Overview:
Welcome to Leh (3,524 m), your basecamp for acclimatizing to Ladakh’s thin mountain air. After checking into your hotel, spend the day at leisure—explore Leh Market for local crafts, try Ladakhi cuisine, and rest up for the two-wheeled adventures ahead.

• Route: Leh Airport → Leh Town (Hotel)
• Altitude: ~3,524 meters (11,562 feet)
• Distance: ~5–10 km (3–6 miles) from the airport to Leh town (short local commutes)

Overview:
Today marks the official start of your Galwan Motorcycle Trip. Depart Leh early and head east, passing the scenic hamlets around Durbuk. The route offers breathtaking vistas of rugged mountains, winding rivers, and occasional military outposts. Arrive in Shyok, where you’ll spend the night in a cozy local homestay to experience authentic Ladakhi hospitality.

• Altitude: Shyok at approximately 3,200–3,300 meters (10,499–10,827 feet)
• Distance: ~140 km (87 miles)
• Duration: 5–6 hours (including breaks and photo stops)

Motorcycle Tip: The road can alternate between asphalt and gravel patches. Keep a moderate speed, especially around loose gravel sections near riverbeds.

Overview:
Get ready for the highlight of your Galwan Motorcycle Trip. Ride out from Shyok toward the Galwan Valley region, navigating multiple checkpoints en route. If regulations permit, you’ll get a glimpse of the valley’s rugged beauty—where towering peaks and the Galwan River cut through the stark Himalayan desert. By late afternoon, retrace your path toward Durbuk for an overnight halt.

• Altitude: Galwan Valley ~4,000–4,500 meters (13,123–14,764 feet); Durbuk ~4,200 meters (13,779 feet)
• Distance: ~200–220 km (125–136 miles) round trip (depending on final permitted route)
• Duration: 8–9 hours (including security checks and stops)

Overview:
From Durbuk, embark on a shorter yet scenic ride to Merak, a serene village nestled along the Pangong Lake shoreline. This stretch of road offers mesmerizing views of towering cliffs juxtaposed against the lake’s crystalline waters. Upon arrival, settle into a local guesthouse for an authentic lakeside experience.

• Altitude: Merak ~4,225 meters (13,862 feet)
• Distance: ~80–90 km (50–56 miles)
• Duration: 3–4 hours

Motorcycle Tip: Watch out for sudden wind gusts along Pangong Lake. Keep your bike stable and gear up with windproof clothing.

Overview:
Greet the sunrise over Pangong Lake before setting off for one of the world’s highest motorable passes, Chang La (5,360 m). The climb is steep, the air thin, and the scenery jaw-dropping. After soaking in the panoramic Himalayan views at the top, descend towards Leh, arriving by late afternoon.

• Altitude: Chang La ~5,360 meters (17,586 feet), Leh ~3,524 meters
• Distance: ~150 km (93 miles)
• Duration: 6–7 hours (depending on road conditions)

Motorcycle Tip:

1. Layer Up: Temperatures can plummet near Chang La, even in summer.

   2.    Stay Hydrated & Take Breaks: High altitude can be taxing on both rider and machine.

Overview:
Your Galwan Motorcycle Trip concludes today. After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and head to Leh Airport or continue your onward journey. Relish the memories of your high-altitude adventure, the cultural encounters, and the rare glimpse into Galwan Valley you’ll remember for years to come.