17 Passes - The Great Himalayas
Introduction
17 Passes – The Great Himalayas Motorcycle Tour – 1st to 21st September 2027
The Ultimate Himalayan Motorcycle Expedition
The 17 Passes Trans-Himalayan Trail is a 21-day expedition designed for experienced adventure riders who want to explore some of the most remote and spectacular motorcycle routes in the Indian Himalayas. Starting in Amritsar, the expedition travels deep into the Pangi Valley and Zanskar, before entering Ladakh and crossing some of the world’s highest motorable mountain passes. The route then continues through the remote Changthang Plateau and Hanle, before turning west towards the Manali–Leh highway and finally entering the dramatic landscapes of Spiti and Kinnaur. Over the course of approximately 3,000+ kilometres, riders will cross 17 major Himalayan passes, including several above 5,000 metres, while experiencing remote villages, ancient monasteries, dramatic gorges, high-altitude deserts and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Himalayas. This is not simply a motorcycle tour. It is a carefully designed Trans-Himalayan expedition, combining challenging riding, cultural encounters, remote wilderness and the camaraderie of a small group of experienced riders.
Epic Himalayan Adventure
At a glance
Wednesday, September 1, 2027
Thursday, September 2, 2027
Friday, September 3, 2027
Saturday, September 4, 2027
Sunday, September 5, 2027
Monday, September 6, 2027
Tuesday, September 7, 2027
Wednesday, September 8, 2027
Thursday, September 9, 2027
Friday, September 10, 2027
Saturday, September 11, 2027
Sunday, September 12, 2027
Monday, September 13, 2027
Tuesday, September 14, 2027
Wednesday, September 15, 2027
Thursday, September 16, 2027
Friday, September 17, 2027
Saturday, September 18, 2027
Sunday, September 19, 2027
Monday, September 20, 2027
Tuesday, September 21, 2027
Wednesday, September 1, 2027
Day 1 - Arrival in Amritsar and Expedition Briefing
Arrive in Amritsar, Meet Team, Golden Temple Visit
Arrival in Amritsar
Arrive in Amritsar, the gateway to the expedition, and settle into the hotel. Today is dedicated to meeting your fellow riders and the Roaming Horizons team, completing the necessary formalities and getting familiar with your Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle. Depending on arrival times, there will be an opportunity to visit the magnificent Golden Temple and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city. In the evening, we will conduct a detailed expedition briefing covering the route, riding protocols, high-altitude safety, weather conditions and support arrangements for the days ahead.
Golden Temple Visit
DateWednesday, Sep 1, 2027
Depending on arrival times, there will be an opportunity to visit the magnificent Golden Temple and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Expedition Briefing
In the evening, we will conduct a detailed expedition briefing covering the route, riding protocols, high-altitude safety, weather conditions and support arrangements for the days ahead.
Hotel in Amritsar
Check inWednesday, Sep 1, 2027
Overnight stay in Amritsar after arrival and briefing.
Dinner
DateWednesday, Sep 1, 2027
Dinner included.
Thursday, September 2, 2027
Day 2 - Amritsar to Chamba Adventure Ride
Ride from Amritsar to Chamba through Himalayan Foothills
Amritsar to Chamba - 230 Kms
Our Trans-Himalayan adventure officially begins as we leave the plains of Punjab behind and ride towards the Himalayan foothills. The landscape gradually changes from open agricultural fields to forest-covered mountains as we enter Himachal Pradesh. The route follows a combination of winding roads and scenic mountain sections, with increasingly dramatic views as we approach Chamba. This historic Himalayan town, situated on the banks of the Ravi River, provides a comfortable base for the night before we venture into the remote and rugged Pangi Valley tomorrow.
Overnight: Chamba
Check inThursday, Sep 2, 2027
This historic Himalayan town, situated on the banks of the Ravi River, provides a comfortable base for the night before we venture into the remote and rugged Pangi Valley tomorrow.
Breakfast
DateThursday, Sep 2, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateThursday, Sep 2, 2027
Dinner included.
