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Ultimate Guide to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2024 – An Unforgettable Journey

A Leh Ladakh bike trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every biker must undertake. The places to visit in Ladakh boast snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, stunning landscapes, and an unmatched culture that attracts bikers from across the globe. 

There are numerous Ladakh bike trip itineraries that are specifically designed keeping bikers in mind and offer everything needed for a secure and enjoyable trip. If you’re planning to embark on this journey, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make your bike trip to Leh Ladakh  memorable.

About Leh Ladakh

The famous Magnetic Hill , the turquoise-colored Pangong Lake, the meeting of two mysterious rivers, the oldest and most revered monasteries in Ladakh , and the highest passes are just a few spectacular sights in the Ladakh bike trip route  as a whole. 

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Leh Ladakh Bike Trip: An Overview 

Part 1: planning the trip, 1.1 finest time to visit leh ladakh, 1.2 choosing the right bike, 1.3 necessary permits, 1.4 accommodation, 1.5 itinerary, one of the most popular route is: , part 2: safety and precautions, 2.1 acclimatization, 2.2 clothing and gear, 2.3 road conditions, part 3: sightseeing and places to visit, 3.2 nubra valley, 3.3 pangong tso, 3.4 khardung la, part 4: budget and expenses, 4.1 bike rental, 4.2 fuel expenses, 4.3 accommodation and food, 4.4 miscellaneous.

Average Budget = Petrol + Accommodation + Meals + Miscellaneous = ₹7000 + ₹8000 + ₹3500 + ₹2500 = ₹21,000/-

Thus, considering all the lower limits, an average budget for a 15-day  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip would be ₹21,000 per person.

Part 5: Safety Tips

5.1 pre-ride inspection, 5.2 safety gear, 5.3 altitude sickness, 5.4 weather conditions.

Always check the weather forecast before starting the ride.

Part 6: Environmental Conservation

6.1 leave no trace, 6.2 respect local culture, part 7: tips for a successful leh ladakh bike trip itinerary, 7.1 plan your route, 7.2 get the right gear, 7.3 rent a reliable motorcycle, 7.4 get in shape, 7.5 stay hydrated, 7.6 acclimatize slowly, part 8: best time for ladakh bike trip, part 9: permits and documentation.

In addition, it is essential to carry all the necessary documents, including a valid driving license, vehicle registration certificate, and insurance papers. It is advisable to keep the records in a waterproof bag or cover to protect them from the rain.

Part 10: Communication and Connectivity

Part 11: best bikes for a road trip to leh ladakh.

When choosing a bike for a trip like the  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip , travellers have always found it safe and beneficial to choose models of bikes that are simple to operate and maintain. The following five bikes are the finest for a trip to Leh Ladakh :

Royal Enfield-  The 350 CC or 500 CC engine on this Bike, regarded as the most fabulous Bike for a trip to Leh Ladakh , is powerful enough to save your life during a Leh Ladakh bullet trip .

Royal Enfield Himalayan-  The 400 CC Royal Enfield Himalayan’s powerful engine will make travelling on any rocky trek or off-the-beaten-path road effortless and hassle-free.

Bajaj Pulsar-  When compared to Bajaj Pulsar, no other bike has, by a long shot, been a success in India. The Pulsar, the second most popular Bike after Bullets, comes in 150CC, 200CC, and 220CC variations. Either one of these models may be your dependable travel companion on any excursion.

KTM Duke-  On roads like those in Ladakh, being a lightweight bike might be helpful. KTM can also be a fantastic option for a  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip  with their new engine variations of Duke 390 and Duke 250 models.

CBR 250-  Except for its Contigo tyres, which can be a little challenging to handle on the terrain in Ladakh in the event of a change in weather, this Honda Bike is a natural beauty. The Bike’s torque and FI technology may be put to great use and used for a larger purpose if the tyres can be replaced, which is a positive factor.

The organization of bike rentals has also taken the Bajaj Vikrant, Yamaha FZ, Yamaha Fazer, and Hero Impulse into account while choosing the best for  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip . Even though the engines on these bikes aren’t as powerful, they may accelerate quickly while moving (without breaking any laws).

Part 12: Leh Ladakh Bike Rentals

You are ready to embark on your  Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi  as soon as you provide valid photo identification, your driver’s license, ₹10,000 as the security deposit, and if you are under 25, a letter of permission from your parents.

The cost of renting a room in Manali varies from ₹1,000 to ₹8,000 per day, and the security deposit ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹18,000. Original copies of acceptable identification documents are also required.

In addition, you can pay a mechanic a daily rate to work on your Bike for the duration of your Leh Ladakh Bike Trip . To be on the safe side during the bike trip, remember to run the Bike through a test ride and test its capabilities to the absolute maximum.

Part 13: Best Leh Ladakh Bike Tour Route

The path from Srinagar to Leh is non-overlapping and is a complete circle. 

The  Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary  from Manali circumnavigates the rough hilly terrain, provides better vistas and raises the difficulty and hazard levels.

Route 1: Srinagar to Leh and Back

Route Map:  Delhi → Jalandhar → Jammu → Srinagar → Kargil → Leh → Karu → Sarchu → Manali → Delhi

Distance Covered:  Approximately 2,295 kilometres. 

Route 2: Manali to Leh and Back

Route Map:  Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → KhardungLa → Nubra Valley → Kargil → Srinagar → Delhi

Distance Covered:  Approximately 2,569 kilometres. 

Route 3: Delhi to Leh and Back

Distance Covered:  Approximately 2,022 kilometres.

Part 14: 3 Locations to See While Biking Through Leh Ladakh

14.1 pangong tso.

Famous for:  Stunning location, beautiful scenery.

Location:  Stunning location.

Things to Do:  Camping, Stargazing, Ice Hockey/Skating, Capturing Amazing Pictures. 

14.2 Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Famous for:  Architectural marvels, ancient paintings & manuscripts, soothing ambiance, and serene vistas. 

Location:  Namgyal Tsemo, Leh district, ‎Ladakh‎. 

Things to Do:  Indulge in Meditation, Attend Prayers, and Explore the Intriguing History of the Place. 

14.3 Zanskar Valley

Famous for:  Picturesque location, snow-capped mountains, serene rivers. 

Location:  Zanskar, Kargil district, Ladakh. 

Things to Do:  Attend Monastery Festivals, Trekking, River Rafting, and Adventurous Activities.

Part 15: How to Prepare

• For everyone, having a sharp mind on sturdy shoulders is essential. Therefore, always wear a reliable helmet while riding, and keep one on hand.
• You should also bring your driver’s license and valid photo ID.
• You need one or two leather coats to combat the wind and savour the breeze.
• Carry sweatshirts, t-shirts, jeans, shorts, shirts, tracks, innerwear, socks, towels, handkerchiefs, and other required clothing items.
• Your feet won’t get cold if you have an extra pair of durable boots or trekking shoes.
• Add a pair of gloves to match your shoes.
• To safeguard your eyes, wear riding goggles.
• A first aid kit and a bike toolkit are essential items to have with you.
• Although you will undoubtedly have a GPS device, bringing a printed map for clearer navigation is still a good idea.
• Some additional items to bring are chargers, power banks, Bluetooth headsets, backup batteries, etc., for a Leh Ladakh Bike Trip to become truly memorable. 
• Always carry a torch even if you believe you won’t need it. Never assume that a need won’t come up.
• A high-quality camera is also required to capture beautiful views adequately.
• The amount of danger increases just by riding a bike. Therefore, always keep a Swiss Army knife on you for self-defense.
• One can easily hire camping gear, such as sleeping bags, cooking utensils, and tents, and then carry it according to their comfort level.
• Carry basic toiletries like toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo sachets (to save a little space and quick disposable), face wash, liquid soap, moisturizer, cold creams, etc.
• Carry lots of sunscreen with the highest SPF possible to shield your skin from the sun.

Part 16: Qualifications for the Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

• You must ensure having a valid driving license and be older than 25. 
• If you wish to go on a Leh Ladakh road trip , you should have some great riding experiences, especially lengthy bike journeys. 
• Your complete Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary requires a minimum of 6 individuals. 
• You must have a current driver’s license, photo ID provided by the government, proof of address, and photocopies of these documents at all times for your  Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi  to keep the journey completely hassle-free. 
• Along with their passport, foreign visitors must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by their home government. 
• If Indian national wants to visit a protected area in Ladakh, one must have an Inner Line Permit or ILP for  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip . 
• Foreign nationals must have additional special authorizations to visit Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, etc.

Part 17: Why Ride a Bike in Leh Ladakh?

Part 18: 3 must-have adventures, 18.1 royal leh palace.

Famous for:  Impressive architecture, massive walls, beautiful views. 

Things to Do:  Learn about history and photography.

18.2 Magnetic Hill

Famous for:  Gravity-defying occurrence, optical illusions. 

Things to Do:  Experience the phenomenon that defies gravity.

18.3 Drass Valley

Famous for:  High altitude trekking routes, tourist hotspots. 

Things to Do:  Trekking, Hiking, Camping, Adventurous Activities, Sightseeing. 

Part 19: Trip by Bike to Ladakh Price

The price also depends on the route you take for your bike tour through Leh Ladakh. It also includes the cost of the Leh Ladakh bike trip ‘s permits and other incidentals. Also, check the  Leh Ladakh bike trip route.

A  Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi  is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every biker must undertake. The breathtaking landscapes, challenging terrain, and unique culture make for an unforgettable journey. However, planning such a trip requires careful consideration and preparation. 

This comprehensive guide provides all the necessary information and tips to help you plan and execute a successful  Leh Ladakh Bike Trip in 2023 . Remember to take the required safety precautions, respect the local culture, and leave no trace. Happy riding!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: what are all things to consider while planning a bike trip to leh-ladakh, q: what are all things to consider while planning a bike trip to leh-ladakh from delhi, q: how much experience is required for a leh ladakh bike trip, q: what do you need to do to prepare for a bike ride to leh ladakh.

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Leh ladakh bike trip itinerary — how to spend 6 days in ladakh by motorbike.

Traveling to Ladakh in general and traveling to Ladakh in particular by motorbike in terms of routes are almost the same. This article shares my own experience. Especially coming from a guy who has never ridden a clutch and a large displacement. You should only consult and synthesize more people and especially prepare carefully what you can prepare. Only then can we decide through practice in Ladakh: What motorbike to rent, which route to take, and how to get around by bike. Because before leaving, I searched for information and then messaged each person to ask. When I finally come to Ladakh, I went in a direction that had nothing to do with what I initially thought.

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How much does Leh Ladakh road trip by bike?

Depending on each person’s needs, the cost of traveling to Ladakh by motorbike will vary. This is the cost that I paid. Note that this is a temporary estimate of the cost of traveling to Ladakh because each time you visit, the price and cost are different. If you want to make a Leh Ladakh road trip by bike, you can refer to and check the price at the time you go for the most accurate before you go.

I flew from Vietnam to New Delhi and below is the following costs:

• Round trip air ticket Vietnam – New Delhi is about $235.80
• Round trip air ticket New Delhi – Leh ticket is about 196.50
• Hotel average cost is around $23.58/night, total 5 nights about $117.90
• Eating and drinking is about $15.72 per day, total about $121.90 including additional expense
• Renting a car is about $18.08 per day, total for 5 days is about $90.39
• Gasoline is about $58.95
• Permit for tourists entering and leaving areas $8.65 per person
• The extra cost is about $78.60
• Total airfare of 432.30 + 8.65 license fee to visit + $463.74 gasoline, hotel fees, and food costs.
• If you go alone (Ladakh trip cost per person), it’s about $903.91 – $982.51
• If you go with two people and share expenses, it will be about $589.51 – 707.41

I limit using cash, so almost all the hotels I book on Booking.com and Agoda.com. Just keep a few Indian rupees and dollars for eat and drink. In Ladakh, food and travel costs are very cheap.

How many days for traveling around Ladakh by motorcycle? (#leh ladakh bike trip itinerary)

Traveling to Ladakh on your own mostly requires a number of days longer than 1 week, which is best to get used to the altitude and habits in Ladakh. Especially when riding a motorbike, you need some extra time to rent a motorbike and get used to driving at an altitude of over 3,000m, and running on the left hand side.

The total time I spent traveling to Ladakh by motorbike was about 6 days. I arrived in Ladakh at noon on October 8 and spent half a day getting used to the altitude and buying a SIM card. On October 9, I rented a bike and drove around to get used to it and wait for the permit. Departing on October 10 and ending on the evening of October 13.

Which is the best month to visit Ladakh?

Ladakh is at its most beautiful starting from April then lasting until mid-October, the closer it gets to November, the colder the weather gets. Some roads will be closed to traffic. So my experience of traveling to Ladakh by motorbike is that you should go around August, September or early October is suitable. Going closer to October will have more yellow leaves, but it will also be quite cold, so prepare clothes carefully at home.

Which season is good to travel to Ladakh?

Fall is the most beautiful time to visit Ladakh. As mentioned above, from early August to early October is a beautiful time to travel to Ladakh. Closer to the end of September, the yellow leaves shine the sky, you will have the feeling of running through rows of bright yellow trees. In the distance, the snowy mountains are beginning to be covered in white.

Some things you need to prepared for a Ladakh trip

Medicines for high altitude shock, some basic medicines. If you go in the cold season, bring warm clothes to wear inside. Bring gloves for driving, trekking shoes or specialized driving shoes. I also prepared snacks and dried fish from Vietnam. Because I was not used to eating curry when I was trekking in Nepal, I have been obsessed with curry until now (this is because I personally do not like curry, no criticism). Regarding my driver’s license, I changed it to a Pet license. Basically, police also doesn’t stop to check the driver’s license at all, only a few stations that need to check the license are allowed to enter that area.

Entry and flight routes

To travel to Ladakh in general and motorbike in particular, you need to fly 2 flights. The first route is Saigon to Delhi, Delhi to Leh. Regarding entry in Delhi, just applying for a visa online is quite easy. In addition, you should prepare 2 additional documents as in the comment below, just print out is enough. Especially, you should prepare a ballpoint pen when you arrive at Delhi airport to fill out the immigration information form (take the initiative to look for the form and fill it out immediately, it will save you having to queue for a long time).

On the Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Delhi route, I flew with Vietjet, and on the Delhi to Leh route, I flew with Go Air. After flying to Delhi, after completing the procedures, it will be around 1:00 am. You can stay at the airport early in the morning and take the earliest flight to Leh. If you take a taxi to the hotel to rest, you can go to the taxi counter at the airport for very cheap prices, so you should not book in advance online at high prices, and you won’t be able to take the initiative in the time to get to the airport.

Regarding luggage, if you are bring a flycam, please note one thing: Absolutely do not leave the flycam in your checked luggage. Note, absolutely do not leave your checked luggage. You take out all the batteries and memory cards along with the remote control and put them in your carry-on luggage, and put the flycam body in your checked luggage. All flights do the same, so you no need to worry.

When flying to Leh, you are required to present some documents as noted in my comment below. Please present them if required, because depending on the time you fly, the regulations may change or not.

What to do on the first day in Ladakh?

Resting and get used to the altitude: I landed in Leh around 12am, had already booked a hotel on Booking.com, got off the plane, went out and asked for a taxi to go straight to the hotel, rest and get used to the altitude first. Regarding this, you should not be confident in your health, just rest and prepare some things before departure.

4G SIM card: In the afternoon, start going to Leh market to visit, finding what you need to buy, then visit the Airtel store to get a 4G SIM card. Just bring your passport and they will guide you through it. It’s quite simple but the wait is quite long.

Rent and try driving a motorbike when traveling to Ladakh by motorbike

Renting a bike and permit: you should rent a motorbike on the first day or deposit in advance to ask them to get a permit. Because some areas of Ladakh need a permit to get into, similar to a traffic permit. Any vehicle requires this permit, not just motorbikes. When going on a tour, the tour operator will take care of everything, so I don’t need to worry.

The motorbike I rented was a Royal Enfield 500CC, as shown in the picture, I think choosing this classic model was the right decision. Because when going to Chang La Pass, the snow freezes the road surface. High-clearance bike almost go about 2 meters at a time, but my bike is low so the ride is smooth. When renting, ask someone to prepare a set of backpacks, and a 5 liter can of gasoline. On some long trips, there are no gas stations so you have to have them on hand just in case.

I spent 1 day driving around Leh, a radius of about 20-30km. If you do not have a permit, ask the rental shop owner which areas you can getting to. Drive to get used to the bike, and get used to right-hand drive. I have never ridden a clutch and have never touched a bike over 130cc so that day was also the day I practiced riding. At first, I planned to let my friend go with me as a main driver, but because he was not familiar with this side.

I adapted quite well to the altitude and negative temperatures so I didn’t have any problems so I turned around and ran almost the entire route. I admit that the first time I ran a clutch with a large displacement, it was too heavy on the road. Regarding the feeling of driving in Ladakh, people drive quite civilized and not too dangerous, as long as you drive slowly and remember to keep to the left, it’s ok.

Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary 5 days

Route 1: leh – hunder.

This is a place to ride camels (actually, I ran astray 60km from Hunder, because the information some of you shared was not the right place to take pictures of camels, just say Nubra, but Nubra is very large. If you search, you will probably find Nubra Valley on Google, You will definitely get lost like me, so you have to find Hunder). You will pass through Khardung Pass, the 4th highest pass in the world for motor vehicles to pass through. After running this pass, you will pass through many passes with different routes. It’s only about 130km, just run slowly and arrive at the village around 5pm and it’s ok.

Route 2: Hunder – Pangong (#Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary)

This route goes through many dangerous passes. Personally, I think this is the most difficult route. Because the road is small with one side of the small pass is cliffs, on this part, I kept running close to the cliff, not daring to look down the cliff because looking at it for a while would make me dizzy. Going closer to Pangong Lake, the weather gets colder, the road is also very bad, there are many gravel roads so running is quite tiring. You should start early to avoid running late in the cold weather and losing your strength.

Route 3: Pangong – Leh

This route is basically not too difficult when traveling to Ladakh by motorbike. You will go up Chang La Pass, the 3rd highest pass in the world for motorbikes to pass through. If you go in mid-October, there is a high chance that you will run in snow on this route. This is also the road most likely to be locked if the snow is heavy, so you should be careful. When I went this time, I had to stand below and wait for more than 2 hours before I could go up to Chang La Pass. I thought the road was locked.

Above are the 3 routes, you can drive for as many days as you like. I recommend running for longer days. If you go to any village you like, just stay 2 nights and then continue. When I went, I thought the 120-160km route was quite short and could be drive normally. But no, the road is bad and the road is winding all the way, so driving is extremely slow, combined with the cold weather, it’s very tiring. Every time I set out at around 9am, I reach the destination at around 5pm, so tired, so my experience is that you should keep speed at about 60-80km a day to rest. If I’m on a long trip, I’ll play wherever I like, then I’ll get bored and leave, it’s more fun.

Where to stay in Ladakh?

Almost all of the places I mentioned above can be booked through the Booking or Agoda, so just check the room on these apps first to see if there place to stay when you arrive. If you can, book it right away so it will be easier to have a room when you driving to. Besides, you don’t have to bring too much cash with you.

Some hotels that I stayed at when going to Ladakh, you can refer to. I booked all of these hotels on the app.

Reenam Hotel – Leh

This hotel is located near Leh market, it takes about 10 minutes to reach the market. The mountain view is extremely beautiful, especially in the hotel there is an apple tree that I asked the hotel owner for some fruit. Eating apples in the cold weather is sweet and sour, dipped in good salt, that’s the delectable experience, guys.

TIH Hunder Eco Villa – Hunder

I also like this place very much, hotels in the Hunder area or are extremely small ones or are luxury resorts. I kept finding an affordable hotel around $27.62 per night. There is a spacious space overlooking the snowy mountains, and the food in the hotel is also very diverse. If you travel to Ladakh and go through the Hunder region, this is also one of the places worth staying.

Hotel at Pangong Lake

At Pangong Lake, I didn’t book a hotel in advance, just drove there and went to find a hotel. Basically, the place to stay here is quite simple but inside is complete, especially with hot water as well as blankets and pillows to help you not get cold. So when passing Pangong Lake, just walk along and look for it without needing to book in advance.

Is the food in Ladakh hard to eat?

For someone like me who is not fond of curry, it is difficult to eat this food, but there are still dishes that I can still eat. But the general assessment is that the food in Ladakh will be difficult to eat if anyone does not like the smell of curry, and those who like it, you can eat carefree. Up here, I see a lot of vegetables, so the stir-fried vegetables that I order the most are served with white rice.

In addition, you can also prepare some dry food to bring from Vietnam. It will help make the meal richer and eat more rice. For me, when I go out a lot, especially in cold areas, I try to eat as much rice as possible. To have strength and help the body not get too weak.

Scenery and people in Ladakh

Traveling to Ladakh is truly a paradise for those who love the beautiful scenery and people in the Himalayan mountains like me. Especially when riding a motorbike, you have the opportunity to drift more and stop more, so it also takes a lot of time to admire the scenery and take pictures.

On the routes I mentioned above, there is no specific place where you should stop or not. Because basically wherever you like, stop for a little while and you’ll see many interesting places, and if you have extra time, just stop comfortably, especially in the villages hanging off the cliffs.

CONCLUSION: The thing I regret most about this trip is not having time to travel more, to wander more. But it seems that every land under the Himalayas is a place full of charm, rustic and peaceful. In Nepal, I also have a ‘karmic debt’, which is to return to this place to hike for a long time, staying in the villages around the ABC trek. Ladakh now also has a karmic debt that is returning to long-term motorbike riding, to wander around. I wish I could only run 50km a day so I can stop wherever I want.

