Ride through the remote trans-Himalayan desert on this 710km bike trip covering the ultimate Ladakh Changthang Circuit. This 4-day solo motorcycle journey explores the pristine Pangong Tso, the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, and the sacred Tso Moriri lake. Ideal for experienced riders seeking extreme high-altitude thrills, best ridden May to September with a fuel budget of ₹2,100.
Begin the journey from Leh town after ensuring your Inner Line Permits are approved.
0 km
Top up your fuel tank at the Indian Oil station in Karu before the ascent.
35 km
Navigate the steep ascent to Chang La pass at 5360m. Take a brief 15-minute break to avoid AMS.
75 km
Check into a lakeside camp or homestay in Spangmik. Enjoy the evening by the shifting colors of the lake.
160 km
Ride along the southern shore of Pangong Tso towards Man and Merak.
0 km
The paved road ends. Ride on dirt tracks near the Line of Actual Control.
30 km
Stop to pay respects at the memorial for the 1962 Sino-Indian war heroes.
60 km
Present your permits to the army personnel at the Loma bend checkpost.
110 km
Check into a local homestay. Visit the Hanle Monastery and the Indian Astronomical Observatory at sunset.
160 km
Begin your backtrack towards Loma bend on the paved stretch.
0 km
Crucial stop: Refuel at the world's highest retail fuel outlet at Nyoma (13,684 ft).
75 km
Cross the Indus river at Mahe bridge and take the left turn towards Sumdo.
95 km
Ride past the small Kiagar Tso lake and arrive at Korzok village. The Ramsar wetland offers stunning views.
150 km
Start early for the longest riding day. Ride back towards Sumdo.
0 km
Navigate the extremely bumpy dirt roads over Polo Kongka La to reach the white salt shores of Tso Kar.
85 km
Merge onto the Manali-Leh highway and conquer the 5328m Tanglang La pass.
135 km
Descend into the Indus valley. Stop at Upshi for tea and snacks.
200 km
Complete the circuit by arriving back in Leh. Celebrate the completion of the Changthang circuit.
240 km
