BHPian Jaeger recently shared this with other enthusiasts:A Himalayan Odyssey: Pune – Leh – Pune in mile muncher HEXAA road trip isn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B, it’s a full-blown adventure, a mind and soul refreshing and a GPS-defying experience. Our recent Pune-Leh-Puneexpedition in our beloved HEXA clocked-in whopping ~6,500 kms, 14 days traversing through 11 states. This wasn’t some average “let’s drive and see” kind of trip. It was a journey of discovery, both external and internal (especially when we realized how much we love Maggi at high altitudes). We ventured into the majestic realm of Leh & Ladakh, tucked between the Great Himalayas and the Karakoram range-where the landscapes are so stunning, even your camera gets performance anxiety. We were greeted by skies so blue they made our camera filters feel useless and found ourselves surrounded by serene silence, mountain blooms, snow-capped peaks, and valleys. We crossed paths with monks in maroon robes, shepherds herding their flocks, and the mountains themselves humming lullabies that made us forget city noise ever existed. Expedition preparation – A journey of this magnitude does require certain preparation for both man & machine.HEXA prep-up – Before you hit the road on an adventure like this, your vehicle ought to be in top shape. A full service is non-negotiable, engine oil changed, brake pads cleaned (as replacement not needed), all filters swapped out, and wheel alignment done-because zigzagging should be a choice, not a mechanical flaw. Coolant topped up to keep the engine chill, brake oil refilled, and yes, a dashcam-because if you’re going to drive through a river, you might as well have proof and finally offline maps-because GPS signals love playing hide-and-seek in the mountains.Experienced Driving Skills – When you’re tackling steep mountain passes, rocky trails, and roads that occasionally disappear into rivers (yes, really), your driving game needs to be top-notch. It’s not just about steering, it’s about channeling your inner stunt driver while keeping your cool. Whether it’s dodging potholes or navigating hairpin bends with a cliffside view that screams “don’t look down,” this journey wasn’t just impressive, it was downright legendary and the terrain isn’t something you just cruise, It demands respect.Mental and Physical Fitness- Driving through remote, rugged terrain isn’t just a test of your vehicle, it’s a test of your willpower. High altitudes and thin air can make you feel sick. Staying hydrated, well-rested, and acclimatized is the key. Because, you don’t want to be the person who gets altitude sickness halfway through a selfie.Resilience and Adaptability- Road closures, or your car deciding it wants a nap, these are all part of the package. The ability to adapt, reroute, and laugh through the chaos is what separates the seasoned traveler from the “I didn’t sign up for this” crowd. A flexible mindset and a good sense of humor will keep your spirits high, even when your GPS insists you’re driving through a lake.Day 01: 02-Aug-25 : Pune to Palanpur via Ahemdabad.Day 02: 03-Aug-25 : Palanpur to AmritsarDay 03: 04-Aug-25 : Amritsar to SrinagarDay 04: 05-Aug-25 : Srinagar to Kargil via Sonmarg, ZojilaDay 05: 06-Aug-25 : Kargil to LehDay 06: 07-Aug-25 : Leh local sight seeingDay 07: 08-Aug-25 : Leh local sight seeingDay 08: 09-Aug-25 : Leh to Hunder Via KhardunglaDay 09: 10-Aug-25 : Hunder – Sianchen – Sumoor via Nubra ValleyDay 10: 11-Aug-25 : Sumoor to Pangong TsoDay 11: 12-Aug-25 : Pangong Tso to Jispa via Chusul, NyomaDay 12: 13-Aug-25 : Jispa to GurugramDay 13: 14-Aug-25 : Gurugram to Ujjain (continued overnight journey)Day 14: 15-Aug-25 : Ujjain to Pune.01. Zojila Pass – 11649ft (Srinagar to Kargil) 02. Namki La Pass – 12198ft (Kargil to Leh) 03. Fotu La Pass – 13479ft (Kargil to Leh near Lamayuru) 04. Khardung La Pass – 17582ft (Leh to Nubra Valley) 05. Chusul La Pass – 14270ft (Pangong Tso to Chusul) 06. Nurpa La Pass or Thato La Pass – 14194ft (Leh Highway) 07. Changla Pass – 17950ft (Leh to Pangong Lake) 08. More plains – 14000ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 09. Lachung La Pass – 16600ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 10. Nakee la Pass – 15500ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 11. Gata Loops – 15200ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 12. Baralacha la Pass – 15910ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 13. Zing Zing Bar – 14000ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 14. Atal Tunnel – 10170ft (Leh – Manali Highway) When you blend seasoned driving skills with mental grit and physical stamina, you’re not just ready for a road trip, you’re practically composing a travel documentary. With confidence in our beloved HEXA, we’re all set to tackle winding roads, altitude tantrums, and the occasional “where did the road go?” moment. Below is the itinerary and the list of places we bravely (and sometimes bumpily) conquered on this unforgettable adventure. Spoiler: GPS had a few meltdowns, but the memories made it all worth it. Disclaimer : Long post ahead! May cause sudden cravings for adventure and may lead to spontaneous trip planning. Day 01: Pune to Palanpur (August 2) The plan was simple to leave early in the morning, fresh and well-rested. But then reality chimed in-trip excitement has already ruined any chance of sleep the night before. So, rather than tossing and turning until sunrise, we figured, why not just start at midnight? It was a bold move, powered by adrenaline and questionable logic. The idea was to drive until the enthusiasm wore off and then pull over at a safe spot whenever the yawns gets louder than the engine. We wrapped up work early on Friday. The out-of-office reply is now live and doing its best to sound professional while secretly screaming, “We’re off to Ladakh!” For the next 15 days, urgent matters will be handled by someone who isn’t navigating hairpin bends at 17,000 feet or debating whether Maggi tastes better at altitude. If you need us, we’ll be somewhere between Leh and a place with zero signal and maximum serenity. Try again after oxygen levels normalize. The wanderer’s team – (Anticlockwise) Myself, my BIL, Wifey, SIL. The journey commenced with the expedition’s departure around 10 PM through the bustling traffic of Pune and Mumbai and entering the plains of Gujarat. We cruised through the night toward Ahmedabad, and by around 4 AM, the adrenaline started to wear off. Somewhere after Vapi, we pulled over at a safe spot for a quick 1 hour power nap. After a quick rest stop, we continued toward Ahmedabad, reaching there around 3 PM. With daylight still on our side and energy levels surprisingly intact, we decided to push further. The road was kind, the weather was cooperative, and the playlist still going strong. By 6 PM, we reached Palanpur, where the day’s adventure was rewarded with a sumptuous Kathiyawadi dinner at a local restaurant. The food was so good, it almost made us forget the sleep we skipped. With full stomachs and happy hearts, we called it a day-ready to take on the next leg of the journey. Day 02: Palanpur to Amritsar (August 3) Next day, We began our journey with an early morning departure, anticipating a long and demanding drive that spanned nearly 1,000 kilometers over approximately 18-19 hours. The route primarily followed the newly constructed Jamnagar-Amritsar Expressway, starting from Sanchore and continuing all the way to Bathinda. After we rolled into Sanchore, our stomachs immediately declared a state of emergency. A hunt for breakfast began, and we struck gold: a local restaurant serving Dal Bati! As everyone knows, it’s basically a crime to visit Rajasthan and not eat this dish. Leaving Sanchore, we drove onto the expressway, while several online forums mention that the expressway is not yet fully operational, certain sections are currently open to traffic. Travelers are advised to refuel prior to ascending this Expressway, as the route currently hosts only one operational fueling station-a Jio-BP outlet located near Asera, Bedana, RJ. Despite its recent completion, the road conditions were unexpectedly poor for certain sections (especially before Hanumangarh) , with noticeable defects that could pose safety risks to travelers. Traveling from Palanpur to Amritsar offers a vivid tapestry of India’s diverse landscapes. The journey begins in the plain green plateaus of Gujarat, where the land stretches wide and dotted with patches of cultivated fields. As the route progresses into Rajasthan, the terrain transforms dramatically into the arid expanse of desert, with golden sands shimmering under the sun, flanked by the rugged silhouettes of the Aravali mountain ranges. Crossing into Punjab, the scenery shifts once again, revealing a lush panorama of green farm fields, where vibrant crops sway in the breeze and irrigation canals crisscross the fertile plains. We finally rolled into Amritsar around midnight, completely drained after that marathon of a drive. Checked into the hotel, barely completed the formalities, and pretty much face-planted straight into bed. Let’s just say-if there was a world record for fastest hotel check-in to snore time, we probably broke it! Day 03: Amritsar to Srinagar (August 4) After a restful night in the spiritual city of Amritsar, recovering from the previous day’s marathon drive, we set off again-this time for a shorter but far more unpredictable journey. The route led us into the breathtaking view in state of J&K, where the terrain decided to keep us on our toes. Between winding mountain roads, intermittent rainfall from Jammu onwards, and the ever-present symphony of road construction. Up until Banihal, the drive was surprisingly smooth, almost suspiciously so. But just before the Banihal tunnel, we hit a long traffic jam. Turns out, the J&K police had imposed a restriction on non-local vehicles heading to Srinagar, citing the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage tour. Non-Local vehicles weren’t allowed to proceed past 3 PM, and we were caught right in the middle of this bureaucratic plot twist. After a bit of polite persistence (and maybe a few hopeful smiles), we were finally given the green light to continue. By evening, we reached Srinagar, just in time to soak in the magic of Dal Lake. The city was stunning, people enjoying ride on a traditional Shikara gave us a glimpse into the unique houseboat lifestyle and the calm, interconnected waterways that make Srinagar so special. It was serene, scenic, and just the kind of reward you hope for after a day of mountain negotiations. We had Dinner at a cozy rooftop restaurant right next to Dal Lake, followed by a leisurely walk that wrapped up the day perfectly. Checked into the hotel, and this time, we actually noticed the pillow before crashing. Continue reading on BHPian Jaeger’s road trip to Leh for BHPian comments, insights and more information.6,500 kms in 14 days: Road trip to Leh from Pune in my Tata Hexa
BHPian Jaeger recently shared this with other enthusiasts:A Himalayan Odyssey: Pune – Leh – Pune in mile muncher HEXAA road trip isn’t just about getting from Point A to Point B, it’s a full-blown adventure, a mind and soul refreshing and a GPS-defying experience. Our recent Pune-Leh-Puneexpedition in our beloved HEXA clocked-in whopping ~6,500 kms, 14 days traversing through 11 states. This wasn’t some average “let’s drive and see” kind of trip. It was a journey of discovery, both external and internal (especially when we realized how much we love Maggi at high altitudes). We ventured into the majestic realm of Leh & Ladakh, tucked between the Great Himalayas and the Karakoram range-where the landscapes are so stunning, even your camera gets performance anxiety. We were greeted by skies so blue they made our camera filters feel useless and found ourselves surrounded by serene silence, mountain blooms, snow-capped peaks, and valleys. We crossed paths with monks in maroon robes, shepherds herding their flocks, and the mountains themselves humming lullabies that made us forget city noise ever existed. Expedition preparation – A journey of this magnitude does require certain preparation for both man & machine.HEXA prep-up – Before you hit the road on an adventure like this, your vehicle ought to be in top shape. A full service is non-negotiable, engine oil changed, brake pads cleaned (as replacement not needed), all filters swapped out, and wheel alignment done-because zigzagging should be a choice, not a mechanical flaw. Coolant topped up to keep the engine chill, brake oil refilled, and yes, a dashcam-because if you’re going to drive through a river, you might as well have proof and finally offline maps-because GPS signals love playing hide-and-seek in the mountains.Experienced Driving Skills – When you’re tackling steep mountain passes, rocky trails, and roads that occasionally disappear into rivers (yes, really), your driving game needs to be top-notch. It’s not just about steering, it’s about channeling your inner stunt driver while keeping your cool. Whether it’s dodging potholes or navigating hairpin bends with a cliffside view that screams “don’t look down,” this journey wasn’t just impressive, it was downright legendary and the terrain isn’t something you just cruise, It demands respect.Mental and Physical Fitness- Driving through remote, rugged terrain isn’t just a test of your vehicle, it’s a test of your willpower. High altitudes and thin air can make you feel sick. Staying hydrated, well-rested, and acclimatized is the key. Because, you don’t want to be the person who gets altitude sickness halfway through a selfie.Resilience and Adaptability- Road closures, or your car deciding it wants a nap, these are all part of the package. The ability to adapt, reroute, and laugh through the chaos is what separates the seasoned traveler from the “I didn’t sign up for this” crowd. A flexible mindset and a good sense of humor will keep your spirits high, even when your GPS insists you’re driving through a lake.Day 01: 02-Aug-25 : Pune to Palanpur via Ahemdabad.Day 02: 03-Aug-25 : Palanpur to AmritsarDay 03: 04-Aug-25 : Amritsar to SrinagarDay 04: 05-Aug-25 : Srinagar to Kargil via Sonmarg, ZojilaDay 05: 06-Aug-25 : Kargil to LehDay 06: 07-Aug-25 : Leh local sight seeingDay 07: 08-Aug-25 : Leh local sight seeingDay 08: 09-Aug-25 : Leh to Hunder Via KhardunglaDay 09: 10-Aug-25 : Hunder – Sianchen – Sumoor via Nubra ValleyDay 10: 11-Aug-25 : Sumoor to Pangong TsoDay 11: 12-Aug-25 : Pangong Tso to Jispa via Chusul, NyomaDay 12: 13-Aug-25 : Jispa to GurugramDay 13: 14-Aug-25 : Gurugram to Ujjain (continued overnight journey)Day 14: 15-Aug-25 : Ujjain to Pune.01. Zojila Pass – 11649ft (Srinagar to Kargil) 02. Namki La Pass – 12198ft (Kargil to Leh) 03. Fotu La Pass – 13479ft (Kargil to Leh near Lamayuru) 04. Khardung La Pass – 17582ft (Leh to Nubra Valley) 05. Chusul La Pass – 14270ft (Pangong Tso to Chusul) 06. Nurpa La Pass or Thato La Pass – 14194ft (Leh Highway) 07. Changla Pass – 17950ft (Leh to Pangong Lake) 08. More plains – 14000ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 09. Lachung La Pass – 16600ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 10. Nakee la Pass – 15500ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 11. Gata Loops – 15200ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 12. Baralacha la Pass – 15910ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 13. Zing Zing Bar – 14000ft (Leh – Manali Highway) 14. Atal Tunnel – 10170ft (Leh – Manali Highway) When you blend seasoned driving skills with mental grit and physical stamina, you’re not just ready for a road trip, you’re practically composing a travel documentary. With confidence in our beloved HEXA, we’re all set to tackle winding roads, altitude tantrums, and the occasional “where did the road go?” moment. Below is the itinerary and the list of places we bravely (and sometimes bumpily) conquered on this unforgettable adventure. Spoiler: GPS had a few meltdowns, but the memories made it all worth it. Disclaimer : Long post ahead! May cause sudden cravings for adventure and may lead to spontaneous trip planning. Day 01: Pune to Palanpur (August 2) The plan was simple to leave early in the morning, fresh and well-rested. But then reality chimed in-trip excitement has already ruined any chance of sleep the night before. So, rather than tossing and turning until sunrise, we figured, why not just start at midnight? It was a bold move, powered by adrenaline and questionable logic. The idea was to drive until the enthusiasm wore off and then pull over at a safe spot whenever the yawns gets louder than the engine. We wrapped up work early on Friday. The out-of-office reply is now live and doing its best to sound professional while secretly screaming, “We’re off to Ladakh!” For the next 15 days, urgent matters will be handled by someone who isn’t navigating hairpin bends at 17,000 feet or debating whether Maggi tastes better at altitude. If you need us, we’ll be somewhere between Leh and a place with zero signal and maximum serenity. Try again after oxygen levels normalize. The wanderer’s team – (Anticlockwise) Myself, my BIL, Wifey, SIL. The journey commenced with the expedition’s departure around 10 PM through the bustling traffic of Pune and Mumbai and entering the plains of Gujarat. We cruised through the night toward Ahmedabad, and by around 4 AM, the adrenaline started to wear off. Somewhere after Vapi, we pulled over at a safe spot for a quick 1 hour power