Ride from the Indus Valley into the heart of Zanskar via the spectacular Suru Valley. This 3-day motorcycle adventure traverses the moonscapes of Lamayuru and offers front-row views of the massive Drang Drung Glacier. Experience the raw isolation of Rangdum and the ancient monastic culture of Padum on this trans-Himalayan odyssey. The Nimmu-Padum-Darcha road is an alternative route. Note that the Manali-Leh highway, which connects to the Zanskar valley route, is typically closed from late November to late May or early June due to heavy snowfall. The Srinagar-Leh highway is expected to open between late March and mid-April. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens to visit restricted areas beyond Leh. Foreign travelers need a Protected Area Permit (PAP). Check conditions before travel.
Fuel up at the Indian Oil pump near Leh airport. Head west on NH1 towards Srinagar.
0 km
Stop at the famous Moonland viewpoint for photos. Optional quick visit to the 11th-century monastery. Have brunch at a roadside cafe in Lamayuru village.
115 km
Witness the giant 9-meter tall rock-cut Maitreya Buddha statue right next to the highway. A quick 20-minute cultural pitstop.
175 km
Check into Hotel The Kargil or Zojila Residency. Refuel your bike completely here—this is the LAST petrol pump for the next 240km.
217 km
Depart early to tackle rough roads. Ride through the lush Suru Valley passing Sankoo and Panikhar with views of Nun and Kun peaks.
0 km
A remote monastery on a hillock. Stop for a basic lunch (Maggi/Thukpa) at the small dhaba near the checkpost. The road turns to dirt/gravel here.
130 km
Ascend Pensi La pass (4,400m). Witness the majestic Drang Drung Glacier—the second largest in Ladakh. The view is right from the roadside.
160 km
Descend into Zanskar Valley. Roads may be dusty. Check into a homestay or Hotel Zanskar Kitchen. Dinner at the main market.
230 km
Ride 10km to Karsha, the largest monastery in Zanskar. Offers panoramic views of the entire Padum valley.
10 km
Visit Sani, home to the Kanika Stupa. A peaceful spot with a small holy lake and ancient poplars.
25 km
Return to Padum for authentic local food. Try the cheese momos or Thukpa at Zanskar Kitchen.
40 km
Check the Indian Oil filling station in Padum (operational in summers). Rest early for the return journey or onward ride to Shinku La.
60 km
