Every year, Royal Enfield hosts a breathtaking adventure that tests the spirit, endurance, and soul of its riders—the Himalayan Odyssey. And in 2025, it’s back with its 21st edition, inviting 70 passionate motorcyclists from across the globe to ride through the rugged terrains of the Himalayas. What’s more? This isn’t just another road trip. This is an 18-day, 2,600km pilgrimage to Umling La, one of the world’s highest motorable passes, standing proud at over 19,000 feet above sea level.
Table of Contents
Overview
Royal Enfield’s Himalayan Odyssey is more than just a motorcycle ride—it’s a cultural, emotional, and physical journey through some of the highest and harshest roads in the world. With full support from Royal Enfield’s logistics and medical teams, the event ensures that every rider is taken care of while they push their limits through raw Himalayan beauty.
This year’s edition splits the riders into two teams—Team Zanskar and Team Spiti—each named after the scenic routes they’ll follow from Chandigarh to Umling La in Ladakh.
Routes
Each team gets to explore unique parts of the Himalayas. Let’s break it down:
Team Zanskar Route:
- Chandigarh
- Jispa
- Padum
- Leh
- Hanle
- Umling La
Team Spiti Route:
- Chandigarh
- Narkanda
- Kalpa
- Keylong
- Sarchu
- Leh
- Hanle
- Umling La
These aren’t your average highways. These roads wind through ancient valleys, snow-covered passes, and charming remote villages. Each day brings a fresh challenge—from icy curves to thin mountain air.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two routes:
| Feature | Team Zanskar | Team Spiti |
|---|---|---|
| Highlight Locations | Padum, Zanskar Valley | Kaza, Spiti Valley |
| Terrain Type | Rugged, offbeat | Picturesque, steep valleys |
| Notable Stops | Jispa, Leh, Hanle | Kalpa, Keylong, Sarchu, Leh |
| Experience Level | Adventurous, remote routes | Diverse terrains and altitude |
Adventure
Riding in the Himalayas is like navigating through a dream—except this dream tests every fiber of your being. From unpredictable weather to dizzying altitudes, it’s not for the faint-hearted. That’s why Royal Enfield provides full-service support including mechanics, logistics, food, shelter, and even medical assistance.
You’re not just riding solo; you’re part of a 70-rider brotherhood (and sisterhood) sharing every moment—from fixing a flat in the rain to sipping tea with locals under a sky full of stars.
Highlights
What makes this 18-day odyssey unforgettable?
- Umling La Summit: One of the highest roads in the world.
- Cultural Stopovers: Ancient monasteries, traditional villages, and unique Himalayan lifestyles.
- Riding Through History: Many of these trails have centuries-old stories carved into their paths.
- Community Bonding: Camaraderie with riders from across the world.
Whether it’s sipping butter tea in Hanle or camping beside the river in Padum, each moment becomes a memory that lingers long after the engines cool down.
Significance
This isn’t just about conquering mountains—it’s about conquering yourself. The Himalayan Odyssey offers a chance to disconnect from the rush of modern life and reconnect with nature, people, and purpose. It’s one of the few rides where the journey itself is the destination.
With the 2025 edition promising yet another unforgettable ride, Royal Enfield once again proves that motorcycling is not just a hobby—it’s a way of life.
Ready to ride into the sky?
FAQs
When is the 2025 Himalayan Odyssey?
It spans 18 days, but specific dates aren’t released yet.
How long is the total route?
The journey covers around 2,600 kilometers.
Do I need to ride a Royal Enfield?
Yes, only Royal Enfield bikes are allowed.
Where does the ride start from?
The starting point is Chandigarh.
What is Umling La famous for?
It’s one of the world’s highest motorable roads.
