India: Manali to Leh Highway
Manali to Leh Highway: A Road trip dream for adventurers and nature lovers This epic trail is a thrilling journey that spans roughly 479 kilometers, taking you through some of the most breathtaking Himalayan scenery. The journey begins in Manali, a verdant hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and quickly climbs higher, traversing high-altitude passes like the jarring Rohtang Pass, notorious for its unpredictable weather and breathtaking panoramas. The drive passes through small, beautiful towns like Keylong and Jispa and that gives you an insight into the traditional Himachali way of living. Further along, Baralacha La and Tanglang La serve up stunning vistas of stark, desolate terrains dotted with snowfields, and after that, hopefully, a breathtaking high-altitude desert in the form of Leh in Ladakh. The drive is truly a transformative experience — each stretch uncovers an evolving landscape, from lush valleys that would have you thinking that Wales has come to visit to hardy mountain scapes.
Stunning Views
Driving along this road will treat you to views of snow-capped mountains, rugged landscapes, and untouched rivers. In some stretches of this stretch, the emerald-green Bhaga River flows alongside the road, adding to the scenery. Major attractions include Sissu waterfalls, More Plains, best known for its illusionary views, and Pangong Tso Lake, favourite for its ever-changing colours. You will also cross traditional villages like Keylong and Jispa, where Himachali culture is very much alive. The views from Gata Loops, a series of 21 hairpin bends, are exhilarating.
Travel Tips
- Altitude Plan: You will be driving at altitudes above 5000 meters, so handling acclimatization is important. You should spend a day or two in Manali or Keylong for acclimatization purposes.
- Seasonal Timing: The highway is closed from May through October due to snow. Check weather conditions before heading out.
- Vehicle Preparation: Use a rally-spec 4×4 and have tires, engine oil and brake fluid as essential spares. Refuel in Tandi, as there are few petrol stations in the area.
- Essentials for Emergencies: Carry first aid, oxygen cylinders and enough water to fight altitude sickness.
- Food and Son: Carry light snacks and buy supplies in Manali/Keylong.
Driving Adventure
The winding roads and high-altitude passes are both thrilling and challenging. Rohtang Pass is subject to drastic weather changes, having sunny weather one moment and experiencing snow the next. At the same time, Baralacha La is a harsh, empty beauty, and Tanglang La, the world’s second-highest motorable pass, is a sight for sore, tear-in-the-thin-air eyes.
The More Plains with their barren landscapes and surreal vistas offer a unique driving experience. You should find yaks in herds and the occasional wild ass on your way. The barren Ladakhi landscape and its colorful monasteries that all rush at you as you close in on Leh is the perfect summary of this unforgettable ride.
Every bend and ascent on this highway reveals a new vista and challenges not only your driving skills but your sense of adventure and resilience. When you arrive in Leh, there is a whole new world that welcomes you, as it is the region where Tibetan and Indian cultures blend. It’s a road trip you will remember for your lifetime.
Japan: The Romantic Hakone Skyline
A picturesque drive showcasing Japan’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Located near Mount Fuji, this route is a more peaceful escape boasting stunning panoramic scenery while also providing a sense of calm isolation from the checkered life of the cities. The drive measures about 15 kilometers, but the beauty and variety of attractions along the way make it feel timeless. As you climb, the roads are flanked by soaring cedars that create a roof of greenery that turns reds and golds come autumn. On clear days, Mount Fuji, framed to perfection along the way, is the crown jewel of the route. In the foggy mornings, the scenery feels otherworldly, contributing to the magical nature of the ride. Numerous points of view and rest stops—Owakudani Valley and the shores of Lake Ashi, among others—allow travelers to savor the sublime scenery and take a deep breath of nature.
Stunning Views
As you drive through the Hakone area, you are slapped with views of the imposing Mount Fuji. The road offers tranquil lakes such as Ashi Lake and the beautiful surrounding countryside. The Hakone Ropeway offers aerial views of volcanic scenery, and in the fall, the leaves blaze with red and gold, giving the place an otherworldly quality. The iconic torii gate of Hakone Shrine appears to float among the waters of Ashi Lake, making it a place photographers will appreciate.
Travel Tips
- Plan for Weekdays: Weekends are busy, so plan your trip for the middle of the week for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
- Local Delicacies: Hit up roadside eateries for fresh wasabi, local fish or soba noodles, served hot or cold according to the season.
- Entry Pass: Some areas in Hakone require toll fees; have cash prepared. Hakone Freepass is another great way to save on transportation and admission fees.
- Essential Navigation Tip: In a GPS device with updated maps, as some places may lack English signs.
- Seasonal Highlights: Travel during summer, when the beaches will be an added layer of beauty.
Driving Adventure
Driving the Hakone Skyline feels fun and relaxed as it comprises smooth roads and gentle curves. But scattering fog patches limiting visibility must be taken into account and be extra cautious. Pause at the numerous parking areas and vantage points to stretch and take in the views.