Friday, September 3, 2027
Day 3 - Chamba to Killar Adventure Ride
Ride from Chamba to Killar via Sach Pass
Chamba to Killar - 160 Kms
Today marks the beginning of the serious Himalayan riding. We leave Chamba and climb steadily towards the spectacular Pangi Valley, crossing the legendary Sach Pass at approximately 4,420 metres. The road winds through dense forests, waterfalls, narrow mountain sections and increasingly barren high-altitude terrain before reaching the pass. From the summit, we descend towards the remote Pangi Valley, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most isolated regions. The road becomes more adventurous as we make our way towards Killar, with dramatic cliffs and deep gorges accompanying us throughout the day.
Overnight: Killar
Check inFriday, Sep 3, 2027
Overnight stay in Killar after crossing Sach Pass and riding through the remote Pangi Valley.
Breakfast
DateFriday, Sep 3, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateFriday, Sep 3, 2027
Dinner included.
Saturday, September 4, 2027
Day 4 - Killar to Jispa Adventure Ride
Ride from Killar to Jispa through Pangi Valley
Killar to Jispa - 150 Kms
Leaving Killar behind, we continue riding through the remote Pangi Valley, following the spectacular mountain roads carved along the sides of deep river gorges. The region is known for its dramatic landscapes, isolated villages and limited connectivity, making this one of the most authentic sections of the expedition. As we gradually move towards Lahaul, the vegetation becomes thinner and the landscape increasingly resembles the high-altitude desert we will encounter in Zanskar and Ladakh. We eventually reach Jispa on the banks of the Bhaga River, where we prepare for our first crossing above 5,000 metres.
Overnight: Jispa
Check inSaturday, Sep 4, 2027
Overnight stay in Jispa after riding through the remote Pangi Valley.
Breakfast
DateSaturday, Sep 4, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSaturday, Sep 4, 2027
Dinner included.
Sunday, September 5, 2027
Day 5 - Jispa to Padum Adventure Ride
Ride from Jispa to Padum via Shinku La
Jispa to Padum - 175 Kms
One of the defining days of the expedition takes us from Lahaul into the remote kingdom of Zanskar. We leave Jispa early and climb towards Shinku La, standing at approximately 5,091 metres, one of the highest passes on our journey. Beyond the pass, the landscape changes dramatically as we descend into the Zanskar Valley, passing remote settlements, dramatic cliffs and high mountain rivers. The route takes us through Kargyak and Purne before continuing towards Padum. Along the way, the spectacular sacred mountain Gombo Rangjon rises dramatically from the valley, providing one of the most memorable sights of the expedition.
Overnight: Padum
Check inSunday, Sep 5, 2027
Overnight stay in Padum after riding from Jispa via Shinku La.
Breakfast
DateSunday, Sep 5, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSunday, Sep 5, 2027
Dinner included.
Monday, September 6, 2027
Day 6 - Padum to Lamayuru Adventure Ride
Ride from Padum to Lamayuru via Sirsir La and Singe La
Padum to Lamayuru - 180 Kms
Today is another spectacular high-altitude riding day as we leave Padum and cross deep into the remote Zanskar landscape. The route climbs towards Sirsir La, followed by the impressive Singe La at around 5,050 metres. The journey takes us through remote valleys, rugged mountain formations and isolated settlements rarely visited by conventional tourists. After crossing the high passes, we gradually approach the famous Moonland landscapes surrounding Lamayuru, where the geology changes dramatically into barren, sculpted mountains. We spend the night in Lamayuru, ready to enter Ladakh the following morning.
Overnight: Lamayuru
Check inMonday, Sep 6, 2027
Overnight stay in Lamayuru after riding from Padum via Sirsir La and Singe La.
Breakfast
DateMonday, Sep 6, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateMonday, Sep 6, 2027
Dinner included.
Tuesday, September 7, 2027
Day 7 - Lamayuru to Leh Adventure Ride
Ride from Lamayuru to Leh via Fotu La
Lamayuru to Leh - 150 Kms
We leave the extraordinary landscapes of Lamayuru and ride towards Leh along one of Ladakh’s classic mountain roads. The route takes us across Fotu La at approximately 4,108 metres, the highest point on the Srinagar–Leh highway, before descending through spectacular mountain scenery towards the Indus Valley. Along the way, we pass traditional Ladakhi villages, monasteries and dramatic rock formations before eventually reaching Leh. After several demanding days in Pangi and Zanskar, arriving in Leh gives us the opportunity to relax, enjoy a comfortable evening and prepare for the high-altitude riding ahead.
