Cycle leh to manali with geoff gabites
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
trip highlights
A challenging cycle from Leh to Manali
The Kullu Valley
Buddhist Monasteries & Forts
Magnificent mountain vistas
Ancient Bhuddist culture
Trip Duration 15 days Trip Code: SOG1641
Grade Challenging
Activities Challenging cycling
Accommodation 15 day trip, 9 days cycling, 8 nights
hotels and 6 nights camping
Kia Ora from Adventure South why travel with Adventure South?
Thank you for your interest in our Cycle Leh to Manali with Geoff When planning travel to a remote and challenging destination, many
Gabites adventure. It’s a superb adventure and we hope you can join factors need to be considered.World Expeditions has been pioneering
us. Adventure South has been operating active holidays throughout trips to the Indian subcontinent since 1975. Our extra attention to detail
New Zealand since 1992. Thanks to our experience we’re confident and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will have a
to say that we offer the very best cycling, trekking and adventure memorable experience.Every trip is accompanied by an experienced
travel itineraries available in New Zealand today. local leader, as well as support staff that share a passion for the region,
and a desire to share it with you.We take every precaution to ensure
There’s simply no other collection of New Zealand itineraries that can smooth logistics, with private vehicles throughout your trip.We use
match the geographic coverage, originality and overall quality of our comfortable 3 to 4 star accommodation in hotels hand‑picked for their
active New Zealand adventure holidays. An Adventure South holiday local character and charm.In most cases, all internal transport, entrance
aims to take you beyond the more popular and busy trails to provide fees, national park fees and transfers are included in the cost of your
you with a truly unique New Zealand wilderness experience. trip.Most importantly, our adventures always aim to benefit the local
We’re here to show you that there are many, many more trails and people we interact with, safeguard the ecosystems we explore and
cycling routes in our great country that are the new frontiers in contribute to the sustainability of travel in the regions we experience.
adventure tourism ‑ beautiful, scenic, and without the crowds. We We invite you to read more on our Responsible Travel philosophy and
aim to explore these delicate environments in a sustainable manner projects later in these trip notes.
to ensure we leave as little impact as possible from our visit. We’d
be honoured to introduce you to the wide variety of natural wonders
that New Zealand is famous for. Go forth, go south ‑ join us on this
amazing small group, value packed adventure!
1 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali Leh
with geoff gabites Pakistan
Manali
Pang
Tibet
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone Chandigarh
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
Delhi
India
trip dates the trip
This challenging expedition traverses the backbone of the West Himalaya ‑ the Zanskar,
2013 17 Aug - 31 Aug Himalaya and Pir Panjal Ranges, as we cycle the high passes that link Ladakh to the Kullu
Valley. A fully supported adventure that will appeal to highly motivated cyclists keen to get
their first experience in the Himalaya. After acclimatising in Leh, including freewheeling from
trip cost the Kardung La (5602m), the world’s highest motorable road, we commence our exhilarating
Joining Delhi:NZD$3490 Trans Himalayan traverse. Over 10 days we cycle across a vast wilderness landscape on the
borderlands of Tibet, crossing passes that afford stunning vistas of snow capped ranges and
rugged gorges before descending to the verdant meadows and conifer clad forests of the
options & supplements Kullu Valley and the hill station of Manali.
For competitive airfares to Delhi and stopover ideas,contact
our expert staff today to receive a detailed quote. at a glance
Day 1 Join Delhi
Day 2 Fly to Leh
Days 3-5 Exploring in and around Leh
Day 6 Leh to Upshi drive (1-2 hours) Cycle to Taglang La Base (4 Hours)
Day 7 Cycle to Pang (6-7 hours)
Day 8 Cycle to Lingti plains Brandy Nala (8 hours)
Day 9 Cycle to Keylong Saria camp (5 hours)
Day 10 Cycle to Jespa (6 hours)
Day 11 Cycle to Gondla & Rhotang base (6-7 hours)
Day 12 Cycle to Manali (8- 9 hours)
Day 13 Drive to Chandigarh
Day 14 Train to Delhi
Day 15 Trip concludes in Delhi.
what’s included
14 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 12 dinners
flight Delhi to Leh
airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 19
expert bilingual guide
group medical kit
good quality hotel accommodation in Delhi, Manali & Leh
private transportation on road journeys
all site entrance fees as detailed
Geoff Gabites as group escort
No local payments policy: Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with
many operators. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local
economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash
handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices.
detailed itinerary
Day 1 Join Delhi
On arrival in Delhi you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your
hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the sights and sounds of this great city, where
cows walk freely through busy streets laden with rickshaws and old style cars, and sari clad ladies
with bundles of shopping balanced on their heads pass by beggars and street peddlers all the time
2 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
against a background noise of beeping horns and bicycle bells. Due to the differing times of arrival
of group members, a group briefing will not be held until tomorrow morning. Should you arrive
earlier in the day we are happy to assist with any optional sightseeing.
