Total Duration
15 days
Grade
Challenging to Extreme
Distance
601 kms
Highest Altitude
19,024ft
Start Point
Manali
Accommodation
Tents/Hotel
Trip Style
High-Altitude Expedition
Best Season
May -Sep
Complete Information About Manali-Umling La Expedition
Push your limits, conquer the Himalayas, and make history on two wheels—welcome to the Manali to Umling La Cycling Expedition, an epic 15-day adventure across some of the world’s highest and harshest roads. Umling La, perched at 5,883 meters, is higher than Everest Base Camp and holds the title of the world’s highest motorable road.
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Conquer the Himalayas: Manali Umling La Cycling Expedition
Challenge Yourself on the World's Highest Motorable Road
This expedition is designed for seasoned cyclists and thrill-seekers who crave the ultimate test of endurance, grit, and mental resilience. The route takes you through lush valleys, barren high-altitude deserts, and lunar-like Ladakhi landscapes. You’ll climb legendary passes like Baralacha La, Nakee La, and Tanglang La before reaching the mighty Umling La.
But it’s not just about the ride. It’s about adapting to nature, building bonds with fellow riders, sleeping under a million stars, and finding yourself amidst the most remote terrain imaginable. Backed by a trained crew, support vehicles, oxygen, and expert guides, RoamRidge Adventures makes this extreme expedition not just possible, but unforgettable.
Highlights of the Tour
- Cycle to Umling La Pass (5,883 m) – the roof of the world
- Acclimatize in the high-altitude town of Leh
- Unbeatable panoramic views and photo ops
- Full support with backup vehicle, meals, and experienced guides
- Experience Ladakh's culture, calm, and challenge – all in one journey
Why This Tour is Special
Unlike conventional tours, RoamRidge Adventures emphasizes altitude preparation, rider safety, and sustainable adventure. You’re not just riding a bike—you’re embracing the elements, pushing your limits, and cycling across terrain that only a few on Earth dare to challenge.
We make it possible with the right blend of expertise, gear, route planning, and care.
Who is This For?
- Intermediate to experienced cyclists
- Fitness enthusiasts looking for a high-altitude challenge
- Solo adventurers, small groups, or even corporate teams
- Anyone with a passion for mountains, cycling, and self-discovery
Quick Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Manali
- Altitude: 2,050 m
- Activities: Arrival, team briefing, bike setup, and acclimatization walk
- Evening: Explore Manali town & relax by the Beas River
- Overnight: Hotel in Manali
- Meals: Dinner included
- Rest & Preparation: Light movement, hydration, mental prep
Welcome to Manali! On arrival, meet your expedition leader and fellow cyclists. We’ll conduct a bike check, briefing, and distribute gear. You’ll spend the evening relaxing by the Beas River or exploring the local cafés and markets of Old Manali.
Day 2 Manali to Marhi Ride (Acclimatization Ride)
- Altitude: 3,300 m
- Distance: 35 km
- Terrain: Gradual uphill tarmac with hairpin bends
- Attractions:Apple orchards, pine forests, Himalayan views
- Overnight: Guesthouse/Camp at Marhi
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We kick off with a scenic yet steady uphill ride to Marhi. This is your introduction to altitude and gradient. The trail offers lush forest views, waterfall crossings, and a true taste of the Himalayan climb ahead. Perfect for warming up your legs.
Day 3 Marhi to Sissu via Rohtang Pass
- Altitude Gain: Max 3,978 m
- Distance: 45 km
- Terrain: Ascent to Rohtang, then steep descent
- Highlights: Rohtang Pass, snow walls, panoramic views of Lahaul Valley
- Support: Backup vehicle, water/snack breaks every 5 km
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Guesthouse at Sissu
Today you cross your first high pass – Rohtang La. After the summit, descend dramatically into Lahaul Valley where the green Manali terrain gives way to the raw, rocky landscape of the Himalayas. Expect breathtaking views and a thrilling downhill ride.
