Conquering Khardung La & Pangong Tso: How 8 Strangers Became a Lifelong Go Banjara Tribe

1. The Solo Traveler’s Dilemma from Hyderabad

Riding through the Himalayas had been on my bucket list for over six years. But as a software engineer based in Hyderabad (Gachibowli), the logistics felt overwhelming: how would I arrange bike transport from Hyderabad, handle mountain breakdowns, or navigate altitude sickness alone?

When I discovered Go Banjara’s Hyderabad fixed departure group, everything clicked. Their team coordinated my flight from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) to Srinagar, walked me through altitude acclimatization, helped me select the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, and equipped me with a Go Banjara Nomad Canvas duffel bag built for rugged luggage racks.

2. Meeting the Go Banjara Convoy in Srinagar

Our group of 8 riders met over authentic Kashmiri Wazwan in Srinagar. We came from completely different cities—Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi—united by a passion for the open road.

Under the guidance of our lead captain, Rohan, we established riding protocols, formation signals, and daily altitude health checks with pulse oximeters.

The Go Banjara group gather at Sonamarg before ascending the Zoji La pass.

3. The Summit Push: Khardung La at 17,582 Feet

On Day 4, we tackled the legendary ascent to Khardung La. As the tarmac gave way to loose gravel and sub-zero slush near South Pullu, the support mechanic tuned our carburetors and adjusted tire pressures on the spot.

Reaching the top yellow summit sign, seeing the prayer flags fluttering in the freezing wind, and celebrating with high-fives and hot butter tea with my group was an emotion I will carry forever.

• Direct flight & travel coordination from Hyderabad (HYD) to Srinagar basecamp
• Rode 1,200+ km of mountain roads across 5 high Himalayan passes
• Zero mechanical breakdowns left unassisted thanks to Go Banjara’s backup team
• Stayed in boutique homestays in Kargil, Leh, and Hunder Sand Dunes
• Lifetime friendship with 7 incredible fellow wanderers

4. Campfires & Stargazing at Pangong Tso

Nothing compares to arriving at Pangong Tso as the afternoon sun turns the lake from turquoise to deep royal blue. That evening, wrapped in Go Banjara thermal fleece hoodies, our group sat around a roaring campfire singing old songs under the Milky Way canopy.

Pangong Tso lake illuminated under the high altitude night sky.

5. Why Booking a Supported Group Expedition Changed Everything

If you’re contemplating your first high-altitude mountain trip from Hyderabad or any major city, don’t let fear hold you back. Go Banjara doesn’t just book hotels—they build real communities of outdoor enthusiasts.