The Adventure: Leh to Manali

Despite the fact that this is the second highest road in the world, is 485km long and at this time of year is often impassable due to snow, rather than take the direct route we decided to take a three day jeep safari detouring to two spectacular though desolate lakes.

Very few of these 485km are on what we would consider 'road'. Problems included:

• the road being obliterated by a bulldozer (although it was then rebuilt for us!)

• boulders raining down on us from work being carried out on the road above us
• mud and streams up to the jeep's axles 

but the real hurdle came in the form of the first snow of the season. This coincided nicely with us needing to cross our highest pass at 5328m, which, at more than one point seemed almost impossible and we feared having to retrace our steps all the way to Leh! 

Luckily though, the weather did clear up sufficiently for us to cross the passes and to witness what is considered to be one of the most scenic roads in the world. 

Our accommodation was basic to say the least. No heating was expected, but no running water, no electricity and a 'toilet' (i.e. hole in the ground 50 yds away with no door) was rather more than we had bargained for! Our packet noodles and soup were served in style in the tent, at the chef's table:

After a gruelling 13 hours in the jeep on the last day we were finally rewarded with a hot shower at the Johnson Lodge in Manali. An exhilarating adventure, breathtaking scenery and an experience we will never forget!