If you want to chill out, nearby hot springs offer a great opportunity to soak before your next leg of the trip. Take a dip in a hot spring at an open-air onsen with views of Mount Fuji, or splurge on a stay at a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). With such a blend of scenic splendor, cultural enjoyment, and relaxation, driving the Hakone Skyline is a truly unique experience.
Vietnam: The Hai Van Pass
In Vietnam, the Hai Van Pass is a short road trip but such an incredibly rewarding one. Described as the ‘most beautiful drive in the world,’ this 21-kilometer coastal route between Da Nang and Hue Natural beauty, historical significance, and a thrilling driving experience are all rolled into one, becoming a journey that is both adventurous and serene.
The road embraces the coastline, offering breathtaking views at every bend. Flanked by the glimmering East Sea on one side and misty mountains on the other, the Hai Van Pass offers a visual feast that makes it popular with photographers and nature lovers. Its name means “Ocean Cloud Pass,” a nod to the way the land, sea, and sky dance with one another here.
Other highlights include the Hai Van Gate, a relic from Vietnam’s Nguyen Dynasty, which serves as a border between Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang. French-made military bunkers from the war also pepper the pass, which can tell you of its strategic significance. With a lot of birds and small mammals entertaining around the road, this drive is a way to connect with nature at its best for the wildlife lovers.
Stunning Views
The Hai Van Pass boasts breathtaking views of the East Sea, lush forests, and foggy mountains. Points of interest on the way include Lang Co Bay, a laid-back fishing village with turquoise waters framed by verdant green hills, and the Hai Van Gate, a historic gate that once marked the border between the provinces of Thua Thien-Hue and Da Nang. Visitors can admire the views of Da Nang City and its long coastline from some. The road also allows you to stop at a point or another to enjoy the beautiful views of the sea on one side and the mountains on the other side which is a real spectacle for the eyes.
Furthermore, the pass is dotted with historical monuments, such as bunkers built by the French during wartime, which add an interesting context to this region of raw beauty. For nature enthusiasts, the thick forests and rare sightings of local wildlife provide an extra dose of magic.
Travel Tips
- Best Time: The dry season (March to September) is the best time to take this trip, with safer roads and clear skies providing unobstructed views.
- Motorbike Rentals: A motorbike is a common choice for those who want an immersive experience. Of course, wear a helmet when riding and a raincoat when the weather is fickle.
- Other Notes: Make sure to stop; you’ll be taking countless stops along the way. Soft lighting in photos happens in the early morning or the late afternoon.
- Local Cuisine: Local specialties, from roadside stalls to places on Lang Co Bay, serve fresh seafood such as grilled oysters and clams.
- Navigation Tools: Make use of GPS or offline maps as some parts of the pass are not adequately signposted.
Driving Adventure
Hai Van Pass features one of the most exciting driving experiences, with winding roads, steep hills and sharp curves. The mix of rugged trails and asphalted streets is a feast to both the drivers and their mounts. The excitement lies in the hairpin bends and the views, which never seem to stop changing.
For those with a slower pace, the abundance of viewpoints and rest stops means you can enjoy the journey at your own speed. Away from urban hustle and bustles, pass brings the best of the serenity. When you descend to Lang Co Bay or Da Nang, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation of the natural and cultural beauty of Vietnam.
Whether you’re an old hand at motorcycle riding or a novice, the Hai Van Pass offers a ride to remember. And if you ever wanted to explore a route in Vietnam that offers everything, from fresh mountain air to coastal views that can make you dizzy: A drive through the soul of Vietnam.
China: The Karakoram Highway
At over 800 miles long, the Karakoram Highway is the gateway between China and Pakistan, and it is called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Extending over 1,300 kilometers, this road is an engineering marvel that snakes through some of the tallest mountain ranges on the planet, such as the Karakoram, Himalayas and Pamirs. It treks over jagged mountain paths, bridges rivers the size of the Yangtze via hair-raising suspension bridges and climbs steep hills, rendering it one of the most ambitious road projects ever launched. Along the way you’ll see unrivaled scenery, with everything from jagged peaks and massive glaciers to emerald-hued valleys and pristine alpine lakes. More than just a road, it is a journey that provides a physical and spiritual connection to nature and history, and is a bucket-list drive for road trip aficionados.
Stunning Views
This route passes magnificent peaks, among them K2, the second-highest mountain on Earth, and Nanga Parbat, the “Killer Mountain,” owing to its notoriously difficult climbs. The Hunza Valley, more commonly known as “Shangri-La”, attracts visitors with terraced fields, apricot orchards, and the several centuries-old forts like Baltit and Altit. The sparkling Attabad Lake, created by a colossal landslide in 2010, lends the landscape a surreal touch with its turquoise color. Travelers can also marvel at the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border crossing in the world, at an elevation of 4,693 meters, and where yaks and marmots are common sights. Snow-peaked mountains, thundering rivers and deep gorges mean every kilometer brings new breathtaking views.
