Ladakh Intermediate Cycling Expedition
Cycling Tours
Your Journey
Overview & Highlights
Experience our 12 Day Ladakh Intermediate Cycling Expedition, a route that takes you through some of the most demanding and rewarding high-altitude terrain in the world. Starting and ending in Leh, the tour covers Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Pangong TSO Lake, and Durbuk across 12 days of structured riding with full support. A Cycle Marshal sets the pace, a professional mechanic travels with the group, and a support vehicle carries luggage and backup bikes throughout. Daily health check-ins, oxygen cylinders, and a trained crew mean altitude is managed carefully at every stage. Inner Line Permits, monastery entry fees, Ladakh Environment Fee, and all applicable taxes are handled by us. The tour runs from a minimum of 1 person, so your departure date is confirmed from the moment you book. Best undertaken between June and September when the high passes are open and the roads are at their most stable.
Tour Highlights:
- Indulge in a fully escorted Ladakh cycling adventure with expert guides and vehicle support throughout.
- Discover Leh, a high-altitude desert city nestled in the Himalayas, celebrated for its rich Buddhist heritage.
- Explore Khardung-La, the world's highest motorable pass, standing at an elevation of 18,300 feet above sea level.
- Discover the stunning Nubra Valley, a high-altitude desert oasis with dramatic landscapes, sand dunes, and majestic Himalayan vistas.
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of Pangong Lake, an endorheic gem in the Himalayas, situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters (14,270 feet).
Explore Leh’s monasteries, markets and high-altitude landscapes.
Cross high mountain roads into the dramatic Nubra Valley.
Travel through Khardung La, Leh and Nubra Valley on one route.
Day by Day
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Leh Airport, you will receive a warm welcome before being transferred to your hotel. The day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, allowing your body to gradually adjust to the high altitude for a comfortable start to your journey. In the evening, you may opt for a leisurely walk to the serene Shanti Stupa, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Leh, or explore the vibrant Leh Market, where local crafts and cultural experiences await. After a tranquil introduction to the Himalayan landscape, enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel in Leh.
Begin your day with a relaxed acclimatization ride—an easy 30 km round-trip from Leh to the iconic Shey Palace and the majestic Thiksey Monastery. As you cycle through the scenic Indus Valley, you’ll pass fluttering prayer flags, traditional Ladakhi homes, and fields kissed by mountain light. This gentle ride is perfect for adjusting to the altitude while immersing yourself in Ladakh’s spiritual charm. Return to Leh by afternoon and unwind at your leisure. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.
Today marks the beginning of your ascent toward the mighty Khardung La. Set out on a moderate climb through dramatic mountain terrain as you ride up to South Pullu, situated at approximately 4,600 meters. With vehicle backup for support, focus on the rhythm of the ride and the raw beauty of Ladakh’s high-altitude landscapes. After reaching South Pullu, descend back to Leh for a well-earned evening of rest. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.
After breakfast at the hotel, take on the iconic climb to Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world at 5,359 meters. The 14 km ascent rewards you with stunning panoramas and a deep sense of accomplishment. From the top, begin a thrilling 50 km descent into the enchanting Nubra Valley. By afternoon, visit the historic Diskit Monastery and soak in the serenity of this Himalayan sanctuary. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Nubra Valley.
Enjoy a flexible day of exploration through Nubra’s shifting landscapes and cultural pockets. Choose a relaxed ride to the sand dunes of Hunder or, for the adventurous, opt for an extended ride to the remote village of Turtuk—one of India’s last settlements before the Pakistan border—supported by vehicle backup. Along the way, discover dramatic desert scenery, local traditions, and unique cultural heritage that make Nubra truly one of a kind. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Nubra Valley.
Embark on a stunning ride along the wild and winding Shyok River, traversing diverse terrain that ranges from smooth stretches to rugged patches—each bend revealing Ladakh’s raw, untamed beauty. With vehicle support available throughout, you’re free to focus on the ride and soak in the dramatic mountain landscapes and shifting desert hues. This high-altitude route offers both challenge and reward as you make your way toward the peaceful settlement of Tangtse. Dinner and overnight stay at the Guest House or Homestay in Tangtse.
