The best destination of mountain biking exploration among the Indian higher regions is Ladakh with numerous unspoiled areas, which are a little off-track because their high altitude location makes them inaccessible for the usual holidaymakers. The journey from Manali to Leh, 475 km is one of the ultimate challenges for the mountain bikers. The route traverse four high passes with an accumulated altitude gain exceeding 29 000 feet-the equivalent of cycling to the summit of Mt. Everest from sea level. The road is one-lane tarmac and ideal for biking. Traffic is very light; hardly five to ten vehicles to be encountered. Summer months are relatively dry. This route is open from end of June till first week of October.