Trips with many experiences always have many emotions and many stories to tell. Images only make those stories more vivid, so my pictures may not be outstandingly beautiful, but they are my actual experiences. I hope you have more motivation to set out to wander under the majestic snow mountains.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Leh-Ladakh-Zanskar you can refer to

• 10D9N Discover Ladakh, India from Singapore [All-Inclusive]
• 7D6N Ladakh Private Tour
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• Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2023: Everything You Need To Know From The Scratch

26 Mar 2023

Every biker, irrespective of gender, dreams of going on a Leh Ladakh bike trip once in their lifetime. While they dream of a flawless journey, the reality does come into contact with a lot of shortcomings. Having understood that bikers are bound to stumble upon a few barriers on a rugged landscape like that of Leh and Ladakh, we’ve put in our best efforts to collate every information in this blog that will help them encounter any such difficulties on the way.

Table Of Content

About leh ladakh bike trip, best time to visit leh ladakh on a bike trip, ideal duration for a bike trip.

• Leh Ladakh Trip Cost

Best Bikes For Leh Ladakh Road Trip

Leh ladakh bike rentals.

Best Leh Ladakh Bike Tour Route

Basic Expenditure On Leh Ladakh Bike Tour

• Places To Visit On Leh Ladakh Bike Trip
• Things To Do On Leh Ladakh Bike Trip
• Must Experiences

What To Pack

Why do a leh ladakh bike ride, eligibility for leh ladakh bike trip, tips for leh ladakh bike trip preparation.

Image Source

The old saying “there’s beauty everywhere, all you have to do is just look around” is true to the core when it comes to the mesmerizing Leh Ladakh travel. Offering scenic vistas of one of the trip to Leh Ladakh India is all about the feel of snow-clad mountains, rugged landscape, soaring peaks, dangerous routes, and roaring bike engines. In short, going on a Ladakh bike tour is all about the good vibes and the undying spirit of a rider.

Must Read: Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh

The best time to visit ladakh by bike  is from the months of June to September. These months enable the bikers to enjoy the tourist circuits of Ladakh , as much as they enjoy their Lahaul & Spiti trip. However, most of the riders love to kick-start their new year with this crazy bike trip as Ladakh offers magical vistas which can be cherished round the year except for monsoon season.

Depending on a lot of factors like the route you’ve taken, your entire schedule, and mainly the weather conditions, an ideal duration for a Leh Ladakh bike trip for couples would span over a period of 15 days or more. Also, this duration is apt when one opts for Manali to Leh bike trip from Delhi.

Suggested Read: Autumn In Jammu & Kashmir

Ladakh Bike Trip Cost

First things first, you should figure out your budget. A lot depends on the vehicle you are selecting for your journey and the Leh Ladakh road trip cost would also vary on the accommodation and kind of food you choose to eat. Still, an average budget can be arrived at considering basic factors such as accommodation, meals, and fuel. Hence, under normal circumstances, you will end up spending approximately ₹35,000 for a trip to Leh Ladakh on bike for 15 days. Your cost will also vary according to your Leh Ladakh bike trip route. This also includes the cost of permits and miscellaneous expenses for the Leh Ladakh motorcycle trip.

Talking about the first things first, every biker must give his or her total attention to their first love, which is their bike. One must be very careful and picky when it comes to choosing their Leh Ladakh road trip bike. So whenever you’re choosing a bike for any road trip, make sure you go for suitability more than popularity. Consider it one of the most vital aspects of your Leh Ladakh bike trip plan!

Opting for the kind of bikes that one can easily handle and are easy to maintain, has always proven to be safe, and helpful for the riders for journeys like Leh Ladakh bike trip. Hence, the five best bikes for Leh Ladakh bike trip are:

• Royal Enfield – Considered to be the best bike for Leh Ladakh trip , it is a powerful bike with an engine of either 350 CC or 500 CC that is enough to be a lifesaver on a Leh Ladakh bullet trip .
• Royal Enfield Himalayan – With a strong engine of 400 CC, Royal Enfield Himalayan will make your ride smooth and hassle-free on any rugged trail and offbeat roads.
• Bajaj Pulsar – By far, no bike has been a hit in the Indian market when compared to Bajaj Pulsar. Being the most favored bike after the Bullets, Pulsar offers variants of 150CC, 200CC, and 220CC, either of which can be your trustworthy partner on any of the adventures.
• KTM Duke – Being a featherweight bike can be advantageous on roads like that of Ladakh. With the series of new engine variants of Duke 390, and Duke 250, KTM can be a good choice for a bike trip to Ladakh too.
• CBR 250 – This bike from Honda is indeed a stunner except for its Contigo tyres which can be a little tough to handle on Ladakh’s terrain in case of a change in weather. On the bright side, if the tyres can be replaced, one can put the bike’s torque and fi technology to great use, and a greater purpose.

Other top bikes for Leh Ladakh trip that the association of bike rentals has taken into consideration are Yamaha Fazer, Bajaj Vikrant, Yamaha FZ, and Hero Impulse. Though these bikes are not so heavy on the engine, they can surely pick up some speed (without breaking any rules) on the go.

Suggested Read: Ladakh Lakes

No bike. No worries. The bike rentals at Delhi and Manali are ever willing to offer you a ride on rent provided you submit all the required documents. In Delhi, Karol Bagh is the hub from where you can rent a bike for ₹900 per day. All you have to submit is a valid photo id proof, your driving license, ₹10,000 as the security deposit, and a consent letter from your parents in case you’re still under 25, and you are all set for Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi.

In Manali, the per-day rent charges range from ₹1000 to ₹1800 whereas the security deposit is between ₹12,000 to ₹18,000 along with the original copy of valid ID proofs.

Other than this, you can also hire a mechanic to take on the basis of daily wage for the entire duration of Leh Ladakh bike trip from Manali. Also, don’t forget by mistake also to run the bike through a test ride and test its abilities beyond limits to be on a safer side during the bike trip.

Considering Delhi as a base for Leh Ladakh bike trip route , Srinagar to Leh and Manali to Leh are the two main routes that offer the best road conditions and picturesque views. Srinagar to Leh route doesn’t overlap and forms a complete circle from end to end. Leh Ladakh bike trip route from Manali encircles the rugged mountainous landscapes, offers better views, increases the level of difficulty, and the level of danger.

Route 1: Srinagar To Leh And Back

Route Map: Delhi → Jalandhar → Jammu → Srinagar → Kargil → Leh → Karu → Sarchu → Manali → Delhi Distance Covered: Approximately 2,295 kilometres

Route 2: Manali To Leh And Back

Route Map: Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley → Kargil → Srinagar → Delhi Distance Covered: Approximately 2,569 kilometres

Route 3: Delhi To Leh And Back

Route Map: Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley → Kargil → Srinagar → Delhi Distance Covered: Approximately 2,022 kilometres

Suggested Read Festivals In Jammu And Kashmir

Here is a list of expenditures that will guide you through a basic idea of the budget that you may expect from your Leh Ladakh bike trip:

Keeping petrol as the priority for a bike trip, an average, you’ll be covering a distance of 3500 kilometers. Of all the bikes that have been considered, the average mileage is that of 35 kilometers per liter. This means that you’ll be needing somewhere around 100 liters of petrol for which, you will roughly need an amount of ₹7000 to ₹8,000.

Accommodation

There are a lot of budget hotels in Leh Ladakh wherein one can find easy accommodation options within the range of ₹500 to ₹2,500 per person, on a double sharing basis, and including taxes (as per booking.com).

Hence, the rate for an average accommodation with the best amenities, comfort, and ratings, can cost you ₹500 to ₹2,500 per night per person depending on whether you want a budget hotel or luxury. Considering the lower limit, a 15-day trip will cost you a rough figure of ₹7,500 for accommodation. Let’s round it off to ₹8,000 per person.

Suggested Read: Homestays In Ladakh

Similarly, the cost of food depends on the choice of the rider whether he or she prefers to eat at a dhaba or a restaurant. Eating at a dhaba may cost you ₹100 to ₹150 whereas dining at a normal and a bit upbeat restaurant may cost you about ₹400 to ₹500 per person on your tour to Leh Ladakh. Considering the lower limit, you’ll be spending close to ₹2,250 to ₹6,000 on meals. On average, you can keep ₹3,500 aside for meals.

Miscellaneous

It is a must to keep some amount of money aside for emergency purposes, shopping for souvenirs, or for permits. Thus, an amount of ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 is a must for every biker to spread it across the luggage or pockets and save it as a backup.

Average Budget = Petrol + Accommodation + Meals + Miscellaneous = 7000 + 8000 + 3500 + 2500 = ₹21,000/-

Thus, considering all the lower limits, an average budget for a 15-day Leh Ladakh bike trip would be ₹21,000 per person.

Please Note: We’re assuming you have a bike of your own as the budget doesn’t include the cost of bike rental. Hence, in case you plan on renting a bike, the budget would exceed by a minimum of ₹13,500 to ₹15,000 per bike for a minimum of 15 days.

Suggested Read: Secrets Of Ladakh 

3 Places To Visit On Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

Wondering what all attractions to cover on your Leh Ladakh bike trip 2023 ? Plan your itinerary around these best places to visit in Ladakh.

1. Pangong Tso

Popularly known as the Pangong Tso Lake , this natural marvel set in the lap of Ladakh is a must-visit tourist attraction on your Leh Ladakh bike trip. Located in the heart of Himalayas, the lake stretches at a distance of about 134 kilometres offering scintillating views in sync with the rustic mountains. The lake is so gigantic that sixty percent of the lake’s length lies in China making it one of the largest lakes in Asia.

Famous for:  Stunning location, beautiful scenery Location:  Stunning location Things to do:  Camping, stargazing, ice hockey/skating, capture amazing pictures

2. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Much famed to be one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh , Namgyal Tsemo Gompa or Namgyal Tsemo Monastery is located right in the heart of Leh district. It is believed that Ladakh’s King Tashi Namgyal founded the monastery in 1430, that serves as a home to the famous golden statue of Maitreya Buddha. You can even have a glance at it from the top of Leh Royal Palace. If you are staying in the town of Leh, this is one of the best places to visit nearby.

Famous for:  Architectural marvel, ancient paintings & manuscripts, soothing ambiance, serene vistas Location:  Namgyal Tsemo, Leh district, ‎Ladakh‎ Things to do:  Indulge in meditation, attend prayers, explore intriguing history of the place

Suggested Read: New Year In Ladakh

3. Zanskar Valley

Hues of soothing blue and beautiful brown can only be witnessed at the famous Zanskar Valley which is surrounded by the massive snow-clad peaks on all sides. One visit to the bustling Valley is sure to leave you charmed forever. In winters, the river gets frozen giving adventurers a chance to do the famous Chadar Trek where people walk over the frozen ice for days.

Famous for:  Picturesque location, snow-capped mountains, serene rivers Location:  Zanskar, Kargil district, Ladakh Things to do:  Attend monastery festivals, trekking, river rafting, adventurous activities

3 Things To Do On Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

If you want to get high on adrenaline, these are some of the exhilarating things you should consider doing on your Leh Ladakh bike trip.

1. Experience The Magic Of Nubra Valley

Serenity is what strikes one’s mind on reaching the renowned Nubra Valley . The valley is popularly known as “the valley of flowers” referring to the beautiful and colorful blooming flowers that are worth a visit to the Nubra Valley. It is one of the best-found treasures of Ladakh that you must definitely visit on your bike trip to Ladakh .

Famous for:  Mesmerizing beauty, orchards, monasteries, scenic vistas Things to do:  Camel safari, river rafting, cycling, photography

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Katra 

2. Find Solace At The Shanti Stupa

Perched atop a hill, the famous Shanti Stupa is set at an elevation of whooping 4267 meters. Offering panoramic views of Leh, it is a must for the bikers to witness either sunrise or a stunning sunset from the Shanti Stupa. It is one of the best places to find peace and tranquillity. The stupa is blessed to be located amidst wondrous surroundings of nature. You may also find relics of old Buddhism culture inside the shrine.

Famous for:  Tranquil ambiance, cultural richness, fascinating history Things to do:  Enjoy photography, watch alluring views

Suggested Read: Delhi To Jammu Trains 

3. Test Your Riding Abilities At The Khardung La

Any biker who is planning a trip to Leh already has the ride to Khardung La on his list. Set at a heart-wrenching height of 18,379 ft. and located at a distance of about 40 kilometres from Leh, Khardung La Pass is one of the most dangerous motor-able roads in India. Challenging the bikers and the drivers in the face, your Delhi to Leh Ladakh bike trip is incomplete without experiencing a ride through the “Pass of Lower Castle”. This is certainly one of the best places to visit on a bike trip to Ladakh.

Famous for:  Height, enthralling experiences, natural beauty Things to do:  Camping, biking, adventurous activities

3 Must Experiences

Don’t say you have visited Leh Ladakh unless you have had all these experiences on your bike trip. Every person visiting the region must strike these off their lists.

1. Royal Leh Palace

Considered to be a gem in the heart of Ladakh, the 17th-century royal Leh Palace was built by the famous King Sengge Namgyal. Standing tall at a height of about 9 stories, you can soak in the natural beauty of Leh’s whole town, Stok Kangri, Zanskar ranges, and Indus Valley from the roof of this elegant yet rugged palace.

Famous for:  Impressive architecture, huge walls, beautiful views Things to do:  Learn about history, photography

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Ladakh 

2. Magnetic Hill

Feel the pull of nature and adventure at Magnetic Hill in Ladakh , a sorcery of nature. Magic and Magnetic Hill go hand in hand. Encircled by the Sindhu river on all sides, Magnetic Hills rise to a height of about 14,000 ft. and possess a unique kind of magnetic force that pulls the bikes and cars uphill. Sounds magical, isn’t it? Try it for yourself!

Famous for:  Gravity-defying occurrence, optical illusions Things to do:  Experience the phenomenon that defies gravity

3. Drass Valley

Famous for its natural hot springs that are blessed with medicinal benefits, Drass Valley is located in the heart of Kargil district, Jammu & Kashmir. Renowned to be the coldest hill station in India , Drass Valley strikes a perfect balance between the lush greens, soothing blues, and bold browns. The stark contrast of nature in the valley of Drass will make your jaw drop to the floor. Pay your homage to Indian soldiers at Kargil.

Famous for:  High altitude trekking routes, tourist hotspots Things to do:  Trekking, hiking, camping, adventurous activities, sightseeing

Suggested Read: Picnic Spots Near Jammu

Going on a bike trip is like hard-core backpacking through the roughest of mountains. It is an adventure trip to Ladakh which needs packing to be light yet all the basic requirements need to be carried along. Keep in mind the below mentioned Leh Ladakh bike trip preparation while packing your stuff.

• An intelligent head on strong shoulders is a matter of life and death for everyone. Hence, carry a sturdy helmet and put it to use all the time while you’re riding.
• Valid photo identity proofs and not to forget your driving license.
• One or two leather jackets are a must to glide through the wind and beat the breeze.
• Carry sweatshirts, tees, jeans, shorts, shirts, tracks, inner-wear, socks, towels, handkerchiefs, and other clothing items that you may feel necessary.
• Carrying an extra pair of sturdy trekking shoes or leather boots will keep you away from cold feet.
• Match your shoes with an extra pair of gloves.
• Riding goggles to protect your eyes.
• It is a must to carry a first-aid kit for yourself and a tool-kit for your bike.
• You’ll be equipped with GPS for sure but then carry a physical map for better navigation and clear routes.
• Charger, power banks, bluetooth headset, batteries for backup, etc. are a few other necessities to carry.
• Keep a torch with you, even if you think you don’t need it. You never know when a need may arise.
• A good-quality camera would be a necessity too to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
• Carry a Swiss Army Knife for self-defence since traveling on a bike increases the level of danger automatically.
• Camping tents, cooking utensils, sleeping bags, and other camping equipment can be easily rented whereas one can carry them as per their level of comfort.
• Carry basic toiletries of toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo sachets (to save a little space and easy disposability), face wash, liquid soap, moisturizer, cold creams, etc.
• Last but not the least, carry loads of sunscreen with maximum SPF to protect your skin from direct sunlight.

Image Credits: Naveen Sharma for Pixabay

Other than being an enthralling experience, a Leh Ladakh road trip is definitely going to be the most memorable experience. You will get to see Ladakh as it really is in its original flavor. Despite being on a bike trip, you can also choose to go for one of the most exquisite experiences i.e. camping in Leh . You can also choose to stay at luxurious Ladakh resorts , hotels, homestays and cottages. Coupled with the fact that you may also go for safaris, and adventure tours to explore this heavenly land.

Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Jammu

Image Credits: Avinash Patel for Pexels

Planning a Leh Ladakh bike trip plan and not sure about where and how to start? Here are the basic eligibility criteria for your trip. Be advised that it is extremely important to go through each and every criterion:

• You should be above 25 years of age with a valid driving license.
• We recommend that if you want to go on a Leh Ladakh road trip, then you should already have some nice riding experiences, especially long bike tours.
• There should be at least a group of 6 people for your entire Leh Ladakh bike trip plan
• You must carry a valid driving license, government-issued photo ID proof, address proof, and photocopies of these documents. 
• International tourists must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by their home country along with their passport.
• Indian nationals do require an Inner Line Permit or ILP in case you want to visit the protected areas in Ladakh.
• Other special permits are required by foreign nationals in order to visit Pangong lake, Tso Moriri, etc.

It is believed that rules are meant to be broken and some of you may get the feeling of “your life, your rules” but then it is not at all advised to go on a bike trip with a wrong attitude.

• Breaking the rules on one of the most dangerous and highest motorable roads can be dangerous as death itself. Hence, for your own sake and safety, abide by the rules and follow them wisely.
• If you’re taking the route of Manali to Leh, it is recommended to carry extra jars of petrol apart from the full-tanks as there are only two petrol pumps on this route. On the contrary, the route from Srinagar to Leh has plenty of petrol pumps.
• It is advisable that you learn how to change a bike tyre in case your bike suffers any punctures. For the rest of the times, one can find many mechanics along the way on both the routes.
• Carry necessary medicines with you in case you, your partner, or your friends with whom you’re traveling suffer from altitude sickness.
• It is important to note that Leh only has connectivity from the leading operators of Airtel, BSNL, & Aircel. Riders who don’t have these connections do not have any other choice other than standing in the long queues of overcrowded STD booths or getting a connection from one of the above-mentioned operators.
• Though there are several ATMs at Leh, carry enough cash with you as the ATM you’ll find on Manali to Leh route is at Keylong.
• Applying for an Inner Line Permit will only cost you ₹200 and will give you access to remote places like that Tso Moriri, Chushul, Merak, Loma, Mahe, Hanle, and more. One can apply and get this permit from the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Leh from 9 am to 3 pm.

Further Read: Trekking In Ladakh 

And that’s a wrap from us. Also, other than the bike tours, one can also explore this natural marvel by customizing amazing trip to Ladakh with TravelTriangle. As you embark on your journey, we hope you enjoy a safe and sound Leh Ladakh bike trip. Once you are there, do not use your smartphone. Instead, come back and do share a few words from the memorable journey you just took. 

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click  here . 

Frequently Asked Questions About Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

What are the vital documents required during the bike trip to Leh Ladakh?

You must carry a valid driving license, government-issued photo ID proof, address proof, and photocopies of these documents.

What is the age limit for the people who want to travel by bike to Leh Ladakh?

The minimum age of the tourist must be 25 years of age to opt for travelling by bike to Leh Ladakh.

What are some of the essential tips for travelling to Leh Ladakh by bike?

You must carry extra jars of petrol for an emergency, carry essential medication and carry enough cash as it may happen that you don’t find an ATM to withdraw cash. Apart from this, it is recommended to have enough food supplies in case of any emergency.

How far is Ladakh from Leh?

Ladakh is a region in Jammu and Kashmir that has been divided into two districts; Leh and Kargil. Leh is the capital of Ladakh, a land of high mountain passes.

Which is the coldest month of Leh?

The coldest month in Leh is January when the temperature plummets down to lower than -15 degrees Celsius. If you are visiting the destination during this time, make sure to carry enough woollen clothes.

What is famous in Leh Ladakh?

In terms of attractions, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Zanskar River, Pangong Lake and monasteries are famous in Leh Ladakh. Apart from this, Pashmina Shawl and traditional Tibetan items make for perfect souvenirs.

What should I buy in Leh?

Pashmina shawls, Mandala art &drawings, Tibetan handicrafts and handloom, silver jewellery, etc. are some of the things you should consider buying on your Leh trip.

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Leh Ladakh Bike Trip: The Most Practical Leh Ladakh Itinerary

Every biker dreams of riding in the mystical lands of Ladakh. The cool mountain air, the calmness of the road, the beautiful Himalayan vistas and the rhythmic sound of your bike make a Leh Ladakh bike trip an absolute must for any motorcycle enthusiast. We have been to Ladakh twice and have created this perfect 14 Day Leh Ladakh itinerary to help you plan your trip.

While there are a number of tour operators who offer tour packages for various durations, often times people don’t know what to expect them to include in their tour. Keep reading to ensure that you know all the details of a exploring Leh-Ladakh on a motorcycle.

If you’re a group with 3 or more motorcycles, you can follow this itinerary word by word and ensure an epic Ladakh road trip ! However, if you’re a solo rider or just two bikers, we recommend you join a group just to ensure that there’s some kind of help while accessing the remote areas of Ladakh. You can either find fellow travelers on Facebook groups or approach these groups at different road stops on Ladakh highways. Bikers are generally a friendly bunch and look out for each other. Hence, they won’t mind if you join them.

