Beautiful Leh and Buddhist Monasteries

Ladakh: The Little Tibet

Tour Description: Guided

See Tibet while still in India with this beautiful tour through the Himalayas. 

Also known as ‘Little Tibet’, Ladakh has beautiful monasteries scattered across its arid landscape. The unforgiving yet beautiful land, the isolated yet elaborate monasteries, and the weathered yet spiritual people are bound to make this your most memorable ride ever. 

The high altitude region of Ladakh is all about mountains and valleys and there are zigzag trails including some hairpin turns. To cycle on these zig-zag roads, you need to be a technically sound biker.

You must preferably have prior experience of riding on rugged terrain and rough paved roads. Most sections of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair.

You have the opportunity of cycling through the highest motorable pass in the world, Khardung La. This is an enthralling route which is sure to be a memorable adventure.You would be riding through some monasteries along the cycling route, remember to follow the code of conduct explained by our cycling guide.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Tour Description: Self-guided

See Tibet while still in India with this beautiful tour through the Himalayas. 

Also known as ‘Little Tibet’, Ladakh has beautiful monasteries scattered across its arid landscape. The unforgiving yet beautiful land, the isolated yet elaborate monasteries, and the weathered yet spiritual people are bound to make this your most memorable ride ever. 

The high altitude region of Ladakh is all about mountains and valleys and there are zigzag trails including some hairpin turns. To cycle on these zig-zag roads, you need to be a technically sound biker.

You must preferably have prior experience of riding on rugged terrain and rough paved roads. Most sections of the road are asphalt surface. However, road conditions are unpredictable in this Himalayan region and could be under repair.

You have the opportunity of cycling through the highest motorable pass in the world, Khardung La. This is an enthralling route which is sure to be a memorable adventure.You would be riding through some monasteries along the cycling route, remember to follow the code of conduct explained by our cycling guide.

Learn more about guided tours. 

Highlights: Guided

Highlights: Self-guided

Daily Program: Guided

Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Delhi today. Airport transfers will be provided to all participants. Please note hotel check-in time is 12 noon.  
Delhi with its old and new sections — each with its specific charm and glory — makes a very interesting city for its sustenance to medieval and modern cultures at the same time and space. While Old Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shahjehan in the 17th century, still retains its medieval character to a great extent and almost indubitably reminds one of the crowded old towns of the Middle East; New Delhi is like any other modern city with tall buildings and massive shopping complexes.
Accommodation: The Oberoi. Included meals: None.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi - Leh
This morning we will fly to Leh, the capital town of Ladakh.
The rest of the day will be at leisure to get acclimatized to the high altitude. One is advised to have minimal activity during the day, as this helps in the acclimatization process.
In the evening we will walk to Dzomsa, (meaning ‘meeting place’ in Ladakhi) which is a co-operative group formed to protect the ecology of the land. The group helps recycle plastic by refilling your bottle with purified drinking water, provides laundry service wherein the laundry is taken out of town, phosphorous-free detergents used, and the soap water is safely dispose, and sells organic products produced by the locals. The co-operative helps provide jobs for people, cuts waste by over 200 plastic bottles a day, reduces diesel pollution and prevents gallons of harmful detergent from flowing into Ladakh's precious streams. After visiting Dzomsa, you may stroll around the local bazaar.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Ladakh. 

Day 3: Leh (3-6 miles/5-10 km)
In the morning we will drive to explore Leh - visiting Leh Palace and Leh Mosque. 
Later in the evening we will cycle to Shanti Stupa, located on a hilltop in Changspa. The stupa offers panoramic views of Leh town and its surrounding landscape.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Leh.

Day 4: Leh and Surrounding Areas (13 miles/20 km)
After breakfast, we ride to Stok, a village on the left bank of the Indus. Here we visit the Stok Palace, a 5 storeys tall palace that was the official residence of the royal family of Ladakh. We then continueto ride on the left bank of the river to Spituk. The Spituk monastery is known for its vast collection of Buddhist artifacts. Further up the hill is Mahakal Temple, where a fearsome image of Vajrabhairavais unveiled once a year at its annual festival. From here on, we do a road transfer back to Leh.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Leh.