Overnight: Leh
Check inTuesday, Sep 7, 2027
Overnight stay in Leh after riding from Lamayuru via Fotu La.
Breakfast
DateTuesday, Sep 7, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateTuesday, Sep 7, 2027
Dinner included.
Wednesday, September 8, 2027
Day 8 - Rest & Acclimatisation in Leh
Rest and Acclimatisation Day in Leh
Rest & Acclimatisation in Leh
Today is a much-needed rest and acclimatisation day in Leh. With the expedition now operating at high altitude, this break allows the body to adjust before we venture towards Nubra, Pangong and the remote Changthang Plateau. Riders can explore Leh’s colourful markets, visit Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa, or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings. Meanwhile, our support team will conduct a detailed inspection of all motorcycles, checking tyres, brakes, chains, fluids and other essential components before the next stage of the expedition.
Overnight: Leh
Check inWednesday, Sep 8, 2027
Overnight stay in Leh during the rest and acclimatisation day.
Breakfast
DateWednesday, Sep 8, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateWednesday, Sep 8, 2027
Dinner included.
Thursday, September 9, 2027
Day 9 - Leh to Hunder Nubra Valley Adventure
Ride from Leh to Hunder via Khardung La
Leh to Hunder - 145 Kms
Today we head north from Leh towards the spectacular Nubra Valley, crossing one of the most famous high-altitude roads in the Himalayas: Khardung La at approximately 5,350 metres. The climb towards the pass offers spectacular views across the surrounding mountains before a dramatic descent into Nubra. The landscape changes from barren high-altitude mountains to a surprisingly green valley fed by the Shyok and Nubra rivers. We continue towards Hunder, famous for its sand dunes and Bactrian camels, where we spend the night surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Karakoram and Ladakh ranges.
Overnight: Hunder
Check inThursday, Sep 9, 2027
Overnight stay in Hunder after riding from Leh via Khardung La.
Breakfast
DateThursday, Sep 9, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateThursday, Sep 9, 2027
Dinner included.
Friday, September 10, 2027
Day 10 - Hunder to Pangong / Merak Adventure Ride
Ride from Hunder to Pangong via Wari La
Hunder to Pangong / Merak - 260 Kms
One of the longest and most spectacular days of the expedition takes us from Nubra towards the legendary Pangong Lake without returning to Leh. We cross the remote Wari La at approximately 5,300 metres, followed by the famous Chang La, before continuing across the vast high-altitude landscape towards Pangong. The scenery changes constantly as we cross remote valleys and enormous mountain plateaus. By late afternoon, the brilliant blue waters of Pangong Lake come into view, and we continue along its eastern shores towards Merak, where we spend the night beside one of the Himalayas’ most spectacular lakes.
Overnight: Merak
Check inFriday, Sep 10, 2027
Overnight stay in Merak after riding from Hunder via Wari La and Chang La.
Breakfast
DateFriday, Sep 10, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateFriday, Sep 10, 2027
Dinner included.
Saturday, September 11, 2027
Day 11 - Merak to Hanle Adventure Ride
Ride from Merak to Hanle via Tsaga La
Merak to Hanle - 160 Kms
We leave the shores of Pangong and enter the remote Changthang Plateau, one of the least populated regions of the Indian Himalayas. The route takes us through vast open plains, dramatic mountains and isolated settlements as we head towards Hanle. Along the way, we cross Tsaga La, adding another high mountain pass to our expedition. The landscape here feels completely different from the busy Ladakh circuit, with very few vehicles and an extraordinary sense of wilderness. We eventually reach Hanle, a remote village famous for its observatory and exceptionally clear night skies.
Overnight: Hanle
Check inSaturday, Sep 11, 2027
Overnight stay in Hanle after riding from Merak via Tsaga La.
Breakfast
DateSaturday, Sep 11, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSaturday, Sep 11, 2027
Dinner included.
Sunday, September 12, 2027
Day 12 - Hanle to Umling La to Hanle
Ride to Umling La and Return to Hanle
Hanle to Umling La to Hanle - 160 Kms
Today is the hero day of the Trans-Himalayan Trail as we ride towards the legendary Umling La, approximately 5,799 metres above sea level. The journey takes us through some of the most remote and barren landscapes of the Himalayas, with vast mountains and high-altitude valleys stretching towards the horizon. Along the route, we cross Photi La (5,032 m) and Nurbula Pass (5,200 m) before making our way towards the ultimate milestone — Umling La (~5,799 m), one of the world’s highest motorable roads.
