17 Passes - The Great Himalayas Motorcycle Tour

17 Passes – The Great Himalayas Motorcycle Tour – 1st to 21st September 2027

Experience Level: Experienced

AUD$8,999 Rider (Incl. bike rental)

Pillion Price

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Tour Detail

Duration: 21 Days

Amritsar - Chamba - Killar - Jispa - Padum - Lamayuru - Leh - Nubra Valley - Pangong - Hanle - Umling La - Sissu - Kaza - Sangla - Narkanda - Chandigarh

The Ultimate Himalayan Motorcycle Expedition
The 17 Passes Trans-Himalayan Trail is a 21-day expedition designed for experienced adventure riders who want to explore some of the most remote and spectacular motorcycle routes in the Indian Himalayas.
Starting in Amritsar, the expedition travels deep into the Pangi Valley and Zanskar, before entering Ladakh and crossing some of the world’s highest motorable mountain passes. The route then continues through the remote Changthang Plateau and Hanle, before turning west towards the Manali–Leh highway and finally entering the dramatic landscapes of Spiti and Kinnaur.
Over the course of approximately 3,000+ kilometres, riders will cross 17 major Himalayan passes, including several above 5,000 metres, while experiencing remote villages, ancient monasteries, dramatic gorges, high-altitude deserts and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas.
This is not simply a motorcycle tour. It is a carefully designed Trans-Himalayan expedition, combining challenging riding, cultural encounters, remote wilderness and the camaraderie of a small group of experienced riders.

Day 01

Arrival in Amritsar

Overnight: Amritsar | Passes: None
Arrive in Amritsar, the gateway to the expedition, and settle into the hotel. Today is dedicated to meeting your fellow riders and the Roaming Horizons team, completing the necessary formalities and getting familiar with your Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle. Depending on arrival times, there will be an opportunity to visit the magnificent Golden Temple and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. In the evening, we will conduct a detailed expedition briefing covering the route, riding protocols, high-altitude safety, weather conditions and support arrangements for the days ahead.
Dinner included

Day 02

Amritsar to Chamba - 230 Kms

Overnight: Chamba | Passes: None
Our Trans-Himalayan adventure officially begins as we leave the plains of Punjab behind and ride towards the Himalayan foothills. The landscape gradually changes from open agricultural fields to forest-covered mountains as we enter Himachal Pradesh. The route follows a combination of winding roads and scenic mountain sections, with increasingly dramatic views as we approach Chamba. This historic Himalayan town, situated on the banks of the Ravi River, provides a comfortable base for the night before we venture into the remote and rugged Pangi Valley tomorrow.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 03

Chamba to Killar - 160 Kms

Overnight: Killar | Pass: Sach Pass – 4,420 m
Today marks the beginning of the serious Himalayan riding. We leave Chamba and climb steadily towards the spectacular Pangi Valley, crossing the legendary Sach Pass at approximately 4,420 metres. The road winds through dense forests, waterfalls, narrow mountain sections and increasingly barren high-altitude terrain before reaching the pass. From the summit, we descend towards the remote Pangi Valley, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most isolated regions. The road becomes more adventurous as we make our way towards Killar, with dramatic cliffs and deep gorges accompanying us throughout the day.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 04

Killar to Jispa - 150 Kms

Overnight: Jispa | Passes: None
Leaving Killar behind, we continue riding through the remote Pangi Valley, following the spectacular mountain roads carved along the sides of deep river gorges. The region is known for its dramatic landscapes, isolated villages and limited connectivity, making this one of the most authentic sections of the expedition. As we gradually move towards Lahaul, the vegetation becomes thinner and the landscape increasingly resembles the high-altitude desert we will encounter in Zanskar and Ladakh. We eventually reach Jispa on the banks of the Bhaga River, where we prepare for our first crossing above 5,000 metres.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 05

