India motorcycle trips over the highest passes in the world

This two-week guided motorcycle tour offers a fresh perspective on a classic route through the stunning highlands. With recently opened passes and new routes, we explore the scenic and cultural highlights of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh.

Our motorcycle journey begins in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. From here we ride over Kargil to Zanskar, one of the most remote regions of the Himalayas. Along the way, we visit the picturesque oasis of Alchi and the impressively located monastery of Lamayuru. From Padum in Zanskar, we continue to Darcha in Lahoul, crossing the newly opened Shingo-la Pass, which takes us to a dizzying height of 5091 meters.

Our tour continues through the marshy plain to the salt lake Tsokar, a nature reserve that is home to some rare bird and mammal species. Over the 5340-meter-high Tanglang-la Pass, we reach the impressive Pangong Lake at the border with Tibet. Another highlight is the ride over the Kardung-la Pass, which at 5615 meters is one of the highest driveable passes in the world and takes us to the desert-like Nubra Valley. Finally, we return to Leh, the starting point of our motorcycle tour.