Srinagar-Leh Cycling Expedition

Tour Overview

The Srinagar Leh cycling route is a challenging yet immensely rewarding journey that spans approximately 434 kilometers (270 miles) through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in the world. Starting from the beautiful city of Srinagar, known for its serene lakes and Mughal gardens, cyclists will gradually ascend into the rugged and mountainous terrain of the Himalayas.

As you pedal through this rugged terrain, you’ll pass through several high-altitude mountain passes, including the famous Zoji La Pass, which stands at an elevation of 3,528 meters (11,575 feet) above sea level. This pass serves as the gateway to the Ladakh region and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The route then takes you through the remote and sparsely populated region of Ladakh, where you’ll encounter traditional Tibetan Buddhist culture and architecture. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit ancient monasteries such as the Thiksey Monastery and the Hemis Monastery, which are steeped in history and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

One of the highlights of the Srinagar Leh cycling expedition is the chance to cross the mighty Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable passes in the world at an elevation of 5,359 meters (17,582 feet) above sea level. This challenging ascent offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Overall, the Srinagar Leh cycling route is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and physical challenge. It’s an experience that will test your limits, push you to new heights, and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Please Note: Road bikes are not allowed for this expedition.

Itinerary

DAY 1 - Arrive in Srinagar | Altitude: 1585 mts | Hotel Stay

Stay: 3 Star property or above

Day 1 is all about getting to know your fellow riders and gearing up for the journey ahead.
After reaching Hotel, you can take some time to rest before gathering for a delicious lunch.
Post Lunch, we will head out for a short orientation/acclimatization ride.
In the evening, enjoy a refreshing HI-Tea followed by a briefing by the Dare2Gear team to provide important information and tips for the upcoming eight-day cycling expedition.
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner before retiring early to ensure our bodies are well-rested and prepared for the journey ahead.

DAY 2 - Srinagar to Sonamarg | 50 km

Stay: Hotel Thajwass Glacier, Sonamarg | Cycling: 50km | Altitude: 2,800 mts

We will start our first day of cycling by waking up early and enjoying some fresh air.
Get Ready and have a healthy & delicious morning breakfast.
We will be starting our today’s ride from the hotel itself. Hop on your bikes and get ready to begin this memorable cycling expedition.
The landscape along the way will make you feel like it was designed specifically for adventurous cyclists.
We will ride through the scenic countryside, passing by lush green meadows and mountains.
Enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Upon reaching the hotel in Sonamarg, you can check-in, freshen up and relax after a day of cycling.
Gather with your fellow riders for a refreshing HI-Tea, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and sharing stories from the day’s ride.
Conclude your day with a satisfying dinner, give yourself and your cycles some rest and get ready for the adventures of the next day.

DAY 3 - Sonamarg to Dras, Ladakh | 70 km

Stay: Tololing Eco Resort,Dras, Ladakh | Cycling: 70km | Altitude: 3,280 mts

Begin the day with a healthy and delicious breakfast to fuel your journey.
Today, we will be riding towards Dras, crossing the famous Zoji La Pass.
Zoji La Pass is located at an altitude of approximately 3,528 meters and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The ascent to Zoji La Pass will be little challenging due to rugged terrain, so we will take breaks and stay hydrated.
Descend from Zoji La Pass into the Dras Valley, enjoying the scenic beauty along the way.
Arrive in Dras by late afternoon, known as the “Gateway to Ladakh.”
Upon reaching the hotel, freshen up, relax and gather with your fellow riders for a refreshing HI-Tea.
Conclude your day with a satisfying dinner, give yourself and your cycles some rest and get ready for the adventures of the next day.

Note: Cycling through Zoji La Pass can be challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. It’s important to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and listen to your body. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Ladakh during your cycling expedition.

DAY 4 - Dras to Kargil | 54 km

Stay: Hotel kargil heights, Kargil, Ladakh | Cycling: 54 km | Altitude: 2,676 meters

Begin the day with a healthy and delicious breakfast to fuel your journey.
Begin your cycling journey towards Kargil, enjoying the picturesque landscapes of Ladakh.
Pass through the beautiful villages of the Dras Valley, interacting with the locals and experiencing their hospitality.
Visit the Kargil War Memorial, located in the town of Dras, and pay tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War.
Continue cycling towards Kargil, passing through stunning valleys and rugged terrain.
Arrive in Kargil by late afternoon, known for its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Upon arrival at the hotel, freshen up and gather for HI-Tea with fellow riders.
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner, giving yourself and your cycles some rest for the next day’s adventures.

Note: Cycling from Dras to Kargil offers a mix of challenging terrain and breathtaking landscapes. It’s important to stay hydrated, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the journey at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the local culture and history of the region for a truly memorable experience.

