Manali, India

The Himalayan Crossing: 470km High-Altitude Cycling Expedition

Overview

Distance

125km

Duration

15 Days

Max Group Size

15 People

Accommodation

Hotels, Guesthouses, and Alpine Tents

Price

From £1,579

Food

Self-catered (can buy there)

Difficulty

●●●●●

White ball on green concrete

The Manali to Khardung La cycling tour is one of the most iconic and challenging cycling holidays in the Indian Himalayas. Designed for experienced riders, this high-altitude expedition takes cyclists across five major Himalayan passes, remote valleys and dramatic landscapes from Manali to Leh. This Manali to Khardung La cycling tour moves through the lush Kullu Valley, the rugged mountains of Lahaul and the high-altitude desert of Ladakh before reaching Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

Over 15 days, riders experience continuous altitude gain, long climbs, pristine campsites and deep cultural immersion. Ancient monasteries, Buddhist stupas, nomadic herders and mountain villages appear along the trail, making this journey a rare blend of physical endurance and Himalayan culture. The route includes Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La and Tanglang La, offering unmatched diversity in scenery and terrain.

Supported by expert guides, 4×4 backup vehicles, oxygen support, logistics assistance and nutritious meals, this Manali to Khardung La cycling tour is crafted for global cyclists seeking a bucket-list challenge in India and the Himalayas. With decades of experience, Into Wild Himalaya Expeditions ensures safety, structure and high-altitude expertise at every stage of the journey.

What is the Manali to Khardung La Cycling Tour?

Highlights:

  • 16-day high-altitude cycling adventure in the Indian Himalayas

  • Conquer Khardung La (5,359 m), one of the world’s highest mountain roads

  • Cycle through Himachal and Ladakh’s most remote and scenic valleys

  • Cross five legendary Himalayan passes including Rohtang La and Taglang La

  • Stay in cozy mountain guesthouses and beautiful high-altitude camps

  • Encounter nomadic tribes, monasteries and Himalayan Buddhist culture

  • Fully supported expedition with vehicles, crew, meals and logistics

  • Ideal for experienced cyclists seeking a once-in-a-lifetime challenge

Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 - Arrival in Delhi

Day 2 - Drive Delhi to Manali

Day 3 - MTB 1 - Acclimatisation Ride to Vashisht - 16km

Day 4 - MTB 2 – Manali to Marhi - 38km

Day 5 - MTB 3 – Marhi to Sissu - 51km

Day 6 - MTB 4 – Sissu to Jispa - 57km

Day 7 - MTB 5– Jispa to Zing Zing Bar - 36.5km

Day 8 - MTB 6 – Zing Zing Bar to Sarchu - 63.5km

Day 9 - MTB 7 – Sarchu to Whisky Nullah - 54km

Day 10 - MTB 8 – Whisky Nullah to Tso Kar Lake - 73km

Day 11 - MTB 9 – Tso Kar Lake to Lato - 61km

Day 12 - MTB 10 – Lato to Leh - 73km

Day 13 - MTB 11 – Rest Day in Leh

Day 14 - MTB 12 – Leh to Khardung La and Back - 76km

Day 15 - Departure from Leh: Domestic Fight

  • Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, and alpine tents (twin sharing)

  • All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)

  • Backup support vehicle for baggage and rider support

  • Experienced English-speaking cycling guide

  • Local support team including cook, helpers, and driver

  • Inner Line Permits and environmental fees

  • First aid medical kit with oxygen support

  • Domestic flight: Leh to Delhi (Day 15)

  • Airport transfers in Delhi and Leh

  • All road transport during the tour as per itinerary

What is Included?

What is Not Included?

  • Bicycle (available for rent via Into Wild Himalaya rental shop)

  • International airfare to/from India

  • Personal travel and medical insurance (mandatory)

  • Meals not mentioned in the itinerary

  • Alcoholic beverages and bottled drinks

  • Tips for guides, drivers, and local staff

  • Personal expenses like laundry, phone calls, and internet

  • Extra nights before/after the tour outside included dates

  • Entry fees to monuments or museums not listed

Inquire NOW for a Free In Depth Khardung La to Manali Cycling Trip Itinerary and Packing List

Simply fill out the form, and I’ll be in touch with the full details and next steps. If you'd like to talk things through or ask questions, a call can easily be arranged at any point.

Bright living room with modern inventory
Bright living room with modern inventory

Always Dreamed of Visiting one of the 7 Wonders of the World?

Extend your trip by 1 day - take a day trip to the Taj Mahal from Delhi and experience the awe of a UNESCO Heritage Site.

Built in Agra from 1631 to 1648 by Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his favourite wife, the Taj Mahal is a world-renowned masterpiece and a pinnacle of Muslim artistry in India. With 7-8 million visitors annually, it's definitely something you need to witness at least once in your lifetime.

Taj Mahal India
Taj Mahal India