meals: NIL
Day 2 Fly to Leh
An early morning departure for the airport for our flight north to Leh, capital of Ladakh. On arrival
we will transfer to our hotel for a relaxing day. Leh is set at 3500 metres above sea level and you
should take it easy for the first few days in order to assist acclimatisation.
meals: B,L,D
Days 3-5 Exploring in and around Leh
We make a series of day cycle rides to some of the outlying monasteries and forts of the region. This
will include a cycle ride down the Indus Valley (80 km return) to Nimu; another day to Stok Palace
(60 km return) and a possible drive and cycle to the Khardong La (5578 metres) the highest road
pass in the world. Each night we return to the hotel which acts as our base and a place to ‘freshen
up and relax’ after our adventurous days’ out. As the trip progresses your leader will monitor the
preferences and general pace of the group and make modifications in order to make the itinerary
both challenging and enjoyable. This will obviously be influenced by prevailing weather and road
conditions and we aim to be as adaptable as possible to work around any set backs presented to us.
meals: B,L,D
Day 6 Leh to Upshi drive (1-2 hours) Cycle to Taglang La Base (4 Hours)
Today after having our breakfast we leave Leh on our adventurous and breathtaking
journey. The start is ideal as it is a nice paved road heading north-east along the Indus river and has
gentle slopes all the way to the first camp at Taglang la Base. We cross a town called Upshi which is
gateway for all the heavy traffic coming from Manali to Leh, we carry on along the Shang river to our
camp at Taglang la base.
meals: B,L,D
Day 7 Cycle to Pang (6-7 hours)
Today we gradually ascend the Tanlang La, affording breathtaking views towards western Ladakh,
the Karakoram range, and the Tanlang La (5380M) which is the second highest motor-able road
in the world. From here we enjoy an exhilarating cycle decent to the Changthang plateau and our
overnight camp at Pang.
meals: B,L,D
Day 8 Cycle to Lingti plains Brandy Nala (8 hours)
From Pang there is a gradual ascent up through the gorges in the Zanskar Range to the Lung Lacha
La (5120 metres).This is a demanding day with a steep descent to Brandy Nala (4250 metres) on the
edge of the Lingti plains.
meals: B,L,D
Day 9 Cycle to Keylong Saria camp (5 hours)
The road leads gradually up the Lingti valley for 18 km towards the Keylong Saria camp. This stage
of our ride affords fine views of the snow-capped peaks of the main Himalaya.
meals: B,L,D
Day 10 Cycle to Jespa (6 hours)
The Bara Lacha La is an important trading route that at one time formed the trading border between
the Himachal states and the west Tibetan Kingdom of Guge. The area is now populated by Gaddi
shepherds who graze their flocks of sheep and goats on these high summer pastures. The road
3 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
fast facts continues down the Bhaga River past the village of Darcha,the highest settlement in the region of
Lahaul before reaching the district headquarters at Kelong. From the pass there is a steady descent
Countries Visited: to the camp at Jespa.
India meals: B,L,D
Visas: Day 11 Cycle to Gondla & Rhotang base (6-7 hours)
Yes*
After breakfast we start our cycle to Kelong is district headquarters of Lahul, where we stop to
Vaccinations: explore the market from Kelong we descend to the village of Tandi at the confluence of the Bhaga
Please consult a travel vaccination and Chandra rivers and continue our cycle to Gondala village. We cycle up the valley crossing the
specialist for up to date information river by bridge at Grampho before ascending to the Rhotang Pass (3980 metres).
Singles: meals: B,L,D
A single supplement is available for this trip*
Day 12 Cycle to Manali (8- 9 hours)
Leader: The Rhotang Pass is the ‘road pass’ over the Pir Panjal Range. The range also blocks off much of the
Expert Local Leader & Escort monsoon rain fall. From the pass the change of vegetation becomes apparent, for to the south lies
the green alpine forests of the Kullu Valley in contrast to the stark, barren mountainside of Lahaul
and Ladakh. We complete our descent, which is quite steep in places, to the Kullu Valley. Overnight
responsible travel in Manali at our comfortable hotel with time for a hot shower and a soft bed.
meals: B,L,D
We all have a responsibility to minimise
the impact we have on the environment Day 13 Drive to Chandigarh
and communities we visit when we travel.
