Overview
What is the Trans-Himalayan Express?
A seven-day offbeat motorcycle circuit linking Spiti, Zanskar and Changthang across approximately 1,100 km. The route begins in Manali, crosses remote Himalayan passes and high-altitude plains, and finishes in Leh.
Expect a demanding mix of around 40% tarmac and 60% dirt, gravel and river crossings. The expedition reaches 5,091 m at Shinku La, camps beneath the sacred Gonbo Rangjon monolith and follows remote tracks past Tsokar Lake, Puga hot springs and Tso Moriri.
Trip quick facts
At a glance
- Duration
- 6N/7D
- Route
- Manali · Kaza · Jispa · Gonbo Rangjon · Sarchu · Tso Moriri · Leh
- Highest point
- Shinku La · 5,091 m
- Best for
- Experienced riders comfortable with long high-altitude off-road days
- Total distance
- Approximately 1,100 km
- Terrain
- 40% tarmac · 60% dirt, gravel and river crossings
Motorcycle requirements
Built for the terrain
The supplied expedition plan sets these baseline specifications for altitude, remote tracks and river crossings.
| Component | Requirement | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Engine capacity | 350cc-450cc+ | Engines can lose significant power at approximately 5,000 m. |
| Ground clearance | 170 mm minimum | Needed to clear rocks during water crossings. |
| Tyres | 50/50 dual-sport | Required for traction in slush, gravel and sand ruts. |
| Luggage | Soft panniers, 35-40 L | Keeps the centre of gravity low and reduces leg-trap risk in falls. |
| Fuel capacity | 400 km range | Allows for the long fuel gap between Tandi and Karu. |
From the road
The complete expedition route
Itinerary
Day by day
Day 1Manali to Kaza+
Ride approximately 185 km in 8-9 hours. Pass through the Atal Tunnel into Lahaul Valley, turn off at Gramphu and follow the Spiti dirt track across glacial streams and Kunzum Pass (4,551 m) into Kaza.
Day 2Kaza to Jispa via Chicham+
Ride approximately 200 km in 7-8 hours. Detour to Chicham Bridge above its 1,000-foot gorge, retrace the route over Kunzum Pass and follow the Chandra River valley to Jispa.
Day 3Jispa to Gonbo Rangjon+
Ride approximately 85 km in 4-5 hours. Leave the highway at Darcha, cross Shinku La (5,091 m) into Zanskar and camp beneath the sacred Gonbo Rangjon rock monolith.
Day 4Gonbo Rangjon to Sarchu+
Ride approximately 140 km in 6-7 hours. Cross back over Shinku La, rejoin the Leh-Manali highway, climb Baralacha La (4,890 m) and descend to the wind-swept Sarchu plains.
Day 5Sarchu to Tso Moriri+
Ride approximately 220 km in 8-9 hours. Tackle the Gata Loops and Nakee La, cross the Morey Plains, then take rugged tracks past Tsokar salt lake and Puga hot springs to Tso Moriri.
Day 6Tso Moriri to Leh+
Ride approximately 220 km in 6-7 hours. Follow the Indus River through the Changthang plateau, transition from rough tracks to mountain tarmac near Chumathang and arrive in Leh by late afternoon.
Day 7Leh departure+
After breakfast, transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport for onward flights.
Inclusions
- Seven-day Manali-to-Leh expedition route plan
- Fully supported kitchen crew with premium vegan meal planning throughout the expedition
- Leh airport transfer on departure day
- Daily stage planning for the listed circuit
Exclusions
- Motorcycle, fuel, accommodation, camping equipment and permits are not specified in the supplied itinerary
- Flights, insurance and personal expenses are not specified in the supplied itinerary
- The final custom quote will confirm all commercial inclusions and exclusions
Things to carry
Planning questions
Before you enquire
Who is the Trans-Himalayan Express for?+
This itinerary is best suited to experienced riders comfortable with long high-altitude off-road days. Mohan will ask about your experience, group and comfort level before recommending the final plan.
Can the itinerary be customised?+
Yes. Dates, group size, stays, transfers and selected activities can be adjusted where availability, permits, route conditions and safety allow.
How do I get the current price?+
Send an enquiry with your preferred month, group size and departure city. Mohan will confirm availability and prepare a custom quote with the current inclusions.
