Re discovering myself on a bike tour in Ladakh

Travelogue: June 17th–June 27th, 2025

June 17th, 2025: Pune – Manali

The journey started with a flight from Pune to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, I took a cab to Manali, a scenic drive through lush greenery and quaint hill towns. The anticipation of returning to Manali after so many years made the journey exciting.

 June 18th, 2025: Explore Manali

Manali welcomed me with fresh mountain air and breathtaking views. My first stop was the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering, previously known as the Western Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. This visit was especially nostalgic because I had completed a basic mountaineering course here in 1991 and received a merit certificate. Walking through the institute after 34 years evoked vivid memories of youthful adventure and camaraderie.

Later, I visited Vashisht Kund, a peaceful location with natural hot springs thought to have medicinal properties. The day continued with visits to the iconic Hidimba Temple, nestled among tall deodar trees, and a hidden trail that provided solitude and scenic beauty.

 June 19, 2025: Manali to Jispa

Leaving Manali, I took a scenic drive to Jispa, a tranquil village nestled along the Bhaga River. The night was spent in a camp surrounded by the majestic Himalayas and under a starry sky.

 June 20th, 2025: Bike ride to Leh

The adventure escalated when I started a bike tour from Jispa to Leh at 6:30 a.m. The route was both challenging and breathtaking, passing through four high-altitude passes and the well-known 22 Gata Loops, a series of hairpin bends. By 4:30 p.m., I had arrived in Leh, having crossed the Indus River and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery.

 June 21st, 2025: Khardung La, Nubra Valley

After breakfast at 9:00 a.m., I rode to Khardung La Pass, the world’s highest motorable road. The thrill of standing at this height was unparalleled. I descended into Nubra Valley and visited the serene Diskit Monastery before spending the night in Diskit.

June 22, 2025: Turtuk and Thang Village

The day was spent exploring Turtuk, a quaint village near the India-Pakistan border. Turtuk was once part of Gilgit-Baltistan, and as I toured the museum and palace, its rich history came to life. Meeting Crown King Usman Khan Balti and Crown Prince Shahnawaz U Khan added a regal element to the experience. Later, I visited Thang Village, which joined India after the 1971 war. By evening, I had returned to Diskit.

 June 23rd, 2025: Pangong Tso Lake

I set off early in the morning for Pangong Tso Lake, the world’s highest saltwater lake. The lake’s tranquil beauty was captivating. I reenacted scenes from *3 Idiots*, shouting “All Izz Well” and “Jahanpanah Tussi Great Ho” on the iconic scooter. The night spent in mud cottages in subzero temperatures was a memorable experience.

 June 24th, 2025: Rancho’s School, Leh

From Pangong Tso, I went to Druk Padma Karpo School (Rancho’s school from *3 Idiots*). The visit included coffee at Rancho’s Café, a tour of the souvenir shop, and interaction with the students. Returning to Leh, I spent the evening exploring the vibrant local markets.

 June 25th, 2025: Leh – Kargil

As I left Leh, I stopped at Gurudwara Shri Pathar Sahib and explored the unusual Magnetic Hill, a small stretch of road with optical illusions. When I arrived in Kargil, I spent the night by the beautiful Suru River, which marked the end of my bike tour.

 June 26th, 2025: Kargil-Srinagar

Starting the day with a visit to the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, I paid tribute to the brave soldiers. By evening, I had arrived in Srinagar, where a tranquil Shikara ride on Dal Lake provided the ideal relaxation.

 June 27th, 2025: Return To Pune

With a heart full of memories, I flew back from Srinagar to Pune, capping off this incredible journey.


 Travel Tip:

1. Bike Condition: Transport your bike to ensure dependability, as rentals may not be in excellent condition.
2. Acclimation: Begin breathing exercises three weeks before. Take one Diamox tablet per day above 9,000 feet.
3. Warm Clothing: Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
4. Stay hydrated and use water purification tablets.
5. Oxygen Support: Rent a portable oxygen cylinder to stay comfortable at high altitudes.
6. Pangong Tso Safety: To avoid cold-related illnesses, do not dip your feet in the lake.
7. Adaptation: Allow time for acclimatisation to avoid altitude sickness.

This journey combined nostalgia, adventure, and discovery, providing an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

© Dr. Pratik P. SURANA (Ph.D.)
Quantum Group.

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