It all started with my chance encounter of a captivating motorcycle tour video on youtube, showcasing the breathtaking journey to Leh/Ladakh, the realm of high mountain passes. That singular moment sparked a profound affection for this enchanting slice of terrestrial paradise. The rugged terrain, the swirling dust and dirt, and the arduous trek to reach Leh were unequivocally justified by the ultimate reward of setting foot in this magnificent locale.

Leh, with its striking resemblance to Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor, rests along the western fringes of the formidable Himalayan range. Just as Leh lies nestled in its picturesque enclave, so does the impassable Wakhan Corridor, concealed within Afghanistan's north eastern borders sitting at an elevation or 16000+ feet. In my childhood, I was regaled with tales of the formidable Wakhan, a place accessible only to the most valiant of warriors and treasure hunters where many had met their demise in the pursuit of its elusive treasures. Legends spoke of Wakhan as a realm inhabited by majestic eagles and the exceedingly rare snow leopard and precoiuse stones of magical colors and kinds.

The denizens of Wakhan were nomadic tribes tracing their lineage back to the great Turkish Empire of the 12th century. They dwelled upon the rooftop of the world, cut off from the rest of humanity for six months each year during the harsh winter, when relentless blizzards would shroud the land in a skin-peeling barrage of snow. However, the Wakhan summers unfolded as a symphony of a million hues, as a multitude of vibrant flower species blossomed amidst the rugged landscape, transforming Wakhan into yet another heavenly sanctuary on Earth.

Situated on the northeastern verge of Afghanistan, this land possessed its unique ecosystem, its people, and an unparalleled beauty. To my eight-year-old self, Wakhan remained an enigmatic realm of breathtaking allure, perched atop the world. I could only dream of one day embarking on a journey to conquer it, much like the great warriors of the legends. Having seen only a handful of pictures of this magical realm, Leh's photos and videos, with their unadulterated colors and natural splendor, rekindled memories of Wakhan in me. Determined and resolute, I made up my mind—I had to embark on a personal odyssey to witness these wonders for myself...

wonderrer-1

Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor

A collection of very colorful memories in the shape of photos.

The allure of such natural beauty is utterly irresistible. To resist its pull is incomprehensible to me. It's as if that land is beckoning me with an irresistible whisper, a sensation that resonates within every fiber of my being. Leh, prepare yourself, for I am on my way...

Planning for 2018 Trip

By the end of 2016, my desire to visit Leh at least once in my lifetime had solidified. Considering the physical demands of such a journey, I made up my mind that sooner was better than later. I began researching motorcycle touring companies, and two of them stood out for their active and responsive approach, details of the trip and customer reviews: Hindustan "Motorcycling Company" and "Devils on Wheelz". Both offered comprehensive tour packages that covered all the essentials for such an adventure, and their prices were reasonable.

In late 2017, I initiated communication with these companies, seeking answers to my questions and requesting price lists. The anticipation was building, and I was eagerly preparing to register for the 2018 tours. I also encouraged my brother, Navz-Akbar, to join me on this adventure, and he graciously agreed (truly, a brother like no other). Then, in early 2018, another one of my buddies, Idzy, expressed interest in joining the expedition (I must be incredibly fortunate, right?).

We are currently in the process of making our final decision regarding the touring company and plan to secure our reservations by next week, InshAllah.

DEVILS ON WHEELZ route

Hindustan Motorcycling company route

Special Thanks

To my beloved wife, who has consistently been my pillar of support and the wind beneath my wings whenever I've aspired to soar. You are the one person I can unfailingly rely on, regardless of the circumstances.

Some Important information resources

More photos and videos in the link below