Stars of Hanle

About Stars of Hanle

Fancy a drive? Embark on the ultimate driving expedition to Hanley - where the road leads to meet the stars.

Are you ready to leave the ordinary behind and chase the extraordinary? Join us on an unforgettable driving expedition to Hanley - one of the world's highest observatories and villages in the world perched in Ladakh, 14764ft above the plains of city life. This is not just a road trip - it is a soul-stirring adventure traversing through Nubra Valley - home to the 'Bactrian Camel' ever heard about that? But that's not all, you also get a chance to drive on one of the world's highest motorable roads, crossing high-altitude mountain passes where only the fearless have traversed, to sit by one of the highest lakes in the world - Pangong, sipping coffee enjoying the serenity and calmness the so-called 'cold desert' Ladakh has to offer.

Drive Concept:

At Mahindra Adventure, we pioneered the concept of “Arrive & Drive” and redefined overland exploration through expertly curated multi-day road trips. From traversing the length and breadth of India to leading expeditions across international borders, we have spent decades taking adventure on four wheels to new horizons.

Our expeditions are crafted for those who believe that the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Every route is carefully planned to showcase breathtaking landscapes, hidden gems, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s winding mountain roads, vast deserts, or remote frontiers, each expedition is designed to create memories that last a lifetime.

For us, the road is more than a path—it is a canvas for discovery, camaraderie, and adventure. Every drive is thoughtfully organized to ensure that every moment along the way becomes a cherished part of the story.

Highlights of the DRIVE :

• Explore Hanle - Enter the dark sky sanctuary, navigate to Hanle—one of the most isolated settlements on Earth and home to a world-class astronomical observatory. This pristine, high-altitude sanctuary offers unmatched, pollution-free clarity of stars you only dreamed of seeing. Time to look at your stars.
• Conquer Umling La - Claim your throne at 19,000+ feet. This isn't just a drive; it's a badge of honour. Push your limits and conquer Umling La—one of the highest motorable road on the planet. Stand taller than the Everest Base Camp and earn ultimate bragging rights.
• Khardung La & Nubra Valley Drive - From legendary passes to giant sand dunes, tackle the iconic Khardung La before dropping down into the surreal, dramatic landscapes of Nubra Valley. Experience the magic of navigating ancient trade routes where towering snow peaks meet rolling desert dunes.
• Pangong Lake - Behold the Liquid Sapphire of Pangong, watch the world-famous Pangong Lake shift seamlessly from deep turquoise to brilliant sapphire right before your eyes. It’s a sensory overload of stark mountain backdrops reflecting off crystal-clear waters.
• Stargazing Experience - Spend unforgettable evenings beneath a sky illuminated as if were a a star-studded canopy, trade the city lights for the cosmos. Experience mind-blowing stargazing and astrophotography as the Milky Way reveals itself in absolute, brilliant detail right above your stay.

Inclusions

• Convoy management with trained lead and sweep vehicles
• Experienced Mahindra Adventure marshals and ground crew
• Radio communication between convoy vehicles
• On-ground technical support and basic mechanical assistance
• Recovery support where feasible and safe
• Accommodation on twin-sharing basis in Leh, Nubra, Pangong, Hanle and enroute locations
• All meals as per itinerary
• Picnic lunches on remote driving days
• Star-gazing session.
• Inner Line Permits and required local permissions (as applicable for Indian nationals)
• Entry fees for sightseeing points mentioned in the drive plan
• Mahindra Adventure merchandise, vehicle branding kit and participant certificates
• Basic first-aid support and oxygen cylinders for high-altitude assistance

Exclusions

• Any vehicle damage, tyre damage, clutch wear, or breakdown expenses
• Travel to and from Leh (air/rail/road)
• Accommodation or meals outside the mentioned programme
• Personal medical expenses or evacuation beyond basic support
• Charges for camera, drone, or special filming permissions
• Alcoholic beverages and personal consumption items
• Personal expenses such as laundry, room service, minibar, phone calls, and tips
• Costs arising due to road closures, weather disruptions, landslides, political restrictions, or force majeure
• Anything not explicitly mentioned under “Inclusions”

Rules

• No drinking and driving
• No reckless driving
• Avoid littering
• Following all rules of convoy and on-ground instructors
• Carry valid government ID proof – driving license

Please note:

• We recommend to book fully refundable flight tickets to accommodate any last-minute changes or cancellations.
• We reserve the right to cancel or modify the trip with or without prior notice due to operational reasons beyond our control.