Overnight: Hanle
Check inSunday, Sep 12, 2027
Overnight stay in Hanle after riding to Umling La and back.
Breakfast
DateSunday, Sep 12, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSunday, Sep 12, 2027
Dinner included.
Monday, September 13, 2027
Day 13 - Hanle to Leh Return Ride
Ride from Hanle to Leh Across Changthang
Hanle to Leh - 250 Kms
After our demanding Umling La expedition, we begin the long ride back towards Leh. The route takes us once again through the vast landscapes of Changthang, with opportunities to stop for photographs and enjoy the remote scenery. This is primarily a transition day, allowing the group to return to the comfort of Leh and prepare for the next major stage of the expedition. By evening, riders can relax, enjoy a good meal and prepare their motorcycles and riding gear for the challenging journey across the Manali–Leh highway and into Spiti Valley.
Overnight: Leh
Check inMonday, Sep 13, 2027
Overnight stay in Leh after riding from Hanle.
Breakfast
DateMonday, Sep 13, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateMonday, Sep 13, 2027
Dinner included.
Tuesday, September 14, 2027
Day 14 - Rest Day in Leh
Rest and Preparation Day in Leh
Rest Day in Leh
A second rest and preparation day in Leh gives everyone an opportunity to recover before the long ride towards Lahaul and Spiti. Our mechanics will carry out another complete inspection of the motorcycles, while riders can explore Leh, visit local monasteries or simply relax. This is also an opportunity to check riding equipment, luggage and personal supplies before the expedition moves into another remote section where support facilities become increasingly limited. In the evening, we will conduct a briefing for the following day’s long and demanding ride.
Overnight: Leh
Check inTuesday, Sep 14, 2027
Overnight stay in Leh during the rest and preparation day.
Breakfast
DateTuesday, Sep 14, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateTuesday, Sep 14, 2027
Dinner included.
Wednesday, September 15, 2027
Day 15 - Leh to Sissu via Four High Passes
Epic Ride from Leh to Sissu Across Taglang La, Nakee La, Lachulung La & Baralacha La
Leh to Sissu - 385 Kms
This is one of the biggest riding days of the entire expedition as we cross from Ladakh into Lahaul. The route takes us across the vast More Plains before climbing over Taglang La at approximately 5,328 metres, followed by Nakee La, Lachulung La at around 5,059 metres and Baralacha La at approximately 4,890 metres. The landscape changes constantly throughout the day, from high-altitude desert to enormous mountain valleys and glacial terrain. After crossing the final pass, we descend towards the greener landscapes of Lahaul and eventually reach Sissu in the beautiful Chandra Valley.
Overnight: Sissu
Check inWednesday, Sep 15, 2027
Overnight stay in Sissu after riding from Leh across Taglang La, Nakee La, Lachulung La and Baralacha La.
Breakfast
DateWednesday, Sep 15, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateWednesday, Sep 15, 2027
Dinner included.
Thursday, September 16, 2027
Day 16 - Sissu to Kaza Adventure Ride
Ride from Sissu to Kaza via Kunzum La
Sissu to Kaza - 160 Kms
Leaving Sissu, we continue towards the remote and spectacular Spiti Valley. The road follows the Chandra River before climbing towards Kunzum La at approximately 4,550 metres, the gateway between Lahaul and Spiti. From the summit, the landscape opens into the enormous high-altitude desert of Spiti, surrounded by rugged mountains and ancient Buddhist settlements. We descend towards Losar and continue through the dramatic Spiti Valley before reaching Kaza, where we settle in for the night after another memorable day of Himalayan riding.
Overnight: Kaza
Check inThursday, Sep 16, 2027
Overnight stay in Kaza after riding from Sissu via Kunzum La.
Breakfast
DateThursday, Sep 16, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateThursday, Sep 16, 2027
Dinner included.
