Himalayan Challenge: A journey through the world’s highest mountain passes and lakes
HardWe’ll ascend Umlingla, the world’s highest road pass at 5,795 meters, and cross a dozen other high-altitude passes, enjoying spectacular and unique landscapes, including a selection of six breathtaking lakes that will leave you breathless—and not just from the lack of oxygen! 😉 I chose this itinerary after several trips to the area over the past 10 years and hope to share it with people who appreciate the mountains in harmony with nature and the people who surround them. We have an efficient support team, support vehicles, and reliable, helpful staff with extensive experience in the region.
Ladakh, also called Little Tibet, is a mountainous region nestled between the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, famous for its peaceful Tibetan culture and beautiful Buddhist monasteries. The route we propose will begin in the beautiful town of Leh (India), the regional capital.
A route that will take you as close to heaven as you can get by bike! It will offer breathtaking views, endless spaces, and a close encounter with Tibetan culture.
You will encounter many locals: nomadic shepherds with their flocks, monks, pilgrims, charismatic and humble people who will provide us with wonderful experiences. Everything will take place at a slow pace, to help our lungs and our hearts and fully appreciate these heavenly places.
Photos of the last travel in Himalayan Challenge: A journey through the world’s highest mountain passes and lakes
Contact us for the travel day plan
Leh (3450masl), Monasteries of Shey, Tiksey and Hemis. Diskit (3150mslm) and Diskit gompa. Nubra Valley, Mahe, Nyoma(4100), Hanle(4250), Chisumle (4640), Korzog (4550m) Ubshi(3350m).
Lakes: Pangongtso (4200m), Mirpal Tso (4900m), Yaye Tso (4700m), Kyagar Tso (4600m), Tsomoriri (4500m), Tsokar (4532m).
Mountain passes: Kardung La (5360m), Warila (5320m), Thatola (5090m), Kaksangla (5450m), Nurbola (5310m), Umlingla (5795m), Pothi La (5530m), Kyagarla (4840m), Pologonkala (4970m), Tanglangla (5330m).
860 km (more than 80% on asphalt, not always in good condition, with sections under repair or unpaved). The route runs between 3000 and 5795 meters above sea level.
Medium/high, with some demanding sections.
The total elevation gain of the route is 11,000 meters.
Stages average 65 km per day with 850 meters of elevation gain. On most days, the cycling stages will end in the early afternoon, allowing us time to rest and explore the surroundings. We will travel along several sections of the route using support vehicles.
Good stage planning and a slow pace will allow us to acclimatize gradually. This way, we will reach the most challenging destinations without too much difficulty. The gradient of the climbs generally does not exceed 6%, although there are short, steeper sections. Support vehicles will accompany us at all times and will be available for any needs. During the journey, we will cross several mountain passes that exceed 5,000 meters above sea level, and those who wish can ascend using support vehicles and descend by bicycle.
It can vary between 5°C and 25°C, but in the highest sections and at night, it will drop below 0°C.
Gravel mountain bike or hybrid bike, with prior mechanical check. It is possible to rent the bicycle in Leh.
Helmet mandatory.
2 spare inner tubes and repair kit.
Frequent breaks will be taken, and every 2 or 3 hours drinks (water, coffee, tea) and energy snacks will be provided. At midday, there is a longer break for lunch. The support vehicle will always accompany the cyclists and will be available for any needs.
8 people. Maximum 12 people. If the number of participants is less than 8, the cost of the trip will increase. It is important to book in advance to get the best airfare rates.
Luggage should be of reasonable dimensions and contain only the necessary equipment. 80 liters and 15 kg maximum. This is important for logistics and transport. A sturdy duffel bag is preferable to a hard-sided suitcase. Bicycles can be rented on-site, and sleeping bags (we will only be staying in tents for two nights) can be purchased in Leh at a good price.
Passport with visa for India. Due to the high altitude, a thorough medical check-up and a certificate of physical fitness are required.
- Entry permits for the Ladakh sites we will visit.
- Mariano Lorefice as our guide, accompanied by another local guide, cooks, and drivers.
- Support vehicles to transport equipment and cyclists.
- 14 nights' accommodation in tourist-class hotels and bed and breakfasts (see program). 2 nights in tents.
- All meals (16 dinners, 15 lunches). Breakfasts and energy snacks during the ride.
- Visits to monasteries, museums, and the tours listed, with a guide.
- Airfare