Before delving into a detailed itinerary, we have attempted to answer a couple of common questions that people have asked us numerous times while while planning their Leh Ladakh bike trip.

Quick overview

How Long is the Leh Ladakh Bike Trip?

The most popular and endearing Leh Ladakh bike trip is about 15 days long and it covers all the important stops around Leh. This trip generally starts from Jammu/Srinagar and ends in Manali. There also people who choose to fly directly into Leh and just see the important locations around Leh. Such a trip can be completed in 5 to 6 days. We’ve explained how you can easily convert this 14 day itinerary to a 5 Day Leh Ladakh itinerary below.

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Best Time

The best time for a Leh Ladakh Bike trip is from May end to September when the temperatures are bearable and the mountain passes have opened . After September, the mountain roads generally close due to extreme temperatures and landslides. Before April, due to harsh winter conditions and unpredictable rainfall, it becomes a little risky to conduct a Ladakh bike trip.

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Cost

An average Leh Ladakh bike trip cost for 15 days is somewhere around Rs. 27,000 to Rs. 30,000 per person if you’re taking your own private vehicle. This cost includes food, accommodation in guest houses or camps and fuel.

Camps and homestays generally have options that include breakfast and dinner and the cost is very reasonable. While riding, there are numerous shacks/dhabas where you can have a good meal for as low as Rs. 100. These include breakfast options like parathas, omelets, sandwiches, butter toasts and coffee while lunch options include Tibetan delicacies like thukpas, momos, chowmein and local North Indian delicacies. If you opt for Non-vegetarian food, it’ll cost youa little more.

If you’re renting a bike for the entire trip, this cost will rise to Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 60,000 per person. The bike rent and fuel cost shall be divided into two in case you’re taking this Leh – Ladakh bike trip with a pillion rider.

Your total cost also depends on the type of bike that you’re renting. The following are the latest bike rental rates in Ladakh for the most popular brands:

• Royal Enfield Classic 500 CC – Rs. 2,000/day
• Royal Enfield Himalayan – Rs. 2,500/day
• BMW/GSR 310 CC – Rs. 3,500/day
• Bajaj Avenger 220 CC- Rs. 1,500/day
• Scooty (Activa/Access) – Rs. 1,100/day

An additional Rs. 150/day is charged for Ladakh carrier and saddle bag .

Leh Ladakh Packing List

Despite recent developments, Ladakh is still quite a remote location. Basic utilities might be readily available in the town of Leh, but in more remote areas, they are quite scarce. So, it’s better to pack them in advance to avoid shortage or paying premium prices for the same.

Also, you shall also need to pack weather sensitive clothing like rain covers, thermal wear, safety gear for riding a bike in Ladakh and some common spare parts for your bike . In addition to this, it’s necessary to carry medication for basic ailments as you don’t know when you might need them. Pack a go-to medication kit along with your bike’s first aid kit to take care of this.

To guide you better for your Ladakh trip, we have created this detailed Leh Ladakh Packing List that you absolutely should follow. We recommend referring this list to ensure that you are prepared for all contingencies during your Leh Ladakh Bike Trip .

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Route

The best and the most convenient route for your Leh Ladakh bike trip starts from Jammu/Srinagar and ends in Manali. For a classic Leh Ladakh Itinerary travel in a clockwise direction starting from Jammu and take stops at the following hubs :

• Nubra Valley

For visiting Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, you shall need to come back to Leh to resume your journey as there are no proper roads connecting these locations . There is a new direct route that connects Nubra Valley to Pangong lake via Shyok Village and Wari La. Despite the development of this route, it’s a little riskier to travel by bike . Hence, we recommend that you go back Leh and leave for Pangong Tso the next day.

This Leh Ladakh bike trip route is planned in such a way that it takes care of acclimatization and comfort for beginners as well as advanced riders. The important thing is, that you start from Srinagar or Jammu side .

Why it’s better to start your Ladakh Bike Trip from Jammu?

We have visited Leh twice. Once from Jammu side and once from Manali side and we recommend choosing the former route . The following are the main reasons for starting your Ladakh bike trip from Jammu side:

• If you’re taking your own bike to Ladakh, the best, most convenient and cheapest way to transport it is by train . Indian Railways does a fabulous job of packing and transporting your bike to Jammu (the most well-connected station near Ladakh). A lot of trains from all over India reach Jammu and your Bike will reach there in great condition without any hassle .
• Jammu is a great hub for bikers riding towards Kashmir, Ladakh and the rest of Himalayas. Hence, with an abundance of mechanic shops, it’s easier to get a couple of modifications done to your bike in Jammu before you start your Leh Ladakh bike trip . We’re talking about adding saddle bags or fitting a luggage rack on your bike or evening getting your bike serviced and ready for exploring Ladakh!
• However, the most important reason for starting your Leh Ladakh trip from Jammu/Srinagar, is that the ascend to Ladakh from Jammu is a lot easier compared to the one from Manali. The route from Manali side is a lot steeper and a lot of riders struggle with acclimatization. The steeper the ride, the lesser time the body gets to adjust to the change in climate. Acute mountain sickness or any other disease can absolutely ruin your trip.

Now that we have the answered some common questions about a Ladakh road trip, check out the following Leh Ladakh itinerary. We followed this itinerary and had the best time in Ladakh.

14 Day Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Itinerary

The crux of this Ladakh Bike trip itinerary is that you start your ride early in the morning . Through out the route, there’s a possibility of road blockage due to onrushing water due to the melting ice. The later you start, the higher your chances of encountering flooded roads and long traffic jams. Hence, we recommend waking up at 6 in the morning and starting your ride 7 AM. This also allows you to reach your destination earlier and enjoy it more during day time. Additionally, it allows you to take longer breaks at interesting locations enroute.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Jammu and gearing up

Your first day entails your arrival in Jammu and collecting your bike from the transporter (like the Indian Railways suggested above) in case you’re using your own vehicle for your Ladakh bike trip. If you’re hiring a bike, you’ll have to either hire it from a dealer who can collect the bike from Manali. If you don’t find such a dealer, you can ride back to Jammu (400 kms) instead of Chandigarh (300 kms) as proposed below .

After collecting your bike, get it checked thoroughly by the expert mechanics in the Jammu city center. You can make some modifications like a luggage brace or replace your break liners for better performance.

You can spend the rest of the day exploring Jammu. Popular places include the Amar Mahal Museum, Bagh-E-Bahu, the Bahu fort and Shree Ranbireshwar Temple.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 2: Jammu To Srinagar

Distance: 250 kms

Duration: 8-9 hrs. considering usual conditions

Start early in the morning for Srinagar on NH 44. The road condition is great and you might find usual traffic of goods vehicles. Enjoy the first time joy of riding in the mountains here. NH 44 is the most well developed road in this entire Leh Ladakh bike trip.

Stop for Lunch at near Peerah village. Khajuriah Vaishno Dhaba in Peerah is arguably best place to have Rajma Chawal in the world . The perfectly cooked Rajma, rice, dollops of desi ghee and the lip-smacking anar-dana chutney make this the perfect spot for an early lunch.

Farther on the way, you shall cross Jawahar Tunnel, one of the oldest Himalayan tunnels in India . Moreover, at the time of its construction, it was one of the longest such tunnels in Asia!

You shall reach Srinagar by late afternoon. Check into your hotel/house boat and head over to Dal Lake for an evening walk on its beautiful boulevard. You can also opt for a Shikara ride in the lake.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 3: Srinagar to Kargil via Sonamarg and Draas

Distance: 205 kms

Duration: 7 – 8 hrs. considering usual conditions and traffic on Zoji La

You can start off early in the morning from Srinagar and head to the beautiful valley of Sonamarg. Sonamarg exemplifies why Kashmir is known as heaven on earth.

After a quick breakfast stop at Sonamarg, you shall head towards Kargil via Dras. The route that you shall be taking is the mighty Zoji La . Zoji La is one of the steepest and most under developed mountain passes of the Himalayas. It has been under redevelopment for quite some time. While one side is pretty well developed, the other side is quite a task. Ensure that you are with your group and be extra careful while driving here. The local drivers are quite rash and accidents are quite common.

After descending from Zoji La, you shall see a lot of small yurts selling delicious food cooked by locals. Have a hearty lunch here after an arduous bike ride on Zoji La.

Alternatively, you can take a lunch break in Dras, another quaint little town on the way to Kargil .

Overnight stay in Kargil.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 4: Kargil to Leh

Distance: 220 kms

The mountain pass that you shall be crossing on Day 4 of your Ladakh bike trip is known as Namika La. The road is very well developed by the Border Road Organization, fondly abbreviated BRO 😅.

After scaling Namik La, visit the famous Lamaryu monastery and its lunar landscapes that have earned it the name Lamaryu Moonland. The landscape formations due to lacustrine deposits in this region reminded us about our epic 4 days in Cappadocia, Turkey .

Your next photo stop shall be the popular Magnetic Hill . It’s a good place to take a break as there are a number of small yurts/shacks selling regional food.

You shall reach Leh by late afternoon or evening depending on the number of stops you’ve taken. You can stay in guesthouses or camps that include dinner . Hence, you don’t have to roam around for food after an entire day of riding.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 5: Leh Local Sight Seeing and Permits

Dedicate Day 5 of your Leh Ladakh itinerary to local sight seeing and getting the inner line permits for various mountain passes. You can get these permits online at the official website of Leh District Tourism .

💡 Pro Tip : It’s easier to print the permits at home and get them stamped at the Leh Tourist Information Centre or Leh DC office. You will not be able to find a lot of print shops or reliable internet in the mountains.

Local sight seeing in Leh involves the following must visit places:

• The Khar – A structure that towers over the entire city of Leh. It houses the Leh Palace, the Tsemo Castle and the Namgyal Gompa.
• Shanti Stupa –  A Buddhist white domed shaped Stupa located over the Chanspa hill.
• Hall of Fame – A museum respecting the fallen heroes of the Kargil war and highlighting the hardships of the lives of the soldiers stationed at Siachin Glacier.
• Leh Main Market – The central market of Leh where you can shop for local crafts like shawls, souvenir t shirts and enjoy a lunch at some cute cafes.

💡 Insider tip: We advise you to book your hotel/camp in such a way that you can keep your luggage in the Leh hotel when you make trips to Nubra Valley and Pangong lake. This way, you won’t have to mount, dismount, carry and unload all your heavy luggage at each destination. This way, you will have a room every time you return to Leh but will not be charged for the time you’re staying in Nubra Valley or Pangong Tso. A lot of hotels are accommodating this request.

Call in an early night as the next day, you shall be driving on one of the highest motorable roads on earth – Khardung La.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 6: Leh To Nubra Valley

Distance: 130 km

Duration: 5-6 hrs. considering usual conditions and breaks

On Day 6 of your Ladakh tour, you shall be scaling the mighty Khardung La – one of the highest motorable roads on earth located about 17,582 feet above sea level.

The road is reasonably well-developed. However, there can be traffic congestion due its recent popularity with tourists. Moreover, due to the melting ice in the summers, the pass can be flooded and also lead to breakdowns. Hence, we recommend starting your journey early in the morning. By doing so, you shall reach Khardung La top way before other tourists and might even get the entire place to yourself along with the Indian army personnel stationed there.

💡 Insider tip: The army serves a spiced herbal tea free of cost at the top. It’s a great way to warm yourself up in the cold and also indulge in some great conversation with the army personnel.

At the top, a lot of tourists and bike groups get pictures like the one above with the Khardung La top milestone. This picture is an amazing souvenir to get from your Leh Ladakh bike trip.

After reaching Nubra Valley, head over to the famous sand dunes of Hunder and get a picture with the Himalayan Bactrian Camels. These camels are unlike any that you might have seen. They are furry, sturdy and have two humps instead of a single one like regular camels.

A lot of people opt to ride these camels. We request you not to do so as the it’s cruel and the camels hardly get any rest due to the onslaught of tourists. Instead, get a picture with them for a memorable, cruelty free souvenir from Ladakh.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 7: Relax day at Turtuk Village

Distance: 85 kms

Take a well deserved break from long bike rides in the beautiful Turtuk village in Nubra Valley. The village is located very close to the Line of Control (LOC) and is known as the gateway to the Siachin glacier .

You will have to park your bikes at the designated parking spots at the entrance of the village and continue on foot . The village is constructed like a beautiful maze set between cherry and mulberry orchards. You might even encounter a lot of cherry trees in the streets of Turtuk village.

Turtuk is a photographer’s dream. It is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering mountains. The landscape is green in contrast to the rest of Ladakh as it is irrigated by glacier water distributed in the village through canals constructed 200 years ago.

There are a number of small cute cafes serving piping hot food. Some of our favorite dishes in Turtuk were Spicy Chowmein, buckwheat pancakes with walnut puree, freshly squeezed mulberry or cherry juice and any local dish made from mulberry, cherry, walnut or apricot!

Moreover, you can also ask for a guided tour of the numerous walnut, cherry or apricot orchards and buy some fruits for home as well if you can accommodate them in your luggage.

Return back to Hunder at your camp/guest house. Overnight at Hunder.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 8: Nubra Valley To Leh

Distance: 130 kms

Duration: 7-8 hrs. considering usual conditions and breaks

Start your return towards Leh early in the morning as you shall be taking a pretty long stop at Diskit.

The Diskit Monastery houses the tallest Lord Buddha statue in India, that is visible even from its approach road . The statue stands an impressive 106 feet and is an amazing photo spot. Click some great pictures here and explore this 14 th century Diskit Monastery before heading back to Khardung La for your return leg to Leh.

Upon reaching Leh, rest and recover in the innumerable cafes or shop for souvenirs in Leh Main market. Overnight at Leh.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 9: Leh to Pangong Lake

Distance: 223 kms

Duration: 5-6 hrs. considering usual conditions

On day 10 of your Ladakh bike trip, start at 7 AM towards the Instafamous Pangong Tso via the mountain pass Chang La.

Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake is the pristine lake that features in the hit Bollywood movie, 3 Idiots . This is very evident as tourism and commercialization have set up many photo spots with “3 Idiots” references.

You shall be reaching the lake rather quickly as the road is quite well developed to boost tourism. Upon reaching the lake, find a spot that’s away from the scores of tourists. The lake is a tranquil paradise and its beauty is in its serenity. Don’t let the crowds take that away from you.

That being said, you still have to get those pictures with this piece of natural beauty. So, sit on some lonesome rock in the middle of the lake and ask one of your rider friends to start clicking. The rush of tourists increases with each passing hour. Hence, visit the lake as early as possible.

Most tourists make a day trip to Pangong lake. However, we highly recommend staying a night in one of the camps along the shores of the lake. This not only gives you private access to the lake without the tourists but also provides you with an opportunity to witness one of the most magical sunrises (picture below) you will ever see.

Overnight in Spangmik.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 10: Pangong Lake to Leh

Duration: 8 – 9 hrs. considering usual conditions and long stay at Thiksey Monastery

Wake up early in the morning to witness a magical sunrise as pictured above. Relax at the camp by the calm waters of the lake.

Day 10 of your Leh-Ladakh trip entails your return to Leh from Pangong Lake and doesn’t involve any major sites or congested mountain passes . Hence, you can afford to start today’s ride a little late. After a hearty breakfast and a fun bonding session with your bike gang by the lake, start your return journey.

On the way back, pay your respects at the majestic Thiksey Monastery . This humongous temple complex houses the Maitreya (Future Buddha) standing tall at 15 meters, inside the temple complex. The monastery is known for its well-planned architecture, spectacular views and calm vibes.

You shall return to Leh by evening. Overnight in Leh.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 11: Leh To Tso Moriri

On Day 11 of your Ladakh bike tour, head to Tso Moriri – one of the highest mountain lakes in the world . The lake stretches out till about 28 kms and provides some of the most beautiful and serene views in the world.

You shall be passing the second highest motorable road in Ladakh, Taglang La. There is another less popular route as well, but if you’re a biker, you’d definitely not want to miss out on scaling Taglang La. It was my favorite mountain pass to cross in the entire duration of my Ladakh bike trip. It is very well developed, provides beautiful views of snow covered mountain peaks and the traffic is considerably manageable as well.

Post Taglang La, the route to Tso Moriri is a rather steep one. The road isn’t that developed, the incline is considerable high and you might have to go off road for longer durations. If you’re not an experienced biker or if you’re driving in the mountains for the first time, I would recommend you to skip Tso Moriri and head straight to Sarchu.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 12: Tso Moriri to Sarchu

Distance: 230 kms

Duration: 9-10 hrs. considering usual conditions

Start early in the morning from Tso Moriri so that you can reach your next stop, Sarchu before dark.

On the way, you shall be crossing More Plains . More plains are a rare flat land in the Himalayas where there are no ascents or descents on the road and you just keep driving on a flat road. The road is adorned with large stone hills on either side along with plain lands that create an ideal photo spot for you and your bike. Ever seen those Ladakhi pictures of a bike parked on the side of a long, never ending road with mountains on either side? Yes, that picture (like the one above) was taken on More plains. No other road in Ladakh provides the luxury of such an amazing picture.

After crossing More plains, you shall be driving on the main highway connecting Ladakh to Himachal Pradesh. So, expect a lot of truck traffic and be careful as a number of accidents have taken place on these roads.

Reach the tent city of Sarchu before nightfall. There is one main bridge that connects Sarchu to the main highway. If the bridge gets flooded, you might not be able to enter Sarchu.

There are a number of budget, mid-range and luxury camps in Sarchu for your night stay which also include dinner and breakfast in the room rate. Sarchu has been developed as a tent city as it falls at a convenient distance for bikers riding from Leh to Manali. So, finding food and accommodation shall not be a problem. However, advance booking is still recommended.

Overnight at Sarchu.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 13: Sarchu To Manali

Distance: 180 kms

Duration: 6 hrs. considering usual conditions and breaks

Start the 13th day of your Himalayan bike ride from Sarchu for Manali. The distance is quite short but traffic and fog can be deterrents to a short ride.

On the way, cover the pristine Suraj Tal and Deepak Tal lakes that are visible from the roadside itself.

Have lunch in Keylong, one of our favorite Himalayan towns that has great options for food with numerous cafes.

When we visited for the first time, we had to take the route through Rohtang Pass that added an additional 3 hours to our ride time due to the risky roads, traffic and the fog. However, after the construction of Atal Tunnel, the travel time and distance have greatly reduced. Take the Atal tunnel to save time or visit Rohtang if that’s on your bucket list.

After reaching Manali, visit the Hidamba temple or roam around on Mall road to explore Manali at your pace.

Overnight in Manali.

Leh Ladakh Itinerary Day 14: Manali To Chandigarh/Jammu/ Delhi

This brings us to the 14 th day of your Leh Ladakh Bike trip. We have kept the option open for you to chose the destination as per your convenience.

You can opt to ride to Chandigarh (300 kms) like we did since it was the nearest, well connected hub for us to transport our bikes back to our home town.

You can head back to Jammu (400 kms), in case you have rented your bike from there and you need to return it back to Jammu.

If you’ve rented your motorcycle from a dealer who doesn’t mind collecting the bike from Manali, you can take an overnight sleeper bus to Delhi and return home.

15 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary: Buffer Day/day exploring any of the locations in detail

You can easily add another day to your 14-day Leh Ladakh bike trip by keeping a buffer day for unforeseen circumstances like landslides, road closures, harsh weather, etc. If there are no such unavoidable situations, you can dedicate an extra day to any of the locations mentioned above to explore them further or relax and take in its beauty.

We suggest that you don’t add any additional location from the ones stated above on your extra day. That will lead to increased fatigue and lesser joy. You are on a holiday after all.

Suggested 5 Day Leh Ladakh Itinerary

If you only wish to spend 5 days in Leh Ladakh, you can easily convert this itinerary to 5 day Leh Ladakh itinerary. Just fly in and out of Leh from Delhi and skip Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 11, 12, 13, 14 of the above itinerary . In addition to that, do a day trip to Turtuk instead of dedicating another entire day to it.

You can easily land in Ladakh, drop your luggage at a base hotel in Leh, hire a bike from Ladakh and visit all the important locations around Ladakh in 5 days.

In a Nuthsell

This brings us to the end of our Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary. We advise you to take a print out of this itinerary for reference as internet connection isn’t very reliable in Ladakh. If you still have any questions, ask us in the comments below and we shall be happy to answer them to the best of our knowledge. You can also reach out to us on Instagram @worldwidewander_org . Check out our other blogs on India travel if you plan to club an epic India trip with your Ladakh trip!

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Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip Guide 2024: Highlights, Best Bikes, Itinerary, Routes & Cost

Table of Contents

Every biker in India has a dream of Leh Ladakh bike trip. I mean who did not? Every biker’s first love is their bike. It is such an adventurous feel that no one can turn their back to. One who has tasted it can never look back. 

A bike trip to Ladakh is on all of our bucket lists. So why not just make it happen?  As I have personally gone to Ladakh on a bike, I can tell you this feeling is truly magical, its beauty is beyond words. 

Leh Ladakh is a very unique place, it is one of its kind. The snow-clad peaks, barren lands, sand dunes, and snowfall mixed, everything about it is just so unique.

To help you get an idea of what you can expect in your Leh Ladakh bike trip, we will share as much information as we can. We will cover everything starting from routes for a bike trip to Ladakh, to the best bikes for Ladakh bike trip. 

About Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip

Ladakh bike trip is all about roaring bike engines, thrilling roads, snow-clad mountains, sand dunes, Pangong Lake, and nothing but mesmerizing landscape all around. We think everyone must experience a bike trip to Ladakh, it’s such a wholesome experience and much more than any other trip. It is more than just a trip.

