The Himalayan Grand Traverse – Content & Assets Brief

This expedition carries our highest rating of difficulty and is designed for seasoned adventure riders. It requires a high degree of physical and mental stamina due to its long duration, high altitudes, and demanding terrain. You should be very comfortable riding for long hours on winding mountain roads and have proficient skills for handling a motorcycle on varied surfaces, including gravel, broken tarmac, and unpaved tracks.

 A typical day starts after breakfast with a morning briefing. We aim to be on the road by 8:30 AM. The daily distance varies greatly on this tour, from short cultural rides of 50 km in Spiti to long, epic high-altitude transit days of over 250 km in Ladakh. We take regular breaks for photos, refreshments, and lunch, and we typically arrive at our destination in the late afternoon.

On this grand traverse, you will tackle everything the Himalayas can offer. The journey includes the winding tarmac of Kinnaur, the rugged, unpaved ascent to Kunzum Pass in Spiti, the challenging high passes of the Manali-Leh highway, and the vast, remote dirt tracks of the Changthang plateau en route to Umling La. Be prepared for numerous water crossings and a true mix of road surfaces.

Absolutely. We welcome experienced pillion riders to join the adventure, provided they are prepared for the long days and challenging conditions. We have specific pricing available for a pillion rider sharing a motorcycle with a primary rider.

Accommodation is provided in a mix of comfortable hotels, traditional guesthouses, and premium tented camps. All accommodation is on a twin-sharing basis. If you prefer your own space, a single-room supplement is available for an additional charge.

Our tented camps, in remote and beautiful locations like the high-altitude plains of Tso Kar, are a highlight of the experience. These are not basic camping tents; they are large, comfortable canvas tents, usually equipped with proper beds, mattresses, and warm bedding, offering a memorable way to stay in these isolated regions.

 Daily breakfast and dinner are included in the tour price. We ensure meals are hygienic and wholesome. Lunches are generally not included to give you the freedom to explore local cuisines. On the rest days in Kaza and Leh, dinner is also not included, allowing you to fully explore the diverse local restaurant scenes. We provide complimentary tea, coffee, and water at our scheduled ride stops.

Your health and safety are our top priority. This 17-day itinerary is meticulously designed for optimal acclimatization. We begin with a gradual ascent through the Kinnaur valley, followed by a critical rest and exploration day in Kaza (3,800m). After crossing into Ladakh, you will have a second essential rest day in Leh (3,500m) before we venture into the extreme altitudes of the Changthang plateau and Umling La. Our guides are experienced in monitoring for symptoms, and we carry a first-aid kit and an oxygen cylinder for emergencies.

Your health and safety are our top priority. Our itinerary is carefully designed to allow for gradual acclimatization. We include a crucial rest day in Manali before we ascend to the high passes and another rest day in Leh at 3500m to help you adjust. Our guides are experienced in monitoring for symptoms of altitude sickness, and we carry a first-aid kit and an oxygen cylinder for emergencies.

You are fully supported throughout the entire journey. The group is led by an experienced Lead Rider who knows the route intimately. A skilled Royal Enfield mechanic accompanies us to handle any technical issues. Furthermore, a support vehicle follows the group to carry your luggage, spare parts, and other supplies.

Riding in the Himalayas is a true adventure, but it also comes with inherent risks. We require all riders to have comprehensive insurance to ensure you are covered for any medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances. This is a standard practice for responsible tour operators and is for your own safety and peace of mind.

•  The best way to book is by clicking the “[Book This Adventure]” button on this page. This will take you to our booking form. If you have any questions before booking, please feel free to use our contact form or call us directly.

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 You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity, a valid visa for India, and your motorcycle driver’s license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP). We recommend carrying both digital and physical copies of these documents.

While personal riding gear is not included, we can provide a detailed recommended packing list upon booking. Key items include a high-quality helmet, armoured riding jacket, riding pants, gloves, and sturdy boots. You should also pack clothing that can be worn in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly.