Day 8 | Leh to Sarchu | Karu | Tanglang La | More Plains | Gata Loops | Whisky Bridge | 101 Regulars

DAY 8
Day Eight: It’s time to hit the road again and bid farewell to Leh, the heart of Ladakh. Today’s destination is Sarchu, approximately 260 km away from leh.
Before the 101 Regulars embarked on this journey, it was crucial to ensure that the vehicles are fully fuelled and reserves are kept, as Karu, located about 34 kilometers from Leh, is the last petrol station before Tandi, which lies about 340 kilometers further along our route
Karu a small village in Leh district serves as an important stopover for travellers heading towards the Chang La Pass which is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world and Pangong Lake. Pangong Lake is known as the world's highest saltwater lake, sits at an altitude of 14,270 feet and stretches nearly 160 kilometers, with one-third of it in India and the remaining two-thirds in China
About 47 km from Leh, we reach Upshi, the gateway to the Leh-Manali Highway and serves as a starting point for exploring some of Eastern Ladakh’s most remote and iconic destinations. From here, you can proceed to Chumathang, famous for its hot springs and head towards Tso Moriri, a serene high-altitude lake known for its tranquility, birdlife and stunning landscapes. The same road also leads to Hanle, a remote and picturesque village home to one of the highest observatories in the world
In Upshi the 101 Regulars take a halt to thank our brothers from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for their tireless work in maintaining these treacherous landscapes and making these routes accessible and safe
The Border Roads Organisation is doing exemplary work in developing and maintaining crucial infrastructure in remote and challenging terrains. Their efforts in constructing roads, bridges and tunnels along India's borders enhance connectivity, bolster national security and promote socio-economic development in these regions.
As the riders continue and gain altitude, the landscape unfolds into a panoramic vista of snow-capped peaks, rugged mountains, and vast stretches of untouched natural beauty. The sight of the majestic Himalayas surrounding us is awe-inspiring, making it a photographer’s paradise. Upon reaching Tanglang La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world, the thin air serves as a reminder of the altitude.
After having coffee at the highest Shaurya Cafe in Ladakh, managed by BRO at 17,482 feet, the riders continue their journey.
However, after crossing Tanglang La, the riders encounter a minor setback as the backup vehicles got caught in a jam caused by a truck narrowly escaping a fall into a ditch
Descending from Tanglang La, the 101 Regulars take another halt at Debring. The food at the this altitude too, tastes mesmerising.
From Dabring one road leads to Tso Kar Lake, known as the White Lake for its salt deposits and Puga Valley famous for its geothermal springs. Continuing further to Hanle this route is perfect for those seeking an adventurous journey through the remote and unspoiled beauty of Ladakh
Following a paratha break, the 101 Regulars move towards the More Plains The 40 km stretch of More Plains offers expansive views of flatlands surrounded by towering mountains. The straight, smooth roads are a welcome relief and provide an opportunity to appreciate the sheer scale of the landscape.
Next, the riders tackle Lachulung La, another high mountain pass at 16,598 feet. The rugged beauty and challenging roads here are a testament to the raw nature of the Himalayas.
The 101 Regulars begin the ascent to reach the third pass of the day, Nakee La, which offers equally stunning views and a thrilling riding experience. They navigate the famous Gata Loops, a series of 21 hairpin bends that descend sharply, providing both a thrilling ride and magnificent views.
After crossing some bridges with whimsical names like Whisky Bridge and Brandy Bridge, the riders spot camps on the horizon and a board welcoming us to Sarchu.
Also known as Sir Bhum Chun, though the origin of the name remains a mystery, Sarchu is nestled on the boundary between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, serving as a vital halt for travellers journeying between Leh and Manali.
Sarchu was going to be the night halt for the riders. And even as the sun was out till late evening, a cup of tea and steaming dinner was all the riders could ask for, before they bid good night to each other at the culmination of Day 8 of their historic tribute to the Kargil heroes.
Jai Hind
#25YearsofKargilVijay #KVDRajatJayanti #KVD2024 #IndianArmy

[@capt_wanderer]

Amazing 👏👏

[@elumalaip4360]

Excellent sir, 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@sanjaysansare2039]

Splendid
🎉🎉🎉

[@OmPrakash-kq4bp]

Amazing show ❤

[@manu42orsharma]

Great going Sir

[@manumadaan6940]

Picturesque journey brings back nostalgic memories

[@praveenbarak3061]

Splendid way to remember our heroes ❤

[@patwal72]

Fantastic show boy’s

[@sudalaimuthu2224]

Very nice sir 👌👌👍👍

[@user-lf9kq5hl1q]

👏👏🙌🙌

[@himanshubarapatre717]

So proud of our warriors…
This is how you keep the memories alive…

[@manidas4789]

Keep thriving!!

[@AbhiShek-ol9tb]

Sooper...jai hind sahb kaise ho aap ...

[@patwal72]

God bless

[@ajayjose374]

Fantastic 🎉🎉🎉