Ladakh constitutes a large portion of Kashmir and is one of the union territories of India. The geographical location of Ladakh is different than any other part of the world. It is one of the very few cold deserts of the world. The weather is dry most of the year. The temperature during winter can fall as low as -40 degrees celsius. 

As you drive through the roads with acres of land surrounded by the Zanskar mountain range, it feels as if the mountains are talking to you. Witness one of the most gorgeous and toughest lands on earth.

Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip Highlights

• A bike trip to Ladakh can be anywhere between a 6 day to 18-day tour. Depending on the destinations you are going to cover and the route.
• Most of the Ladakh bike trips start from Delhi. The most famous destinations in Leh Ladakh bike trip to be covered are Kargil, Rohtang pass, Khardungla pass, Pangong Lake, and Nubra valley.
• Shopping at the famous Leh market is one of the most exciting parts of the journey. 
• Ride the thrilling Khardungla pass, and experience the wind gushing.
• Visit the heavenly Pangong lake, and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the endlessly flowing Pangong lake.
• Enjoy the fresh air and the meadows as you ride towards Kullu valley.

Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh On A Bike Trip

The expedition of Ladakh bike trip is best during June to September. Although the road to Nubra valley and Khardungla pass been open throughout the year due to army clearance. But these roads are tremendously dangerous to tread during winters and monsoon. 

Also, the Rohtang pass is closed during the winter. It is not open for tourists until after April. So avoid going to Ladakh on a bike trip during winters at any cost.

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh on a bike trip is from June to September. Always prepare yourself for the worst condition, because the weather condition is becoming unpredictable due to global warming, climate changes, etc.

Best Bikes for Bike Trip To Ladakh

Now as we are talking about a bike trip to Ladakh, the bike deserves the limelight here. Your whole experience of this thrilling expedition will depend on your bike. Ladakh bike trip is the dream of many adventure lovers like us, but this can turn into a nightmare if you choose the wrong bike for the Leh Ladakh bike trip. 

First things first, you need a bike that is suitable for the trip and has a powerful engine. Experts recommend bikes that are easy to handle and easy to maintain. 

Here we will list out some of the best bikes for the Leh Ladakh bike trip:

• Royal Enfield Himalayan BS 4 and variants – The Royal Enfield Himalayan features a powerful 411cc torque engine. It was built by the company for the Ladakh trip. Its long-travel suspension setup, dual-purpose tyres, and large spoke wheels make it an outstanding performer off-road. No doubt the Royal Enfield Himalayan BS4 is one of the best bikes for the Ladakh bike trip.
• Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 – The Rcoyal Enfield interceptor 650 is literally a beast off-road. It features a 650cc parallel-twin moton engine. However, for the Ladakh bike trip, consider swapping the tires with dual-purpose tires.
• Bajaj Dominar 400 – This is another amazing tourer for the Ladakh bike trip. It has a 157mm ground clearance, great for off-road performance with a 400cc torque engine.
• Hero Xpulse – This is the best affordable bike for the Ladakh bike trip. But it is as capable as the most expensive ones in the list. It features a 200cc torque engine, with long-travel suspension and spoke wheels with dual-purpose tyres. The tall 220mm ground clearance is amazing for crossing rocky areas, and rivers.
• KTM Duke RC 390 – Lightweight bikes like this one is of great advantage especially for a bike trip to Ladakh. With its brand new RC 390 engine, it is one of the best bikes for the Leh Ladakh bike trip.

Available Petrol Pumps On The Highway To Ladakh Bike Trip

As petrol pumps are pretty scarce in the Leh region and as you ride up to Nubra valley, it is recommended you fill your fuel tank each time and also carry an extra container to refill the tank in case it needs refilling. 

Petrol Pumps on Manali to Leh- Ladakh Bike Trip

There are only two petrol pumps Manali and Leh. And the distance you will cover from Manali to Leh Bike trip is about 1130 km. While on a Ladakh bike trip, the average mileage of your bike would be somewhere near 35km per liter. So, let’s do the maths here, you will require at least 32 liters of petrol from Manali to Leh.

There are two petrol pumps on the Leh-Manali highway:

Petrol Pumps on Srinagar to Leh- Ladakh Bike Trip

Compared to the Leh-Manali route there are more petrol pumps in the Srinagar to Leh route. You will find at least 7 petrol pumps where you can refill your tank.

Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip Routes

There are several possible routes for the Ladakh bike trip. One can start from Delhi, or Manali, or even fly to Leh and start from there. If you are starting from Delhi, the most common route is via Srinagar. Delhi – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi. 

If you don’t want to take the route via Srinagar, you can directly start from Delhi or Manali and head towards Leh.

Delhi to Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip

Total Distance: 2200 Km (Approximate value)

Best time to Visit : June to October

Route Map : Delhi – Jammu –  Srinagar – Kargil – Leh – Hunder – Pangong – Karu – Sarchu – Manali.

You can rent your bikes from Delhi as well as from Srinagar. If you wish the rent your bike from Delhi onwards, you would reach Jammu via Ludhiana and Jalandhar.

Otherwise, you can also fly to Srinagar airport and rent your bike from Srinagar itself.

Day 1: Delhi to Jammu

The journey is of about 10 hours if you ride a bike. The bike trip from Delhi to Jammu distance is about 600 km.

Day 2: Jammu – Srinagar

The road that connects Jammu and Srinagar is mesmerizing, with pine forests on both sides of the road. You will come across several valleys and beautiful spots on the way. The distance from Jammu to Srinagar is about 300km.

Day 3: Srinagar

Now is the time to rent your bike if you haven’t already in Delhi. Then take a tour around Srinagar, visit the famous Dal lake, floating market, gardens, and various other tourists attraction in Srinagar. And get ready for the next day.

Day 4: Srinagar to Kargil

Start off your day with an astounding 203 km drive from Srinagar to Kargil. You should be able to reach there by 2 PM even if you start your journey from Srinagar by 9 AM. Then you have the rest of the day to yourself. Do not forget to visit the Kargil war memorial. 

Kargil is a beautiful place, it does not feel like a city. Taking a tour around the locals will surely give you some insights into their culture.

Day 5: Kargil to Leh

It is the day for the spectacular journey from Kargil to Leh. It is a breathtaking 210 km bike ride through Alchi, Lamayuru, and the magical magnetic hill. It will be a 4-hour drive, so you should be able to reach Leh by 12 pm. Then you can enjoy the day in Leh. Visit the famous Lamayuru monastery, Shanti Stupa, Thiksey Monastery, and many more spectacular locations.

Day 6: Leh – Khardungla – Diskit – Hunder

After enjoying yourself at Leh, prepare yourself for the Khardungla pass. It is the world’s highest motorable road for the general public at an altitude of 18,600 ft above sea level. The oxygen level is very low at this altitude, so if you feel like it, carry a portable oxygen cylinder with you. Relax and spend the night at Hunder.

Day 7: Hunter – Nubra Valley

Spend the next to explore Hunder and Nubra valley. Also, don’t forget to treat yourself to a camel safari and the view of endless sand dunes. Do not miss the famous Nubra valley. It is known for its scenic vistas, camel, monasteries, and orchards. Spend the night camping at Nubra valley under a sky full of stars or maybe some bonfire!

Day 8: Nubra – Pangong Tso

Bid goodbye to Nubra valley early. Nubra valley to Pangong Tso or Pangong lake is about 217 km. Entice yourself with the scenic panoramic view of the Pangong lake. You can get camps near the Pangong Tso, you can also find hotels. Go for whatever is suitable for you.

Day 9: Pangong – Karu

Ride side by side the Pangong lake and enjoy the view of its heavenly colors and crystal clear water to reach Karu via the Chang La pass. It is about 190 km from Pangong Lake, it would take about 5 hours to reach Karu.

Day 10: Karu – Sarchu

Now slowly we are headed towards Manali, and about to bid Adieu to Leh. Sarchu lies on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. It is a famous halt on the Leh-Manali highway. The ride is about 6hours. Enjoy this ride to the fullest, the bike trip feels fresh all of a sudden on this highway as you ride through the horizon, alongside the mountains.

A lot of people actually prefer to stay at Jispa (between Karu to Sarchu) over Sarchu. It helps your body to acclimatize better. But there’s a lot of journey left for the next day.

Day 11: Sarchu – Manali

As you embark towards Manali from Sarchu, you will cross the famous Rohtang pass. You will also notice the environment is changing slowly as you move closer to Manali. Enjoy the delightful views of the mountains, fresh air, and the gushing Beas river. The distance between Sarchu to Manali by road is 210 km.

And if you want to stay at Jispa, then the journey would be about 337 km to Manali.

Day 12: Manali – Delhi.

The end to an enticing adventure! Say goodbye till the next time. Reach Delhi airport or your relevant location with lots and lots of memories.

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Manali To Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip 

Total Distance :  2300 Km (approximate value)

Best time to Visit : June to September

Route Map : Delhi – Manali – Sarchu – Leh – Khardungla – Nubra – Pangong lake – Tso moriri – Sarchu – Manali – Delhi.

In the route, you start from Manali and ride all the way to Leh via Rohtang pass, Pangong lake, Kardungla pass, Nubra valley, and Kargil. On this route of Manali to Leh bike trip, you will start your journey from Manali, and return back to Manali without having to visit Srinagar and Jammu.

Day 1: Delhi to Manali

Start your journey from New Delhi and head out on NH1. Enjoy the boulevard amidst the exciting pastures of farmlands. You can reach Manali by Bus, train, or flight, whatever is convenient to you. You can also rent your bike right at Delhi to begin your expedition.

Day 2: Manali – Sarchu

Start your day two with a nice healthy breakfast, and start early for the first chapter of your expedition to Sarchu. It is about 210kms by road. You will cross through the Rohtang pass to reach Sarchu. Ride through lush green valleys, the untouched serene beauty of Keylong and Jispa , and the mesmerizing Baralacha La pass .

Day 3: Sarchu – Leh

Begin your journey towards Leh for an enticing experience through Lachung La, Nakee La pass. Take a short break at Pang, here you will find many tea stalls and Dhabas to serve you hot steaming lunch. Enjoy your meal and get ready to ride to Leh by evening. Overnight stay at Leh. 

Day 4: Leh – Khardungla – Nubra

This is going to be the most enriching ride of the tour. You will ride through the world’s highest motorable road, Khardung La pass at 18,600ft altitude. Enjoy the scenic views of the SHyok river, Shyok valley, and Nubra valley. Enjoy the alluring views of white sand dunes and great panoramic vistas at Nubra valley.

Day 5: Nubra – Pangong lake

Get ready for the most beautiful lake in India, the Pangong lake. It has been featured in Bollywood movies like 3 idiots and Jab Tak hai Jaan. Relish each moment spent at Pangong Lake because this is one of its kind. There are many campsites near the lake, find yourself a comfy camp for the night and some bonfire.

Day 6: Pangong – Tso Moriri

Start early morning and begin your journey to the beautiful, calm, and sacred lake of Tso Moriri. On the way, you can visit Hanle, the world’s highest astronomical observatory. If you are a night sky lover or love exploring astronomy, then you should consider spending the night at any campsite at Hanle.

Day 7: Tso Moriri – Sarchu

This is a day full of adventure and fun. Refreshing wind and scenic vistas accompany you on your bike ride to Sarchu. You will reach Sarchu by evening. Spend the night at any hotel in Sarchu.

Day 8: Sarchu – Manali

Start off your day with lip-smacking breakfast. Visit the Solang valley. You can also indulge in adventure sports at Solang valley. There’s an array of options for adventure lovers at the valley like skiing, paragliding, snow scooter, etc.

And as you start your ride back to Manali, the journey full of memories comes to an end. 

Bike Cost To Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip

There are multiple factors on which the total Ladakh bike trip cost would vary. The most significant factor that decides your Leh Ladakh bike trip cost is the bike you choose. If you are renting a bike from Delhi or Manali, then be very clear about your budget and then choose a suitable bike. The bike rental for Leh Ladakh is approximately Rs. 1000-2500 per day .

The overall cost of the Ladakh trip would also depend on accommodation and food choices. The average Leh Ladakh bike trip cost for 10-15 days is Rs. 35,000 per person . 

Things To Carry During Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip

When you are going on a bike trip to Leh Ladakh, the list of things would be a bit different than when you are flying to Ladakh. In this article, we will try to list down everything a person should carry during a Leh Ladakh bike trip.

List of Essentials

• A good quality helmet
• Driving license
• Documents and permits required in Leh Ladakh region
• Government approved ID card
• Water-proof riding gear
• Hiking or trekking boots
• Nylon ropes to carry and hook things to your bike
• Thermal inner wears
• First-aid medical kit
• A spare pair of flip-flops
• Good quality sunglasses
• Sleeping bag
• Rechargeable torch
• Sunscreen (minimum 50 SPF)
• A lighter 
• Packets of maggi
• Snacks like biscuits, dry fruits, and cakes
• Extra pair of t-shirts, sweatshirts, handkerchiefs, and innerwear
• A detailed physical map of the route and a compass for emergency
• Basic toiletries

Places To Visit During A Bike Trip To Ladakh

Confused about what all destinations you should cover while your Ladakh bike trip? Because this is a one-time thing, and no one wants to miss out on anything. 

So, we have listed down all the places you must visit during your Ladakh bike trip.

Pangong Tso

Pangong tso or Pangong Lake offers a magical view of the endlessly flowing crystal clear water with mountains in the background. It is a must-visit for everyone visiting Ladakh. The lake stretches for about 134 km crossing the Indo-China border.

Shanti Stupa

This is a beautiful huge white structure situated on the hilltop of Chanspa built by Japanese Buddhists in 1991. It offers a great view of the city from the hilltop. The panoramic views under the clear sky are just mesmerizing.

Namgyal Tsemo Monastery 

Also known as Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh. It was founded by King Tashi Namgyal of Ladakh in 1430. It offers a breathtaking view of the countryside surrounded by the Zanskar range.

Lamayuru Monastery

It is situated at an altitude of 11,520ft. It is the oldest monastery in Ladakh. The monastery is located on the Leh-Kargil highway. The monastery originally consisted of 5 buildings, of which only one is surviving to date. It is now the permanent home to about 150 monks.

The lake is situated at an altitude of 15,000ft above sea level. Decorated by rugged mountains, crystal clear water, and enticing beauty, it is surely one of the must-visit places in Leh Ladakh.

Hemis Monastery

This Tibetan abbey is the greatest in Ladakh. It hosts one of the most captivating festivities in the world, the Chams the mystic masked dance. The festival is held in early June. It was built in the 11th century and was rebuilt in 1672. The monastery consists of several manuscripts and paintings.

The 19 storey high Leh palace is a true gem of the city. It was the home of the royal family of Ladakh till 19th century until the Dogra forces attacked Ladakh. The palace consists of a gallery consisting of real jewelry, crowns, and traditional dresses worn by the royal family. It also consists of real Chinese Thangka paintings over 450 years old. A bike trip to Ladakh would be incomplete if you do not visit the Leh Palace.

Khardung La Pass

Khardungla pass is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, situated at an altitude of 18,600 ft. The view from the pass will leave you speechless for sure. The stunning view of the misty mountains covered in snow looks magical from here. 

Zanskar Valley

The Zanskar valley looks like you are living in a dream. It looks like those magical dreamy landscapes with mystical mountains. The hues of soothing greens and blues decorate the Zanskar valley even more. This picturesque valley is a must-visit in Leh.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is known for its scenic vistas, orchards, and camel safari. The spectacular view from the valley is a splendid experience in itself. You will also witness the two-humped camels, in contrast to the single hump camels in Rajasthan. During summers the valley is filled with greenery and flowers, no wonder why it is called the orchard of Ladakh.

Tips For Leh-Ladakh Bike trip 

• When you are going Ladakh on a bike trip, always keep in mind SAFETY FIRST. Do not try to do anything unnecessary that compromises your safety. The roads of Leh Ladakh are very dangerous. Its good for adventure only if you take proper safety measures.
• Carry extra fuel if you are taking the Manali Leh route via the Leh Manali highway. Because there are very few petrol pumps in the Leh to Manali highway.
• Network connectivity is really poor once you enter Leh region. Consider getting a sim of Airtel or BSNL before your trip.
• Always keep the first-aid handy. Accidents don’t come with a warning sign, it’s better to prepare for the worst.
• Consider carrying enough cash, because there are very few ATMs once you leave Leh. The last ATM is in the Leh market, and then the next ATM will be in Manali.
• Apply and carry the inner line permit beforehand to visit places like Tso Morir, Mahe, Chushul, etc

How to reach Leh directly?

If you want to reach Leh directly, the best way is to take a direct flight to the nearest airport to Leh, the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. The airport is well-connected to the major airports in India like Delhi, Kolkata, etc. From the airport, you can take a cab to reach your desired destination.  Leh is not directly connected via train. So, if you prefer to train, then you must reach Jammu, and then reach Leh via road.

What are the best bikes for ladakh trip?

For best experience up in the hills, a good bike is a must. Here are some of the best bikes for leh ladakh bike trip. – Royal Enfield Himalayan BS 4 and variants – Royal Enfield Interceptor 650  – Bajaj Dominar 400 – Hero Xpulse – KTM Duke RC 390

How long will it take to get acclimatized to Ladakh weather?

The average altitude of Ladakh is around 3,000 meters above sea level. So, if you live in plains, then this is a huge chance for your body to get acclimatized. This is the reason why people are not recommended to fly directly to Leh from the plains. Because you might feel sick. It is recommended to take the highway to Leh Ladakh, to give your body ample time to get acclimatized. Usually, you should be feeling fine after a day or so. If you continue to feel sick even after 2 days, then we would recommend you to consult a doctor.

Is the Ladakh trip safe for kids?

It is not safe for kids if you are traveling to Ladakh by bike. Because this is an adventurous trip, and hence, kids might not be very comfortable with it. Also, at high altitudes, kids might fall sick. If you are not going on a bike trip, kids can go.

What are the documents to carry during the Ladakh bike trip?

As Ladakh is a border region, you must carry all the important documents. You must get permits to visit certain places, for that you would require passport size photos. Here is a list of documents you might need during your Ladakh trip: – Driving license for bike – Passport size photos – Insurance certificate – Pollution under control certificate – Government approved ID card (like Aadhaar card)

What is the best time to visit Ladakh?

You can visit Ladakh all around the year, but if you are taking the Manali Leh road via Rohtang pass, do not travel during the winter months. The tourist season peaks from May till the end of October. The best time to visit Ladakh is May to October.

What is ILP (Inner Line Permit)?

ILP or Inner Line Permit is a permit issued by the Govt. of India that enables international tourists to visit certain protected areas for a limited period of time. Since September 2021, Indian citizens would no longer need any ILP . This is mandatory for everyone who is not a citizen of India. The ILP is valid for 15 days for international tourists.

What are the areas in Ladakh that require an Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

Certain protected areas of Ladakh require ILP. These places are Nubra Valley, Khardung La pass, Pangong lake, Tso Moriri, Hans Towns, Merak, Man, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Tyakshi, Turtuk, Chushul, Hanle, and Miner La.

Which network is available in Leh Ladakh?

Airtel and BSNL both work fine in Leh city. But as you move towards Nubra valley, the networks go weak. BSNL is still active in certain regions, but no other service provider network is available.

What is the oxygen saturation in Leh? Is it difficult to breathe?

As you go higher in altitude, the oxygen saturation falls significantly. You might feel difficulty in breathing at higher altitudes like Khardung La pass. But as you get acclimatized to the high altitude you should be fine. Do not get involved in any kind of strenuous exercise while traveling. Talk to your doctor if you have any breathing problems like asthma. 

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Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2023: A Complete Trip Guide for Bikers

For every motorcyclist in India, a Leh Ladakh bike ride is likely at the top of the wishlist. Leh is one of the highest-ranked places in the world, bordered on all sides by the Himalayas.

However, it’s on the road that makes it even better. The path is full of bleak mountain slopes, snow-covered mountains, monasteries, difficult roads, and other amazing vistas that will force you to take a picture at every turn. The trail leads to snow-covered summits.

In the first place, we help you to prepare for the voyage and to overcome all the important problems and guidance.

Table of Contents

Best Time To Consider Visiting Leh Ladakh

Most of the year, Ladakh is blanketed with snow. Therefore, the summer months are the optimum time to visit Ladakh.

The only time a cycle trip to Ladakh can be made is during the summer months, May to June, and the mountaineering season, July to September.

Therefore, from the end of May to September are the best months to have a Leh Ladakh bike trip . Summer is also the best time to begin your bike tour from Manali, Spiti, and the Ladakh region.

Read more: 11 Best Hill Stations in India in 2023 for a Soothing Mountain Trip.

Number Of Days Required For Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

The duration of a Leh Ladakh bike tour is perfect over a period of 15 days or more, depending on the many elements such as the route you follow, the full itinerary, and especially the weather conditions. This is suitable when you decide to cycle from Delhi to Manali to Leh. Therefore, for a journey to Leh Ladakh which is meaningful, a total of 11-12 days is required.

Ideal Budget For A Ladakh Trip

The cost of your Ladakh trip budget, starting point and ending point, vehicle type of choice, the amount of journey you plan for, the type of accommodation that you chose, and whether you decide to travel in small groups, a big group, or alone are numerous parameters.

There are a great number of options. This would therefore add to your costs and will cost you anything from 45000/- to 60000/- INR for a 12-day tour of Ladakh, which will begin in Delhi and end in Schwarnagar, in ideal scenarios if you want to take a pocket-friendly bike journey from Ladakh.