DAY 5 - Kargil to Dah | 73 km

Stay: Aryan Valley Camp, Dah, Ladakh | Cycling: 73 km | Altitude 3,250 Meters

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Kargil.
Begin your cycling journey towards Dah, passing through the stunning landscapes of Ladakh.
Cycle through remote villages and enjoy the rugged beauty of the region.
Pass by the beautiful Suru River, offering stunning views along the way.
Arrive in Dah by late afternoon, a small town known for its scenic beauty and warm hospitality.
Upon reaching hotel, freshen up and gather for a relaxing HI-Tea, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Conclude your day with a hearty dinner, reflecting on the day’s journey and preparing for the adventures ahead.

Note: Cycling from Kargil to Dah offers a mix of challenging terrain and stunning landscapes. Dah is a hidden gem in Ladakh, offering a peaceful environment and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

DAY 6 - Dah to Nurla | 76 km

Stay: Faryork Resort, Nurla, Ladakh | Cycling: 76 Km | Altitude 3250 Meters

Start your day with an early breakfast and gear up for today’s ride.
Begin your cycling journey towards Nurla, passing through the scenic landscapes of Ladakh.
Enjoy the views of the Indus River as you ride towards Nurla.
Pass by picturesque villages and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Upon arrival at the hotel, freshen up and gather for HI-Tea with fellow riders.
Conclude your day with a satisfying dinner in Tabo, reflecting on the day’s ride and preparing for the next day’s adventures

Note: Cycling from Dah to Nurla offers a mix of challenging terrain and beautiful landscapes. Nurla is a charming village in Ladakh, offering a tranquil environment and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the local culture and hospitality of the region for a truly memorable experience.

DAY 7 - Nurla To Leh | 82 km

Stay: Ladakh Himalayan Retreat, Leh, Ladakh | Cycling: 82 km | Altitude: 3,500

Begin the day with a healthy and delicious breakfast to fuel your journey..
Begin your cycling journey towards Leh, the capital of Ladakh.
Enjoy the scenic landscapes of Ladakh as you ride towards Leh.
Visit the Magnetic Hill, a natural wonder where cars appear to defy gravity.Explore the Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, a beautiful Sikh shrine located along the way.
Visit the Hall of Fame, a museum dedicated to the Indian Army’s role in Ladakh.
Arrive in Leh by late afternoon, a bustling town known for its Tibetan Buddhist culture and architecture.
Upon arrival at the hotel, freshen up and gather for HI-Tea with fellow riders.
Conclude the day with a satisfying dinner, giving yourself and your cycles some rest for the next day’s adventures.

Note: Cycling from Nurla to Leh offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Leh is a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage, offering a unique blend of Tibetan and Ladakhi cultures. Explore the local markets, monasteries, and sights to immerse yourself in the local culture and history.

DAY 8 - Leh to Khardungla | Local Sight Seeing | 80 km

Stay: Ladakh Himalayan Retreat | Cycling: 80km | Altitude 5360 Meters

On the basis of our last 7 years of experience, we have seen the riders feel content when they reach Leh. So they prefer to go local sightseeing than attempt to climb to khardungla.

Riders who wish to climb they will leave early morning at 6 am for the Khardungla pass, the world’s highest mountain pass.
Breakfast will be packed from the hotel, and we will eat en route.
We cycle through the scenic valley on the world’s second-highest motorable road to the top of this journey with a sense of achievement that has no parallel.
Celebrate this moment of pride and success with your bike and your fellow riders.
Ride back to our hotel in Leh for the dinner celebration and to celebrate the completion of the tour.

Riders who go sightseeing for you taxi shall come to the hotel to pick you up and make you explore Magnetic Hill, Monastery, and the confluence of rivers where you can do adventure sports activities if you wish too. The lunch or any other adventure activity expense during the travel is of the rider himself or herself. Drive back to our hotel in Leh for the dinner celebration and to celebrate the completion of the tour.

DAY 9 - Return Journey

Today’s morning post-breakfast, you are free to plan your return.
Participants can take a flight and return to their homes or they stay there to roam in and around Leh.
The call is completely yours, in case you need any assistance in planning, we are here to help you out.

Inclusions

Exclusions

Add On(s)

Cycle On Rent – 10,500

People who don’t want to carry their own cycle, or have with them road or city bikes only. For them this is the best option to go for a hassle free extended services from Dare2gear. Can drop cycles at Leh itself no additional cost of cycle transportation.

Passenger Transportation From Delhi to Srinagar - 2500

As Delhi is the central hub for all flights, so if you plan to join us from Delhi we will make your bookings in same Volvo bus where you get opportunity to travel together with co riders from Delhi itself.

Cycle Transportation from Delhi to Srinagar - 3000

You have to drop your cycles at Noida, if you are not staying in Noida or around once you book the tour as per your location in INDIA we will coordinate the pickup from your city as well with revised cost form your city.

Cycle Transportation from Leh to Delhi - 3500

All cycles as dropped in leh will be shipped back to Noida, if you are not from Noida or around once you book the tour as per your location in INDIA we will coordinate the drop to your city as well with revised cost to your city.

Single Stay – 24499

Some participants look for a single stay and don’t want to share the rooms as their personal comfort choice, to meet their requirement this service is being offered by default tour is designed keeping stay on double sharing.

