Things to carry when you go out on a trip

Below is a list of essentials you would require for this trip

    Sufficient warm clothing for evenings, which can get quite cold
    1 waterproof jacket (also acts as a windproof)
    1 pair waterproof trousers
    Thermals (upper & lower)
    fleece/Woollen top
    Lowers/trousers
    Shorts (for riding – your choice)
    T-shirts – 3/4
    Sneakers
    Floaters
    Raincoat / Poncho
    Small light weight towel
    Water bottle (sturdy ones, no empty Bisleri bottles!!)
    Cap / Hat to keep the strong sun away from your face
    Sun glasses
    Day pack/small bag which you will carry on your back every day and keep your essentials in it
    Camera if you like (with fully charged batteries)
    Torch/headlamp
    Personal Medical Kit:
    A general painkiller
    Anti-inflammatory pills
    Antiseptic – iodine/beta dine drops
    Bandages, plasters, medical tape
    High factor SPF sun block (minimum 30)
    Lip balm with SPF 15+
    A course of general antibiotics - see your doctor for advice
    Imodium or similar gut-immobilizer
    At least a dozen sachets of re-hydration mixture
    Safety-approved Bicycle Helmet (for those bringing their own cycles)
    Knee / Elbow pads (for those bringing their own cycles)
    Basic Travel Kit
    At least two Copies of Photo IDs for all members
    Extra spectacles/ Sunglasses with cover
    Camera with extra battery
    Toiletries
    Towels & handkerchiefs
    Socks 6 pairs

..LOADS OF ENTHUSIASM!! AND A PLEDGE TO LEAVE NO TRACE

Transport Options (Delhi – Manali – Delhi)

For travel from Delhi to Manali & back, one can choose between air & road. For air travel, the closest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu) airport. There are a couple of flights that link this airport to Delhi airport.
If you wish to travel by road, there are regular Volvos from Delhi to Manali.There are frequent Public Transport buses including Volvos available from Delhi to Manali that cost about Rs. 1300 per person. They take about 15 hrs to cover the distance. You can book your tickets either by visiting http://www.hrtchp.com/hrtctickets/ or there are many local travel operators through whom you can book the tickets. A private vehicle could also be arranged for if you require the same.

Weather Details

Temperatures and climate vary according to the altitude. The summer days are warm with brilliant blue skies (max 25°C. min 10°C), but the weather in mountainous areas can be very unpredictable. Come prepared for chilly evenings and a small possibility of rain. Early morning starts and descents at altitude require good quality weather gear.

BIKING ASPECTS

Please note that Riders must bring their own mountain (all terrain) cycles. 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. Riders 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.
Though there would be a mechanic accompanying us carrying 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.

DAILY ROUTINE

For riders unfamiliar with our Himalayan organization you will be very well catered for. Our cycling expedition takes us into remote regions where there are no villages and no hotels. Therefore during the cycling expedition we will be camping. We will select camps away from the road where you will sleep in comfortable two person tents and be looked after by our crew who will come with us. They will prepare all meals including your early morning cup of tea. All you have to do is pack your gear into your kitbag. During the day you will be accompanied by a support vehicle which is at your disposal should you not wish to cycle. Your other entire luggage will go into the Luggage van accompanying us.

Duration: 12 Days

Season: Jun-Sep

Grade: Moderate +

Region: Himachal Pradesh & Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir)

Description

If you are looking for the excitement of pure downhill, day after day through ever changing scenery, the Manali to Leh traverse is hard to beat. Riders will have the option of ascending a total of 3800 meters to cross the four main passes on the route. Cycling will truly be an unforgettable experience as one will get to witness some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

This may not sound particularly great, especially to road orientated cyclists, but difficult terrain and tough ascents will make any cycling in this region a challenge for everyone.

If it is just downhill you are after, then there is support transport for all the climbs and you will be free to tackle some of the most fun downhill rides in the world, then sit back and be driven to the top of the next one. This is a fairly demanding trip, although thanks to our program of acclimatization, as well as the superb back up that we have throughout, anybody of reasonable fitness should have no problem enjoying it to the full. On the main route the cycling is simple with no technical difficulties, but for those of you who want more of a thrill off-road, the paths which short-cut the hundreds of switchbacks are as challenging as you could want, with the added bonus being that they seem never ending.

This trip is going to challenge the strongest of riders with adrenaline filled cycling routes. The beautiful multi-coloured desert landscapes, whimsical villages inhabited by rugged-looking people will enchant you completely. This is a fascinating cycling trip will offer you with a golden chance to explore the Buddhist kingdom of Ladakh & Lahaul with visits to lakes and many ancient monasteries and palaces. Cycle through this remote corner of India & bring out the adventure junkie in you. Buckle up for a wild & wacky adventure fuelled by fearlessness & experience out of the ordinary.