Day 4 Sissu to Jispa
- Highest Altitude: 3,200 m
- Distance: 60 km
- Challenge: Rolling terrain along the Chandra and Bhaga rivers
- Attractions: Keylong, riverside hamlets, monasteries
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Guesthouse/Camp at Jispa
An enjoyable ride through the villages of Lahaul. The trail is a blend of tarmac and gravel, flanked by high cliffs and the Bhaga River. The air gets thinner, and landscapes more arid. A perfect blend of physical effort and cultural discovery.
Day 5 Jispa to Zing Zing Bar
- Highest Altitude: 4,270 m
- Distance: 40 km
- Challenge: Steep ascent with switchbacks
- Attractions: Bhaga Valley, rugged mountain passes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Campsite at Zing Zing Bar
Your ascent intensifies as you leave the greenery behind and approach barren terrain. The high-altitude desert begins to take form here. Expect cooler temperatures and an early bedtime to help your body acclimate.
Day 6 Zing Zing Bar to Sarchu via Baralacha La
- Highest Altitude: 4,890 m
- Distance: 50 km
- Challenge: Rocky, loose gravel with sharp gradients
- Attractions: Baralacha La, Suraj Tal (lake), entry into Ladakh
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp at Sarchu
One of the most scenic yet challenging days. The Baralacha La is dramatic, often snow-covered, and home to Suraj Tal, the second-highest lake in India. You enter Ladakh officially as you descend into the wild and windy plains of Sarchu.
Day 7 Rest Day in Sarchu
- Highest Altitude: 4,290 m
- Attractions: Open plains, stargazing
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp at Sarchu
A full day to rest, recharge, and acclimatize. Engage in light stretching, yoga, or take a short walk. This break is essential before the twin-pass climb that awaits you. Use the evening to connect with nature under a canopy of stars.
Day 8 Sarchu to Whisky Nallah via Nakee La & Lachung La
- Highest Altitude: Nakee La (4,739 m), Lachung La (5,065 m)
- Distance: 55 km
- Challenge: Mixed gravel and asphalt, steep climbs
- Attractions: Gata Loops (21 switchbacks), twin high passes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp at Whisky Nallah
One of the most iconic cycling days. Conquer the legendary Gata Loops—a series of 21 steep turns—and climb two high-altitude passes. Terrain is demanding and desolate, but deeply rewarding with Martian-like views.
Day 9 Whisky Nallah to Pang
- Highest Altitude: 4,600 m
- Distance: 30 km
- Challenge: Mostly descent
- Attractions: Gorge trails, rocky landscapes
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp at Pang
A shorter yet challenging day through one of the remotest regions. Descend into Pang’s deep-cut gorges, where you’ll ride through wind-sculpted canyons that seem out of this world.
Day 10 Pang to Tso Kar via More Plains
- Highest Altitude: 4,530 m
- Distance: 55 km
- Challenge: Flat and rolling terrain across a high-altitude plateau
- Attractions: More Plains, Tso Kar salt lake, migratory birds
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp near Tso Kar
The More Plains offer a surreal ride through flat, endless desert at high altitude. Wildlife sightings are possible. The day ends at Tso Kar—an eerie, beautiful saltwater lake surrounded by absolute silence.
Day 11 Tso Kar to Debring via Tanglang La
- Highest Altitude: 5,328 m (Tanglang La)
- Distance: 35 km
- Challenge: Steep ascent followed by descent
- Attractions: Tanglang La, high-altitude glaciers
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Guesthouse/Camp at Debring
A tough but unforgettable climb to Tanglang La, the third-highest motorable pass in the world. Take your time, ride slow, and soak in the panoramic Himalayan glory. A milestone in your expedition.
Day 12 Debring to Hanle (Part Transport + Ride)
- Highest Altitude: 4,500 m
- Distance: 150+ km (mixed ride + drive)
- Challenge: Off-road patches, riverbed crossings
- Attractions: Hanle Observatory, remote Ladakhi villages
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Guesthouse/Homestay at Hanleg
We transport partway today to preserve energy for the big climb. You’ll ride the last leg into Hanle—a quiet, unexplored village known for its observatory and star-studded skies. Rest well.