Gallery

FAQ?

What Things do I need to Carry?

Packing Checklist:
Cycling & Regular Clothing
7 Jerseys
3 padded Shorts
3 Full Length padded pants
Arm Warmer Sleeves
Leg Warmer Sleeves
Head Cap
Warm Bandana
3 pairs of night suits
2 Thermal top & bottom Pairs
6 Pair of cotton socks
2 pair of Warm Socks
Shoe rain cover
2 Jeans
4 T-shirts
Under Garments
1 Warm Jacket (Duck feather preferred)
2 pair of sports Shoes / cycling shoes
Slippers

Other Essentials:
Torch / Flashlight With Spare batteries
Power Bank
Mini Tool Kit
Personal Medicines if any
Aadhaar Card
Some Cash for your shopping or emergency situation
Neck Pillow

Personal Toiletries:
Light Weight Towel (Easy to dry)
Lip Balm
Shower Gel / Soap
Shampoo
Toothbrush
Hair oil
Wet Wipes
Toilet Paper
Hand Sanitizer
Skin Moisturisers
Vaseline / Anti chafing cream

Mandatory Items:
Helmet
Full Fingers Cycling Gloves Pair
Half Fingers Cycling Gloves Pair
Sunglasses UV protected
Front Light
Tail Light
Reflective Vest
Sipper Bottle
Wind Cheater
Rain Coat Upper & lower both
10 -15 Ltrs Backpack
60 /70 Ltrs Rucksack

How to Reach Srinagar ?

To reach Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), you have several options depending on your starting point:

By Air: Srinagar has its own airport, Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and others. You can fly directly to Srinagar from these cities.
By Road: Srinagar is connected to the rest of India by road. The National Highway 44 (NH 44) connects Srinagar to Jammu, which further connects to the rest of India. You can drive to Srinagar from cities like Jammu, Chandigarh, and Delhi.
By Rail: There is no direct train connectivity to Srinagar. The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and others. From Jammu, you can travel by road to Srinagar.
By Bus: Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) operates buses from major cities in North India to Srinagar. You can also find private buses and taxis for the journey.

Please note that the availability of these options may vary, so it’s advisable to check the current status and travel guidelines before planning your trip.

I am under 18 can I also join the ride?

Yes, you can also join the ride with the consent of your parents. You have to get a disclaimer form signed by your parents and submit it before the ride with us.

Can you share the insights about climate?

The weather in mountainous regions can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to be prepared for sudden changes. It’s a good idea to dress in layers and carry appropriate gear for both warm and cold conditions.

During the day, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in Srinagar and can drop to 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) at night. In Leh, temperatures can range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day and drop to 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) at night.

Late July is in the midst of the monsoon season, so there is a chance of rain, especially in Srinagar. Leh, however, experiences very little rainfall due to its rain shadow location.

Which type of cycles are allowed in this ride?

As this ride is designed to test your endurance and explore the mountains so MTB or Gravel bicycle is allowed. On mountains during the downhill the bike need more stability and controllability which can easily be achieved on MTB or Gravel bicycles.

Do you provide cycle on rent, if yes then which bike you provide?

Yes, we do provide cycles on Rent. We have premium brand Polygon MTB bikes available for rent.

Will medical support be also there for riders?

Yes FIRST-AID shall be provided immediately to the rider as and when needed. In case any critical emergency rider needs to visit the hospital that shall be taken care of by us. But the expense of the hospital shall be taken care of by the rider only.

If I forgot to bring any of the mandatory things you have mentioned, will I be allowed to ride?

No, without any of the mandatory things as mentioned above you are not allowed to ride. So either bring them along or can purchase from us.

Do you have to submit any medical fitness certificate for this Ride?

Yes, for our expeditions we need a self-declaration as well as a medical certificate stamped and signed by MBBS. Or a higher degree holder doctor.

What are the safety rules for this Tour?

1) It is compulsory to wear a helmet for the entire duration of the ride. Riders without a helmet will not be permitted to ride.

2) Every rider must use their own lights for riding in dark times, and bicycles must be equipped with front and rear lights attached firmly to the vehicle. Lights must be fully functional. if lights will not be working you are not allowed to ride.

3) All riders must wear a reflective vest that clearly places reflective material prominently on the front and back of the rider. If you will not be wearing reflective vests you are not allowed to ride.

4) This ride is open to any amateur cyclist regardless of his or her cycling affiliations. Riders (under the age of 18) must get a consent form signed by their parent or legal guardian

5) Each rider must be covered by liability insurance, either by a group policy or by a personal policy. 6) Our Sikh brothers – We have RELAXED THE MANDATORY HELMET RULE for Sikh Riders. But the rider must either wear a full Turban and not just a Patka.

Does tour cost cover our medical insurance also?

No, tour cost doesn’t include your medical insurance.

I have already accepted terms and conditions and I still need to fill the waiver form?

We understand at the time of registration you have accepted the terms and conditions. But there is a probability that due to a shortage of time any of the important information may get skipped to read so a hard copy of the signed document is a must.