Srinagar - Leh - Khardung La Cycling Expedition
Overview:
Embark on the ultimate Himalayan cycling adventure from Srinagar to Leh, a high-altitude odyssey that weaves through the legendary valleys of Kashmir and the raw, lunar landscapes of Ladakh. This 10-day expedition is more than a ride—it’s a transformative journey through some of the most dramatic terrains on Earth. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, cyclist, or explorer at heart, this expedition promises to etch memories for a lifetime.
Why Choose This Ride?
- Ride Through Contrasts: Begin in the lush, alpine beauty of Srinagar and gradually ascend into the arid grandeur of Ladakh. Witness nature’s dramatic palette change with every pedal stroke.
- Conquer Iconic High Passes: Challenge yourself on epic climbs like Zoji La, Namika La, Fotu La, and optionally, the legendary Khardung La at 5,359m.
- Community & Camaraderie: Join a tribe of like-minded riders, guided by a seasoned expedition leader with over 10 successful Leh cycling tours.
You Will Ride Through
- Route: Srinagar → Sonamarg → Zoji La → Drass → Kargil → Namika La → Bodhkharbu → Fotu La → Nurla → Leh → Khardung La (optional)
- Distance: ~450 km
- Highest Altitude: Fotu La (4,109 m); Khardung La (5,359 m) optional
- Best Season: June to September
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Accommodation: Hotels and Guesthouses
- Support: Back-up vehicle, mechanic, first-aid, experienced cycling guide
- Mixed terrain: Tarmac, gravel, and high mountain switchbacks
Perfect for:
- Intermediate to experienced cyclists
- Adventure travelers looking for once-in-a-lifetime road trips
- Those training for high-altitude endurance events
Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar (1,585m)
- Pickup from airport (if group booking) and transfer to a houseboat or hotel
- Check-in and brief rest at the hotel
- Expedition Briefing by the tour leader: route overview, safety protocols, riding strategy
- Bicycle allocation or assembly for those bringing their own bikes
- Short acclimatization ride around Srinagar (10–15 km) to get used to the cycle and terrain
- Explore Dal Lake or local market (time permitting)
Day 2: Srinagar to Sonamarg (2,730m) – 80 km
- Ride along scenic routes with pine forests and river crossings
- Gradual climb to the alpine town of Sonamarg
- Overnight in guesthouse or camps
Day 3: Sonamarg to Drass (3,280m) via Zoji La (3,528m) – 60 km
- Early start to tackle Zoji La, a narrow and steep climb
- Descend into Drass, the second coldest inhabited place in the world
- Stay in homestay or local guesthouse
Day 4: Drass to Kargil (2,676m) – 58 km
- Rolling terrain with gentle climbs
- Visit the Kargil War Memorial
- Overnight in hotel or guesthouse
Day 5: Kargil to Heniskot (3,650m) via Namika La (3,700m) – 70 km
- Steady climb out of Kargil along the Suru River
- Ascend Namika La Pass offering panoramic views
- Continue through remote villages and stunning rock formations
- Overnight in Heniskot in homestay or camp
Day 6: Heniskot to Saspol – 80 km
- Ride over Fotu La (4,108m), the highest pass on Srinagar–Leh highway
- Descend via Lamayuru, famous for its Moonland terrain and monastery
- Follow the Indus River through the heart of Ladakh
- Overnight in Saspol in homestay or camp
Day 7: Saspol to Leh (3,500m) – 40 km
- Final ride into the capital of Ladakh
- Gentle gradients and scenic riverside roads
- Check-in and relax at hotel in Leh
Day 8: Leh to Khardung La (5,359m) and return to Leh – 80 km (optional)
- Start early to ride to the iconic Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world
- Challenging ascent, expect thin air, cold winds, with spectacular Himalayan views
- Celebrate at the summit and return downhill to Leh
- Final night stay in Leh
- Celebration in Leh:
- Completion Party
- Certificate Ceremony: Expedition completion certificates; extra recognition for Khardung La rider
- Photo & Video Screening: Rewatch key moments of the ride
- Riders’ Reflections & Leader’s Address: A heartfelt sharing session of memories, struggles, triumphs—followed by closing thoughts from your guide.