nap. After a quick rest stop, we continued toward Ahmedabad, reaching there around 3 PM. With daylight still on our side and energy levels surprisingly intact, we decided to push further. The road was kind, the weather was cooperative, and the playlist still going strong. By 6 PM, we reached Palanpur, where the day’s adventure was rewarded with a sumptuous Kathiyawadi dinner at a local restaurant. The food was so good, it almost made us forget the sleep we skipped. With full stomachs and happy hearts, we called it a day-ready to take on the next leg of the journey. Day 02: Palanpur to Amritsar (August 3) Next day, We began our journey with an early morning departure, anticipating a long and demanding drive that spanned nearly 1,000 kilometers over approximately 18-19 hours. The route primarily followed the newly constructed Jamnagar-Amritsar Expressway, starting from Sanchore and continuing all the way to Bathinda. After we rolled into Sanchore, our stomachs immediately declared a state of emergency. A hunt for breakfast began, and we struck gold: a local restaurant serving Dal Bati! As everyone knows, it’s basically a crime to visit Rajasthan and not eat this dish. Leaving Sanchore, we drove onto the expressway, while several online forums mention that the expressway is not yet fully operational, certain sections are currently open to traffic. Travelers are advised to refuel prior to ascending this Expressway, as the route currently hosts only one operational fueling station-a Jio-BP outlet located near Asera, Bedana, RJ. Despite its recent completion, the road conditions were unexpectedly poor for certain sections (especially before Hanumangarh) , with noticeable defects that could pose safety risks to travelers. Traveling from Palanpur to Amritsar offers a vivid tapestry of India’s diverse landscapes. The journey begins in the plain green plateaus of Gujarat, where the land stretches wide and dotted with patches of cultivated fields. As the route progresses into Rajasthan, the terrain transforms dramatically into the arid expanse of desert, with golden sands shimmering under the sun, flanked by the rugged silhouettes of the Aravali mountain ranges. Crossing into Punjab, the scenery shifts once again, revealing a lush panorama of green farm fields, where vibrant crops sway in the breeze and irrigation canals crisscross the fertile plains. We finally rolled into Amritsar around midnight, completely drained after that marathon of a drive. Checked into the hotel, barely completed the formalities, and pretty much face-planted straight into bed. Let’s just say-if there was a world record for fastest hotel check-in to snore time, we probably broke it! Day 03: Amritsar to Srinagar (August 4) After a restful night in the spiritual city of Amritsar, recovering from the previous day’s marathon drive, we set off again-this time for a shorter but far more unpredictable journey. The route led us into the breathtaking view in state of J&K, where the terrain decided to keep us on our toes. Between winding mountain roads, intermittent rainfall from Jammu onwards, and the ever-present symphony of road construction. Up until Banihal, the drive was surprisingly smooth, almost suspiciously so. But just before the Banihal tunnel, we hit a long traffic jam. Turns out, the J&K police had imposed a restriction on non-local vehicles heading to Srinagar, citing the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage tour. Non-Local vehicles weren’t allowed to proceed past 3 PM, and we were caught right in the middle of this bureaucratic plot twist. After a bit of polite persistence (and maybe a few hopeful smiles), we were finally given the green light to continue. By evening, we reached Srinagar, just in time to soak in the magic of Dal Lake. The city was stunning, people enjoying ride on a traditional Shikara gave us a glimpse into the unique houseboat lifestyle and the calm, interconnected waterways that make Srinagar so special. It was serene, scenic, and just the kind of reward you hope for after a day of mountain negotiations. We had Dinner at a cozy rooftop restaurant right next to Dal Lake, followed by a leisurely walk that wrapped up the day perfectly. Checked into the hotel, and this time, we actually noticed the pillow before crashing. Continue reading on BHPian Jaeger’s road trip to Leh for BHPian comments, insights and more information.
