zanskar Valley)
Route: Manali – Atal Tunnel – Darcha – Shingo La – Purne – Padum

Cycling Manali to Zanskar Valley is one of the most thrilling high-altitude cycling adventures in the Indian Himalayas. This journey follows the newly built road over Shingo La Pass (5,091m), connecting Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul region to Ladakh’s remote Zanskar Valley. Expect stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and encounters with nomadic communities and ancient monasteries.

This expedition is perfect for experienced cyclists looking to test their endurance on high-altitude roads with a mix of paved, gravel, and off-road trails.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Manali & Acclimatization Ride

Arrive in Manali (2,050m) and check into your hotel.
Assemble bicycles and go for an acclimatization ride (15 km).
Overnight stay in Manali (Hotel).

Day 2 Manali – Sissu (Via Atal Tunnel)

(40 km | 3–4 hrs | 3,120m)

Ride through the Atal Tunnel (10 km) into Lahaul Valley.
Enjoy a scenic ride along the Chandra River, with views of Sissu Waterfall.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse / Homestay in Sissu.

Day 3 Sissu – Keylong – Jispa

(55 km | 5–6 hrs | 3,200m)

Ride past Tandi (confluence of Chandra & Bhaga rivers).
Cross Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul.
Continue towards Jispa, a picturesque village on the banks of the Bhaga River.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Jispa.

Day 4 Jispa – Darcha – Khi

Ride along the Bhaga River, passing Darcha (3,330m), the last major settlement before entering Zanskar.
Begin the climb towards the Shingola 5,091m, with stunning mountain views.
Overnight stay in a tented campsite in Khi Village.

Day 5 Khi – Purne

Phuktal Monastery, one of the most scenic monasteries in Ladakh.
Reach Purne Village, a beautiful riverside settlement.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Purne.

Day 6 Purne – Reru – Padum

Smooth ride through Reru Village, with lush fields and scenic trails.
Ride into Padum, the administrative capital of Zanskar.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Padum.

Day 7 Rest Day & Sightseeing in Padum

Explore Karsha Monastery & Stongde Monastery.
Visit Zanskar River Confluence & local villages.
Overnight stay in Padum (Guesthouse).

Day 8 Padum – Leh Transfer (By Vehicle)

Drive to Leh via Nimmu, a newly developed road (approx. 4 – 5 hrs).
End of expedition in Leh

Essential Info

Best Season for the Ride

May to Early October (Best weather, clear roads)
Avoid June & post-September (Unpredictable snowfall & roadblocks)

Who Can Join?

Experienced cyclists & adventure seekers
Riders with high-altitude experience & good endurance
People comfortable with off-road terrain and steep climbs

Cycling Terrain & Difficulty

Challenging – Mix of tarmac, gravel, and rocky sections
High-altitude passes with stream crossings
Unpaved sections, especially near Shingo La

Things to Carry

Cycling gear – MTB bike, helmet, gloves
Clothing – Warm layers, windproof jacket, thermal wear
Accessories – Sunglasses, hydration pack, power bank
Documents – ID proof, permits copy

Inclusions

Hotel in Manali (1 Night)
Guesthouses / Homestay in Jispa, Purne, and Padum (3 Nights)
Tented camps in remote areas (4 Nights)

Meals:

All meals from Day 2 breakfast to Day 9 breakfast

Support & Logistics:

Backup support vehicle for luggage & emergency evacuation
Professional cycling guide & mechanic
First-aid and oxygen cylinder for high-altitude safety
Camping equipment (Tents, sleeping bags, mattresses)

Transport:

Padum to Leh transfer by vehicle

Permits & Entry Fees:

Inner line permits & environmental fee

Exclusions

❌ Bicycle rental (Available at extra cost)
❌ Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, tips)
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Any additional accommodation beyond the itinerary

FAQs

1. Can I rent a bike for this trip?

Yes! High-quality MTB bikes are available for rent in Manali.

2. What is the highest altitude on this route?

Shingo La Pass: 5,091m (Highest point)
Padum: 3,500m

3. Is prior cycling experience necessary?

Yes, experience in long-distance cycling & off-road terrain is required.

4. How cold does it get?

At night, temperatures can drop to -5°C to 5°C, especially at Shingo La & Lakhang.

5. Are there any medical facilities en route?

Only basic medical aid is available at Darcha & Padum. A first-aid kit & oxygen cylinder will be carried.

6. What happens if I get altitude sickness?

Severe AMS cases will be evacuated to lower altitudes immediately. Hydration and acclimatization are key.

Adventures

Information

Legal

Address

Balsari, P.O Chhiyal, Teh. Manali, District Kullu, 175131, Himachal Pradesh, India

Discover the hidden trails and breathtaking vistas of Himachal & Ladakh on our guided cycling, road trip, and hiking adventures with Himalayan Nature Escapes.