Day 9: Riders may fly back home, opt to relax in Leh and explore nearby excursions.
All the itineraries can be customized to suit your own special interests, preferences and abilities. Please contact us for more information.
Make any tour a private tour and depart on the date of your convenance.
What included and not included:
✅ Included
- All meals during expedition starting from lunch on Day 1 to dinner on Day 8
- Hotel/guesthouse stays in Srinagar, Sonmarg, Drass, Hinaskot, Saspol & Leh (shared basis)
- Support and camping vehicles (1 per 6 riders + gear vehicle)
- Services of experienced expedition leader & crew (mechanic, cook, helper, assistant leader if >12)
- Oxygen cylinder & certified first-aid
- All entry fees and camping charges for Indian nationals
- One rucksack per participant carried in vehicle
- Permits to Khardungla
❌ Not Included
- Bicycle rental: Bicycle rental available at additional cost. You may also bring your own.
- Travel, medical, or outdoor insurance
- Personal expenses (snacks, laundry etc.) and items not mentioned above
- Unexpected Delays: Costs due to landslides, roadblocks, weather conditions, medical emergencies, or any unforeseen circumstances beyond our control
FAQs
- How difficult is the Srinagar to Leh cycling expedition?
This is a moderate to challenging high-altitude ride, ideal for cyclists with a decent level of endurance and prior experience with multi-day rides. The route gradually gains altitude, making it easier to acclimatize, but still involves long distances and two major passes: Zoji La and Fotu La. - What is the best time to do the Srinagar to Leh cycle tour?
The best time is from June to mid October, when the route is fully open, and weather conditions are favorable. Snow has usually melted from the passes, and accommodations along the route are operational. - What is the total distance and number of days for the trip?
The expedition covers approximately 450 km over 8 to 10 days, depending on the itinerary. The ride ends in Leh, and optionally, you can ride to Khardung La (5,359m) as a bonus summit challenge. - Is Srinagar to Leh easier than Manali to Leh?
Yes, relatively. The altitude gain is more gradual, and the route begins at a lower elevation. This makes acclimatization smoother. However, Zoji La Pass (3,528m) is a bit steep and challenging. - What type of terrain and weather can I expect?
Expect a mix of rolling hills, steep passes, and scenic valleys. You’ll cross lush green Kashmir, barren high-altitude Ladakh, and remote mountain villages. Weather ranges from pleasant 20–25°C days to cold nights around 5-10°C near passes. - How fit do I need to be for this expedition?
You should be able to cycle 50–70 km daily, including uphill sections. We recommend at least 6–8 weeks of training, focusing on cardio endurance and leg strength. Talk to us, and we’ll guide you on how to prepare. - Will there be medical and technical support?
Yes. The expedition includes first-aid certified leaders, oxygen cylinders, and a dedicated support vehicle. You’ll also have a backup team. - What kind of accommodation is arranged?
We provide a mix of hotels and guesthouses all on a twin-sharing basis. Accommodations are clean, comfortable, and selected for their location and service reliability along the route. - Is this expedition suitable for beginners?
Not for absolute beginners. But if you’re a fit beginner with long-distance cycling or trekking experience, this expedition can be your introduction to high-altitude adventures. Talk to us for preparation tips. - What’s included in the trip package?
All meals during the expedition, support vehicles, accommodation, certified expedition leaders, basic first-aid support, oxygen cylinders, permits for Indian nationals, and transportation of your luggage in the backup vehicle. Check the inclusion/exclusion list for full details. - Can I rent a cycle or do I need to bring my own?
You can either rent a high-quality MTB from us or bring your own bike. If you bring your own, you’ll need to carry essential spares as listed in our Packing List section. - Do I need a special permit for this route?