Ride through one of Ladakh’s most breathtaking stretches as you make your way from Tangtse to the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, perched at 4,350 meters. This moderate 35 km journey offers shifting vistas of barren highlands, rocky outcrops, and sudden bursts of alpine color—culminating in the surreal turquoise expanse of Pangong. Spend time soaking in the lake’s quiet magic and reflecting on the road behind you. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp near Pangong.
After several days of high-altitude riding, today is all about unwinding beside the stunning turquoise waters of Pangong Lake. For those feeling energetic, enjoy an optional recovery ride of 10–15 km toward the picturesque villages of Man or Merak, skimming the lake’s edge. Otherwise, take the day to relax, soak in the views, and capture the surreal beauty of this Himalayan jewel through your lens. Dinner and overnight stay at the camp near Pangong.
Gear up for one of the most demanding yet rewarding segments of your cycling journey. Today’s 55 km ride takes you over the formidable Chang La Pass, soaring at 5,360 meters—where prayer flags dance in the icy breeze and the landscape feels truly otherworldly. With vehicle support by your side, conquer the steep climb and then enjoy a dramatic descent into the peaceful village of Sakti, nestled amid Ladakh’s stark beauty. Dinner and overnight stay at the Guest House or Homestay in Sakti.
Ease into the final leg of your cycling expedition with a gentle 40 km descent from Sakti to Leh. The route flows through scenic valleys and quiet mountain roads, offering peaceful moments to reflect on your journey. En route, pause to explore the serene Chemrey Monastery or make a detour to the regal Stok Palace—each adding a graceful cultural note to your return. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.
Savor your final day in Ladakh with a relaxed pace and space to reflect. Use this buffer day for optional sightseeing—visit the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers at Sangam, feel the mystery at Magnetic Hill, or offer a moment of gratitude at Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Alternatively, wander through Leh’s bustling markets, pick up handicrafts, or unwind in one of the town’s cozy cafes. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Leh.
It's time to bid farewell to Ladakh. Depart for Leh Airport in time for your onward journey.
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What is Included in This Tour
Explore what is included and what is not included in this tour.
- 11 nights stay in 3 star deluxe hotels, guesthouses, or camps.
- An English Speaking Guide will escort you throughout the tour.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Leh.
- Daily breakfast and dinner at the accommodation.
- Nutritious packed lunches during ride days.
- High-energy snacks (trail mix, nuts, protein bars).
- 2 Protein bars for endurance.
- 2 Electrolyte drinks and hydration salts provided on ride days.
- Dedicated backup vehicle to carry luggage, extra cycles, water, food, and tired riders.
- Personal assistance during arrival and departure.
- Well-maintained mountain bikes (MTBs) with front suspension and appropriate gearing for high-altitude climbs
- Gel-padded seats or seat covers for added comfort.
- 1 backup cycle per rider available in case of mechanical issues.
- Cycle Marshal – an experienced local rider to set the pace and provide support.
- Professional cycle mechanic available throughout the tour.
- Basic repair tools and spare parts carried in the support vehicle.
- Support for all participants at any point — ride at your pace or take a rest whenever needed.
- Luggage transfers between accommodations.
- First-aid kits available in the support vehicle and with the crew.
- Oxygen cylinders for emergency support in case of altitude sickness.
- Trained crew equipped with basic medical response skills.
- Daily health check-ins (including pulse, oxygen, and hydration levels).
- Cultural insights and route briefings at key points along the way.
- Post-ride stretching or yoga guidance for recovery and relaxation.
- Evening bonfires or tea sessions at homestays (subject to availability).
- Entry fees to monasteries and museums (where applicable).
- Completion certificate for the Ladakh cycling tour.
- Ladakh Environment Fee, Wild life charges, Red Cross Fee & Inner line permit.
- Filtered drinking water refilled regularly throughout the day.
