Ride the new trans-Himalayan axis connecting Zanskar to Lahaul via the towering 16,580 ft Shinku La Pass. This adventurous solo route features a trek to the secluded Phugtal Cave Monastery and camping beneath the holy Gonbo Rangjon peak. It is a raw off-road experience transitioning from the arid Zanskar gorges to the green Bhaga valley. Expect ongoing road widening and blacktopping by the BRO. The Shinku La Tunnel project is 50% complete, with the Darcha-to-Shinku La approach road over 90% complete and the Padum-to-Shinku La approach road 50% complete, still expected to be completed by August 2028. Note: The Darcha to Shinkula Road reopened on May 10, 2026, but a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to slippery surfaces and potential fresh snowfall. As of May 27, 2026, a landslide advisory is in effect for NH-03 near Mooling Bridge and Jahlama Bridge on the SKTT road in Lahaul-Spiti due to continuous rockfall and landslide activity. Heavy snowfall has closed 1,291 roads across Himachal Pradesh as of May 31, 2026, and a yellow alert for heavy rainfall is in effect for Himachal Pradesh until September 7, 2026, with light rain/snow likely in high hills from May 28 to June 3, 2026. Shinku La Pass and the Darcha-Padum road are subject to seasonal closures and may be inaccessible for bikes during early spring (March-April) due to heavy snow and hazardous conditions.
Fill up at the IOCL pump in Padum - this is the LAST fuel station for 190km. Head south towards Lungnak Valley.
0 km
Quick photo stop at this 17th-century monastery perched on a riverside cliff. The road is dusty and unpaved here.
12 km
Reach Purne bridge. Check into a homestay/camp, leave heavy luggage, and start the trek to Phugtal Monastery immediately.
60 km
Explore the spectacular cave monastery. Interact with monks. Modest food available at the monastery kitchen.
60 km
Return trek to Purne. Dinner at the homestay. Prepare for cold night.
60 km
Cross the bridge and ride towards Kurgiakh. The road is rough with potential water crossings.
0 km
Arrive at the base of the holy 'God's Mountain'. Iconic photo spot. The solitary peak towers over the valley.
30 km
Summit the pass at 16,580 ft. It can be windy and snowy. The descent towards Himachal is paved and smooth. Note: The Darcha to Shinkula Road is currently open, but conditions are challenging.
55 km
Register entry at the police check post. You are now on the main Manali-Leh highway.
93 km
Ride along the Bhaga river to reach Jispa. Check into a riverside camp or hotel like Padma Lodge.
100 km