Day 5: Leh and Surrounding Areas (25 miles/40 km)
You should be well acclimatized by today, so we venture out for a longer ride to some of the monasteries around Leh. The monasteries you will visit today are Shey, Thiksey and Hemis.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Leh.  

Day 6: Leh - Alchi (31 miles/50 km)
Today we will enjoy rafting on River Indus. Afterwards, we will cycle to Alchi, a village located on the banks of the Indus. Alchi monastery, one of the oldest in Ladakh, is the only monastery in the region located on flat ground instead of a hill-top. It is famous for its magnificent and well-preserved 11th and 12th century wall paintings.
Accommodation: Uley Resort; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Alchi. 

Day 7: Alchi – Lamayuru - Alchi (31 miles/50 km)
Day trip to Lamayuru. Spectacularly set on a steep mountain and founded in the 10th century, Lamayuru monastery is the oldest spiritual center of Ladakh. Although mostly in ruins  with only a few buildings remaining beside the main assembly hall, it is still unsurpassed in the sheer grandeur of its wood carvings, statues and frescoes. Lamayuru is also famous for it rock formations resembling lunar landscapes, caused by the climatic conditions.
After a picnic lunch we do a road transfer back to Alchi.
Accommodation: Uley Resort; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Alchi. 

Day 8: Alchi - Leh (31 - 37 miles/50-60 km)
After breakfast, we go for a short ride to Ridzong Gompa. Founded by Lama Tsultim Nima in 1831, it belongs to Gelukpa Order. The monastery serves as the residence of approximately 40 monks and also houses a nunnery comprising of about 20 nuns.
We then do a road transfer back to Leh, arriving in town for lunch. Rest of the day will be at leisure.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Leh. 

Day 9: Leh – Khardung La - Leh (25 - 30 miles/40-50 km)
Day trip to Khardung La (one way cycling). Lying at an altitude of 5,359 m, Khardung La is claimed tobe the  highest  motorable road  in the  world. Riders may choose to attempt climbing the pass. We make it back to our hotel in time for lunch.
Accommodation: Ladakh Residency; Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight in Leh. 

Day 10: Leh – Delhi – Onward Destination
Fly Leh-Delhi. Departures on your own from Delhi or request an extension tour. (Recommended: An extension tour to Agra, home of the beautiful Taj Mahal).
Included meals: Breakfast

Daily Program: Self-guided

Dates: Guided

Jun 29, 2013. Other daily departures on request from May to September for parties of 2 or more. 

Dates: Self-guided

Route Map: Guided

Route Map: Self-guided

Packages and Prices: Guided

Tour package (guided)
Per person, double occupancy $2504 Single room supplement (1 person/1 room) $491 Bike Rentals Trek mountain bike (Included in tour price) $0

Packages and Prices: Self-guided

Included Services: Guided

NOT INCLUDED: 

Included Services: Self-guided

Hotels: Guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Delhi: The Oberoi – 5 Star Deluxe
http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_delhi/index.asp
The Oberoi is recognised as a pioneer amongst luxury hotels in India. It's exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make it amongst the most graceful and elegant downtown hotels in Delhi. The hotel is ideally located in the city centre near government offices, shopping, financial and business districts.

Leh: Ladakh Residency - Standard
http://www.ladakhresidency.com/
Ladakh Residency is located in the quiet greens of the Changspa Village, a relaxing five minutes walk from the main market. The hotel is traditional in design and architecture, yet with all modern facilities and spacious rooms with balconies from where you can enjoy the lush greenery of the surrounding area. 

Alchi: Uley Resort – Standard / Best Available
www.uleyecoresorts.com/
Uley Resort is an ecological resort which is surrounded by trekking routes and famous monasteries of Alchi, Mangyu, Ridzong and Lamayuru. It offers separate cottages sprawled amidst lush apple and apricot trees and organic farms.

Hotels: Self-guided

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability. 