- All applicable taxes.
- Any International or domestic flights are not included.
- It is advisable that you buy a comprehensive medical/travel insurance in advance from your country before traveling to India.
- Please Note: Tour guides for specific languages, Italian, German, French, Spanish, Russian, are also available on request basis at an additional cost.
- Any VISA fee (if applicable).
- Any kind of tips, camera fee, personal expenses, laundry, or telephone charges.
- Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc. (to be borne by the client, who is directly payable on the spot).
- Anything not mentioned in the Inclusions.
Where You Stay
Accommodation
Hotel Ladakh Imperial, Leh
Deluxe Hotel
Leh, India
De Nubra Camp, Hunder
Deluxe Camps
Hunder, India
Homestay in Tangtse
Home Stay
Durbuk, IndiaImportant Information
Know Before You Go
Important Information
- If rooms are unavailable at the mentioned hotels—or if accommodations are closed during the off-season (October to April)—suitable alternatives of a similar category will be arranged, with advance notice where possible. Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability.
- To minimize the risk of high-altitude sickness, Diamox tablets can be taken before arrival in Leh—please consult your doctor beforehand. It's also advisable to wear a jacket upon landing to reduce discomfort.
- Only postpaid SIM cards from BSNL, Airtel, and Jio work in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Prepaid SIM cards from other parts of India do not function in this region. You may purchase a local SIM card in Srinagar or Ladakh.
- Electricity in regions such as Nubra, Pangong, Sarchu, Jispa, Keylong, and Tsomoriri is limited to generator power, typically available between 7 PM and 11 PM for charging devices like mobile phones, cameras, and power banks. Hot water may also be accessible only during specific time slots in the morning and evening due to infrastructure limitations in Ladakh.
- From October to April, many camps and guest houses in Ladakh remain closed due to weather conditions. In such cases, suitable alternatives will be arranged.
- Vegetarian meals are exclusively provided at Nubra, Pangong, Sarchu, Jispa, Keylong, and Tsomoriri.
- Transport services are provided strictly as per the itinerary and are not available on a disposal or point-to-point basis. Air conditioning is generally unnecessary due to low temperatures in hill regions. If requested, additional charges apply—₹7 per km for SUVs and ₹10 per km for Tempo Travelers, payable directly to the driver.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: To support sustainability, bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics.
- For easy communication on the go, consider downloading WhatsApp, as it is widely used in India.
- Tipping in India is not compulsory, it is optional but appreciated. A small gratuity is expected in some cases; tip generously for exceptional service. The amount can range from $2, $5, $10 per day, or more, depending on satisfaction and the quality of service received.
- Any costs arising from natural calamities such as road blockages, political disturbances (e.g., strikes), etc., are to be borne by the client. We will not be held liable for any refunds or compensation claims resulting from these circumstances.
- India VISA: Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa to enter India. However, all other foreign nationals must obtain a visa to enter India. For more information, please check https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html.
- Travelers with passports issued by, or showing a birthplace in, the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Pakistan, or Afghanistan are not permitted to travel beyond Leh in Ladakh. Foreign nationals holding diplomatic, official, or United Nations passports must obtain their permits through the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.
Booking Information
Payment Terms
Payment Terms
A deposit of 10% is required to confirm this tour, and the remaining balance will be charged 30 days prior tour starting date. For any bookings within 30 days of departure, the full tour amount will be charged upon booking. This can be paid through bank transfer, or credit/debit card.
Important Information
Cancellation
Cancellation
If you cancel the tour at least 31 days before the scheduled departure date, a 10% cancellation fee will apply to the total cost of the tour, plus any fees incurred for the cancellation of flights. Kindly read complete details at Cancellation Policy.
Traveler Stories
Customer Testimonials
Firsthand accounts from guests who explored India with our local team.
Hartmut Maichel
Germany
We are having a truly wonderful stay and are very happy with the organization, the tour guide, and the driver. Everything has been organized by Alkof Holidays absolutely brilliantly!