OUTBOUND ADVENTURES
Moonscapes of Spiti
Experience the most iconic and beautiful landscapes on the planet on this very special ride through the Himalayas of North India. Spiti is literally like something explained in a science fiction novel from a distant world and literally means “middle land”, so called because it is surrounded by mountain ranges on all sides. Located in the “Trans-Himalayan” region, it also lies between major former empires of Bushair, Kullu, Ladakh and Tibet. Operated in partnership with our good friends and experienced Himalayan navigators at OMG Himalaya Adventures.
Minimum 6 Pilots
10 days
930km
5 hours Avg.
Varied Offroad
Avg. Speed 10-80kph
Max Alt. 5500m
Mixed Accommodation
Advanced
Active Fitness
Moonscapes of Spiti
Experience the most iconic and beautiful landscapes on the planet on this very special ride through the Himalayas of North India. Spiti is literally like something explained in a science fiction novel from a distant world and literally means “middle land”, so called because it is surrounded by mountain ranges on all sides. Located in the “Trans-Himalayan” region, it also lies between major former empires of Bushair, Kullu, Ladakh and Tibet. Operated in partnership with our good friends and experienced Himalayan navigators at OMG Himalaya Adventures.
10 days
930km
5 hours Avg.
Max Alt. 5500m
Varied, High Altitude, Offroad
Active Fitness
Advanced
Mixed Accommodation
Minimum 4 Pilots
Avg. Speed 10-80kph
DAY 1
Arrive at Bhuntar Airport
50 KM / 1 HOUR
Landing at this airport is a thrilling experience on its own. We’ll be waiting for you at the gate and transfer you to Manali by local rickshaw. Upon arrival, enjoy a quick breakfast and settle into your hotel room. After a hectic string of flights, you’ll be needing to rest and recharge your batteries. In the afternoon, join us for a Test Ride around town and get used to your machine.
DAY 2
Manali to Thirthan Valley
100 KM / 5-6 HOURS
We begin our adventure riding south along the left bank of the impressive Beas river to Gushaini, a small village situated along Thirthan river in Banjar. This is the entry point to Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), famous for its rich Himalayan biodiversity. Arriving at our homely forest guesthouse implores a surprising adrenaline rush as the only access is to cross the river in a peculiar manner. Thirthan valley is popular for trout fishing and we will certainly enjoy a fresh catch for supper.
DAY 2
Manali to Thirthan Valley
100 KM / 5-6 HOURS
We begin our adventure riding south along the left bank of the impressive Beas river to Gushaini, a small village situated along Thirthan river in Banjar. This is the entry point to Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), famous for its rich Himalayan biodiversity. Arriving at our homely forest guesthouse implores a surprising adrenaline rush as the only access is to cross the river in a peculiar manner. Thirthan valley is popular for trout fishing and we will certainly enjoy a fresh catch for supper.
DAY 3
Gushaini to Sarahan Via Jalori Pass
150 KM / 6-7 HOURS
We leave the Tirthan valley and continue along, appreciating the beautiful views through the GHNP. Enjoy the steep climb upwards towards Jalori Pass (3,120m) through the picturesque Deodar jungles. This is a challenging part of the day’s journey. Road conditions can often get tricky towards the top and be sure to take care when negotiating the hairpin curves. Slow but steady will be our aim here. Reach the beautiful town of Sarahan, famous for Bhimakali Temple, by evening. Enjoy the great view of Mount Srikhand peak.
DAY 4
Sarahan to Kalpa
100 KM / 4-5 HOURS
Today, you are riding on famous Hindustan Tibet Highway along River Sutlej, a tarmac road with easy driving conditions. However, make no mistake the deep gorges and sharp turns might unnerve first timers. Kalpa is the headquarters of Kinnaur district (Valley of Gods), and producers of delicious Kinnaur Apples. We will surely sink our teeth into some on the way.
DAY 4
Sarahan to Kalpa
100 KM / 4-5 HOURS
Today, you are riding on famous Hindustan Tibet Highway along River Sutlej, a tarmac road with easy driving conditions. However, make no mistake the deep gorges and sharp turns might unnerve first timers. Kalpa is the headquarters of Kinnaur district (Valley of Gods), and producers of delicious Kinnaur Apples. We will surely sink our teeth into some on the way.
DAY 5
Kalpa to Nako
100 KM / 5-6 HOURS
After an early breakfast and mount up, we continue riding upwards along the narrow valley of Sutlej river, in awe of Himalayan peaks and shadows with newfound respect for the Border Roads Organization (BRO). By now you’ll be quite familiar with their quirky sign boards that are always great for a chuckle as you pass. After a couple quick and painless stops for permit checks at Akpa and Sumdo we will reach the picturesque mountain village of Nako by early evening to enjoy the sunset.