Delhi: The Oberoi – 5 Star Deluxe
http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_delhi/index.asp
The Oberoi is recognised as a pioneer amongst luxury hotels in India. It's exquisite interiors, impeccable service and fine cuisine combine to make it amongst the most graceful and elegant downtown hotels in Delhi. The hotel is ideally located in the city centre near government offices, shopping, financial and business districts.

Leh: Ladakh Residency - Standard
http://www.ladakhresidency.com/
Ladakh Residency is located in the quiet greens of the Changspa Village, a relaxing five minutes walk from the main market. The hotel is traditional in design and architecture, yet with all modern facilities and spacious rooms with balconies from where you can enjoy the lush greenery of the surrounding area. 

Alchi: Uley Resort – Standard / Best Available
www.uleyecoresorts.com/
Uley Resort is an ecological resort which is surrounded by trekking routes and famous monasteries of Alchi, Mangyu, Ridzong and Lamayuru. It offers separate cottages sprawled amidst lush apple and apricot trees and organic farms.

Bike Rentals: Guided

 Khana-badosh offers two options of rental bikes, which come included in the tour price. 

1. Trek 3700 – 21 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in 16, 18, 21 inch frames, wide mountain bike tires, front shock absorbers, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

2. GT Traffic 2.0/3.0 – 27/24 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in S, M, L frames, hybrid bike tires, front fork - stiff, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

Bike Rentals: Self-guided

 Khana-badosh offers two options of rental bikes, which come included in the tour price. 

1. Trek 3700 – 21 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in 16, 18, 21 inch frames, wide mountain bike tires, front shock absorbers, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

2. GT Traffic 2.0/3.0 – 27/24 gear, V brake, cross handle bar, adjustable seat post, comes in S, M, L frames, hybrid bike tires, front fork - stiff, standard pedals but can be replaced with your clips, bottle cage provided, helmet provided. Extra bottle cages available and the repair kits are with the mechanic and guide on the trip.

Surface and Terrain: Guided

This tour is rated Challenging, with its extended and frequent climbs and/or daily distances more than 45 miles (70 km). It is for experienced cyclists in above- average physical condition. 

Surface and Terrain: Self-guided

This tour is rated Challenging, with its extended and frequent climbs and/or daily distances more than 45 miles (70 km). It is for experienced cyclists in above- average physical condition. 

How To Get There: Guided

Tour start and end: 

Nearest airport: New Delhi

The tour company provides all transfers from the start and end of the trip.

How To Get There: Self-guided

Tour start and end: 

Nearest airport: New Delhi

The tour company provides all transfers from the start and end of the trip.

Weather: Guided

Cycling trips are possible in Ladakh only during summer months (between May – September)when snow has melted and temperature is nice and comfortable.

However, mornings and evenings still can be cold as it is an extremely high altitude region. The average temperaturerange during the day is about 20–30°C (68-86°F).
Due to this, we run tours only from May to September.

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Weather: Self-guided

Cycling trips are possible in Ladakh only during summer months (between May – September)when snow has melted and temperature is nice and comfortable.

However, mornings and evenings still can be cold as it is an extremely high altitude region. The average temperaturerange during the day is about 20–30°C (68-86°F).
Due to this, we run tours only from May to September.

Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.

Get weather information.

Tour Company Background: Khana-badosh India: Guided

Khana-badosh, meaning a nomad or a gypsy, offers a wide selection of cycling and walking holidays in India, Nepal and Bhutan for people of all ages and ability. Indeed, the word truly reflects the people behind this venture, who share an intense spirit of travel and passion for outdoors.

Managed by a team of travel professionals (with a collective experience of decades in organising outdoor travel related services), Khana-badosh has own offices in North and South India as well as a vast network of associate offices in over 30 cities of India.

We have our own cycling infrastructure with trips to all parts of the country and our cycling expedition leaders are immensely experienced. We take pride in our experienced and multi-talented support staff and mechanics who accompany the groups in support vehicles and are always nearby to offer a lift, refreshments or any other assistance.

We provide local assistance at almost all cities of India through our network of associate offices.    Local guides and naturalists are used for local sightseeing and wildlife viewing so that you can experience and learn from local experts.
Our itineraries are well-researched - they take you to areas of outstanding cultural and natural beauty and offer a comfortable balance of active and leisure time.

