Journal
Spiti or Leh — which expedition first?
Two very different high-altitude journeys from Manali.
Spiti
A high-altitude region of rugged mountains, remote villages and monasteries — a different side of Himachal, away from the hill stations. Roads, weather and schedules all shape the trip, so it rewards careful planning.
Leh
The Trans-Himalaya by road: long mountain routes, high passes, monasteries and changing weather. Our 10-day bike trip crosses Baralacha La and Tanglang La, reaches Pangong and Nubra and comes back over the same road.
The altitude
Both go high. Allow time to acclimatise, follow local travel and safety guidance, and keep a day in hand.
Choosing
If you want monasteries and quiet villages, start with Spiti. If you want the great passes on a motorbike, Leh. Either way, tell us your dates and we'll plan it.
Places in this story
Travel guides on HimLocal — how to get there, the best time to go, and what to see.
Questions? Ask us on WhatsApp.
We reply with the weather, availability and a price.