DEXBA Touring Company
Leh - Manali
The Cliffhanger
- 14.Sep.2024 - 25.Sep.2024
- 12 Days / 11 Nights
- 1200 km
- Ladakh/Kaschmir
From 4000$ / Per Person
Intro
The great adventure trip through Ladakh and Kashmir
Embark on this amazing journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh and Kashmir, a highlight of which is our traverse of the ‘Cliffhanger’ Road. This engineering marvel snakes it’s way from Kishtwar to Killar and has become a famed pilgrimage for adventure seekers. This Tour begins the ancient Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh; and finishes at the gateway to the Himalayas, Manali.
The Cliffhanger makes up a highlight of the tour, but you will also learn and experience that this amazing region has so much to offer.
Program
Not for the Faint of Heart
your adventure begins with a flight that offers unparalleled views of majestic Himalayan peaks thus setting the stage for this epic tour. Upon touchdown in Leh, our welcoming team will guide you through this ancient city to our hotel.
You will spend your first day in Leh acclimatising to the altitude while exploring the city's rich tapestry of experiences. Take a leisurely stroll through the labyrinthine alleys of the old town, soak in the serene ambiance of the renowned Shanti Stupa, and marvel at the splendour of the Kings Palace. Indulge in the local charm by savouring a cup of chai in one of the many cafes scattered throughout town.
Cap off the day with a delightful group dinner and briefing session. It's an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers and acquaint yourself with the details of your upcoming tour. As you immerse yourself in the tranquil and welcoming atmosphere of Leh, the call of adventure in the Himalayas beckons you.
Today our objective is to get to know the lay of the land, immerse ourselves in the local culture, and acquaint ourselves with the motorcycles. We'll collect the Royal Enfields, offering a brief tutorial on handling these machines and deciphering the peculiar 'logic' of Indian traffic.
With preparations complete, it's time to set forth. Our initial excursion, we'll visit the Hemis and Thiksey monasteries, renowned as two of Ladakh's most exquisite spiritual sanctums.
Thereafter, we'll head back to Leh, where we'll spend the night.
Our motorcycle expedition begins with a relaxed jaunt across several minor passes leading into the western Indus Valley. During our journey, we explore the remnants and sacred edifices of the ancient Basgo Palace. Venturing farther westward, a brief sidestep takes us to the revered Likir Monastery.
Returning to the main thoroughfare, our journey continues through awe-inspiring rugged terrain. Days end at Lamayuru, sees us enjoying a cold beverage and magnificent sunset over the thousand year old Monastery.
Our Journey today see us riding a road that snakes its way ever upward to the crest of Foto La (4108m), beyond which more awe-inspiring landscape awaits as we descend and ascend to cross the Namik La at 3710m. The spectacular sights of the Himalayas are sure to be a lasting memory.
After an exhilarating day, we arrive at our overnight stop Kargil, Ladakhs second largest city.
Today we journey through what is in winter, a region of extreme weather to reach Drass, the second coldest habitation on the planet. Our path leads us over the Zoji La (3528m), unveiling the majestic Sonamarg Valley. Renowned for its beauty, Sonamarg and its surroundings along the Srinagar-Leh Highway feature even more world class landscape. The trip from Sonamarg to Srinagar is a blend of scenic marvels and and enjoyable riding.
We finish the day with a special stay and dinner on a local houseboat
Today we take a spell in Srinagar resting on the picturesque Dal Lake.
Hosting a myriad of houseboats and floating markets, this serene landscape is a soothing retreat after several challenging days on the road.
Indulge in sightseeing, explore local markets, experience paragliding, or try water skiing – today is entirely yours according to your preferences and desires.
Following a refreshing day in Srinagar, we continue our journey towards Kishtwar. The relatively straight road takes us through a stunning landscape and near Anantnag we will explore the UNESCO world heritage - Listed Surya Temple (Sun Temple)
Back on the road, the upcoming bends and curves begin anew and we cross the Sinthan La (3800m) as we make our way to Kishtwar.
Today is the highlight of our tour!
As we venture onto the world-renowned Cliffhanger Road, linking Kishtwar in the Jammu and Kashmir region to Killar in Himachal Pradesh.
We start at a relaxed pace. Riding along a well-maintained gravel road, we pass through charming, quaint villages until we arrive at Gulabgarh.
Overtaking from here demands utmost vigilance! The road narrows significantly, prohibiting the passage of oncoming vehicles. Some bends are ambiguously defined, lacking guardrails. What lies ahead in the upcoming kilometres cannot be explained with just words.
This narrow gravel path is intricately carved into the steep cliff face, with sheer drops of several hundred meters to the side.
Navigating this stretch is an exciting experience which illicit a deep respect for the mountains and the workers who carved this incredible road out of the bare rock.
On the winding mountain path, we traverse untamed nature en route to Keylong. Today's journey serves as a canvas for capturing the final snapshots of this extraordinary expedition. Passing through Udaipur, we traverse the Lober Bridge, venturing onto a secluded byway adorned with unique photo opportunities.