We drive down the Kullu Valley and across the foothills to the Indian plains, overnight in Chandigarh
Since our beginnings this has been a in a good comfortable hotel.
cornerstone of our company. The New meals: B,L,D
Zealand travel industry has become a
world leader in developing an external Day 14 Train to Delhi
audit process to identify quality, and that We take morning express Shatabdi train to Delhi, depart Chandigarh 0650 arrive Delhi 1050hrs . On
process has been extended to now include arrival in Delhi we will transfer to the Hotel Connaught.
a 3 level Enviro Mark based on company meals: B
processes. We’re very proud that we’ve
received a Gold rating, the highest category; Day 15 Trip concludes in Delhi.
each year since this initiative began. Trip concludes in Delhi today with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Being responsible when we travel isn’t meals: B
about a single process or project but
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
rather a way of thinking and then doing.
We started this journey many years
ago, and acknowledge we still have a
lot to learn. We invite you to join us!
suggested extensions
India’s Golden Triangle
Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Fatephur Sikri
Ancient Varanasi & The Ganges
cycling
This itinerary allows for four days of cycling with average daily distances of approximately 50
kms but there is plenty of scope to cycle more or less, depending on your fitness level. Due
to distances between destinations on several days, we will actually travel around 100 ‑ 120
kilometers per day, with the balance of the journey being by bus. This is not designed to
be a marathon event so no one needs to feel any pressure to ‘perform’. The passenger bus
will make several stops en‑route (approx every 15kms) to provide bottled water and fresh
fruit. This is also a good way of re‑grouping and sharing different experiences you may have
encountered along the way. The bike‑support bus will always travel behind the last cyclist.
If you wish to take a break from riding, simply wait at the side of the road in an appropriate
4 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
trip grading place to stop and you will be picked up. Above all else, the emphasis is on seeing India,
not training for the Tour de France. Travelling by bike is just a great way to meet the people
While we assume that all participants and absorb something of the village life that few appreciate during their time in India. All
are experienced mountain cyclists, it is your gear, our camping equipment, food and supplies are carried on the bus. Our group
essential that you arrive in India in good leader and assistant leader will cycle with you, while our cook and assistants will prepare a
physical condition. Mountain bike riding host of snacks and refreshments that are served throughout the day. At night camp will be
in mountainous regions is much more established and tea will be prepared, with plenty of time for a wash and a visit to the local
village before the evening meal is served.
physically challenging than touring on
surfaced roads in your home town in most
instances. Solid preparation is essential in country information
the months leading up to your departure. India has fascinated travellers for thousands of years. It’s exotic, romantic and geographically
Regular biking (four to five times a week) for diverse – from the Himalayan mountains and wide deserts in the north to lush rainforests
at least one to four hours, with as many hills and sandy beaches in the south. Its people (now numbering over a billion) are predominantly
Hindu, still living according to an ancient and complicated caste system which is believed
as possible, will well prepare you for the trip.
to preserve a sense of order and calm among the chaos of modern Indian life; ancient
It will also allow you to familiarise yourself influences and the modern world are constantly blending and evolving in a way that can only
with your bike, your personal clothing and be described as natural. Muslims are also an integral part of the Indian community; they came
equipment, and your preferences for fluid to India in the 12th century and there are almost as many mosques as temples in India today.
and food intake whilst exercising. You can Some of the most magnificent temples have been built by the smaller Jain and Buddhist
also combine biking with other aerobic communities. Although more than a thousand languages are spoken, English is the second
exercise such as running, swimming or gym language and is widely taught in Indian schools.
work for variety. Consistency is the key, so Ladakh – the “Land of High Passes”, is completely different to the better known, greener
that you build aerobic fitness, leg strength landscapes of other parts of the Himalaya. It is a land of extremes; freezing winds and at
and stamina. Age or gender is not the main times intense heat.
determining factor in your fitness preparation; The Zanskar region is well known for its remote high passes and deep gorges cut by turbulent
it is your commitment to a good training rivers. Access to this area of the Himalaya is limited by the seasons. There are many gompas
regime, thorough preparations of your and trade routes crisscrossing the region that have been used since olden times when traders
gear and a positive approach to the whole travelled from Tibet.
expedition (in the good and bad times!).
climate
adventure travel The climate of the Dharamsala and Kullu/Ladakh region is quite complex.Dharamsala and
the Kullu Valley come under the influence of the monsoon but the rainfall is by no means as
By its very nature adventure travel involves frequent or as heavy as in other parts of the Indian Himalaya.The rainy season normally lasts
an element of the unexpected. In remote from the end of June until the beginning of September times we acknowledge you are visiting
and developing countries do not expect the region but nonetheless will not undermine your appreciation of the vibrant culture and
standards you are used to at home. Remote the backdrop of peaks.When driving through the region of Lahaul the rainfall diminishes and
areas are sometimes unpredictable and once over the Baralacha La and into the Ladakh you are into one of the driest regions of the
itineraries may be altered. To get the Himalaya.Day time temperatures will be warm, on average about 25 degrees Celsius, however
most out of your adventure it is important at night, the temperatures will drop to around 10 degrees Celsius, or even less in September
that you are flexible, positive and eager in Ladakh.