Best Bike For Ladakh Trip

So the next parameter is to choose the proper vehicle for your journey to Leh Ladakh after considering the number of days and money for your vacation. The ideal way to drive in the Himalayas is to Royal Enfield, if you chose to drive on motorcycles, they are also reliable and robust. The best motors in Royal Enfield are Bullet 500cc and Himalayan 411 cc. Any 4×4 will be good, or any car with higher ground clearance is good enough if you want to choose any car for the Leh Ladakh road trip.

Rental Facilities For Bike

The Delhi and Manali bike rentals are always prepared to rent you a ride on the basis of the documentation you give. Karol Bagh, Delhi, is the hub to rent a bike a day for INR 900.

All you have to do is provide your valid photo identification, driver’s license, INR 10,000 as the security deposit, and your parents’ consent letters should you still be under 25 years old, and all you are scheduled for the Delhi bike ride from Leh Ladakh.

In Manali the rental charge per day is between INR 1000 and INR 1800 and the security deposit, together with the original copy of valid identification documents, is between INR 12000 and INR 18000.

Best Places To Visit On A Ladakh Trip

Wondering what to cover on your Leh Ladakh 2023 bike ride? Plan your plan in Ladakh to visit these amazing places?

Do not say that you visited Leh Ladakh if you did not experience all of this on your bike tour.

These are must-visit destinations:

Pangong Tso

This natural wonder in the lap of Ladakh is known as Pangong Tso Lake and must be visited on your Leh Ladakh bike tour. In the middle of the Himalayas, the lake extends over 134 km and offers spectacular views of the rural highlands.

The lake is so huge that 60 percent of China’s lake length is one of Asia’s largest lakes. We will cover Changla Pass, the third highest motoring pass in the world while driving to Pangong Lake. In the Pangong region, there are just a few permanent communities.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa or Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, notable for being one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh, lie in the very heart of the district of Leh. The monastery, which serves as a home for the famous golden statue of Maitreya Buddha, was founded by King Tashi Namgyal of Ladakh in 1430. From the top of Leh Royal Palace, you can even look at it. This is one of the best sites to visit when you stay in Leh city.

Zanskar Valley

Hues of relaxing blue and gorgeous brown can only be seen in Zanskar valley, bordered on every side by huge snow-covered peaks. You’ll surely be captivated by a visit to the busy Valley. In winter the frozen river offers an opportunity for adventurers to travel the famed Trek of Chadar where people spend days walking on the ice.

Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa’s magnificent white structure, together with its dome, is the most recognizable attraction in Leh Ladakh. It was erected to celebrate 2500 years of Buddhism and promote world peace by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists. The white surface is amazing during the day but on full moon night when it is bathed in the soft glow of the moon rays it looks much more gorgeous.

Related post: How To Become a Digital Nomad and Travel The World

Essential Things For A Ladakh Trip

Taking a bike ride is like packing hard across the hardest mountains. It is an adventurous journey to Ladakh that must be packed lightly yet must comply with all fundamental requirements. Keep in mind the preparation for your bike trip to Leh Ladakh below.

Care for riding, pants (if not good quality knee guards, winter guards, balaclava or façades, thermal baths, socks, economic or trustworthy high-ankle boots or gumboots, winter wearing hoodies, jeans, and T-shirts.

Accessories

SPF 50 and higher, Cap Sunglass, warm gloves, and woolen night socks. The cream, lip ball, petroleum jelly, cold cream, dandelion, dough paste, liquid soap, clothes, shampoos, towels, Deo, and waste bins cover to dispose of useless stuff. Face cream, lip ball (your pocket should always be kept in it).

Other Essential Things

A few short foods, such as dry fruits, chocolates, bars of energy, and water bottles, are required. Custom first aid kits, Diamox and misprints for fever, stomach trouble, vomiting, and so on, and essential drugs. Phone Charger, power bank, battery replacement camera, memory cards, plug points for multipurpose. 

What Does It Take To Do A Ladakh Bike Trip?

Here are the fundamental conditions for your journey. Please note that each and every criterion is incredibly significant. We advise that you should have some bike riding experience, especially long bike journeys if you choose to do a road trip to Leh Ladakh.

You must bring a valid license, photo ID, address evidence, and pictures of these documents supplied by the Government. In case of a visit to the protected areas in Ladakh, Indian nationals require an internal line permit or ILP.

Is a Ladakh Bike Trip Worth It?

A Leh Ladakh road trip is probably the most unforgettable experience, but also a delightful experience. You’re going to see Ladakh in the genuine taste. You can also choose one of the most exquisite experiences, i.e. camping in Leh, although you are on a bike tour.

There are also luxury resorts, hotels, hostels, and cottages that can be selected for you. In addition to being able to visit safaris, you may also go on adventurous tours to explore this paradise.

Risks Involved In A Ladakh Trip

For the better portion of the year, the entire region remains beneath a layer of snow. After the summer the authorities take off the snow and make the roads accessible again. The continual snow melting can nonetheless trigger a landslide and in the region is very common.

Acute mountain sickness or AMS for road travelers is one of the most important issues. When the altitude increases, the oxygen level is reduced, and tourists who are not adapted to this low oxygen level in the air are AMS.

Connectivity In Ladakh Region

You may only obtain prepaid sim cards in Leh after arrival from outside the J&K and the Ladakh regions. However, the purchase of a local sim card is always restricted, as it is situated close to the border areas. In Leh works just BSNL, Airtel, and Idea.

Besides Leh, there is no network in other locations such as Nubra or Pangong. The weather depends on it. Internet access always fluctuates, sometimes for weeks, there is no internet or phone. Be ready to fully disconnect from other parts of the planet!

How Hard Is Altitude Sickness In Ladakh?

Avoiding AMS is very easy if you follow your Leh Ladakh cycle guide’s directions, it’s vital to avoid ascending hastily, take your time and gradually rise in height. Drink 3-5 liters of water each day, keeping you hydrated, At least for the first few days before the body has acclimatized, avoid smoking and alcohol use, avoid having heavy dinners, and non-veg in the night because heavy food will make your metabolism difficult.

Stay Options For Ladakh Trip

The Himalayas and part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir are Leh and Ladakh. The area has a raw beauty and is not only distinctive to its landscape. Some of them may not be found elsewhere in the world.

In addition to several campgrounds and holiday homes in the area, these cottages are preferred for warmth, hygiene, and kindness. These holiday homes are located in Ladakh’s most remote village. They are also created with the most environmentally friendly and economical material collection.

Final Thoughts: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 202 3 : A Complete Trip Guide for Bikers

If you want to take a journey you will remember for life, you should visit Ladakh. I really must recommend you to have a kind experience.

Ladakh’s like no other place, and there’s something for everyone.

Whether you are a passionate adventure hobby, cyclist, photographer, family member, or just someone wishing to spend time at peace, Ladakh won’t deceive you.

Just put aside all your doubts and start on a voyage that cherishes lifetime memories.

Now It’s Your Turn!

Hey, I hope you enjoyed reading this Leh Ladakh bike trip guide !

So, now I’d like to hear from you:

Would you like to visit Leh Ladakh in 2023?

Let me know in the comments below right now.

Also, share this post with your friends, and travelers to make their Leh Ladakh bike trip easier.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me . I’m always available to help young hustlers like you.

Keep traveling!

About the Author: Inu Etc

I was roaming Around internet and found your website. I have recently Started my Motovlogging Youtube channel and had gone to Ladakh recently. I am amazed with your knowledge and commitment to write this whole guide. Its one of the classic one and should be referred when needed.

Thanks a lot for your sweet and valuable comment. Means a lot.

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11 Tips Before Planning a Bike Ride to Leh-Ladakh in 2023

• Rahul Arora

For the motorcycling community, Leh and Ladakh are the ultimate destinations for a great motorcycling experience. Ladakh is located in the Northern region of Jammu and Kashmir and it has gained great popularity among tourists. 

You can always buy any one of the popular Leh Ladakh tour packages and see visit all the key destinations. But, the experience of riding a bike through the picturesque background of the mountains and vast landscapes is something that cannot be described in words.

The experience of bike riding in these areas is known to only a handful of people who chose to challenge themselves to take a bike ride to these distant places. You will come across several Buddhist monasteries and high-altitude mountain passes with various camping sites that offer a great experience of solitude in the raw nature.

Taking a Leh Ladakh bike trip through the rugged landscape of Ladakh is not an easy task. But the challenge is worth all the effort and time you put into it. The very journey to Leh and Ladakh on a bike has the potential to give you a totally new perspective on life and even give you an unforgettable experience of a lifetime.  

Taking a bike trip to Leh Ladakh requires a significant amount of mental and physical preparation. This short guide will provide you with the necessary tips on how to make a great Leh Ladakh bike trip plan. Following are some of the major considerations that you will need to understand before your bike ride to Leh and Ladakh.

Tip for Leh Ladakh Bike Tour

Choosing a Bike

Biking Gear & Equipment

Acclimatize to avoid (AMS) Acute Mountain Sickness

Choose the best route

Permits & Documents

Connectivity

Cost of your Trip

The months from June to September are considered the best time to visit Leh and Ladakh. The motorcyclists can particularly pass through the various passes which are generally open during this time. Although some people have attempted a bike journey during the monsoon and winter season, this has made their journey harder than usual.

It is recommended that you travel during the summer months to avoid the harshness of the weather elements as well as bad road conditions during certain months. If you are planning for a Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi then the best route to take is from the Manali-Leh highway.

Do remember that the roads get blocked for many hours and even days due to bad weather conditions. The ride through certain routes also becomes quite dangerous during certain times. You can consider the time from the middle of May until the middle of October to be a good window to start your journey. 

Also Read: Things to do in Ladakh

2. Choosing a Bike

One thing to understand is that taking a bike trip to Leh Ladakh means that you will be riding on some of the most dangerous roads in India. So, you need to choose the right bike for your journey.

It is not wise to pick an incompatible bike that will create problems for you on your journey and also make your ride dangerous. A bad bike can compromise your safety on your journey. The best bike for the Leh Ladakh trip that is mostly recommended is the Royal Enfield with a 350cc engine. Another choice is the Enfield Bullet bike which is also great. 

The Leh Ladakh bullet trip on Enfield bullet bike can make your ride smooth and will help you conquer some of the most treacherous roads in India. The least popular but still ‘good enough’ is the Bajaj Pulsar (180cc and above) which can also help you finish your journey with the least hassle. If you do not own any of the compatible bikes, you can always rent them from the many dealers available in Manali.

According to the motorcycling community, some of the best bikes for the Leh Ladakh trip are as follows.

•Royal Enfield (350cc and above)

•Royal Enfield Himalayan

•CBR 250 (without the Contigo tires)

Also Read: Famous Lakes of Ladakh

3. Biking Gear & Equipment

There are some key bike components and parts that you need to carry in case of any breakdown. After some research on the online forums, we have found a few essential parts that are very crucial to help you fix your bike in case of any potential emergency. These parts include the following.

•   Extra Bike Key

•   Extra Chain Lock

•   Spare Tyre

•   Spare Bungee Cords

•   Spare Clutch

•   Accelerator Cable

•   Chain Lubricant

•   Extra Engine Oil

•   Extra Headlight Bulb 

•   Extra Tire Tube

Carrying these things will ensure that you will be fully prepared. Apart from these, you will also need some protective gear for your safety. Your safety gear should include the following.

•   Helmets

•   Knee & Elbow Guards

•   Waterproof gloves

•   Good pair of Shoes

•   Riding jacket

•   Sunglasses

Along with carrying the above-mentioned gear and equipment, make sure your bike is serviced well before the journey. Once your Leh Ladakh road trip bike is ready, your journey will be smooth and full of adventure without any hassles. 

Also Read: Cool and Unusual Things to do in India

4. Acclimatize to avoid (AMS) Acute Mountain Sickness

Acclimatization is one of the most important things to consider before making your Leh Ladakh bike trip plan. Please remember Leh and Ladakh are situated at a very high altitude. Rushing your journey and traveling quickly to such a height will result in fatal issues for your health. Low atmospheric pressure and lack of oxygen will make you feel tired and create further health problems for you.

It is advised that you should rest for at least 2 days after you reach Leh. After resting, slowly start your journey as your body adjusts to the height and acclimatize. You should make sure that you drink enough water but don’t overdo it as it can also make your health suffer.

Some of the main symptoms that you may experience are headaches, nausea, and fatigue. If you feel the symptoms are getting worse, you must travel to a lower altitude and rest. If you are someone who is taking a Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi, then you might consider taking a lot of breaks on your way to Ladakh and slowly ride to your destination.

Make sure to carry medications such as ‘Diamox’ to combat mountain sickness. It is good that you avoid drinking alcohol and smoking as the low oxygen levels will make you breathe even harder than it already is. People who avail the Leh Ladakh trip package and travel by air or bus also take their time to acclimatize themselves before reaching the height altitude.

It is one of the most important considerations as it concerns your health and safety. If you have low immunity and have heart-related issues, then it is good that you check with your doctor if you should take this journey. 

Also Read: Must Visit Places to Visit in India

5. Choose the best route

There are 2 main routes that you can take to Leh. The most popular one is through Manali by taking the Manali-Leh highway. This route is filled with difficult road conditions that can make your trip to Ladakh quite challenging. If the weather turns against you, then the journey can be very difficult.

Another route which is through Srinagar to Sarchi and Upshi is less difficult and is preferred by many riders as well. Following are these two main routes in detail especially for the riders taking the Leh Ladakh bike trip from Delhi.

Route 1 with a total distance of around 2300 kilometers. 

•   Delhi – Jalandhar – Jammu – Srinagar – Kargil – Leh – Sarchu – Manali – back to Delhi

Route 2 with a total distance of around 2000 kilometers.

•   Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → Khardung La → Nubra Valley → Kargil → Srinagar → Delhi

Also Read: Top Attraction in Leh Ladakh

6. Permits & Documents

Your Leh Ladakh bike tour requires you to be prepared in terms of acquiring all the important permits and documents that you have to show at various checkpoints on your way. The District administration and the Green Tribunal are the 2 authorities that authorize all the required permits you need for your journey.

Many people think that the Rohtang Pass Permit is the only permit you need. But this permit is only for visiting Rohtang pass and it does not allow you to go beyond Rohtang La. if you are planning a Leh Ladakh bike trip, then you need to acquire Inner Line Permit (ILP). This travel document issued by the Government of India allows you to travel to the following areas.

•   Nubra valley

•   Khardung La

•   Pangong Tso

•   Tso Moriri

•   Dah and Hanu Villages

•   Loma Bend

•   Tyakshi

•   Digger La

•   Tangyar (for trekking purposes only)

For non-residents of Jammu and Kashmir, this document is mandatory for traveling. The validity of this document is for 3 weeks for Indians and 1-week validity for the foreign nationals. You can submit your application for this permit online. 

Do remember to check for the latest updates on permit-related news and information as it seems to change according to the political climate near Jammu and Kashmir. 

Also Read: Soul Relaxing Places to Visit in Kullu and Manali

7. Carry Cash

Your Leh Ladakh bike tour will mostly be on your bike riding through the barren vast rugged landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. So, it is important to carry enough cash with you before starting your journey. You will not be able to find many ATMs on your way.

The small food shops and restaurants might not be able to accept your ATM cards or digital payments due to low connectivity. Paying them in cash is mostly the case. To avoid and inconvenience, make sure you have some cash ready to make the necessary payment for your fuel and food. 

There are certain points where you can find an ATM or two. So, do your research and make sure you know where the locations are. This will help you keep your journey hassle-free.

Also Read: Secret Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

A trip to Ladakh on a bike is totally different from taking a vacation offered by the popular Leh-Ladakh tour packages. The tour package includes your food and accommodation in its itinerary and you do not face much of a challenge in finding the right place to eat.

When taking a trip on a bike to Leh-Ladakh, you might face many situations where the street vendors will not have food available for you. It is recommended that you do not expect to find food whenever you are hungry. It is good if are well-prepared in advance and carry some snacks and easy-to-make foods to avoid staying hungry. You must stay well hydrated and well-fed on your bike ride to Leh & Ladakh. Try packing some cookies, easy-to-cook noodles, chips as emergency food items. You can also pack protein bars and energy foods to keep you going. 

Also Read: Best Time to Visit in Leh Ladakh

9. Carry Fuel

You might have the best bike for your Leh-Ladakh trip, but it is useless if it runs out of fuel in the middle of nowhere. So, according to the seasoned adventurers who regularly ride to Leh & Ladakh, advise carrying around 20 liters of extra fuel for your bike.

These experienced riders learned from their mistakes and there are many online forums where they share their experiences of being stranded alone for long hours. To avoid such a scenario, you must be well-prepared for a long ride to your cherished destination. 

You will find many petrol stations on your way but they are quite far from each other. Your Leh Ladakh bullet trip will be a long ride, so make sure that you carry an extra can where you can carry fuel for your favorite bike to keep it hydrated.

Also Read: Must Visit Destinations in India

10. Connectivity

It is very important to inform your loved ones about your location and the status of your journey. Since your bike ride will be quite challenging and full of difficulties, your phone connection needs to work well.

However, only a few service providers work in Ladakh and that too some cellphone plans that charge you monthly. Most ‘Pre-Paid’ plans might not work or have low connectivity. So, be prepared and know when your network is working and update your loved ones on your current location.

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

11. Cost of your Trip

The overall cost of your bike trip depends on a lot of factors such as your choice of a bike, food, accommodation, and duration of your stay. You need to plan carefully about the budget you need to finish your journey successfully. Make sure to include the cost of any unforeseen difficulties that may arise. 

The average budget for 2 weeks long ride from Delhi on a bike might cost you around 35,000 – 40,000 India Rupees. This is just an average approximation of the amount you will spend on food, accommodation, and other basic requirements of a bike ride. 

Once you have selected your Leh Ladakh road trip bike, make sure to check the weather conditions, your health condition, equipment and gear, and all the other above-mentioned requirements while planning your journey.

Do remember, that traveling to Leh & Ladakh by road is not an easy feat. It requires a strong spirit of adventure and some mental stamina to withstand any challenges that come your way. Despite all these challenges, the bike ride to Ladakh is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in your life. Many experienced riders swear by the authenticity of the feeling that you experience on your journey. It opens your spirit to an experience that is beyond words. 

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A Complete Guide to Your Most Awaited Leh-Ladakh Bike Trip | Itinerary, Hotels, and More

Leh Ladakh - A Dream Ride!

Want to explore more road trips that you can take in 2022? Head to this page to find your next favourite holiday!

If you are reading this very post, I see that Leh-Ladakh has been on your mind since quite some time now. I have compiled a comprehensive itinerary to the dream land Ladakh - The Land of High Passes.

This was originally posted on my blog Little Detours 👇

I am writing this post from a perspective of a rider, who has completed this circuit successfully. The itinerary starts from Manali and ends at Jammu. So, you could probably follow the same itinerary even if you are riding the Delhi - Manali - Leh - Jammu - Delhi circuit. The day's numbers would be according to Manali - Leh - Jammu circuit. Follow along.

Things to know before the trip: If you want to know about how to prepare yourself and your bike for this trip, please visit my another post Preparing for Leh Ladakh trip .

Ladakh trip is a journey in the higher altitudes. Higher altitudes also means rarity of oxygen. The oxygen level is less than compared to the regular sea levels. When you are moving from a lower region to higher altitude region, the body has a difficult time adjusting to this drop in oxygen levels. If you do not take precautions, it can lead to Acute Mountain Sickness aka AMS or some other serious symptoms. One way to keep AMS at bay is to keep yourself hydrated even if you don't feel thirsty.

Day 1: Arrival at Manali

This is day when you arrive in Manali. You are probably driving from Delhi or planning to ride from Manali itself. Since this drive is gonna be long enough it advised to have a rest day at Manali if riding from Delhi. Get your bikes checked for issues if any. Make sure you double check everything about your bike here, unless you have hired a mechanic for your trip, who will come along. Most importantly, get your permits ready!

Day 2: Manali to Keylong via ATAL Tunnel

Image: wikipedia.org

Image Credit: wikipedia.org

With the opening of the Atal tunnel (aka Rohtang Tunnel) along the Leh-Manali highway, the time and distance between Manali and Keylong has been significantly reduced. The road which was once dreaded among bikers and travelers alike has just become a journey of fewer than 2 hours compared to over 6 hours before.

Atal tunnel, at a length of 9.02 km, it is the longest tunnel above 10,000 feet in the world and is named after former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The South Portal of the tunnel towards the Manali end is just 24 km away from Manali. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the North Portal of the tunnel and Keylong which just 37 km from this end, can be reached in just 60 minutes.

Although riding through the Atal tunnel at such a height is a feeling in itself, adventure seekers will miss out on the sceneries and the tough riding conditions but will save a lot of time. If you are taking the tunnel, you can even cover Day 3's journey today. If you don't want to take the tunnel, you can skip through to the next section

Should I take the Atal Tunnel?

1. If you are traveling with kids and aged people over 50-60, it's advised to take the tunnel, as the altitude gain will be minimal today.

2. If you are tight on the budget or number of days available, you can take the tunnel and save some time and a lot of fuel.

3. If you are an adventure rider, who wants to see what it takes to ride in the mountains, you shouldn't take the tunnel. Refer to the next section.

Start time: 8 AM. The earlier the better.

Altitude gain: 6,726 ft to 10,100ft

Highest altitude reached: 10,171 ft at Atal Tunnel

Prone to AMS? No. Drink lots of water though.