Friday, September 17, 2027
Day 17 - Explore Kaza and Spiti Highlights
Discover Kaza, Key Monastery, and Spiti Villages
Explore Kaza & Spiti - ~70 Kms
Today we slow the pace and explore the incredible cultural and natural highlights around Kaza. Depending on local road conditions, the day’s ride can include Key Monastery, Kibber, Chicham Bridge, Langza, Hikkim and Komic, some of the highest inhabited villages in the world. The landscape around Spiti is unlike anywhere else on the expedition, with barren cliffs, ancient monasteries and traditional stone villages scattered across the valley. The evening is free to enjoy Kaza and reflect on the extraordinary journey so far.
Overnight: Kaza
Check inFriday, Sep 17, 2027
Overnight stay in Kaza after exploring the cultural and natural highlights around Kaza and Spiti.
Breakfast
DateFriday, Sep 17, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateFriday, Sep 17, 2027
Dinner included.
Saturday, September 18, 2027
Day 18 - Kaza to Sangla Journey through Kinnaur
Ride from Kaza to Sangla through Changing Landscapes
Kaza to Sangla - 235 Kms
We leave Kaza and begin our journey towards Kinnaur, gradually transitioning from the stark high-altitude desert of Spiti to greener Himalayan valleys. The road follows the Spiti River and eventually connects with the Sutlej region, passing through traditional villages and dramatic mountain landscapes along the way. As we descend to lower elevations, vegetation and forests gradually return to the landscape. By the time we reach Sangla, the scenery has changed completely, with pine forests, apple orchards and towering Himalayan peaks surrounding the beautiful Baspa Valley.
Overnight: Sangla
Check inSaturday, Sep 18, 2027
Overnight stay in Sangla after riding from Kaza through changing landscapes.
Breakfast
DateSaturday, Sep 18, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSaturday, Sep 18, 2027
Dinner included.
Sunday, September 19, 2027
Day 19 - Sangla to Narkanda Journey through Forested Himalayas
Ride from Sangla to Narkanda through Green Valleys
Sangla to Narkanda - 175 Kms
Today’s ride takes us deeper into the green and forested landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. Leaving Sangla, we follow winding mountain roads through Kinnaur, passing traditional villages, terraced fields and apple-growing regions. After many days spent in the barren high-altitude landscapes of Ladakh and Spiti, the forests and cooler climate provide a refreshing contrast. We continue towards Narkanda, a peaceful Himalayan hill station surrounded by cedar and pine forests, where we spend our final night in the mountains.
Overnight: Narkanda
Check inSunday, Sep 19, 2027
Overnight stay in Narkanda after riding from Sangla through forested Himalayan landscapes.
Breakfast
DateSunday, Sep 19, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateSunday, Sep 19, 2027
Dinner included.
Monday, September 20, 2027
Day 20 - Narkanda to Chandigarh
Final Ride from Narkanda to Chandigarh
Narkanda to Chandigarh - 175 Kms
Our final riding day begins as we leave the Himalayan forests around Narkanda and gradually descend towards the plains. The roads become wider and the altitude decreases as we make our way towards Chandigarh. This final section gives riders time to reflect on the extraordinary journey — from the remote Pangi Valley and Zanskar to the high passes of Ladakh, the vast Changthang Plateau, Umling La and the dramatic landscapes of Spiti. We arrive in Chandigarh by afternoon or evening, followed by a final group dinner to celebrate completing the 17 Passes Trans-Himalayan Trail.
Overnight: Chandigarh
Check inMonday, Sep 20, 2027
Overnight stay in Chandigarh after riding from Narkanda.
Breakfast
DateMonday, Sep 20, 2027
Breakfast included.
Dinner
DateMonday, Sep 20, 2027
Dinner included.
Tuesday, September 21, 2027
Day 21 - Departure from Chandigarh
Farewell and Departure from Chandigarh
Departure from Chandigarh
After breakfast, the expedition officially comes to an end. Depending on individual flight schedules, transfers can be arranged to Chandigarh Airport or onward travel. After 21 days of riding across some of India’s most remote and spectacular Himalayan landscapes, riders depart with memories of 17 legendary mountain passes, remote valleys, ancient cultures, challenging roads and the camaraderie of an unforgettable Trans-Himalayan adventure.
Breakfast
DateTuesday, Sep 21, 2027
Breakfast included.
Inclusions & Exclusions