Day 13 Hanle to Umling La Base Camp
- Highest Altitude: 5,000 m
- Distance: 40 km
- Challenge: Off-road and rocky terrain
- Attractions: Remote Ladakh, military zones
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Camp at Base Camp
Today is your pre-summit approach. The terrain is wild and raw. You’ll feel the altitude, the wind, and the gravity of what lies ahead. Full health checks, gear prep, and motivation sessions will prepare you for the ultimate climb.
Day 14 Umling La Summit Day!
- Highest Altitude: 5,883 m (Umling La)
- Distance: 35 km (uphill and back)
- Challenge: Steep gravel road, thin air, high wind
- Attractions: World’s highest road, panoramic 360° Himalayas
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Guesthouse in Hanle
This is it. The final ascent to Umling La Top—a test of spirit, strength, and survival. With expert backup, you pedal towards history. Every breath, every meter earned. After summiting, celebrate your victory as one of the few who made it on two wheels.
Day 15 Hanle to Leh/Manali (Departure – Transport Only)
- Highest Altitude: Descend to ~3,500 m or lower)
- Distance: 250–400 km (depending on route)
- Meals: Breakfast
Bid farewell to Hanle and your expedition mates. Our transport will drop you to Leh or back toward Manali (depending on your plan). You leave with stories, glory, and legs of steel.
Inclusion
- Mountain bike & helmet (well-maintained)
- Backup support vehicle throughout the ride
- Accommodation in Leh & South Pullu (Hotel + Camp/Guesthouse)
- All meals during cycling days
- Experienced cycling guides and mechanic
- Inner Line Permits & Khardung La cycling certificate
- First aid kit & oxygen support
- Acclimatization rides & pre-tour briefing
Exclusion
- Airfare to/from Leh
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips, laundry, or personal expenses
- Additional snacks or beverages not mentioned
- Any extra transport or accommodation outside the itinerary
- Cost of emergency evacuation (if required)
Important Notes
What to Carry for Your Cycling Expedition
Clothing
Breathable cycling jerseys (2–3)
Padded cycling shorts or tights
Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
Windproof & waterproof jacket
Fleece or light down jacket
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Full-length track pants (2)
Quick-dry t-shirts
Warm hat / woolen cap
Buff/scarf or neck gaiter
Lightweight gloves (riding) + warm gloves (evening)
Undergarments & socks (including thermal socks)
Cycling Gear
Helmet (provided, but bring your own if preferred)
Sunglasses (UV-protected, polarized if possible)
Reusable water bottles or hydration pack
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Small backpack/daypack (with rain cover)
Cycling gloves (full-fingered recommended)
Personal headlamp or torch (with extra batteries)
Toiletries & Personal Essentials
Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF
Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel
Moisturizer & wet wipes
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Toilet paper/tissues
Personal medications (with doctor’s prescription)
Hand sanitizer & small first-aid kit
Quick-dry towel
Others
Power bank & charging cables
ID proof (Aadhar/Passport) + multiple photocopies
Cash (ATMs are limited in Leh)
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Energy bars/snacks
Lightweight slippers/sandals for camp use
Camera or GoPro (optional, but highly recommended!)
Important Notes
Pack light, but layer smartly – temperatures fluctuate widely
Avoid carrying heavy luggage – duffel bag or backpack only
High-altitude weather is unpredictable, so keep essentials handy
Starting from
1,18,900/-per person
Group Departure Dates
June, 2025
| 1st june - 7th june | AVBL |
| 2nd june - 8th june | Last 5 |
July, 2025
| 1st July - 7th July | AVBL |
| 2nd July - 8th July | Last 5 |
August, 2025
| 1st Aug - 7th Aug | AVBL |
| 2nd Aug - 8th Aug | Last 5 |
