Royal Enfield has officially flagged off the 21st edition of its iconic Himalayan Odyssey today from Chandigarh, marking the commencement of one of the world's most renowned motorcycling expeditions. This year's journey will see 77 riders traverse over 2,600 kilometres across the challenging terrains of Spiti, Zanskar, and Ladakh over 18 days.
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An Unforgettable Expedition Through the Himalayas
The Himalayan Odyssey, a symbol of adventure and camaraderie for over two decades, takes participants through the breathtaking landscapes of the upper Himalayas. The 2025 contingent comprises riders from various countries, including Argentina, the US, Brazil, Germany, and South Korea, alongside Indian participants. Before the flag-off, a traditional Ladakhi ceremony took place, with Buddhist lamas blessing the participants, continuing a long-standing tradition.
Dual Routes to the World's Highest Motorable Pass
This year's odyssey features two distinct groups: Team Spiti and Team Zanskar. Each team will follow a unique loop across Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Spiti, and Zanskar. One group will journey via Narkanda, Kalpa, Kaza, Keylong, and Sarchu en route to Leh, before continuing to Hanle and Umling La, the world's highest motorable pass at 19,026 feet. Their return route includes Padum, Jispa, and Manali. The other team will travel in the opposite direction, starting through Manali, Jispa, and Padum, proceeding to Leh and Umling La via Hanle, and completing their loop through Sarchu, Kaza, Kalpa, and Narkanda. Both routes are scheduled to conclude on July 15, 2025, back in Chandigarh.
Riding Responsibly
Beyond the thrill of the ride, the 2025 Himalayan Odyssey is committed to Royal Enfield's #LeaveEveryPlaceBetter initiative. Riders will actively promote sustainable and responsible practices throughout their journey, focusing on reducing plastic waste in the Himalayan region. This continues efforts from the 2019 Himalayan Odyssey, which aimed for a zero single-use plastic ride by providing purified water through dispensers and installing community water purifiers at strategic locations along the Manali-Leh route.
This 21st edition of the Himalayan Odyssey promises not only an unparalleled motorcycling adventure but also a commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of the Himalayas.
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