Jispa to Padum - 175 Kms

Overnight: Padum | Pass: Shinku La – 5,091 m
One of the defining days of the expedition takes us from Lahaul into the remote kingdom of Zanskar. We leave Jispa early and climb towards Shinku La, standing at approximately 5,091 metres, one of the highest passes on our journey. Beyond the pass, the landscape changes dramatically as we descend into the Zanskar Valley, passing remote settlements, dramatic cliffs and high mountain rivers. The route takes us through Kargyak and Purne before continuing towards Padum. Along the way, the spectacular sacred mountain Gombo Rangjon rises dramatically from the valley, providing one of the most memorable sights of the expedition.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 06

Padum to Lamayuru - 180 Kms

Overnight: Lamayuru | Passes: Sirsir La & Singe La
Today is another spectacular high-altitude riding day as we leave Padum and cross deep into the remote Zanskar landscape. The route climbs towards Sirsir La, followed by the impressive Singe La at around 5,050 metres. The journey takes us through remote valleys, rugged mountain formations and isolated settlements rarely visited by conventional tourists. After crossing the high passes, we gradually approach the famous Moonland landscapes surrounding Lamayuru, where the geology changes dramatically into barren, sculpted mountains. We spend the night in Lamayuru, ready to enter Ladakh the following morning.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 07

Lamayuru to Leh - 150 Kms

Overnight: Leh | Pass: Fotu La – 4,108 m
We leave the extraordinary landscapes of Lamayuru and ride towards Leh along one of Ladakh’s classic mountain roads. The route takes us across Fotu La at approximately 4,108 metres, the highest point on the Srinagar–Leh highway, before descending through spectacular mountain scenery towards the Indus Valley. Along the way, we pass traditional Ladakhi villages, monasteries and dramatic rock formations before eventually reaching Leh. After several demanding days in Pangi and Zanskar, arriving in Leh gives us the opportunity to relax, enjoy a comfortable evening and prepare for the high-altitude riding ahead.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 08

Rest & Acclimatisation in Leh

Overnight: Leh | Passes: None
Today is a much-needed rest and acclimatisation day in Leh. With the expedition now operating at high altitude, this break allows the body to adjust before we venture towards Nubra, Pangong and the remote Changthang Plateau. Riders can explore Leh’s colourful markets, visit Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings. Meanwhile, our support team will conduct a detailed inspection of all motorcycles, checking tyres, brakes, chains, fluids and other essential components before the next stage of the expedition.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 09

Leh to Hunder (Nubra Valley) - 145 Kms

Overnight: Hunder | Pass: Khardung La – ~5,350 m
Today we head north from Leh towards the spectacular Nubra Valley, crossing one of the most famous high-altitude roads in the Himalayas: Khardung La at approximately 5,350 metres. The climb towards the pass offers spectacular views across the surrounding mountains before a dramatic descent into Nubra. The landscape changes from barren high-altitude mountains to a surprisingly green valley fed by the Shyok and Nubra rivers. We continue towards Hunder, famous for its sand dunes and Bactrian camels, where we spend the night surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 10

Hunder to Pangong / Merak - 260 Kms

Overnight: Merak | Passes: Wari La & Chang La
One of the longest and most spectacular days of the expedition takes us from Nubra towards the legendary Pangong Lake without returning to Leh. We cross the remote Wari La at approximately 5,300 metres, followed by the famous Chang La, before continuing across the vast high-altitude landscape towards Pangong. The scenery changes constantly as we cross remote valleys and enormous mountain plateaus. By late afternoon, the brilliant blue waters of Pangong Lake come into view, and we continue along its eastern shores towards Merak, where we spend the night beside one of the Himalayas’ most spectacular lakes.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 11

Merak to Hanle - 160 Kms

Overnight: Hanle | Pass: Tsaga La
We leave the shores of Pangong and enter the remote Changthang Plateau, one of the least populated regions of the Indian Himalayas. The route takes us through vast open plains, dramatic mountains and isolated settlements as we head towards Hanle. Along the way, we cross Tsaga La, adding another high mountain pass to our expedition. The landscape here feels completely different from the busy Ladakh circuit, with very few vehicles and an extraordinary sense of wilderness. We eventually reach Hanle, a remote village famous for its observatory and exceptionally clear night skies.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 12

