Discover the himalayas

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ARRIVAL DAY – AMRITSAR, GOLDEN TEMPLE

Welcome to India! What better place to arrive than the cultural hub of Amritsar. This small city is just 28km (17.4 mi) away from India’s border with Pakistan. Here we will witness the fiery Wagah Border Retreat Ceremony which is done to formally close the borders between the two countries.

Then we will head to The Golden Temple which is the most significant shrine in Sikhism, records also show the Lord Buddha meditated at this sacred site.

DAY 2. AMRITSAR > DALHOUSIE

This is what you came for! We’re heading deep into the Himalayan mountains. First, we will conquer our first high pass called Jot. Hundreds of curves and snake runs will take us up to 2,800 m (9,186 ft).

After taking in the views we will head to Dalhousie. This town is one of the most famous hill stations in Himachal Pradesh with rolling hills, waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife.

Tonight our hotel sits at the very top of town with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains.

DAY 3. DALHOUSIE > PADDAR VIA THE CLIFFHANGER

Today is the day. This will likely be one of the craziest and most challenging days of riding in your life. First, we will climb over Saach Pass which stands at a whopping 4,880m (16,000 ft).

Our adventure doesn't stop here though, we’re off to the world-famous cliffhanger! Arguably the most dangerous road in the world, it’s one-lane track clings to the inside of a mountain without barriers.

For the dreamers, daredevils and adventure-seekers — this is going to be a day you won’t forget.

DAY 4. PADDAR > SRINAGAR (HOUSEBOATS)

Today we cruise into Srinagar, this scenery has often been compared to Switzerland with dense forests and large rivers flowing throughout the region. We will criss-cross over the beautiful Jhelum River before arriving at Dal Lake. We will be taken out on a small “Shikara” rowboat and cooked a kebab while floating on the lake. From there we will check out the floating markets where merchants sell flowers, vegetables and other goods from their Shikara’s. Tonight we will be staying in beautiful cedar-wood houseboats.

DAY 5. SRINAGAR REST DAY

Relax on the houseboat, or head out to see one of the world’s most enchanting cities. The choice is yours.

DAY 6. SRINAGAR > KARGIL

Our ride will take us through Dras which is known as the “Gateway to Ladakh” but Dras is also noted as "the second coldest inhabited place in the world" with a record temperature of -60°C (-76°F).

Luckily for us, the temperature doesn't drop below 9°C (48°F) in summer however you will see that the landscape has a lunar-like quality as we head above the treeline.

Tonight we stay in Kargil, with its large Muslim community it is likely we will hear the call for evening prayers as we arrive in this riverside city.

DAY 7. KARGIL > LEH

Another ride that goes beyond all expectations. Many high passes today will bring light to the sheer magnitude of the Himalayan region. The roads will be in good condition allowing you to enjoy the views as we cruise into Leh.

Tonight we stay in the historically and culturally significant high-desert city of Leh and for dinner, we’ll be eating at a traditional Tibetan restaurant.

DAY 8. LEH (Khardung La)

Leh is a spectacular town — it’s the perfect place to relax and explore. You can head to the Tibetan markets, visit the 17th century Leh palace, ride up the world’s highest road or visit the twelve-storey Buddhist monastery just outside of town.

If you're up for it you can also ride Khardung La, the world's highest motorable road.

DAY 9. LEH > MANALI

Today we leave the high-desert and head into the lush forests of Manali which sits at the bottom of a beautiful valley. En route we’ll climb over the world-famous Rohtang Pass, this road is one of the most breathtaking stretches of road on the entire trip.

Make sure the camera battery is charged! After that, we’ll roll into Manali which has a laid-back ski-village feel. If you didn't get a present for your loved-ones in Leh then this is the place to get a special gift.

DAY 10. MANALI > CHABOLI

The ride today will take us through lots of small towns which may seem strange after having spent a few days in the high-desert region. We’ll be heading to a small and quiet apple-farming town in the heart of Himachal Pradesh.

In a secluded opening in the forest the locals of this small town are going to treat us to traditional music, food and customs. First, we will play cricket with the kids before sitting down for a huge banquet of food, cooked right in front of us.

Afterwards, we will hear folk songs while the villagers perform their local dance in colourful Himachali clothing.

DAY 11. CHABOLI > TO DHARAMSHALA

A short ride today as we head to one of our favourite places to stay. The lodge uses traditional Himachali construction and sits right next to a crystal clear river which will be in earshot from your room.

It also has a huge firepit, the perfect place for us to have our farewell ceremony.

DAY 12. DEPARTURE DAY

Congratulations, you have just completed one of the most exciting and rewarding motorcycle trips around.