R oad conditions: At the time of writing, the roads are in pretty good condition. The Atal Tunnel is just amazing!

Fuel points: Fill up your tanks at Manali and make sure you carry at least one empty can of 5 liters minimum. The next fuel point is at Tandi (just before Keylong), which is the last fuel point until next 365 kms. Be sure to fill up your tank to the brim, and fill up the extra cans.

Accommodation at Keylong: There are many tents/ rooms available at Keylong.

(Alternate Route) Manali - Rohtang Pass - Keylong (120 kms - 8 hours)

First view of the snow clad mountains from Manali!

If you are not taking the road via the Atal tunnel, you my friend are up for a challenge!

This is the first day of your ride. You would want to start early and ride rather slow today. This is the day you will sight the snow-capped mountains for the first time, while slowly gaining altitude. You will drive through the dense forests for the first part of your ride.

Highest altitude reached: 13,050 ft

Prone to AMS? Yes! The altitude gain is very rapid. It is advisable to take a doctor advised medicine like Diamox.

Road conditions: At the time of writing, the roads are pretty good till Rohtang La Pass. The road from Rohtang Pass to Koksar (50 kms before Keylong) is worse.

Day 3: Keylong - Jispa - Zing Zing Bar - Baralachla Pass - Sarchu (110 km - 8 hours)

Sunny Morning at Keylong!

This is the most happening day of the trip. You would find everything from simple streams running across the roads to some deadly ones, to the turquoise blue waters of some of the most beautiful lakes like Deepak Tal and Suraj Tal.

Altitude gain: 10,100 ft to 14,070 ft

Highest altitude reached: 16,040 ft

Prone to AMS? Yes, very much. Consider taking a doctor-prescribed tablet (ex Diamox) before starting the journey and you are good to go. You can have another one after a gap of 4-6 hours as advised by your physician. As said before, consult a doctor about the usage of Diamox

Road conditions: Except for a few kms near Keylong, and near the streams, the roads are in good condition. Last few kms to Sarchu are pathetic. It's all mud and gravel.

Fuel points: No fuel points today!

Accommodation at Sarchu: There are many tents/camps available at Sarchu. You may book online or try to find one on the fly.

Day 4: Sarchu - Lachung La - Pang - Taglang La - Leh ( 265 kms - 10 hours)

Starry night at Sarchu!

The Day of High Passes. This is the longest you will ride on a single day during this journey. This ride is difficult. Although there is an overall drop in altitude from Sarchu to Leh, you would pass through some of the highest passes along ranging from 15,500 ft (at Nakeela Pass) to 17,500 ft (Taglangla Pass). The Gata loops and the Moore plains along the highway from Pang to Leh is the highlight for today.

Start time: 7 AM. Anything later than 8 AM is trouble.

Altitude drop: 14,070 ft to 11,480 ft

Highest altitude reached : 17,480 ft at Taglang La Pass

Prone to AMS? Yes! Strongly advised to take a doctor prescribed tablet (ex, Diamox)

Road conditions: The roads are decent till Nakeela Pass just after Gata Loops. From Nakeela Pass to Pang, the roads are pathetic. Do not take shortcuts to avoid the hairpins. You will find the best roads from Pang to Leh.

Fuel points: No fuel points until Leh.

Accommodation at Leh: Although there are plenty of Guesthouse and hotels in Leh, it's recommended to book early and find a good guest house which is near to the highway.

Day 5: Rest Day at Leh

Today is the rest day. After riding for 3 days non stop and covering close to 500km, both you and your bike needs rest. You would need to acclimatize for at least a day before you continue the onward journey.

You could as well use this day to get your permits ready and get your bike checked for any issues. If you find any issues, now is the time to fix it. You can explore the Market in the evening, and enjoy the lazy strolls around the streets of Leh.

Day 6: Leh - Hall of Fame - Magnetic Hills - Sangam (Confluence of Indus and Zanskar) - Thikse Monastery - Stakna Monastery - Leh

A beautiful confluence of two greatest rivers Indus (left) and Zanskar

Enjoy a lazy ride in the city of Leh and visit some of the nearby monasteries and other places. You would witness some of the calm and serene regions of Ladakh when you visit these monasteries. If you are a shutterbug like me, ask no more! The mesmerizing calmness in the air makes you forget everything for a while.

Start time: 9-10 AM

Distance covered: ~ 60 - 70 kms

Altitude avg: 11,500 ft. Not much change in altitude today.

Fuel points: Easily available in the city. One of them is present at the junction of Srinagar and Manali highway.

Day 7: Leh - Khardung La - Nubra Valley (160 kms - 6 hours)

View of valleys and civilization on the way to Khardugla Pass!

Khardung La was once deemed the Highest Motorable Road at 18,379 ft. There were lot of debates about the incorrect altitude measurement. Many reports proved that the altitude was actually 17,582 ft. However, with the new road to Umling La Pass at 19,300 ft built by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in November 2017, has put a rest to all the discussions about whether Khardung La was really the highest motorable road.

Nubra Valley is a beautiful valley along the Nubra river, which offers a picturesque view of the sand dunes at the valley.

Start time: 7 - 8 AM

Altitude drop: 11,480 ft to 10,000 ft

Highest altitude reached: 17,582 ft at Khardung La Pass

Prone to AMS? Yes! Consider taking a tablet as prescribed by your doctor. Most people take diamox.

Road conditions: The roads are decent till South Pullu checkpoint. The last 10 kms on either side of Khardung La pass will put and your bike to a treacherous test! Be sure to maintain balance, and ride at your own pace.

Fuel points: Only one fuel point near Diskit. Don't forget to fill up, and carry extra fuel!

Accommodation at Nubra: You could find tent houses easily at Nubra.

Nubra Valley

Day 8: nubra valley - pangong lake (200 km - 8 hours).

Pristine lake - Pangong Tso! Courtesy : wikipedia.org

Pangong Tso - Tso meaning Lake, has gained a lot of popularity after the ending sequence of the Bollywood movie 3 Idiots. Since then, the place has seen more travelers and tourists than ever. Nonetheless, the place is a must visit if you are in Leh!

The blue turquoise waters of the lake against the mighty mountains in the backdrop is a sight you would cherish forever!

Start time: 7 AM

Altitude gain: 10,00 ft to 13,940 ft

Highest altitude reached: 13,940 ft at Pangong Lake

Prone to AMS? Not really!! But don't take chances. Drink lots of water

Road conditions: The road conditions have improved over the last couple of years. The road which was once a dreaded one has got a tarring now.

Fuel points: No fuel points until Leh via Pangong. Carry extra fuel. Diskit has the last fuel point.

Accommodation at Pangong Tso: Since this place receives a lot of visitors in any season, its best to book a hotel/tent in advance.

Pangong Lake

Day 9: pangong lake - chang la pass - leh ( 180 kms - 7 hours ).

Towards Changla Pass on a snowy day!

The next day, go out and click some pictures. If you are photography buff, then you better start clicking early. Leaving Pangong lake early is a good idea, especially if you are visiting during the peak time.

Start time: Not later than 9AM

Altitude gain: 13,940 ft to 11,480 ft

Highest altitude reached: 17,590 ft at Chang La Pass

Prone to AMS? By now, you should be acclimatized already. In any case, it's better to take precautions

Road conditions: The road from Pangong is good for about 10-15 kms, after which the condition deteriorates. The road near Chang La pass is pathetic, and there will be streams near Chang La. Again, after Chang La, the roads are better near Sakti village.

Fuel points: No fuel points until Leh

Accommodation at Leh: There are plenty of hotels and homestays at Leh. If you do not want to spend any time looking for a stay, book online.

Day 10: Leh - Kargil - Dras (280 kms - 8 hours)

First views of Kargil

Today you would witness the best views of this entire trip! Be prepared to be blown away by the picturesque landscapes and views! Also, the War Memorial at Dras simply cannot be missed.

Altitude drop: 11,480 ft ft to 10,830 ft

Prone to AMS? No

Road conditions: The road from Leh is in absolutely top condition, except for a couple of rough patches near Kargil

Fuel points: Fuel point are available in Leh city, just the city limits of Leh on the way to Kargil. The fuel points are also available at Kargil.

Accommodation at Kargil/Dras: There are a decent amount of hotels and homestays at Kargil/Dras. If you do not want to spend any time looking for a stay, book online.

Day 11: Dras - Sonamarg - Srinagar (140 kms - 5 hours)

A Jawan stands guard at the Vijay Sthamba at War Memorial, Dras

Get ready to be blown away by the beauty that is called Jannat meaning Heaven, another name for Kashmir! Beautiful fields, valleys, and mountains! Also, today you will cross the dreaded Zojila Pass. Since you reach Srinagar in the afternoon, you can book a boat house and enjoy a beautiful evening on the boats at Dal Lake.

Start time: 8 AM

Altitude drop: 10,830 ft to 5300 ft

Highest altitude reached: 11,650 ft at Zojila Pass

Road conditions: The road from Dras to the start of Zojila Pass is pathetic, (unless its repaired recently). The road condition improves only after descending a bit from the Zojila Pass

Fuel points: Fuel point are available just a few kilometers ride from Sonamarg on the way to Srinagar. Fuel points also available at Srinagar.

Accommodation: Stay at a boathouse near Dal Lake. Enjoy the beautiful sunset vibes at Dal Lake!

12. Srinagar - Jammu (267 kms - 9 hours)

The last day of the trip is here! Based on your further plans, the ride may continue. Today can be a tiring day if you don't start on time. You would witness some winding, seemingly endless roads around the mountains. Also, its time to experience few of the longest tunnels in India!

Start time: 5 AM (To beat traffic, and also to avoid night ride)

Road conditions: The road is excellent, only for a few rough patches.

Fuel points: Apart from Srinagar and Jammu, you can get fuel near Udhampur. Better to have enough fuel filled at Srinagar.

Pro Tip: Skip Patnitop, and take the Chenani Nashri Tunnel towards Jammu, which saves a couple of hours and lot of fuel.

Accommodation: Plenty of hotels available at Jammu. Book on the fly based on your plan.

Follow me on my Instagram handle @little_detours for more stories.

Also witness some amazing travel stories and vlogs on my Youtube Channel Little Detours .

At Rohtang Pass!

An Alpenglow at Sunset near Tandi enroute toKeylong

Triple peaks, towards Keylong

Turquoise lake - Deepak Tal

At Deepak Tal

Aqua blue Suraj Tal at Baralachla Pass

Reflections of time!

Rock tower near Nakeela Pass

Canyons near Pang

The most serene road on the Journey - Moore Plains

Vivid prayer flags at a temple at Taglangla Pass

Tri color flying high in the mountains - Hall of Fame, Leh

A tribute to the heroes - Hall of Fame, Leh

Valleys near the confluence

A monastery (also callled Gompa) down the valleys

Road down the valleys

The beauty that is - NH1 towards Srinagar

Those winding roads in the mountains

Near Kargil

Tricolor and Tololing in the backdrop!

At Sonamarg

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Leh Ladakh Bike Trip – Complete Guide

If your bike is your first love and partner of your life, after that you must take your beauty out of the city chaos, the mountains and into lavish greenery that some of the richest trails and ranges of India has. Thought about to be one of the most difficult routes to attempt by bikers, Manali-Leh Ladakh is also known to be one of the most satisfying one encompassing a stunning valley in Manali and also a magnificent peak in Leh. Your Leh Ladakh bike trip is insufficient without keeping these tips in your head as it will make your trip a successful one with the best essential factors in mind.

Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Highlights

• Drive to Jispa, via Rohtang Pass
• Thiksey and Shey Monastery, Leh
• Shopping in the bazaars of Leh
• Visit to the beautiful Pangong Lake
• Ride on the popular Khardung La pass
• Admire the breathtaking scenery
• Ride on meandering roads of the Kullu Valley
• Bike ride on Baralachha Pass to reach the camp site in Sarchu

About The Region

Jammu, Kashmir and also Ladakh cover most of Northern Himalayan region – which has a landscape as well as moonscape like no anywhere else. It is mostly a journey with the wind in your face – spiced with adventure, nature, and culture, to some of the most gorgeous and also tough parts of the world.

Leh – Ladakh is the land of abundant beauty and also the experiences that it’s soul touching. These are experiences that will let you connect with on your own and also the marvelous visions are such that you would certainly cherish for a lifetime. Now that you are well geared up with all the necessities, get ready for an enthralling trip!

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Which month is best to visit Leh Ladakh?

Season (Month) Wise Best Time as well as Way to See Leh (Ladakh)

1. April to Mid-May

2. Mid May to July.

3. August to Mid-September.

4. Mid-September to Mid-October.

5. Mid October to Mid-November.

6. Mid-November to March.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh on a Bike Trip

The best time to go on a bike trip to Leh Ladakh is from the months of June to September. These months enable the bikers to enjoy the best of Ladakh, as long as they appreciate their bike journey to Lahaul & Spiti. However, most of the bikers love to kick-start their brand-new year with this crazy bike journey as Ladakh provides wonderful panoramas which can be cherished round the year except for monsoon season.

Perfect Duration for a Bike Trip in Ladakh

The days needed for Ladakh bike tour totally depends upon the route you take and what you would like to cover on your expedition. While you can begin your bike tour from Delhi , there is an option to begin your thrilling expedition from Manali or fly to Leh and also begin your bike tour in Ladakh.

For a bike tour to Ladakh from Delhi, the time required for would be 15-18 days, while From Manali you can cover a lot of areas in 10 days. If you fly to Leh as well as begin your bike tour after that it would certainly take 7-8 days to have an unforgettable experience.

So, depending upon the route you picked as well as the places you would like to stop at a Ladakh Motorbike scenic tour requires 7-18 days.

Which bike is best for Ladakh trip?

Talking about the first things first, every biker must give his or her overall focus to their first love, which is their bike. So whenever you’re choosing a bike for any kind of journey make sure you opt for suitability more than popularity. Consider it one of the most important aspects of your Leh Ladakh trip !

Hence, The Five Best Bikes For Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Are:

Royal Enfield – A powerful bike with an engine of either 350 CC or 500 CC is enough to be a lifesaver on road trips.

Royal Enfield Himalayan – With a strong engine of 400 CC, Royal Enfield Himalayan will make your trip smooth and also hassle-free on any rugged trail and offbeat roads.

Bajaj Pulsar – By far, no bike has been a hit in the Indian market when compared to Bajaj Pulsar. Being one of the most preferred bikes after the Bullets, Pulsar offers variants of 150CC, 200CC, and also 220CC, either of which can be your trustworthy partner on any of the adventures.

KTM Duke – Being a featherweight bike can be useful on roadways like that of Ladakh. With the series of brand-new engine versions of Fight it out 390, and Duke 250, KTM can be an excellent option for a bike trip to Ladakh too.

CBR 250 – This bike from Honda is indeed a stunner except for its Contigo tires which can be a little through to deal with on Ladakh’s terrain in case of a change in weather. On the bright side, if the tires can be placed, one can place the bike’s torque and fi modern technology to wonderful use, and a greater purpose.

Bike Rental for Leh Ladakh

Is it a good idea?

It’s a good idea to rent out a bike from Delhi and the trip from Delhi to Manali is definitely exciting.

No bike. No worries. The bike rentals at Delhi, as well as Manali, are ever willing to use you a ride on rent provided you submit all the required documents. In Delhi, You have actually asked a concern which revolves in most of the candidates who are trying to find a bike trip to Ladakh. There are a number of bike rental solutions readily available from Delhi which provide affordable booking price of 1000 INR /day.

Since you are going on a road trip to ladakh, I would suggest you hire bikes which are of more than 250 ccs. Bullet and Enfield are some of the very best options in the bike rental section to do the trip. There are numerous essential you need to keep in mind while taking a bike trip to Ladakh .

Suggested Read:- Adventure Sports in Ladakh

Bike Renting in Manali

If you choose to rent a bike from Manali, you can strike a bargain, for anything in between Rs.1000 and Rs.1800 depending on the design and also the condition of the bike. Additionally, you will also have to pay a deposit amount, which again ranges from Rs.12, 000 to Rs.18, 000.

The bike rental company will certainly be keeping an original copy of your nationality proof (Adhaar Card, Key or Voter Id) till the bike is returned. It is highly encouraged; that you take the bike for a test trip as well as push it to its limits to see to it the bike is functioning properly.

Petrol Pump on Highway

Keeping petrol as the priority for a bike trip, at an average, you’ll be covering a distance of 3500 kilometers. Of all the bikes that have been considered, the average mileage is that of 35 kilometers per litres. This indicates that you’ll require somewhere around 100 litres of gas for which, you will roughly need a quantity of INR 7000 to INR 8,000.

Manali to Leh

On this route, when you start from Manali, you will certainly find just two Petrol Pumps till you reach Leh. Therefore, it is suggested that while taking a bike trip to Ladakh with the Manali to Leh route, one ought to have their container complete as well as likewise bring some additional containers of fuel in addition to them. The petrol pumps will be foundin the following places:-

Srinagar to Leh

On this route, it is very easy to find gas as you will come across several petrol pumps. On this Srinagar to Leh freeway there are petrol pumps at the following places:-

Things to Carry During Ladakh Bike Trip

What you will pack for a bike trip will certainly be various than if you were flying to Leh. With that being claimed; there are still a few things that remain relevant in all cases; some basic items that will be required in every case. In this article, I will attempt to list down a few of these items; even more of a checklist that you can describe; irrespective of your mode of travel.

Suggested Read:- Trekking in Leh Ladakh

• Good quality Helmet.
• Water-proof riding gear or suitable clothing to ride in cold conditions which protects you in an unlikely spill; like leather pants or jeans.
• Rain gear, if riding gear is not waterproof.
• Riding boots or hiking boots.
• Riding gloves since it is cold out there and Enfield does not have heated grips
• Thermal inner wear
• Medical Kit
• Nightwear and casual clothing for a time far from the motorcycle.
• Flip-flops or a spare set of boots.
• Spare set of spectacles if applicable.
• Driving license.
• Headlamp with one collection of spare batteries.
• If you are taking any type of medicine, carry them from home.
• Riding glasses or shades
• Sleeping bag
• Dust goggles
• Mosquito repellent
• Rechargeable Torch
• An extension cord can be helpful if are in a group; or have multiple electronics to recharge, and end up at a place with just one power socket; or a power socket at an odd place.
• A spare key for your vehicle.
• Nylon rope and bungee cords if you are traveling by motorcycle.
• A notepad and Pen
• A few safety pins
• A lighter or Matchbox
• Pain balm or sprays like Iodex, Moov or Volini.
• Few strips of Band-Aid
• A bottle of Dettol
• An antiseptic cream
• A crepe bandage
• Nasal drops can be extremely helpful if end up with a blocked nose after catching a cold
• Sugar-free if you do not take regular sugar
• Coffee pouches
• Fresh Fruit or packed fruit juice or both
• A few packets of Maggie or Cup Noodles

What should you wear in Ladakh Bike Tour?

• Internal thermals 2-3 pairs (must have).
• A fleece jacket or windcheater jacket or windproof jacket to avoid the winds.
• Good protected boots or trekking shoes in winter seasons. In summertime’s, any kind of sports footwear should be great.
• Woolen socks 2-3 pairs.
• Heavy woolens 2-3 sets – Sweatshirts, pullovers, cozy hoodies.
• Comfortable trekking / traveling pants or trousers. Better to be warm in winters or carry a couple of jeans (my favorite)
• Carry at least 1-2 caps to protect yourself from direct sunlight as it is also severe in this area to protect you from UV rays. Kids specifically should use caps or hats constantly when around in sun.
• Bring at least 1 Balaclava or monkey cap, particularly in the winter season.
• Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the representations from the snow.
• Extra pair of shoes/gumboots in case people are on bikes and also are expecting a lot of water crossings.
• Hand gloves must have in the months of October to June.

Best Paths for Leh Ladakh Bike Trip (Itinerary)

Route: 1 delhi – srinagar – leh – manali.

Total Distance: 2200 Km (Approximate value)

Best time to Visit: June to October

Route Map: Delhi – Ludhiana – Jalandhar – Jammu –  Srinagar – Kargil – Leh – Hunder – Pangong – Karu – Sarchu – Manali.

Day 1: Delhi to Jammu

On day one you will travel from Delhi to Jammu. If you choose to travel by road, on the way you will cross Ludhiana and also Jalandhar. You will take around 10 hrs to get to Jammu, which is approximately 600 Km.

Day 2: Jammu – Srinagar

On the second day, travel from Jammu to Srinagar. This distance is approximately 300 Km. You will certainly take about seven hours to reach Srinagar if you travel by road.

Day 3: Srinagar

After a tiring journey from Jammu to Srinagar, add some excitement by claiming your bikes for the ride. After this enjoy a good night’s sleep in at a hotel in Srinagar and get energized for the awaiting thrill.

Day 4: Srinagar to Kargil

Start your day early, for a 203 Km spellbinding bike ride. You will be riding from Srinagar to Kargil using Sonmarg. This route passes through the Zojila Pass (11,500 feet), Drass. While in Kargil, a browse through to the Kargil War Memorial is a must, to understand the heroic tales of our enduring soldiers. Take a break in Kargil for the night.

Day 5: Kargil to Leh

Today, appreciate riding the spectacular boulevard from Kargil to Leh and explore the appeal of Ladakh as you go through They, Alchi, Lamayuru as well as Saraks. It’s a journey of 210 Km, which will take you about 4 hours.

Day 6: Leh and Around

Spend a day at Leh and visit the captivating places around. Admire and also discover peace at the age-old Lamayuru Monastery. Take time and also stopover to be amazedby the mesmeric views of Lamayuru, which are also known as the ‘Moonland’ Hills. Tonight, you can stay at any hotel in Leh, depending upon your convenience.