Hanle to Umling La to Hanle - 160 Kms

Overnight: Hanle | Passes: Photi La – 5,032 m | Nurbula Pass – 5,200 m | Umling La – ~5,799 m
Today is the hero day of the Trans-Himalayan Trail as we ride towards the legendary Umling La, approximately 5,799 metres above sea level. The journey takes us through some of the most remote and barren landscapes of the Himalayas, with vast mountains and high-altitude valleys stretching towards the horizon.
Along the route, we cross Photi La (5,032 m) and Nurbula Pass (5,200 m) before making our way towards the ultimate milestone — Umling La (~5,799 m), one of the world’s highest motorable roads.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 13

Hanle to Leh - 250 Kms

Overnight: Leh | Passes: None
After our demanding Umling La expedition, we begin the long ride back towards Leh. The route takes us once again through the vast landscapes of Changthang, with opportunities to stop for photographs and enjoy the remote scenery. This is primarily a transition day, allowing the group to return to the comfort of Leh and prepare for the next major stage of the expedition. By evening, riders can relax, enjoy a good meal and prepare their motorcycles and riding gear for the challenging journey across the Manali–Leh highway and into Spiti Valley.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 14

Rest Day in Leh

Overnight: Leh | Passes: None
A second rest and preparation day in Leh gives everyone an opportunity to recover before the long ride towards Lahaul and Spiti. Our mechanics will carry out another complete inspection of the motorcycles, while riders can explore Leh, visit local monasteries or simply relax. This is also an opportunity to check riding equipment, luggage and personal supplies before the expedition moves into another remote section where support facilities become increasingly limited. In the evening, we will conduct a briefing for the following day’s long and demanding ride.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 15

Leh to Sissu - 385 Kms

Overnight: Sissu | Passes: Taglang La, Nakee La, Lachulung La & Baralacha La
This is one of the biggest riding days of the entire expedition as we cross from Ladakh into Lahaul. The route takes us across the vast More Plains before climbing over Taglang La at approximately 5,328 metres, followed by Nakee La, Lachulung La at around 5,059 metres and Baralacha La at approximately 4,890 metres. The landscape changes constantly throughout the day, from high-altitude desert to enormous mountain valleys and glacial terrain. After crossing the final pass, we descend towards the greener landscapes of Lahaul and eventually reach Sissu in the beautiful Chandra Valley.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 16

Sissu to Kaza - 160 Kms

Overnight: Kaza | Pass: Kunzum La – ~4,550 m
Leaving Sissu, we continue towards the remote and spectacular Spiti Valley. The road follows the Chandra River before climbing towards Kunzum La at approximately 4,550 metres, the gateway between Lahaul and Spiti. From the summit, the landscape opens into the enormous high-altitude desert of Spiti, surrounded by rugged mountains and ancient Buddhist settlements. We descend towards Losar and continue through the dramatic Spiti Valley before reaching Kaza, where we settle in for the night after another memorable day of Himalayan riding.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 17

Explore Kaza & Spiti - ~70 Kms

Overnight: Kaza | Passes: None
Today we slow the pace and explore the incredible cultural and natural highlights around Kaza. Depending on local road conditions, the day’s ride can include Key Monastery, Kibber, Chicham Bridge, Langza, Hikkim and Komic, some of the highest inhabited villages in the world. The landscape around Spiti is unlike anywhere else on the expedition, with barren cliffs, ancient monasteries and traditional stone villages scattered across the valley. The evening is free to enjoy Kaza and reflect on the extraordinary journey so far.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 18

Kaza to Sangla - 235 Kms

Overnight: Sangla | Passes: None
We leave Kaza and begin our journey towards Kinnaur, gradually transitioning from the stark high-altitude desert of Spiti to greener Himalayan valleys. The road follows the Spiti River and eventually connects with the Sutlej region, passing through traditional villages and dramatic mountain landscapes along the way. As we descend to lower elevations, vegetation and forests gradually return to the landscape. By the time we reach Sangla, the scenery has changed completely, with pine forests, apple orchards and towering Himalayan peaks surrounding the beautiful Baspa Valley.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 19