Travel Tips
- Blockquote Permits: Make sure that you have the permits to travel across the country. Make sure to check out the visa requirements for China and Pakistan well in advance.
- Safety Gear: Don warm clothes, good-quality hiking boots and sunglasses that protect against UV rays — when hiking at such high altitudes, the sun can be intense. For those sensitive to altitude, oxygen canisters may be useful.
- Fuel and Food: Fuel stations are limited, and even scarcer in remote regions, so be sure to plan refueling stops carefully. Bring non-perishable snacks and a lot of water, since restaurants and shops might be limited.
- Best Season to Travel: May to October is recommended when the road is mostly snow-free. Minimize risk of landslides by not going in the monsoon season.
- Communication Tools: If you have access to a satellite phone, bring it; otherwise, confirm that your mobile network has roaming in place (connectivity can be poor).
Driving Adventure
It was now going to road trip on Karakoram Highway. This route of twists and turns, steep climbs, narrow lanes, and unpredictable weather conditions, requires focus and caution, making it a test of skill and endurance. It being India, there are also landslides and road repairs to contend with. The highway is still well-kept considering its shockingly inhospitable conditions, and it makes for a smooth drive through otherwise inaccessible land.
The wide-ranging topography — from the desolate, rocky expanses of the Karakoram to the lush valleys of Hunza — offers a always fluctuating views for us. For those seeking adventure, detours lead to the Passu Cones, jagged spires resembling a crown, or a hike on the Batura Glacier, one of the largest outside the polar regions.
As you drive, you’ll meet hospitable locals, browse colorful bazaar stalls and pass ancient Silk Road emblems, prompting thoughts of the route’s historic significance. Whether you’re traversing dizzying suspension bridges or navigating hairpin bends, the voyage offers many moments that test your mettle and reward your soul.
But for those who are prepared to take on its trials and tribulations, the Karakoram Highway is a trip like no other; a breathtaking voyage through some of the planet’s most spectacular terrain.
Thailand: The Mae Hong Son Loop
Beginning and ending in Chiang Mai, the Mae Hong Son Loop in northern Thailand is a magnificent 600-kilometer route. Famous for its 1,864 hairpin turns, this trip should entice both adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. Its combination of adventure, culture, and natural beauty name it one of Asia’s most iconic drives. That loop brings travelers through some of Thailand’s most scenic landscapes, colorful towns and cultural monuments, all while providing chances to connect with local traditions and jaw-dropping nature. From serene countryside vistas to heart-racing mountain passes, the Mae Hong Son Loop offers an experience that gives travelers a lifetime of memories.
Stunning Views
This picturesque route features lush mountains, terraced rice fields and quaint villages. Pai is one of the highlights of this trip which is a bohemian town known for its laid back lifestyle, nightlife and beautiful Pai canyon. While you are in these waterfalls, do not forget the beautiful Pai waterfalls, like Mo Paeng and Pam Bok, which make for a beautiful pit-stop.
Deeper along you’ll find the Tham Lot Cave, a stunning cave system featuring stalactites and stalagmites and home an underground river that can be explored by bamboo raft. The town of Mae Hong Son itself is a peaceful mix of scenic lakes including Jong Kham, and centuries-old temples like Wat Phra That Doi Kong Mu, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town.
Travel Tips
- Vehicle Options: Motorbikes are the most popular choice for solo travelers and couples, and a car is also an option for families and during the rainy season.
- Drink plenty of water: The tropical climate will require you to stop for hydration frequently, especially on hot afternoons.
- Make Your Stops: At least 4–5 days are required to appreciate the loop. There are plenty to see, so overnight stays in Pai and Mae Hong Son are in order.
- Cultural sensitivity: Stop off at temples on the way and dress modestly. It’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Seasonal Advice: The dry season (November to February) brings cooler weather and clearer roads; during the wet season, the terrain can become slippery.
Driving Adventure
The Mae Hong Son Loop is both challenging and exhilarating, with its pencil-thin hairpin turns, steep climbs and altitude fluctuations. Although the road is well-paved, its constant bends require full concentration from drivers and riders. And be sure to take plenty of breaks to rest and enjoy the stunning views.
It all begins in Chiang Mai where the countryside greenery gets you into the mood for adventure. The road from Pai to Mae Hong Son is known for some of the sharpest switchbacks, but it boasts incredible views of lush forests and mist-cloaked valleys. For those addicted to adrenaline, these twists and turns are a daunting yet exhilarating challenge.
To make your experience better, mingle with local communities in the villages along the route. Many feature traditional Thai food and hand-crafted souvenirs, offering an authentic glimpse into the culture of northern Thailand. Be sure to check out the healing hot springs, including the ones in Pai that are ideal for their muscle-relaxing properties after a long day on the road.
Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner road-tripper, the Mae Hong Son Loop provides an unrivaled combination of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion. Not just the destination, but the amazing experiences on the journey there.