Day 7: Leh – Khardungla – Diskit – Hunder

After rejuvenating yourself at Leh, begin early and also prepare yourself to travel a distance of 120Km. Feel your spine tingle as you check out the Khardung La pass (18,380 ft.), one of the utmost traversable roads in the world. Also, visit the Deskit Monastery on the way, as you ride further to Hunter.

Day 8: Hunter – Nubra Valley

While in Hunder, discover the fascinating Wari La- Nubra Valley. If it fits your schedule, take time to experience the camel safari with the dune. Later, delight in camping under the stars at Nubra Valley.

Day 9: Nubra – Pangong Tso

Today you will depart from the Nubra valley and also cover approximately 217Km to reach the Pangong Lake. Entice yourself with the scenic beauty of the Pangong Tso Lake. There is a camping site near the lake, check-in into the camp for an overnight stay.

Suggested Read:- Festivals in Ladakh

Day 10: Pangong – Karu

Bid adieu to the mesmeric Pangong Lake and ride your bike through the Chang-la pass (17370 ft.) towards Karu.

Day 11: Karu – Sarchu

Ride approximately for 217Km and cover the stretch from Karu to Sarchu in 6 hrs. Sarchu is just one of the popular halts in the Himalayas and lies on the border of Himachal Pradesh and also Ladakh.

Day 12: Sarchu – Manali

Value the memories you built camping in the interesting scenic view of Sarchu. Embark riding towards Manali and delight in the amazing views in the process. Spend the night in Manali.

Day 13: Manali – Delhi.

The enthralling adventure ends here. Leave from Manali and also reach Delhi, from below head back to your corresponding locations together with stories filled with thrill and adventures.

Route: 2 Delhi – Manali – Leh – Delhi

Total Distance:  2300 Km (approximate value)

Best time to Visit : June to September

Route Map: Delhi – Manali – Sarchu – Pang – Leh – Khardungla – Hunder – Nubra – Pangong – Leh – Kargil – Srinagar – Jammu – Delhi.

Day 1: Delhi to Manali

Commence your journey from New Delhi and also head out on National Highway 1. Enjoy the boulevard amidst exciting pastures of farmlands. You will be riding through the immaculate city of Chandigarh on the way to Manali. It is a 12 hours ride; you will cover approximately 550Kms. Once at Manali check into a hotel of your choice and take rest.

Day 2: Manali – Sarchu

On day two will cover a stretch of around 235km, as you traverse from Manali to Sarchu. The journey will certainly be stunning, as you will certainly trade through the National Highway 3, which remains in the midst of jungles full of coniferous trees. Ride by means of districts of Spiti and also Lahaul and reach Sarchu, where you can take a break in the tents.

Day 3: Sarchu – Pang – Leh

Sarchu to Pang is about a trip of 75 Km; it would certainly take about 2hours for you to reach from Sarchu to Pang. Pang is a required halt during the journey, as it has a number of tea houses in the process and it likewise proffers outdoor tents lodgings. After taking a break at Pang, trip further to Leh.

Invest a day at Leh as well as appreciate the olden Lamayuru Monastery. Additionally, see the mesmeric vistas of Lamayuru, also referred to as the ‘Moonland’ Hills. Tonight, you can stay at a resort in Leh, relying on your convenience.

Day 5: Leh – Khardungla – Hunder

Today early morning start takes a trip a distance of 120Km. Feel your back prickle as you explore the Khardung La (18,380 feet), the miraculous motorable roadway on the planet. Check out the Deskit Monastery and also ride better to reach Hunder.

Day 6: Hunder – Nubra

While in Hunder, check out the Wari La- Nubra Valley in the early morning. One can get a kick out of activities like the camel safari through the sand dunes and likewise take pleasure in camping under the celebrities at Hunder.

Day 7: Nubra – Pangong

Today you will depart from the Nubra valley and cover approximately 217Km to reach the Pangong Lake. Entice yourself with the scenic beauty of the Pangong Tso Lake. There is a camping site near the lake, check-in into the camp for an overnight stay.

Day 8: Pangong – Leh

Pangong Tso has situated approx. 175 km from Leh town across the Chang-la pass. On this course, you will certainly pass via. Chang La at 17,590 feet, which is one of the highest possible motorable roadways. You will witness the beautiful culture of Ladakh as you will come across some villages on this route.

Suggested Read:- Top 10 Hidden Tourist Places in Leh Ladakh

Day 10: Leh – Kargil

On day ten, delight in the impressive boulevard from Leh to Kargil, as you pass through Saraks, Lamayuru, Alchi, and Phey. It’s a journey to about 210 Km, which you will cover in roughly 4 hours. Pay a tribute to our brave soldiers, at the Kargil War Memorial.

Day 11: Kargil – Srinagar

Commence early from Kargil and traverse by means of the alluring vistas of Drass, Baltal, and Sonamarg and get to Srinagar. Today, you will be covering a stretch of 200kms in about 5 hours.

Day 12: Srinagar

Admire the divine appeal of Srinagar, the capital of Jammu as well as Kashmir. The Shalimar Bagh is among the most gorgeous attractions below. Explore the Mughal Gardens and also the Shankaracharya temple before you find a hotel to loosen up for the night.

Day 13: Srinagar – Jammu

Bid adieu to the picturesque city of Srinagar and ride back towards Jammu. This route will take you via Jawahar Tunnel that will open at Jammu. Check in at a hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 14: Jammu – Delhi

The enthralling journey comes to an end. Leave from Jammu and reach Delhi, from here head back to your respective places along with fun-filled and adventurous stories

Places to Visit on Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2019

Wondering what all attractions to cover on your Leh Ladakh bike trip 2019 ? Plan your itinerary around these best places to visit in Ladakh.

1. Pangong Tso

Popularly known as the Pangong Lake, this natural marvel set in the lap of Ladakh is must visit visitor attraction on your Leh Ladakh bike journey. Located in the heart of Himalayas, the lake stretches at a distance of about 134 kilometers offering scintillating views in sync with the rustic mountains.

2. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Much famed to be one of the famous monasteries in Ladakh, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa or Namgyal Tsemo Monastery lies right in the heart of Leh district. It is believed that Ladakh’s King Tashi Namgyal established the abbey in 1430 that works as a home to the popular golden sculpture of Maitreya Buddha.

3. Shanti Stupa

The strikingly white structure of Shanti Stupa, as well as its dome, is the most recognizable landmarks in Leh Ladakh. It was built by Japanese and Ladakhi Buddhists to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism and to promote world peace.

The white surface area looks wonderful in the daytime, but on full moon nights, it looks a lot more beautiful when it obtains bathed in the soft glow of the moon rays. Vacationers can experience the happiness of meditation inside the Stupa, as well as additionally see the sensational views of sunrise and sunset.

4. Leh Palace

Built-in 1553 AD, the 19 stories high Leh Palace has improved a hill as well as still looks imposing from the community; evidently, it was just one of the tallest buildings on the planet throughout that time. It was the home of the royal family till the mid-19th century when the Dogra forces attack Ladakh and also the royal family moved to the stock palace thus abandoning the ft. Although in ruins currently, the royal residence is currently being restored by the Historical survey of India. The royal residence also has a gallery which holds a rich collection of jewelry, ornaments, ritualistic dresses as well as crowns. The paintings in the museum are greater than 450 years old Chinese thangka paintings. The place certainly has reasons convincing sufficient to make its way on the majority of the – Ladakh bike trip bundles!

Suggested Read:- Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh

5. Hemis Monastery

Situated 45 kilometers from the town of Leh, Hemis Abbey has existed before the 11th century but was re-established in 1672. It is a Tibetan abbey which is the richest and also greatest in Ladakh, it also has the biggest of all thangka paints in Ladakh which is unfurled in every 12 years and also the next unfurling will happen in 2016. Hemis monastery is likewise a host of the popular yearly celebration held in the honor of Lord Padmasambhava; it is absolutely one of the most captivating of all festivities located in the world, particularly the mystic mask dances which are jointly known as Chams. The Hemis is also home to the jeopardized “Program leopard” which is found in the neighboring Hemis national forest.

6. Tso Moriri Lake

Snuggled at an isolated area in the greater Himalayan ranges, the excellent Tso Moriri Lake is understood to be the largest alpine lake in India. Find at an elevation of over 15000 feet above the water level in a rugged landscape, it appears like the gift of nature. Because of its high elevation and difficult journey, it is gone to by a minimal number of visitors. The darkness of the

surroundings can be seen in the azure blue waters of the lake. The topography of snow-clad barren hillsides with peaceful surroundings looks unique.

7. Khardung La Pass

Known as the ‘Gateway to Nubra and Shryock Valleys’, Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads on the planet, at an altitude of 5359 m above the sea level. One of the 12 best areas to go to in Leh Ladakh, it is around 40 km from Leh. Also called the ‘Pass of Lower Castle’, it opened up for cars in 1988. This road is quite popular amid motorcycling lovers. Enjoy tea and beverage at the military canteen as you pay attention to the fluttering noise of the vibrant Tibetan prayer flags. The views are stunning. There is a keepsake shop below from where you can purchase some souvenirs. It is also used by the Indian Military to lug products to the Siachen Glacier.

FAQs for the Dream Ride Motor Bike Tour to Ladakh

Q. how can i reach leh.

Ans . Leh is connected to major cities like Delhi, Jammu & Srinagar by airways. You can easily reach to the airport and begin your biking trip after joining your group at the meeting point. During the summer, national highways are also open both from Srinagar (April to November) and also Manali (May to October) so one can also get to Leh by road as well.

Q. What is the best season to visit Ladakh?

Ans. You can visit Ladakh all around the year, depending upon your own desires, however, the tourist season peaks from May till the end of October.

Q. Which types of clothes is ideal?

Ans . In the summer season, you do not require special clothing with the exception of a sweater with one to 2 coats and hats, but for a long biking tour, full biking gear with jackets, pants, knee-pads, and shoes are essential.

Q. How safe is it to ride a motorcycle in Ladakh?

Ans . The roads in the mountains are full of shocks with sudden pin-bend turns and also primarily narrow, so one has to ride the bike with utmost treatment by following to the rules and not over-taking if the roads are narrow.

Q. Which network is accessible?

Ans . BSNL has the toughest network in Ladakh connecting most of the locations, while others like Airtel and Aircel have their presence in Leh city only.

Q. How Far is Ladakh from Leh?

Ans . 15.83 miles

Air Travel Distance in between Ladakh and also Leh is 25.48 kilometers/ 15.83 miles. Offered below is the road range between Ladakh and Leh. If greater than one course is available, alternate routes will likewise be displayed. The map given listed below provides road map and travel directions to reach Leh from Ladakh by car or bus.

Q. Innerline Permits Is Required in Leh – Ladakh?

Ans . Thought about a trip to Leh Ladakh just recently? Well, from April 2017, the government authorities had made it compulsory to get an Inner line permit for Domestic and International travelers visiting some of the protected areas of Ladakh. Acquiring Inner line permit may be a cumbersome task filled with hours of standing in a long queue, particularly if your trip coincides with any government holidays (Saturday and Sunday).

The government authorities have actually lately released an internet website whereby one can apply for internal line permit (ILP) online by paying INR 400 each as an environmental cost + 20 rupees per day as an Inner line fee. This rule is an effective result from 1st June 2017.

Q. What is the Inner Line Permit?

Ans . Inner Line Permit, or ILP, is a travel document issued by the government of India which enables an Indian as well as foreigner tourists to take a trip to a protected area for a limited time period. Getting this permit is required for all the residents that do not belong to Jammu and also Kashmir State. Foreigners seeing Ladakh are required to get Ladakh Protected Area License (PAP) prior to entering this region. The Inner Line Permit, or ILP, stands for a duration of 3 weeks for Indians, and 1 week for immigrants. It must also be born in mind that there is no limitation on the number of times you visit a place within the legitimate period as long as you have the necessary permits with you.

Q. Which Areas Need an Inner Line Permit?

Ans . Please noted that the Inner line Permit is not needed for going to all the areas. Actually, it is only required for some areas like Nubra Valley, Khardung La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah, Hans Towns, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Chusul, Hanle, Miner La, Tangyar (for trekking only).

Q. Why This Bike Trip?

Ans . Leh Ladakh Bike Trip is the best way to experience the challenges of rugged terrain, High Altitude passes and numerous streams crossing. Leh Ladakh Bike Trip is not for the faint-hearted one it’s only for the adventurers.

Adventure Sports in Ladakh

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• Dec 23, 2020

Ultimate Guide To Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2021:

Leh Ladakh is one of the most remote places located in the Indian Himalayas. Each motorcycle enthusiast always dream of going to Leh Ladakh bike trip once in their lifetime. But before fulfilling your dream of riding on this mighty Himalayan landscape please read through this blog and make yourself 100% ready before the trip.

Best time to visit Leh Ladakh on Motorbike

Time required to Explore Leh Ladakh on Motorcycle

Leh Ladakh trip budget

Best Motorcycle for Leh Ladakh Trip

Leh Ladakh Bike trip routes

Top Places to visit during Leh Ladakh Bike trip

Essential things to carry for Leh Ladakh Motorcycle Tour

Is Ladakh Motorcycle Tour Safe

Banks & Mobile connectivity

Altitude mountain sickness

Road condition during Ladakh Bike trip

Riding difficulties on Mountain Passes

Hotel options during Leh Ladakh Road Trip

How to prepare your motorcycle for Leh Ladakh Bike trip

Book your Leh Ladakh Bike trip with Motorcycle Escapades

About Leh Ladakh Bike trip

Ladakh is one of the most visited places in the Indian Himalayas on Motorcycles because it offers one of the world’s highest motorable roads, most dangerous terrains, and never-ending snow-capped mountains.

Best time for Leh Ladakh road trip :

Ladakh lies at an altitude of about 3300 Mtrs ASL and receives heavy snow during the winters, so the best time to visit Leh Ladakh will be from June to September. This will be the summer season in the Himalayas and the sky will be clear most of the time. So it's the best time for Leh Ladakh bike trip will be from June every year.

How much time required for Leh Ladakh bike trip:

It completely depends on each individual, you can explore Leh Ladakh either from the Manali side or Srinagar side and both will take at least 10-12 days to complete the circuit, however people with less number of days in hand can take a flight to Leh and do 5 days Leh to Leh bike trip circuit covering major attraction places. But few of the travellers who like leisure experience spend more than 30 days to explore the entire region at their own pace.

Leh ladakh trip budget:

There are a lot of parameters which decide the cost of your Ladakh trip budget , firstly starting point and ending point, type of vehicle you choose, number of days you are planning for Leh Ladakh bike trip , type of accommodation you choose, and whether you opt to travel in a small group, big group or solo. So all this will add up to your cost, in an ideal scenario if you want to do a pocket-friendly Ladakh bike trip then it will cost you around anywhere between INR 45000/- to INR 60000/- per person for a 12 days tour to Ladakh which will start from Delhi and end in Srinagar. (Please note this will include travelling in big groups with standard accommodation or hotels). If you need a leisure and luxury Ladakh motorcycle tour then you may need to spend around INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,50,000/- for 15 days Leh Bike trip with a small group and luxury & boutique properties.

Best motorcycle/four-wheel for Leh Ladakh road trip:

So after deciding the number of days and budget for your Leh Ladakh road trip , the next parameter will be on choosing the right vehicle for your Leh trip. If you decide to travel by Motorcycle then Royal Enfield is the best to travel in the Himalayas, they are reliable and sturdy as well. Bullet 500cc and Himalayan 411 cc motorcycles are the best ones in Royal Enfield. If you want to choose any car then any 4x4 would be good or any cars with higher ground clearance will be sufficient for Leh Ladakh road trip .

Leh Ladakh bike trip route:

There are 2 major land routes to Ladakh, one will start from Manali and end in Srinagar and another will start from Srinagar and ends in Manali.

Leh Ladakh route 1: Delhi – Manali – Keylong – Sarchu – Leh – Khardung La pass- Nubra Valley – Pangong lake – Kargil – Srinagar

Leh Ladakh route 2: Srinagar – Kargil – Leh – Nubra – Pangong Lake – Sarchu – Keylong – Manali – Delhi

Leh Ladakh route 3: Arrive at Leh by flight – Nubra valley – Pangong Lake – Local sightseeing – And departure from Leh by flight

Leh Ladakh route via Spiti valley bike trip: Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla – Narkanda – Sarahan – Chitkul – Nako – Tabo – Kaza – Chandratal – Keylong – Sarchu – Leh – Nubra – Pangong lake – Kargil – Srinagar – Jammu – Chandigarh – Delhi (Longer route but it’s a once in a lifetime trip)

Top places to visit on Leh Ladakh motorbike trip:

Pangong Tso or Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is situated in the Changthang region of Ladakh at the height of 4350 Mtrs. The lake is 134 Km long and extends from India to the Tibet region(Mainland China). 60%of the lake that means 80kms of the lake lies in the Tibet region and rest with India. While riding to Pangong Lake we will cover Changla Pass, which is the 3rd highest motorable pass in the world. There are only a few permanent villages in the Pangong region. Spangmik is the importance of them, where major accommodation in the Pangong lake available there. You can either visit Pangong on a day tour or overnight stay as well. I would suggest staying overnight to enjoy the pristine blue saline lake.

Nubra Valley:

The coldest desert is what we call, Nubra valley is situated next to Shyok and Nubra river. Diskit, Hunder, Panamik, and Turtuk are some of the important villages in Nubra Valley. It is also close to the Siachen base camp. Nubra valley is famous for the Double hump Bactrian camel and Diskit monastery.

Leh Ladakh local sightseeing:

One can visit Thicksey Monastery, Shey Palace, Hemis Monastery, War Museum, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Likir Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Indus-Zanskar Sangam, and river rafting as well.

Essential things to carry for Leh Ladakh bike trip:

After doing a lot of research and years of hands-on experience in travelling to Leh Ladakh on a motorcycle, we have listed down the important things to carry on your Leh Ladakh road trip are as follows:

Clothing – carry riding jacket, riding pants (If not good quality Knee Guard, winter riding gloves, balaclava or face mask, thermals, socks, high ankle boots or gumboots which are economical and reliable, winter wear hoodies, jeans and T-shirts and lastly waterproof or rain gear jackets.

Accessories: Sunscreen lotion SPF 50 and above, Sunglasses, Skull cap, warm gloves & woollen socks during the night

Daily use packs: Face cream, lip balm (always keep in your pocket), petroleum jelly, cold cream(Himalaya or Nivia), Tooth Brush, Toothpaste, liquid soap, toilet paper, shampoo, towel, deo, and waste bin covers to dispose any unwanted things.

Short bites: It's essential to carry a few short eats or eatables like dry fruits, chocolates, energy bars, and water bottles

Medicines: Personalised first aid kits, Diamox, disprins, and basic medicines for fever, stomach upset, vomiting & etc

Electronics: Phone Charger, power bank, spare camera battery, memory cards, multipurpose plug points,

Important documents: Driving license, RC book of the vehicles, valid insurance, Passport, Voter id, VISA copy.

Tips for Leh Ladakh bike trip:

Each rider must be above 21 years old with a valid Driving license

One should have minimum riding experience on any motorcycle

Must be fit and healthy to take such an adventurous trip

Always try to ride in a group instead of riding solo, it does not only give you a sort of confidence also it will help you during uncertainties (However, if you are an experienced solo traveller then it’s not a problem. For the first-timers group ride is the best and safest)

Know the terrain and weather info before you start the journey.

Choose the right motorcycle for the trip which suits your riding style and should be good enough to ride on such harsh terrains.

Keep yourself well hydrated

Read about Acute Mountain Sickness

Understand the culture of Ladakh and its people

And one last thing, respect nature and nature will respect you back

Is Ladakh motorcycle tour safe to do?

Yes, riding in the Himalayas is always once in a lifetime experiences and one cannot deny that, but however you should be very cautious while riding on these terrains, if you are not well prepared or you are not any part of a group rides then it's gonna be very tough in some stretch. Don’t jump into conclusion easily, do your homework well and study enough blogs and get practical exposure about riding the motorcycles and maintaining them. Apart from that Ladakh is one of the safest places in India to travel; people are very humble and helpful. They are the one who comes first when you struck due to landslides or any health issue, remember one thing Never hurt their cultural feelings and don’t insult their terrain, they are very sensitive about Ladakh and its culture.

Money, Banks, ATM’s and Currency conversion:

Leh being the headquarters of Ladakh region, you will get a couple of good banks and ATM’s which work round the year, but however sometime it may interrupt due to bad weather conditions and heavy snowfall. There are at least 5-6 ATMs available in Leh town.

There are plenty of currency exchange centres in Leh, but get in touch with you travel guide or hotel reception for better currency conversion, they can get a good deal.

Mobile connectivity and Internet:

Only postpaid sim cards will work outside J&K and Ladakh regions, you can get prepaid sim card in Leh on arrival. But there is always a restriction on buying a local sim card since it is closely located to border areas. Only BSNL, Airtel and Idea works in Leh. Apart from Leh, no other regions like Nubra or Pangong will get a proper network. It depends on the weather condition.

Internet connectivity is also fluctuating always, have seen sometimes there is no internet and phone connectivity for weeks. So better be prepared for a complete disconnect from other parts of the world!!!

Altitude Mountain Sickness or AMS:

Altitude sickness is one of the most common problems that occur in during Travelling to Ladakh , because of its altitude. Common cause of AMS is due to lack of oxygen and our body won’t get acclimatise to that altitude so easily.

