Great escapes

How far can 2025 take you? It depends on how far you're willing to go. We asked the experts for the best road trips to take this year

- Urvee Modwel

Leh-Kurgaikh-Leh; Ladakh

Rishad Saam Mehta, author

The route passes through a fairly untapped part of Zanskar district. Start in Leh. Head west on the Leh Kargil road (NHI) to the ancient Lamayuru monastery. Turn south and pass spectacular valleys to get to the village of Wanla. Then, go through two high-altitude passes, Sirsir La and Singhe La, before descending into Zangla village in Zanskar. After that, it's mostly dirt track. Drive from the district headquarters of Padum to Purne to see the even older monastery, Photoksar. Then, head to the little outpost of Kurgaikh, the last village in Zanskar, and camp at the spectacular Gonbo Rangjon mountain for the night. The next milestone: Shinku La. Take the Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachung La, and Tanglang La passes to get back to Leh. Best done in a 4x4 vehicle over 10 days or so.

When to go: Between June and September, when the high mountain passes open.

Highlights: "I've done this trip in a car and once on a motorcycle," says Mehta. "The highlights are monasteries, views, and off-road adventures. There will be water crossings, a chance of snow, and ice on the road. But you'll be on some of the world's highest motorable roads."

Best for: "A couple considering marriage! It's a long trip and can make people irritable and cranky," Mehta says. "Plus, being in a car for so many days with someone offers an unmasked look at their true nature. It's a good test of whether you're compatible. It's also a good trip for a bunch of friends. I don't advise it for a solo motorcyclist."

Prep and prime: "Get your car thoroughly serviced. Carry a puncture repair kit, an air compressor, and a tow strap. Carry enough food and water. Avoid single-use plastic that will litter these fragile environments. Get used to driving on narrow and broken mountain roads before attempting a trip like this."