Hi everyone,
I am planning my Central Asia by Motorbike trip. I will start the trip in Europe in May 2009 and finish in India (Delhi or Kolkata) in November 2009 (you can see more details, including the route map on my web site: www.worldonbikes.pl). I am looking for any route advice, in particular what is the best route to following on bike to get to Chandigarh from Kathmandu. Should I follow Mahendra Highway in Nepal or rather go through India? I will be doing this part in late August to be able to ride in Ladakh in September.
Thanks for any suggestions in advance.
Cheers
Aleksandra

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Aleksandra

www.worldonbikes.pl

I did this route last July.

Definitely take the Mahendra Highway over the foul traffic of Uttar Pradesh. Just make sure there aren't too many bandhs (roadblocks) and that fuel is available in the Terai. It's a beautiful drive with very little traffic. Cross at Mahendranagar into India. There are several route options from there - the fastest is the main road to Ambala then up to Chandigarh, but there are numerous windy roads which hug the hills.

From Chandigarh to Ladakh, going via Shimla, Kulu and Spiti makes an interesting and stunningly beautiful alternative to the standard Manali road. The two routes connect just north of the Rotang Pass.

One tip - the most interesting parts of Ladakh are inaccessible by road once the passes close in mid to late September, so try to get there earlier. Nepal in August is not much fun as it's still monsoon season - i.e. very few chances to get good views (Ladakh is unaffected as it gets no Monsoon).

I spent about 7 weeks going from Chandigarh to Spiti, then to Leh via Tso Kar and Tso Moriri. Made side trips from Leh to Pangong Tso and the Nubra Valley, then through western Ladakh, Baltistan, through Kashmir to Srinagar, then back into India proper via Jammu and Pathankot.

If you only manage one great ride in Asia, make sure this is it. You won't be disappointed.

Best wishes

Daniel

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4.5 years around Eurasia in a Toyota Hilux|http://eurasiaoverland.wordpress.com/
Pictures Here|https://picasaweb.google.com/113619413612674951960

I agree...

From Pokhara to Banbassa is the best option. ...it will save you lot of unnecessary hassles...and it will be one of the best routes of life ....

Cheers,

Hi Guys,

thanks a lot for your info. It seems that there in no better way, than follow Mahendra Highway. So, as you suggest, we will do it. I hope Neplal will not suffer any fuel problems once we get there and although it is raining season, the weather will be gentle for us.

Cheers

__________________
Aleksandra

www.worldonbikes.pl