Our priority is your comfort, safety, and enjoyment and there is no compromise on that. We charge reasonable prices for quality trips. The hotels we use in major cities are some of the best while in smaller places the hotels we use are THE best available. We know them all personally and have worked with them for numerous years.

Tour Company Background: Khana-badosh India: Self-guided

Khana-badosh, meaning a nomad or a gypsy, offers a wide selection of cycling and walking holidays in India, Nepal and Bhutan for people of all ages and ability. Indeed, the word truly reflects the people behind this venture, who share an intense spirit of travel and passion for outdoors.

Managed by a team of travel professionals (with a collective experience of decades in organising outdoor travel related services), Khana-badosh has own offices in North and South India as well as a vast network of associate offices in over 30 cities of India.

We have our own cycling infrastructure with trips to all parts of the country and our cycling expedition leaders are immensely experienced. We take pride in our experienced and multi-talented support staff and mechanics who accompany the groups in support vehicles and are always nearby to offer a lift, refreshments or any other assistance.

We provide local assistance at almost all cities of India through our network of associate offices.    Local guides and naturalists are used for local sightseeing and wildlife viewing so that you can experience and learn from local experts.
Our itineraries are well-researched - they take you to areas of outstanding cultural and natural beauty and offer a comfortable balance of active and leisure time.

Our priority is your comfort, safety, and enjoyment and there is no compromise on that. We charge reasonable prices for quality trips. The hotels we use in major cities are some of the best while in smaller places the hotels we use are THE best available. We know them all personally and have worked with them for numerous years.

Terms and Conditions: Khana-badosh India: Guided

Terms & Conditions

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• We reserve the right to make route and accommodation modifications if the situation demands.
• In case we cancel a trip, all payments received will be fully refunded.
• We are not responsible for expenses incurred due to due to travel delays, flight cancellation or illness.
• If you need to postpone your departure to the next group, you can request us for the same. Previous tour cancellation charges, if applicable as mentioned above, will be advised to you.
• We reserve the right to remove any member of the group during the trip if we feel that person’s conduct or fitness is not compatible with other trip members. 

• We are not liable for bodily injury or property damage as a result of physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, car or bicycle.

 Payment and Cancellation Terms

• We will require 25% of the total cost at the time of booking. The balance 75% will have to be paid 60 days before the start of the tour.
•  If the tour is cancelled 61 days or more before the start of the tour then 25% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
• If the tour is cancelled within 60-31 Day of the start of the tour then 40% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 30-16 Day of the start of the tour then 60% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 15-6 Day of the start of the tour then 75% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 5 Days of the start of the tour then 90% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges    
• This cancellation policy is applicable with no exceptions including medical and natural emergencies.

Terms and Conditions: Khana-badosh India: Self-guided

Terms & Conditions

• There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early.
• We reserve the right to make route and accommodation modifications if the situation demands.
• In case we cancel a trip, all payments received will be fully refunded.
• We are not responsible for expenses incurred due to due to travel delays, flight cancellation or illness.
• If you need to postpone your departure to the next group, you can request us for the same. Previous tour cancellation charges, if applicable as mentioned above, will be advised to you.
• We reserve the right to remove any member of the group during the trip if we feel that person’s conduct or fitness is not compatible with other trip members. 

• We are not liable for bodily injury or property damage as a result of physical exertion for which a guest is not prepared; forces of nature; travel by plane, train, car or bicycle.

 Payment and Cancellation Terms

• We will require 25% of the total cost at the time of booking. The balance 75% will have to be paid 60 days before the start of the tour.
•  If the tour is cancelled 61 days or more before the start of the tour then 25% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
• If the tour is cancelled within 60-31 Day of the start of the tour then 40% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 30-16 Day of the start of the tour then 60% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 15-6 Day of the start of the tour then 75% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges
•  If the tour is cancelled within 5 Days of the start of the tour then 90% of the total tour cost will be charged as Cancellation Charges    
• This cancellation policy is applicable with no exceptions including medical and natural emergencies.