to take on all the challenges that arise. If
you are uncertain about your suitability for a typical day
this trip we recommend that you speak You will be very well catered for on this Himalayan cycle expedition. While our expedition
with your consultant of travel agent. follows the main Leh to Manali road, there are few vehicles on the road and for most of
the time you are sharing the highway with horse drawn carts or cycles. While we stay in
important note comfortable hotels when in Delhi & Leh, at the other times you will be camping. We will select
camps away from the road where you will sleep in comfortable two‑man tents and be looked
These trip notes represent the most after by our crew who accompany us. They will prepare all meals including bed‑tea in the
current information for this itinerary, morning and will look after all the camping arrangements. You will be expected to pack your
and may supersede any information gear into your kitbag (including the sleeping bag and insulated mat) each day. Of course
in the current brochure, including but any help you offer when setting and breaking camp, when there are many tasks, is always
not limited to the itinerary and price. welcome.
5 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
During the day you will be accompanied by a support vehicle which is available if you should not
wish to cycle at some stage.You will also be accompanied by an experienced cycle leader who
will also assist you in maintaining your bike.
accommodation on the trip
We will generally stay at a comfortable hotel within walking distance of the town centre, where
a full breakfast is provided. However at peak times it may be necessary to use other hotels of
equal standard.
pre and post tour accommodation
Please ask for details
what you carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location
and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items
such as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
equipment required
Specialist gear required includes cycling gear and day pack, amd most inportantly a good
quality all‑terrain bike with spare parts.
The roads generally are not suitable for bikes fitted with road tyres (slicks), even though some
sections are in reasonably good condition. There will be sections higher up that will be in poor
condition due to snow/slush from the winter months, possible landslip, and use of the road by
heavy vehicles at times. Hybrid bikes with ‘chunky’ mountain tyres are most suitable.
Members should also bring a range of spare parts which may include; chain links or chains,
spare tyres and pump, at least 4 spare tubes and puncture repair kit, cables, pedals and a good
tool kit. We will carry a good repair kit and spares but it is still necessary for everyone to bring
some spares; this also ensures you have parts that will fit your bike.
There will be a staff member to assist with running repairs when we are biking and at our
overnight stops should problems be more complicated. As a general rule, less complex or high
tech bikes are easier to fix and obtain parts for if necessary. If you plan to buy a new bike before
the trip, make sure you are completely familiar with it prior to departing. You should fit at least 2
one litre water bottles to your bike. Water will be available from the back up vehicle.
acute mountain sickness
When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount
of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you
ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process,
you may experience some of the following symptoms.
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite/nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Palpitation
• Swelling of the hands and face
6 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
cycle leh to manali
with geoff gabites
Join Geoff Gabites on this epic cycle adventure across the backbone
of the west Himalaya, from Ladakh to the verdant Kullu Valley,
on one of the world’s highest and most rugged mountain roads
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty
of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it
does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive
first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you
believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The
only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if
symptoms persist.
non exclusive trips
This adventure has been put together exclusively for Adventure South by our parent company,
World Expeditions, who operate their own trips in India using their ground services which were
established back in the late 1970’s.
what’s not included
Mountain bike & helmet ‑ you must bring your own
Lunch and dinner in Delhi
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
airport and departure taxes
Tips
visa
Travel insurance
excess baggage charges
subscribe to our e-newsletter
To keep up to date with the new and exciting trip releases, special offers plus more please
subscribe to our free e‑newsletter at www.advsouth.com
Or why not view past travellers images and join in on the conversation at http://www.facebook.
com/AdventureSouthNZ
follow us
Follow us on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/AdventureSouthNZ
how to book
To book an Adventure South holiday, you can book directly online ( http://www.advsouth.com/
booking.aspx ) or you will need to complete a booking form (found at the back of our brochure).
You can also download a copy from www.advsouth.com . On completion, please fax, scan/
email or post the form to Adventure South along with your non‑refundable deposit.
ADVENTURE SOUTH CONTACT DETAILS
Toll Free from New Zealand: 0800 00 11 66
Toll Free from Australia: 1800 10 70 60
Toll Free from the USA: 866 479 9827
All other countries please dial: +64 3 9421 222
Australian Travel Agents: 1300 904 454
Email: guide@advsouth.co.nz
7 – © Adventure South - Valerie Henderson 26/06/2013 9:17:39 AM
You can also read
