Zanskar Bike Expedition

The designated boarding point for our journey to Manali will be MAJNU KA TILA,
located near ISBT KASHMIRI GATE. Our courteous crew members will be present to
assist passengers in boarding the bus. The distance to Manali spans approximately 530
kilometers, and the journey is estimated to take between 12 to 14 hours to reach our
destination.

Upon arrival in Manali, we will convene at a designated location to commence the
registration process, complete necessary documentation, conduct scrutiny of bikes and
riding gear, and hold a briefing session. Following this, a brunch will be served.
This marks the inaugural day of our exhilarating adventure bike trip to Zanskar. After
breakfast, we will depart from Manali town towards Jispa. Along the way, we will
traverse the picturesque Solang Valley road and pass through Dundhi village, which
serves as the starting point of the renowned "Atal Tunnel." Spanning a length of
approximately 9 kilometers, this tunnel holds the distinction of being the world's longest
high-altitude road tunnel, situated at an elevation of 3000 meters above sea level. Our
route will also take us through the captivating Keylong Valley before arriving at Jispa,
located on the other side of the tunnel along the Manali-Leh highway.

Following breakfast, our journey continues towards the formidable Shinku La Pass,
serving as the gateway to Zanskar from the Manali side. Situated at an elevation of
16,580 feet above sea level, this pass stands as one of the most challenging mountain
passes in the Himalayas. Upon crossing Shinku La Pass, the paved roads will give way
to a dirt track as we embark on our adventure towards Padum.
En route to Padum, we will be captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Gumbo Ranjan,
often referred to as "God's Mountain." This sacred site holds significant spiritual
importance in the Zanskar Valley. By evening, we anticipate arriving at Padum, marking
the culmination of our day's journey.

In Padum, also known as Padam, we will immerse ourselves in the enchanting beauty
of the local attractions. These include:
1. Drang Drung Glacier: This majestic glacier, serving as the source of the Stod
River, a tributary of the Zanskar River, showcases a breathtaking expanse of ice
and snow. It is a mesmerizing sight to behold.
2. Pibiting Gompa: A serene monastery nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of
Padum, offering a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the region.
3. Zanskar Palace: A historic landmark, Zanskar Palace reflects the rich cultural
and architectural heritage of the region. It was once the second capital of the
Zanskar Valley during ancient times.
4. Gyalwa Ringna: This sacred site is adorned with representations of the Five
Dhyani Buddhas, embodying profound spiritual significance in Buddhist tradition.
5. Karsha Monastery: Regarded as the largest and most significant monastery in
Zanskar, Karsha Monastery holds deep cultural and religious significance. It is
believed to be attributed to the revered Padmasambhava.
6. Sani Gompa and Lake: Offering a tranquil retreat, Sani Gompa is a monastery
surrounded by natural beauty. Adjacent to it lies Sani Lake, adding to the serene
ambiance of the surroundings.
Exploring these remarkable sights will provide us with a deeper appreciation of the
cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage of Padum and the Zanskar Valley.

As the morning sun casts its golden glow over the breathtaking vistas of Zanskar in
Padum, we will continue our expedition towards Purne. Along the route, we will have the
privilege of experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty and serenity of Pukhtal Monastery,
renowned for its panoramic views of the Zanskar Valley. The path to the monastery,
spanning 6 kilometers, promises a mesmerizing journey amidst the natural splendor of
the region.
By the evening, we will reach Purne, situated at an elevation of 3950 meters above sea
level. Here, beneath the vast expanse of the night sky, we will be treated to a spectacle
of stars, their brilliance accentuated by the pristine mountain air. It will be a moment of
pure enchantment as we immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings,
forging memories that will last a lifetime.

On the sixth day of our adventure, we will bid farewell to Purne and begin our return
journey to Manali, marking the culmination of our remarkable expedition. Departing from
Purne in the morning, we will traverse the scenic landscapes and winding roads,
reminiscing about the countless memories we've created along the way. As we make
our way back to Manali, we'll cherish the experiences shared and the bonds formed
during our time together.
Arriving in Manali by evening, we will embark on our final day of the trip, a time to relish
the company of both old and new friends. We'll gather together to celebrate our journey,
recounting our adventures and reflecting on the moments that have enriched our lives.
As the night unfolds, we'll toast to our camaraderie and make promises to reunite for
future adventures, fueling the anticipation of the journeys yet to come. It will be a night
filled with laughter, stories, and heartfelt promises, a fitting conclusion to our
unforgettable expedition.

We recommend starting your day early with a delicious breakfast before checking out
from the hotel. Today's itinerary offers you the freedom to explore the delightful
attractions of Manali at your leisure. You can wander along the bustling Mall Road, pay
a visit to the tranquil Hadimba Temple, and unwind in the cozy ambiance of cafes
nestled in Old Manali by your own.
As the evening approaches, we will regroup at the Volvo stand to commence our return
journey from Manali to Delhi. While bidding adieu to the captivating landscapes of
Manali, we carry with us cherished memories of our unforgettable experiences in this
enchanting town.