Sangla to Narkanda - 175 Kms

Overnight: Narkanda | Passes: None
Today’s ride takes us deeper into the green and forested landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. Leaving Sangla, we follow winding mountain roads through Kinnaur, passing traditional villages, terraced fields and apple-growing regions. After many days spent in the barren high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh and Spiti, the forests and cooler climate provide a refreshing contrast. We continue towards Narkanda, a peaceful Himalayan hill station surrounded by cedar and pine forests, where we spend our final night in the mountains.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 20

Narkanda to Chandigarh - 175 Kms

Overnight: Chandigarh | Passes: None
Our final riding day begins as we leave the Himalayan forests around Narkanda and gradually descend towards the plains. The roads become wider and the altitude decreases as we make our way towards Chandigarh. This final section gives riders time to reflect on the extraordinary journey — from the remote Pangi Valley and Zanskar to the high passes of Ladakh, the vast Changthang Plateau, Umling La and the dramatic landscapes of Spiti. We arrive in Chandigarh by afternoon or evening, followed by a final group dinner to celebrate completing the 17 Passes Trans-Himalayan Trail.
Breakfast & Dinner included

Day 21

Departure from Chandigarh

After breakfast, the expedition officially comes to an end. Depending on individual flight schedules, transfers can be arranged to Chandigarh Airport or onward travel. After 21 days of riding across some of India’s most remote and spectacular Himalayan landscapes, riders depart with memories of 17 legendary mountain passes, remote valleys, ancient cultures, challenging roads and the camaraderie of an unforgettable Trans-Himalayan adventure.
Breakfast included

Royal Enfield 450cc Himalayan Motorcycles with fuel as per the itinerary.
Accommodation on Twin/Double sharing room basis in standard category hotels.
Breakfast & Dinner (Starts with Dinner on Day 1 at Amritsar and ends with Breakfast on Day 21 in Chandigarh).
Support vehicle to carry all the luggage, supplies and spare parts for the tour.
English speaking Tour Leader with additional Motorcycle to lead the group.
One certified Royal Enfield Mechanic for the whole tour as per the itinerary.
2 Litres of Water bottles during the riding days.
Custom fees and permits for all the Motorcycles.
All Inner Line Permits (Motorcycle + Riders).
Paramedic & Emergency oxygen cylinders during travel.
Airport Transfers in Amritsar & Chandigarh.
All sightseeing fees, toll and parking.
A Roaming Horizons Team Leader will be on tour.

All your International and Domestic flight tickets.
Visa charges.
Medical or Travel Insurance.
Alcohol, tips, room service or anything which is not mentioned in the above inclusions.
Lunch and any other meals which are not included in the inclusions.
Tips for support staff at the end of the tour.
Does not include the compulsory $500 bike security deposit as per our Terms & Conditions ( fully refundable at tour completion if there is no damage ).

17 Himalayan Mountain Passes in One Expedition
11 Passes Above 5,000 Metres
Conquer Umling La – One of the World’s Highest Motorable Roads
Seven Himalayan Regions in One Journey – The route connects an extraordinary collection of landscapes and cultures: Pangi Valley, Zanskar, Ladakh, Changthang, Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur — each dramatically different from the next.
From Green Valleys to High-Altitude Desert
Ride into Places Where Very Few Tourists Venture
The Legendary Zanskar Crossing
Sleep Under Some of India’s Darkest Skies
Pangong Without Simply Returning to Leh
One Expedition, Multiple Riding Environments
Ancient Himalayan Cultures
From the Himalayas to the Thar-Like Desert Landscapes of Spiti
The Route Gets Harder Before It Gets Easier
A True Point-to-Point Himalayan Expedition
Designed for Experienced Adventure Riders

“17 Himalayan Passes. 11 Above 5,000 Metres. 7 Remote Himalayan Regions. 21 Days. One Epic Trans-Himalayan Motorcycle Expedition.”

From the forgotten valleys of Pangi and Zanskar to the world’s highest motorable roads at Umling La, across the vast Changthang Plateau and into the wilderness of Spiti — this is not just a motorcycle tour. It is a journey across the roof of India.