The Highest Changthang Ladakh
- Ladakh
Durations
12 Days
Difficulty
Challenging, Moderate
Enjoy the Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Himalayan expedition from Chandigarh to Leh via Umling La, tracing one of the most dramatic routes on earth. From the lush valleys of Manali and Naggar to the stark beauty of Lahaul and Ladakh, every curve reveals a new world of breathtaking landscapes. The journey takes you through soaring passes like Baralacha La and Tanglang La, serene villages like Jispa, and finally to Hanle, home to India’s highest observatory and some of the clearest night skies in the world.
The adventure reaches its peak at Umling La Pass (5,883m) — the highest motorable road on the planet. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient monasteries, glacial lakes like Tso Moriri and Tso Kar, and experience the rich cultural heartbeat of Leh. Designed for true explorers, this route blends raw adventure with comfort and safety, promising a once-in-a-lifetime ride through the heart of the Himalayas.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Distance Covered: ~300 km
Time Taken: 7-9 hours
Route: NH205 & NH3
Terrain: Plains transitioning to winding mountain roads
Arrive at Chandigarh Airport (IXL) and commence the drive towards Manali/Naggar. The journey gradually leaves the plains, following the Beas River into the Kullu Valley. This initial drive serves as a gentle introduction to the Himalayan environment.
Night Stay: Manali/Naggar (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~2,050m / 6,726 ft
Altitude: ~2,050m / 6,726 ft
Activity: Light, local exploration
Transport: Local cab, self-driven car, or motorcycle
A critical rest day for acclimatization before ascending to higher altitudes. Options for light activity include visiting Hadimba Devi Temple in Manali or exploring the heritage Naggar Castle and Roerich Art Gallery in Naggar. This day is ideal for final vehicle checks and securing any necessary supplies.
Night Stay: Manali/Naggar (Hotel/Guesthouse)
Distance Covered: ~140 km
Time Taken: 5-7 hours
High Point: Rohtang Pass (3,978m) or Atal Tunnel (3,000m)
Terrain: High-altitude mountain pass, steep ascents/descents
The true high-altitude journey begins. The route traverses the famed Rohtang Pass (weather permitting) or the all-weather Atal Tunnel, emerging into the starkly beautiful Lahaul Valley. Jispa, a quiet settlement on the banks of the Bhaga River, is a key stop for further acclimatization.
Night Stay: Jispa (Hotel/Camp) – Altitude: ~3,200m / 10,500 ft
Distance Covered: ~335 km
Time Taken: 10-12 hours
High Passes: Baralacha La (4,890m), Nakee La (4,739m), Lachulung La (5,059m), Tanglang La (5,328m)
A long and demanding day, crossing four major high-altitude passes. Highlights include Suraj Tal Lake near Baralacha La, the Gata Loops (21 hairpin bends), and the vast Morey Plains, a 40 km high-altitude desert plateau. The final ascent is over Tanglang La before descending into the Indus Valley towards Leh.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~3,500m / 11,500 ft
Altitude: ~3,500m / 11,500 ft
Activity: Minimal; focus on hydration and rest
A full day of mandatory rest is crucial for allowing the body to adapt to altitude. Strenuous activity is discouraged to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). A gentle walk through the Leh Market is advisable.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse)
Transport: Local cab or self-driven vehicle
Focus: Exploring key historical landmarks
Explore the cultural heart of Ladakh. Key sites include Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and the monasteries of Shey and Thiksey. Use this day to obtain any final permits required for the onward journey to Hanle and Tso Moriri.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse)
Distance Covered: ~255 km
Time Taken: 6-8 hours
Terrain: Good tarmac roads through remote high-altitude desert
Drive southeast into the Changthang region, following the Indus River for much of the way. Hanle is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, renowned for its clear, dark skies. The landscape is vast and sparsely populated.
Night Stay: Hanle (Homestay/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~4,300m / 14,100 ft
Distance Covered: ~200 km (return trip)
Time Taken: 8-10 hours
High Point: Umling La (5,883m / 19,300 ft)
Route: Ascend via Photila; descend via Nerbula/Gongmala
The highlight of the journey — Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass. The route offers unmatched views of the remote frontier landscapes. Due to extreme altitude, limit time at the summit and avoid exertion.
Night Stay: Hanle (Homestay/Guesthouse)
Distance Covered: ~160 km
Time Taken: 5-7 hours
Terrain: Paved high-altitude tracks and new roads
Take the less-traveled route from Hanle to Tso Moriri, crossing the Changthang Plateau. This pristine lake, a Ramsar Wetland Site, hosts rare wildlife like the Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass).
Night Stay: Korzok / Tso Moriri (Camp/Guesthouse) – Altitude: ~4,522m / 14,836 ft
Distance Covered: ~220 km
Time Taken: 6-8 hours
Route: Via Tso Kar and the Manali-Leh Highway
Drive back to Leh, passing Tso Kar (White Lake), another vital wildlife area, before rejoining the Manali-Leh Highway at Debring or Upshi. The journey follows the Indus River back to the capital.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse)
Focus: Leisure, shopping, departure preparation
Use this buffer day for rest or last-minute souvenir shopping in Leh Market. Relax, revisit favorite sites, or prepare for the flight home.
Night Stay: Leh (Hotel/Guesthouse)
Activity: Airport transfer
Transfer to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). The morning flight offers a spectacular aerial panorama of the Himalayan and Karakoram ranges, marking a fitting end to this high-altitude adventure.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
5% GST, personal expenses, insurance, fines or servicing costs, activities additional to what has been planned for, extra costs arising from delays or breakdowns, and anything not specifically included as per customized final plan.
