Total Duration
9 days
Grade
Moderate
Distance
230 kms
Highest Altitude
19,024 ft
Start Point
Leh
Accommodation
Tents/Hotel
Trip Style
Cycling
Best Season
May -Sep
Complete Information About Leh Umling La Cycling Expedition
Ride to the Roof of the World – Conquer Umling La (5,883 m)
Challenge Yourself to Ride the World’s Highest Road
Experience Ladakh’s stark beauty, conquer multiple high passes, and pedal your way to cycling history.
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Conquer the Himalayas: Leh Umling La Cycling Trip
Challenge Yourself on the World's Highest Motorable Road
Embark on one of the most exhilarating and high-altitude cycling adventures on Earth — a 9-day expedition from Leh to Umling La Pass, the world’s highest motorable road at a staggering 5,883 meters. This journey is not just a test of endurance but a deeply immersive experience into the stark beauty, culture, and vastness of Ladakh’s Trans-Himalayan region.
Starting from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, your journey begins with gradual acclimatization rides through the scenic Indus Valley. As the days unfold, you’ll ride deeper into the Changthang plateau — a place of infinite skies, colorful mountains, and ancient Tibetan culture. You’ll visit remote villages like Nyoma and Hanle, where time slows down, and the silence of the high desert envelopes everything around.
Highlights of the Tour
- Cycle to Umlingla La Pass (19,024 ft) – the roof of the world
- Ride through Changthang Plateau, high-altitude deserts, and remote Ladakhi villages.
- Camp under star-studded skies in Hanle, India’s most isolated settlements.
- Unbeatable panoramic views and photo ops
- Expert backup team, high-altitude support, oxygen, and medical safety.
- Experience Ladakh's culture, calm, and challenge – all in one journey
Why This Tour is Special
This expedition is designed for seasoned cyclists and thrill-seekers looking to go beyond the usual. With fully supported logistics, expert guides, and a backup vehicle with oxygen, your safety and comfort are well taken care of, even in the world’s most remote regions. The route to Umling La is tough, with high-altitude climbs, loose gravel trails, and unpredictable weather. But the reward — standing with your bicycle at 5,883 meters, overlooking the Indo-Tibet border — is truly once in a lifetime.
Along the way, you’ll experience Ladakhi hospitality, witness surreal landscapes, and pedal through terrain that few humans ever cross on a cycle. Whether it’s the shimmering salt lakes, open grasslands filled with kiangs (wild asses), or the quiet strength of the local people — every moment on this expedition will leave an imprint on your soul.
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
This is more than just a cycling tour. It’s an expedition into the extremes — of altitude, solitude, and achievement. If you’re ready to push your limits and cycle into the sky, the Leh to Umling La Cycling Expedition is your ultimate challenge.
Quick Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Leh – Acclimatization & Briefing
- Altitude: 3,500 m
- Attractions: Leh Market, Shanti Stupa
- Evening: Group briefing, gear check
- Overnight: Hotel in Leh
- Meals: Dinner included
- Rest & Preparation: Important for all riders to acclimatize properly before starting the ride
Arrive in Leh and take it easy. Spend the day hydrating, resting, and letting your body adjust to the altitude. Later, we meet for an expedition briefing, cycle fitting, and team introductions. Your adventure begins!
Day 2 Leh to Chumathang (Transport + Warm-Up Ride)
- Distance: 4,000 m
- Route: 140 km (90 km by transport + 50 km ride)
- Trail Type: Mix of tarmac and gravel
- Attractions: Indus River, hot springs
- Overnight: Camp/Guesthouse in Chumathang
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Evening: Easy walk along the river
We begin the journey toward remote eastern Ladakh. After a short transport, we cycle through arid valleys along the Indus. The route offers a gradual acclimatization ride and stunning river canyon views.
Day 3 Chumathang to Nyoma
- Altitude Gain: Approx. 4,180 m
- Distance: ~60 km
- Terrain: Smooth tarmac with gentle climbs
- Highlights: Nomadic hamlets, Tibetan monasteries
- Support: Backup vehicle, water/snack breaks every 5 km
- Meals: All meals included (hot lunch at camp)
- Overnight: Guesthouse or camp at Nyoma
Pedal through wide-open landscapes with occasional wildlife sightings. The terrain is relatively kind but the elevation begins to test your endurance. Nyoma is peaceful, scenic, and sparsely populated.
Day 4 Nyoma to Hanle
- Highest Altitude: 4,250 m
- Distance: 80 km
- Challenge: Rolling terrain with mild ascents
- Attractions: Hanle Monastery, Observatory
- Evening: Rest and explore
- Overnight: Guesthouse in Hanle
You ride deeper into Ladakh’s wilderness. Hanle is a remote hamlet known for its astronomical observatory and pristine skies. The ride is long but rewarding, crossing wide plains and semi-paved roads.After catching our breath and soaking in the views, we’ll ride all the way down to Leh — a thrilling descent that feels like flying. By evening, you’ll return to the hotel for a hot shower and a celebration dinner with the group
Day 5 Acclimatization Day in Hanle
- Highest Altitude: 4,250 m
- Attractions: Hanle Observatory, local culture
- Evening: Preparation & rest
- Overnight: Guesthouse in Hanle
Today is all about acclimatization and preparation for Umling La. You can take a short ride around the village or simply relax. The thin air demands rest and hydration.
Day 6 Hanle to Umling La Base Camp
- Highest Altitude: 4,900 m
- Distance:40 km
- Challenge: Rough, off-road
- Attractions: Wild terrain, barren beauty
- Evening: Early dinner, health monitoring
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: High-altitude camp
The terrain becomes harsher and the climb begins. You cycle through some of the most untouched landscapes in the world, pushing towards Base Camp in preparation for the summit.
Day 7 Umling La Summit Day!
- Highest Altitude: 5,883 m
- Distance:35 km (ascent + descent)
- Trail Type: Gravel, steep gradients, extreme altitude
- Attractions: Umling La Pass, Indo-Tibetan viewsy
- Evening: Celebration at camp or return to Hanle
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight: Base Camp / Guesthouse in Hanle
This is the toughest and most rewarding day. You’ll ride to the highest road in the world, battling thin air, strong winds, and your own limits. A once-in-a-lifetime achievement for any cyclist.
Day 8 Return to Leh (Transport)
- Altitude: Descend to 3,500 m
- Distance:250+ km (by vehicle)
- Trail Type: Road
- Attractions: Scenic drive
- Evening: Free time in Leh
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Overnight: Hotel in Leh
We return to Leh via transport, soaking in the final views of Ladakh. The evening is yours to shop for souvenirs, reflect, and celebrate your incredible achievement.
Day 9 Departure from Leh
Bid farewell to Ladakh. Depart with unforgettable memories, photos, and the pride of cycling to the top of the world.
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
₹11,500/-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 |