Afternoon leads us onto the renowned Manali-Leh Highway, bringing Keylong within close reach. As evening falls over a shared meal, we savor the tranquility, eagerly anticipating the last leg of thrilling adventures yet to unfold.
As we gather for dinner, we wind down this leisurely day, anticipating the last few days of adventure ahead of us.
Today leads us to new heights as we embark on the journey to recently opened 5053 Shinku La. Ascending this pass is no easy feat – it's a true adventure, a challenge that to be embraced. Climbing nearly 2000 meters from Keylong to the summit, this journey pushes both ourselves and our machines to their limits. It's the ultimate test, one that our group will conquer together, reaping rewards upon arrival at our destination. Our path guides us across the Shinkhu La, leading us to the base of the revered Gonbo Rangjon.
Gonbo Rangjon stands as an imposing standalone mountain, held sacred by locals practicing Tibetan Buddhism. With its summit soaring to 5520m and the base resting around 4500m, it inspires reverence and awe.
As we return to Keylong, we will collectively celebrate our new achievement.
Our Himalayan adventure draws to a close. Our last stretch take us up and over the Rohtang La Pass (3978m) and into the splendour of the Kullu Valley. We negotiate countless hairpins bends on this awe-inspiring decent from the Pass. And, for the first time in many days, we witness an notable increase in traffic.
Our expedition terminates in Manali, where we'll settle into the welcoming Biker-Hotel Ride Inn. Gathering for a final communal dinner, we'll share our impressions of this unforgettable journey and the incredible time spent together.
Bei einem letzten gemeinsamen Abendessen blicken wir auf diese unvergessliche Reise zurück und schwelgen bereits in Erinnerungen an eine super Zeit.
Time for your individual journeys home! We are more than happy to assist with your future travel plans should you need it.
The Cliffhanger
Tour Highlights
Ride the 117 km along the Cliffhanger Road from Kishtwar to Killar
Explore the region's most breathtaking monasteries - Thiksey, Hemis & Lamayuru - each offering stunning panoramic views
Overnight stay aboard a houseboat on Dal Lake while experiencing the vibrant city of Srinagar
Embark on a pioneering day excursion to the newly opened 5053m high Shinkhu La, an adventure of epic proportions
Capture an everlasting photo moment at the base of the standalone sacred mountain - Gonbo Rangjon
Immerse yourself in the distinctive culture of Leh, the Tibetan-Buddhist capital of Ladakh
The Bike
A machine with character
We will ride Classic Royal Enfield 500cc "Bullet" bikes, which are ideally suited for this adventure tour and add a touch of class to the whole experience.
"Driving on the Cliffhanger Road is a tingling mixture of thrills and enormous respect. Not for the Faint of Heart"
Kevin Bärtschi
Good to Know
Everything you need to know
ACCOMMODATION
9 nights in country-specific mid-range hotels in a double room. 2 nights on a houseboat.
MOTORCYCLE PACKAGE
10 days motorcycle rental of the legendary Royal Enfield Bullet 500. Fuel and daily maintenance are included in the price.
SKILL-LEVEL
Demanding. This motorcycle tour requires good and safe riding on various surfaces such as gravel, sand, and asphalt.
RIDING TIME
The average riding time per day is between 6-8 hours with short breaks and photo stops. Additionally, we take 1 hour for lunch breaks.
WEATHER
It is quite possible that we'll experience everything from beautiful sunshine to snowfall on this tour. Often, sunny and dry weather is expected during this season, ranging from 10-30°C.
GROUP
A maximum of 12 riders in a group, usually of mixed nationalities. Each group is accompanied by its own backup crew with a German and English-speaking guide.
ROAD CONDITIONS
The route is mostly well-built and asphalted. However, there are sections with unpaved roads, river crossings, sand, many curves, and anything else you can imagine.
MEALS
All main meals are included in the price. We will have breakfast at the hotels. For lunch, we often stop at roadside eateries or stalls. Dinner is at the hotel or restaurant.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR
Each rider must bring their own motorcycle protective gear and helmet. Please bring waterproof clothing if your gear doesn't protect against moisture. Additionally, you'll need gloves, a buff / bandana, thermal base layer, and good footwear.
- Airport transfer in Leh
- Professional tour guides
- Local guide + mechanic
- 11 nights in a twin-share room
- 10 days rental of Royal Enfield "Bullet" motorcycle
- Fuel/oil as well as all spare and wear parts
- Support vehicle for luggage
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner (excluding soft drinks and alcohol)
- Tea, coffee, water, and snacks
- All road fees, bridge tolls, entrance fees throughout the tour
- Flights
- Motorcycle damages
- Tips, souvenirs, shopping
- Tourist visa for India (online E-Visa available)
- Travel insurance and medical insurance
- Single room supplement 400 USD
- 1 Day Khardung La Tour 200 USD