Mahindra SUVs adventure on a long distance trek
For more than 70 years the legendary vehicle brand that is the Mahindra has been synonymous with legendary adventures across the globe. Recently, the Mahindra fleet — including the Scorpio-N, XUV700, and Thar, embarked on an unforgettable journey from Manali to Leh. This was a test of endurance, skill, and the raw capability of Mahindra’s finest SUVs as they tackled one of the most challenging routes in the world.
Manali to Leh is a drive that many dream of, with its mix of scenic beauty and demanding terrain. Starting in Manali, a popular gateway to the Himalayas, the route climbs through some of India’s highest mountain passes. The convoy of 14 Mahindras began its journey, snaking through the winding roads of Himachal Pradesh, heading towards Shinku La. This no-ordinary route featured both popular landmarks and hidden gems, offering a unique blend of the Himalayas’ awe-inspiring beauty, from pristine lakes and majestic glaciers to untouched valleys.
Tips For Planning Your Long Distance Adventure:
South Africa is just as adventurous, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences perfect for long-distance journeys. The ideal time to schedule a trip is between December and March, during the summer months when the weather is favourable and the mountain passes are clear. Make sure to arrange permits, book accommodations, and stock up on supplies in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free adventure.
Conquering The Steep And Slippery Terrain
The first leg of the journey put the Mahindra SUVs to the test with steep, slippery hairpin turns that challenged even the most experienced drivers. However, the ScorpioN and Thar, equipped with their rugged ladder frames and 4×4 capabilities, easily handled the rough terrain. The XUV700, despite being a monocoque SUV, kept pace with its all-wheel-drive system, demonstrating a remarkable balance between off-road toughness and on-road comfort.
Crossing Pensi La at 14,400 feet was a highlight, with the Mahindra SUVs navigating their way through the challenging terrain to reach this secluded pass. The drive offered stunning views of the Drang-Drung glacier, one of the largest in Ladakh. Here, the freshly laid tarmac allowed the Mahindras to showcase their versatility, transforming from rugged off-roaders to smooth cruisers as they effortlessly navigated the twisty roads.
The journey then led to Zanskar Valley, an area known for its towering peaks and unforgiving terrain. The Scorpio N and Thar proved their mettle, tackling the rough conditions with confidence, while the XUV700 continued to impress with its adaptability and ruggedness. This part of Ladakh is particularly famous for its remoteness and the sense of isolation it offers, making it a true test for both man and machine.
Exploring Nubra Valley And Pangong Tso
Nubra Valley, another key destination, required the convoy to navigate through Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Despite the narrow roads and traffic congestion, the Mahindra SUVs handled the conditions with ease. An alternative route via Wari La offered an equally scenic and less crowded path, allowing the convoy to experience the raw beauty of Ladakh.
Pangong Tso, the world’s highest saltwater lake, was the next major stop. The crystal-clear waters and dramatic landscape provided a serene backdrop before the final challenge: Umling La, the world’s highest motorable road at 19,024 feet. Known for its steep hairpins and lack of oxygen, this route tested the vehicles to their limits. However, the Mahindras proved their capability, overcoming the devilishly tough conditions with ease.
The journey concluded with a descent into Hanle, home to one of the world’s highest astronomical observatories, and Demchok, a remote village near the China border. The smooth roads and well-marked tarmac provided a welcome contrast to the rugged terrain encountered earlier.
Your Perfect Adventure Companion
The Manali to Leh adventure reaffirmed the exceptional performance and reliability of Mahindra SUVs. Whether facing challenging off-road conditions or cruising on smooth tarmac, these vehicles demonstrated their ability to handle some of the world’s most demanding environments with ease, making them the perfect companions for any adventure.
At Group1 Mahindra, we share the same passion for Mahindra’s exceptional lineup. We’re dedicated to bringing these rugged, reliable vehicles closer to you, so you can experience their unparalleled performance and spirit of adventure firsthand. Take a test drive, chat with our expert team, and find the Mahindra that’s just right for you.