Yes, you’ll need Inner Line Permits to cross certain areas. We handle permit arrangements for Indian nationals. Foreign nationals may need additional permits. - Will my mobile phone work along the route?
Mobile coverage is almost all along the route. BSNL, Airtel and Jio are operational, however in J&K and UT Ladakh only post-paid sim are operational and no outside prepaid sim works due to security reasons. - What if I can’t complete a day’s ride?
No worries! Our support vehicle will transport you and your bike to the next campsite or stop for the day. This is your journey—ride at your pace. - What’s the group size and guide ratio?
We limit each group to 12- 15 participants, with expedition leaders and backup vehicles. This allows us to offer personalized attention and ensure safety on the road. - Can I join as a solo participant?
Absolutely! Many of our riders join solo. It’s a fantastic way to meet like-minded cyclists, and you’ll quickly bond with the group over shared experiences. - What happens after reaching Leh?
We wrap up with a completion ceremony and farewell dinner. You’ll receive a certificate of achievement, and there’s an optional ride to Khardung La, the iconic pass above Leh. - What kind of meals are provided?
Nutritious, energy-rich meals are provided all through the tour. We cater to vegetarian and special dietary needs if informed in advance. - How do I reach the starting point in Srinagar?
You can fly into Srinagar Airport, where we’ll receive you (if needed, extra charge is levied). We’ll handle all logistics from there onward. Return travel from Leh must be arranged separately (we can assist). - What should I pack for this expedition?
Check our comprehensive packing list, which includes essential cycling gear, clothing for cold and rain, toiletries, documents, and personal items. We also guide you on what spares to carry if you bring your own cycle.
Packing List – Srinagar to Leh Cycling Expedition
To ensure a safe and comfortable journey on this high-altitude expedition, we’ve curated a comprehensive list of gear and essentials. This packing guide is split into two sections:
- Personal Gear & Clothing
- For riders bringing their own bicycles (not renting from us)
Personal Gear & Clothing
- Cycling jerseys or moisture-wicking T-shirts – 2
- Cycling shorts or padded riding bottoms – 2
- Lightweight quick-dry track pants – 2
- Full-sleeve base layers or T-shirts – 2
- Woolen gloves – 1 pair
- Padded riding gloves – 1 pair
- Warm beanie or woolen cap – 1
- Sweatband / Bandana / Headscarf – 1
- Cotton socks – 6 to 8 pairs
- Hard sole sports shoes (recommended)/cycling shoes – 1 pair
- Undergarments – 5 to 8 sets
- Rain jacket or poncho (durable & windproof) – 1
- Insulated or waterproof jacket – 1
- Thermal innerwear (top & bottom) – 2 sets
- Woolen sweater or fleece – 1
- Soft shell jacket/Sweater Jacket – 1
- Slippers – 1 pair
- Large quick-dry towel – 1
Accessories & Essentials:
- Water bottle (1L or more) – 1
- UV-protected sunglasses – 1
- Waist pouch or small daypack – 1
- Personal snacks (energy bars, chocolates, dry fruits)
- Basic personal toiletries (biodegradable preferred)
- Lip balm & SPF 50+ sunscreen
- Torch or headlamp with extra batteries
- Government-issued photo ID (Aadhar, Passport, PAN, Voter ID; State IDs are not accepted)
- Any prescribed medication (carry extra and consult your doctor in advance)
For riders bringing their own bicycles
- Helmet – 1
- Spare tubes – 2
- Brake pads/shoes – 1 set
- Brake cables – 2 sets
- Gear cables – 1 set
- Cycle lock – 1
- Extra tyre – 1
Cancellation Policy
- 5% deduction for cancellations made 30 days or more before the departure date.
- 50% deduction for cancellations made between 15 to 30 days before departure.
- No refund for cancellations made within 15 days of the departure date.
All cancellations must be communicated via email. Refunds (if applicable) will be processed within 7–10 working days.