Himalaya Expedition – 4×4 Car Tour

Your Himalaya road trip begins in Chandigarh, a modern and well-organized city at the foot of the Himalayas. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to a comfortable hotel where the 4x4s are already prepared for the adventure ahead. Use the rest of the day to relax and get ready for the upcoming drives through one of the most remote regions in the world.

Altitude: approx. 321 m (1,053 feet)

The Himalaya road expedition begins on well-maintained roads that quickly take you out of the urban environment and into the mountainous landscape of the Himalayas. You drive through dense forests and along the crystal-clear Tirthan River into the Tirthan Valley, which is considered the gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park. The mix of alpine meadows, dense oak forests and crystal-clear rivers creates a picturesque backdrop. The road offers gentle curves that give you your first impression of the impressive beauty of this region.

Distance covered: approx. 240 km
Altitude: approx. 1,600 m (5,250 feet)

Todays part of the Himalaya road trip takes you through the beautiful Kullu Valley, known for its blossoming apple orchards and traditional wooden houses. After lunch at Ragini Cottages in Naggar, the road continues to meander to higher elevations. You will drive through tight bends and switchbacks that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks before reaching Keylong. Here, amidst the pristine mountain scenery, you will find a mix of quiet roads and challenging tracks that will test your driving skills.

Distance covered: approx. 180 km
Altitude: approx. 3,080 m (10,105 feet))

A highlight of your Himalaya road trip awaits you today: the drive over the highest drivable pass in the world, the Umling La at an altitude of 5,883 meters. The roads are partly paved, partly challenging gravel roads, but the breathtaking views make up for every effort. At the top of the pass, a panoramic view opens up that seems to stretch to infinity. After crossing the pass, you drive down to the remote village of Hanle, which is famous for its clear starry skies.

Distance covered: approx. 240 km
Altitude: approx. 4,250 m (13,940 feet)

From Hanle you continue through the remote expanses of Ladakh, past the small village of Chumur. The journey to Tso Moriri, one of the most beautiful high mountain lakes in the world, is a real off-road adventure. The landscape seems almost surreal, with barren mountains and the deep blue water of the lake. The peace and untouched nature here are unique and make everyday life seem far away.

Distance covered: approx. 170 km
Altitude: approx. 4,595 m (15,075 feet)

Today the Himalaya car tour route leads back to civilization, but not without another cultural highlight: you will visit the famous Thiksey and Hemis monasteries, two of the largest and most impressive Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. The route to Leh takes you through an ever-changing landscape – from lonely valleys to lively villages. The roads are well maintained and offer you the opportunity to enjoy the majestic landscape to the fullest.

Distance covered: approx. 220 km
Altitude: approx. 3,500 m (11,483 feet)

After the exciting journeys of the last few days, Leh offers the perfect opportunity to relax. Visit the old Leh Palace, stroll through the narrow streets of the old town or simply enjoy the peace and the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. This is your day at leisure.

Today you will drive along the Indus River and visit the impressive Alchi Monastery, known for its centuries-old wall paintings. The route is pleasant to drive, with gentle curves and a wonderful view of the river. In Tingmosgang you will stay in a boutique hotel that will give you a deep insight into the culture of Ladakh.

Distance covered: approx. 150 km
Altitude: approx. 3,230 m (10,597 feet)

The road to Padum takes you into the remote and rugged Zanskar Valley. You drive through deep gorges, past steep rock faces and the roaring Zanskar River. The challenging route is an adventurer’s paradise and rewards you with a breathtaking landscape that is hard to beat in its isolation and wildness.

Distance covered: approx. 220 km
Altitude: approx. 3,657 m (12,000 feet)

The return journey to Keylong takes you through the rugged mountain landscapes again, which you now see with different eyes. The familiar route allows you to immerse yourself even more intensively in nature and the unique atmosphere.

Distance covered: approx. 240 km
Altitude: approx. 3,080 m (10,105 feet)

You leave the high alpine regions and enter the green foothills of the Himalayas. The roads are in good condition and the drive offers numerous photo opportunities. Dharamsala is known as the seat of the Dalai Lama and offers a unique cultural mix of Tibetan and Indian influences.

Distance covered: approx. 250 km
Altitude: approx. 1,475 m (4,839 feet)

Use the day to explore Dharamsala. Visit the monastery of McLeod Ganj, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism in India, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding mountains.

On the last day of driving of the guided Himalaya car tour, the route takes you back to Chandigarh. The rolling hills and green landscapes of the Himalayan foothills offer a relaxing end to your adventure. Enjoy the last few kilometers on the well-maintained roads before you reach Chandigarh.

Distance covered: approx. 250 km
Altitude: approx. 321 m (1,053 feet)

On the last day, you will be transferred to the airport, where your journey concludes. After this unique adventure, you will return home with unforgettable memories of the majestic Himalayas.