DAY 6
Nako to Pin Valley
120 KM / 6-7 HOURS
After some rather enjoyable high-flying mountain stretches, we finally enter the barren lands of Spiti Valley. We will be sure to Stop at Dankhar and Tabo on the way, home to India’s oldest monastery and made famous for its vast collection of priceless frescos & stucco paintings. It’s also known as “Ajanta of Himalayas” and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is built on a high spur overlooking confluence of Spiti and Pin Rivers. After lunch we ride on to Pin Valley, a National Park with peaks ranging between the altitudes of 3,500m to 6,000m and a natural habitat of various endangered animals like the Snow Leopard and Siberian Ibex. Although it’s extremely rare to spot them you might get lucky and find a few Himalayan Snowcock and Snowfinch during summer months.
DAY 6
Nako to Pin Valley
120 KM / 6-7 HOURS
After some rather enjoyable high-flying mountain stretches, we finally enter the barren lands of Spiti Valley. We will be sure to Stop at Dankhar and Tabo on the way, home to India’s oldest monastery and made famous for its vast collection of priceless frescos & stucco paintings. It’s also known as “Ajanta of Himalayas” and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monastery is built on a high spur overlooking confluence of Spiti and Pin Rivers. After lunch we ride on to Pin Valley, a National Park with peaks ranging between the altitudes of 3,500m to 6,000m and a natural habitat of various endangered animals like the Snow Leopard and Siberian Ibex. Although it’s extremely rare to spot them you might get lucky and find a few Himalayan Snowcock and Snowfinch during summer months.
DAY 7
Pin Valley to Kaza
45 KM / 3 HOURS
Today will be the shortest ride of the trip and the morning will allow for a relaxed breakfast and time to appreciate the views. Leaving Pin Valley behind we continue the route towards Kaza (3,650m), the largest city and administrative capital of Spiti sub-division. However, for most it still has a small town feel with the basic modern amenities of this region. You can find Internet Café, Bank ATMs and the highest petrol pump in the world here. In the afternoon spend time exploring the streets and local markets selling handwoven Himalayan shawls and other unique cultural treasures.
DAY 8
Kibber-Komik-Hikkim
45 KM / 4 HOURS
Today is dedicated to exploring our surroundings. It’s highlights include visits to the villages of Kibber (4,328m) and Komic (4,520m), one of the highest year-round populated villages in the world. The village of Hikkim (4,400m) is home to the highest Post Office in the world so be sure to mail a postcard to a loved one as a testament to your journey. Finally, A visit to the Ki Gompa (Kee, Key), the largest and most spectacular monastery in Spiti, will leave you speachless.
DAY 8
Kibber-Komik-Hikkim
45 KM / 4 HOURS
Today is dedicated to exploring our surroundings. It’s highlights include visits to the villages of Kibber (4,328m) and Komic (4,520m), one of the highest year-round populated villages in the world. The village of Hikkim (4,400m) is home to the highest Post Office in the world so be sure to mail a postcard to a loved one as a testament to your journey. Finally, A visit to the Ki Gompa (Kee, Key), the largest and most spectacular monastery in Spiti, will leave you speachless.
DAY 9
Kaza to Moonlake Chandrataal
100 KM / 5-6 HOURS
A long difficult ride head means waking up at the crack of dawn. After a quick pit-stop at Losar village for checking of Permits, we continue to ascent towards Kunzum Pass (4,587m), our highest point on the journey that offers a magnificent view of Chander-Bhaga Range. Numerous water-crossings on the descent will test your riding skills to the fullest. We will reach the Moon Lake Chandrataal by evening.
DAY 10
Chandertaal to Manali
120 KM / 6-7 HOURS
A morning hike is how we will start our final day before we sadly leave the tranquil Moonlake behind and ride back along the Chandra river. After crossing the small outpost of Batal and a chai break, we will have a chance to feast our eyes on the amazing sight of Bara-Sigri Glacier, the second longest glacier in Himalayas. Chhatru will be our last chance to stretch before we start the climb up the infamous Rohtang Pass (3,979m). At this point we start to reintegrate back into civilization as you’ll begin to notice an increase of tourist traffic, the sign that we’re nearly home. After conquering the summit we will descent into familiar territory of pine forests and waterfalls, reaching Manali town by evening..
DAY 10
Chandertaal to Manali
120 KM / 6-7 HOURS
A morning hike is how we will start our final day before we sadly leave the tranquil Moonlake behind and ride back along the Chandra river. After crossing the small outpost of Batal and a chai break, we will have a chance to feast our eyes on the amazing sight of Bara-Sigri Glacier, the second longest glacier in Himalayas. Chhatru will be our last chance to stretch before we start the climb up the infamous Rohtang Pass (3,979m). At this point we start to reintegrate back into civilization as you’ll begin to notice an increase of tourist traffic, the sign that we’re nearly home. After conquering the summit we will descent into familiar territory of pine forests and waterfalls, reaching Manali town by evening..
OUTBOUND ADVENTURES BIKES