Minor symptoms of AMS are headaches, vomit sensation, fatigue, shortness of breath and giddiness. Severe symptoms will be like shortness of breath even you are sitting or not doing any activity, severe vomiting and inability to walk.

Avoiding AMS is pretty simple if you follow the instructions of your Travel guide in Leh Ladakh bike trip, the primary thing is to avoid climbing the mountains quickly, take time and increase your altitude gradually, Drink at least 3-5 litres of water every day, this will keep your hydrated, Avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol at least for first few days till your body gets acclimatise, avoid having heavy dinner and non-veg during the night because having heavy food will trouble you in your metabolism and most of the oxygen in your body gets used to digesting the food inside the body. In case of primary symptoms occurs start taking Diamox tablets one per day after the breakfast and take another after dinner.

Leh Ladakh bike trip road condition:

Every year roads to Ladakh will be completely closed during winters starting from November till May end or early June. Here are some of the important recent updates on the road conditions of 2 major highways which connect Leh ladakh to rest of the world.

Manali – Leh Highway Status 2020:

· Manali to Keylong – Good roads almost till Keylong, since after opening of Atal tunnel the road connectivity to Keylong is much better. Average riding times 4-6 Hrs depending on the number of breaks you takes.

· Keylong to Sarchu – From Keylong till Baralachala pass the roads are average but from Baralachala to Sarchu condition are very bad with full of slush and mud. Average riding time 7-9Hrs.

· Sarchu to pang – Bad roads with dirt tracks and bumpy roads-Average riding time 3-4Hrs.

· Pang to Tanglangla – Good with straight road for 15 odd kms – Average riding time 1hr

· TanglangLa pass to Leh – Very good road till Leh. 2-3hr you can reach Leh from Tanglangla pass.

· Leh to Pangong – 60% of the roads are good and 40% bad stretch, average riding time 6-8Hrs

· Leh to Nubra valley – 70% of good roads and 30% bad stretch – Average riding time 6-7Hrs

· Pangong to Nubra valley via Shyok River – 80% off road and 20% good stretch. Average riding time 6-8Hrs.

· Leh to Tsomoriri – 70% good roads and last stretch of 40-50kms are bad roads with full of dirt tracks and bumpy roads. Average riding time 8-10Hrs

· Leh to Kargil – very good roads. 6-8hrs of riding time.

· Kargil to Srinagar – Very good roads. 6-8Hrs of riding time.

Riding difficulties on Mountain Passes:

There are 10-11 mountain pass you will get if you are riding on leh ladakh bike trip, starting from Manali to Srinagar via Leh and covering Pangong and Nubra. Each mountain pass is different in altitudes and one need to be extra cautious whenever you will be riding through these passes.

· Rohthang Pass – This is the first mountain pass you will get if you are riding from Manali to Leh bike trip, roads are decent to good from Manali till Rohthang , but after Rohthang once you start descending towards Koksar , the roads are horrible, look out for slush and slippery on curves

· Baralacha La pass – Average roads while ascending to Pass from Zing Zing bar, in between few water crossing are there. But while descending from Baralachala pass its tougher, roads are narrow and lot of water streams in between.

· Nakee La : Decent roads while ascending and descending, you will get Gata loops while riding

· LachungLa pass – Decent roads with small stones and dust, becareful during the curves

· Tanglangla Pass – Excellent roads while ascending from Moore plains and after the pass. One of the best roads to ride in Leh Manali highway

· Changla Pass – Trickiest pass on the entire Leh Ladakh Bike trip, very narrow and difficult due to its altitude, Better take break for few mins in Zingral and Tsoltak while riding

· Khardungla pass- It used to be a difficult pass to ride, but now the roads are pretty decent and can be done without much hassle.

· Fotu la pass – Easiest mountain pass to conquer, the roads are amazing

· Namik La pass – Same as Fotu La pass

· Zoji La – It used to be one of the trickiest and toughest mountain pass, but thanks to Border road organisation and the recent roads are pretty much decent, but still the roads are very narrow , slush and slippery.

Stay option during Leh Ladakh Motorcycle Tour:

After decided all other important factors on Leh Ladakh bike trip , you should also understand the stay options available throughout the journey. We have listed down the options available in each place from both the highways which connects to Leh Ladakh by road .

· Manali – All options available from Rs 500 to Rs50000 hotels , homestay, guesthouses and cottages

· Koksar – Road side dhaba with basic sleeping facilities and common toilet available

· Keylong – Decent hotels available with good facilities

· Jispa – Decent hotels with good facilities available , also tented accommodation down the valley also available

· Zing zing Bar – Roadside Dhabas with basic common sleeping facilities available

· Sarchu- One of the major pit stop location with lot of tented accommodation available, starting from Rs 1000 to 10000 options are available

· Pang - Roadside Dhabas with basic common sleeping facilities available, but food is very good in Pang and multiple options available

· Upshi – Basic hotels available

· Leh – Head quarters of Ladakh region and multiple options available from Rs 500 to Rs50000/-

· Lukung(Pangong Lake) – This is the first place you get once you enter Pangong lake region , few options are available with tented accommodation

· Spangmik(Pangong Lake) – One of the best destination to stay in Pangong Lake region with multiple options available, you can get tented accommodations starting from Rs1000 to Rs15000/-

· Hunder (Nubra Valley) – Lot of tented accommodation is available along with Guesthouse and Homestay as well.

· Diskit (Nubra Valley ) Guesthouse are very common in Diskit

· Turtuk (Nubra Valley ) - Only couple of good places to stay and rest all are basic homestay, one should book the accommodation well in advance here

· Lamayuru (Srinagar – Leh Highway) – Homestay are very common in this region, plenty of options available

· Kargil – Second important place in Ladakh region after Leh , so no need to worry about the stay, plenty of options available

· Drass – Few very basic hotels with basic facilities are available.

· Sonamarg – Good hotel options available

· Srinagar – Plenty of good hotels, guest houses, boutique properties and house boats available

How to prepare your Motorcycle for Leh Ladakh Bike Trip:

Condition of your bike is the most important factor during Leh Ladakh bike trip if you have decided to get your own bike for such trips. Basic things will be your bike must be in running condition and not kept in parking lot for a long time.

Which bike is suitable for Leh Bike trip?

This is first question where every biker who decided to do Ladakh bike trip, which bike is suitable. Well nobody can answer for this question since it is completely depends on individual perception. There are people who do on BMW 1200GS or Triumph Tiger 800 or any other adventure motorcycles, but on the other hand there are few people who have done on Honda Activa or 110cc motorcycle. But only difference between each motorcycles are the way you maintain it and the way you ride it. But any bike you ride just make sure it is well serviced and not an very old model, where you will get struck if proper spares not available in such terrains and because of that your trip may hamper.

Understand your Bike:

Every passionate rider will always know there machine very well than there life partners, so before you start your journey to Ladakh, first thing you should do is to understand your bike and its condition very well, try to recall how it used to response when you go on a long rides, during monsoon season and what are the pain point of the bikes and what troubles the machine more. Once you understand this pointer you will know what exactly you need to do for your bike and accordingly will you explain the same thing to your mechanic. Suppose your bike give more problem during monsoon season then understand that it might be a problem with carb and electrical due to water get blocked in few parts of the machine, like wise in long rides it may get overheat , then it may be a problem with overheating of engine and needs at most attention.

Get your bike service done:

After analysing the bike, choose your mechanic wisely who have extensive knowledge about particular models. Some mechanics are good with 150cc to 250cc bikes; few are good with Royal Enfield’s only and few on Super Bikes. Tell your mechanic a complete history of your bike like, its model, periodic service schedule, problems occurs during different season and different riding experience and etc. And importantly tell your mechanic that you are taking your bike to Leh Ladakh.

Gain knowledge about repairs:

After giving your bike for service, try to sit with your mechanic and learn some basic repairs like change of clutch cables, throttle cable replacement, spark plug check and maintenance, basic electrical work, puncture repair and chain cleaning and maintaining techniques, this will help in increase your confidence level and you will be trained enough to handle basic breakdowns during your journey.

Spares to carry for Leh ladakh bike trip:

After your bike is fully serviced , ride your bike for at least 4-5 days before you ship your bike or start the ride, this is will help you in understand that how your machine is behaving after the service. Also buy the following spares and carry with you for Leh ladakh bike trip;

· Puncture repair kit with extra tube for both front and rear tires

· Clutch and throttle cables

· Put new tires with good traction for on & off road

· Spark plugs

· Chain links

· Fuses and fuse box

· Spare engine and break oil

· Clutch plates (If your clutch plates are too old, its better to replace new one)

· Brake pads /disc pads

· Battery charges or a cable for jump start your bike from other battery , incase battery get drain out

· Nuts and bolts of major parts

· Tool kit for wheel removal and other basic things with set of screw drivers & spanners

· Petrol pipes and spare fuel cans

· Ropes to tie your luggage and ladakh carrier

Repairs, Fuel Stations and puncture shops on Leh Ladakh bike trip:

Following places have facilities of repairs, fuel station and etc.

· Manali – Plenty of fuel stations and repair shops are available

· Tandi – Last fuel station on Leh Manali highway , after this there won’t be any fuel station available till Karu which is 345kms odd

· Keylong – Mechanic and puncture shop available, just ask the locals for address

· Sarchu – Fuel available on black, but be ready to pay twice the price of actual

· Pang – There used to be a puncture shop during 2019, but not sure

· Karu – Fuel station and mechanics available

· Leh – Fuel station, Mechanics and Puncture shops are available

· Leh to Pangong route – Karu is the last fuel station, after that no mechanics or puncture shops available

· Pangong to Nubra valley via Shyok River- No Puncture shop or mechanics available

· Diskit – Fuel station available, but again it is depend on supply and weather condition

· Hunder - puncture shop available

· Kargil – Fuel station, mechanics and puncture shop available

· Srinagar - Fuel station, Mechanics and Puncture shops are available

Book your Leh Ladakh bike trips here:

1. Delhi – Manali – Leh – Delhi Bike trip

2. Delhi – Manali – Srinagar Bike trip

3. Srinagar – Leh – Manali –Delhi bike trip

4. Leh to Leh bike trip

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7 Exotic Places To Visit On Leh Ladakh Bike Tour In May 2022

Are you excited to take a visit to your favorite places on a bike tour in the desolate land of Leh Ladakh? Ladakh’s travel plans themselves will shake your mind and brain with unparalleled enthusiasm and mystery. What are the unexplored destinations you will discover here? Are you excited about the wonderful travel expedition that is about to begin? You can be fascinated in Wonderland every month as the harsh winters subside and the tolerable temperatures invite you to their pure tranquillity! 

While listing the places to visit in Ladakh in May 2022, many people are looking for the complete Leh Ladakh Bike Tour Package at Best Prices. On your journey to this paradise,  you can experiment with some of Ladakh’s pristine and comfortable places that may surprise you. A destination to appreciate the ubiquitous calm beauty, the steep Himalayan paths, and perhaps the steep trails that no one has crossed. The open landscape, the magnificent beauty of nature, and its surroundings will bring you closer to the magnificence and charisma of this place. It is suggested to contact people who provide Leh Ladakh bike tour packages at affordable prices as that is the most important part you will be looking for during your trip here.

Why Should You Plan A Trip To Leh Ladakh In May?  

There are several reasons to make this month’s trip a good decision. As temperatures rise, frozen streams turn into lively streams, beautiful monasteries illuminate overhead, and lucky ones can also encounter quite a few snow leopards here. However, the weather in Leh Ladakh in May is also relatively cool, and temperatures can fluctuate between 15 and 16 degrees Celsius. Pack wisely for a great experience when traveling to this exquisite panorama. It’s also a good idea to pre-book your Ladakh tour package that also provides bikes for rent in L adakh . This is because it is a low season and many tourists are considering it here at this time.  

7 Top Places at Leh Ladakh to visit in May

Looking for things to do in Leh Ladakh in May? The following destinations for sure will give you an unforgettable experience on your next trip to Ladakh in 2022.

• Kargil- Experience Chilly Winds in Dras Valley

Ladakh region shines with the majesty of the Kargil sector and the epic memorable war associated with it fought in extreme weather conditions. Stunning landscapes and great trails of Kargil could leave you stunned by the bizarre thoughts related to this place. A special highlight of Kargil is the Dras valley, known for being the coldest area of the Ladakh region. Without any doubt, it is a sheer getaway for travelers and is situated at a very high altitude of 10,700 Feet. This Leh Ladakh region for a bike tour in May month is very famous for bikers from around the world. The Winter season is extreme here as the temperature also drops to -45 Degrees in some extreme cases. In May, the awesome scenic views are close to perfect, and every landscape appears spectacular.

• Specialties- Tiger Hilltop, Mushko Valley, Ningoor Valley, and the Kargil War memorial.
• Ways to Reach- Take a cab from Leh or enjoy a bike ride.
• Tip- Layer yourself with warmers to combat harsh winds.
• Ideal Season to Visit- May-September

2. Lamayuru- Enjoy the Trek to Alchi

Ladakh is a trekkers getaway destination, and things to do in Leh Ladakh sometimes can also include the trekking experience here. Most travelers go for a 5-day trek situated at the highest altitude of 5200 meters. The most exciting part about the May month visit is that treks are open for the explorers to experience their ultimate urge. One can also find a few hostels and guest houses here, but homestays are the best option to get their real vibe. It gives you a taste of learning about local Ladakh culture and its small intricacies. Traveling here from May to November months can let you interact with the remote villagers and get to know about their rare facts.

• Specialties- Sham Valley, Lamayuru Monastery, and Alchi Monastery.
• Ways to Reach- Take a cab to Lamayaru from Leh and start trekking from the base camp.
• Tip- Begin your day early to visit all the monasteries on the same day.
• Ideal Season to Visit- May-November

3. Thiksey, Hemis, and Shey- Explore Stonkers of Ladakh

While we are listing down the places to visit in Leh Ladakh in May month, these beauties are bound to capture your attention. Ladakh has a rich heritage of monasteries looped across the Himalayan territories. They seem to be timeless and provoke curiosity to know more about them. Such beautiful monasteries are an indispensable part of Ladakh, and the local people have their cultural strings attached to them in the form of rituals. 

• Specialties- Spituk Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and Shey Gompa.
• Ways to Reach- Take a drive-through cab/bike from Leh to reach monasteries.
• Tip- Follow the dress code and rules or discipline applicable for the monasteries here.
• Ideal Season to Visit- April- September

4. Saka Dawa Cultural Festival- Go a node higher with Local festivities

Saka Dawa festival in Ladakh commemorates Buddha’s majesty and grandeur, which is an invincible part of local people’s beliefs. The celebration has a prominent belief that every good you do gets multiplied into million times and gets back to you. This grand festival goes on for the whole month, and the celebration’s highlight is on the 15th day, which is a full-moon day.  People from various parts of the globe participate here, and you can too witness it on your trip to Ladakh in May 2022. During this time, people leave non-veg foods, make donations, help the poor and light the butter lamps. Prayers are made along with mantra recitations to please the deities.

• Specialties- 15th Day of the Festival, Local Culture, and Food
• How to Reach- Private cars from Leh can help in reaching the epicentre where festivities are held.
• Tip- Enjoy a bike tour in May 2022 from Leh Ladakh to this region and try to learn more about the local customs, traditions, and beliefs of this festival.
• Ideal Season to Visit- May- November

5. Hemis National Park- The striking sight of snow leopard

Moving next with the list, we have a location where the sight of snow leopard sheltered in piles of ice is a memorable one. The expanse of the white region rules Ladakh as there is a sub-zero temperature for most of the year, but you could luckily get to view white tigers in April or May. Locals also believe them as emperors of the Himalayas and are amongst the most endangered species in the world.  Capturing the sight of such fascinating creatures and animals gets next to impossible during the winter peaks. A trip during May month can also help you find the mountain goat at the Hemis National park. However, such elusive creatures are rare to spot most of the time.

• Specialties- Snow Tiger sight, Mountain Goats
• How to Reach- Hemis National park is situated at the other end of Ladakh, it is advisable to leave early by bike or car to reach this destination in time.
• Tip- Taking along a professional guide surges up your scope of identifying rarest species like the snow leopards.

6. Diskit Monastery- Visit Oldest Buddhist Architecture

Ladakh region is primarily home to Buddhist culture, rituals, and architecture. Diskit Monastery is among the biggest Buddhist Monasteries discovered by the disciple of Tsong Khapa, known as Changzem Tserab Zangpo . The magnitude and aura of the largest Buddhist figurine which is 106ft tall are worth a visit.  Hovering over the hilltop, this Buddha statue has golden and red embellishments making it look prettier. This statue mainly caters to 3 significant concepts: Diskit village protection, world peace, and avoiding war with Pakistan.

• Specialties- Peaceful and tranquil sight of the Diskit Monastery, Shyok Valley, Khardung La, and Nubra Valley
• Ways to Reach- Travellers take a car journey from Ladakh to witness exudes of this Monastery.
• Tip- Tibetan consider it as a worshipping place. Modest dressing for both men and women is suggestive.

7. Royal Leh Palace- Experience the Grandeur

Surely, a visit to the Leh Palace can also be a heavenly paradise. The place is a blissful location for history enthusiasts and culture aficionados. Your itinerary must include this location as the aura oozes out the grandeur of this royal Monastery. The incredible palace was constructed as per the orders of Tsewang Namgyal, but the completion was done through Sengge Namgyal.  After many battles that took place here, Leh considers it a heritage site for travelers. It’s worth taking a tour to the ultimate splendor.

• Specialties- Thiksey Monastery, Shanti Stupa, and the General Zorawar Fort.
• Ways to Reach- Target must reach here in the early morning hours as it is located near the city boundaries.
• Tip- It’s worth munching on the scrumptious delicacies available at the eateries within the vicinity.
• Ideal Season to visit- April- November

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10 Amazing Beautiful Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh You Always Forget To Visit 10 Amazing Beautiful Places To Visit in Leh Ladakh You Always Forget To Visit

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A trip to Leh-Ladakh, has over the years become a popular bucket list item for anyone and everyone who likes to travel. And this comes as no surprise at all. Be it the more popular places like the Pangong Lake, Khardung La or the less popular but enriched with culture the Hemis or the Thiksey monastries of Leh, there is no end to the amazing places to visit in Leh Ladakh. And here is your detailed guide with complete information to make this dream vacation a memorable one.

If you like watching a video to get all the information, then this video is for you!!

HOW TO REACH LEH

Srinagar to Leh highway : There are both government and private buses on this route, though not as frequent as on the Manali highway.

Suggested Read: Follow this step by step itinerary to make the most of your Manali Leh cycling expedition .

WHERE TO STAY IN LEH

Leh has some wonderful stays. It has both hotels and hostels to serve all kinds of travellers visiting Leh, both the luxury travellers as well budget travellers. Depending on your inclination, feel free to book from the following options:

Luxury Hotels

Leh boasts of some of the hotels with world class amenities and picture-perfect views. When you are looking for the perfect stay with no hassles, you can be rest assured that the following hotels will live up to your expectations:

The Grand Dragon Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tripti Dahiya (@traveldustblog) on Aug 11, 2020 at 5:01am PDT

Ladakh Sarai Resort

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ladakh Sarai (Luxury Resorts) (@ladakhsarai) on Jun 25, 2018 at 11:59pm PDT

TIH The Zen Ladakh

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vineet Alexander (@vinalexus) on Oct 26, 2018 at 5:50am PDT

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Abduz (@theabduz) on Feb 2, 2020 at 6:32am PST

Budget Hostels

Leh is a host to all demographics of tourists. None more so than the students and working professionals who visit this place to escape the fast paced lives that they are leading and want to soak in the best of what nature has to offer. If you are travelling on a shoe-string budget or want to meet the like minded free spirited travellers make sure that you try these hostels below.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jigar🇮🇳 (@jigzz_shah) on Apr 27, 2019 at 3:15am PDT

Raybo Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Raybo Hostels (@raybohostels) on Feb 4, 2018 at 5:59am PST

Hearth Stays

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hearth Hostel (@thehearthstays) on Mar 15, 2019 at 2:46am PDT

Woosah Hostel

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Woosah Hostel Leh (@woosahhostel_) on Sep 20, 2020 at 5:50am PDT

• If, during your trip you do plan on sleeping in Nubra Valley , Himalayan Bunker in Hunder village is a good option.
• Otherwise homestays in Turtuk village is another good option.
• At Pangong lake , there are a lot of dhabas and motels to choose from.
• Be it Nubra Valley, Pangong or other places in these areas they are definitely worth it when it comes to the night view of the sky.
• While visiting Tso Moriri , you will find a few motels relatively nearby.

BEST PLACES TO EAT IN LEH

Leh boasts about some very good places to eat. When in Leh you could very well try the multicuisine restaurants Il Forno (Leh Main Market) and Bonfire (Old Fort Road). Both these restaurants offer some quality food and ambience. You should definitely try the Italian cuisine at Il Forno and fried momos at the Bonfire.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yogesh Sarkar (@yogeshsarkar) on Sep 22, 2019 at 2:55am PDT

For quality vegan food, Bodhi Greens is a really good option. The host is quite welcoming as well.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bodhi Greens | Chef Varun (@bodhigreens) on May 31, 2019 at 1:01am PDT

• When you are on the road, Hunder as well as Diskit have quite a few joints to eat. However, do not expect out of the world places to eat here.
• When you are in Turtuk , you will find a few cafes to choose from. However, I would recommend trying out the Balti Kitchen . Raheem (who is the chef) is a one man show here serving some amazing food.
• Pangong lake has multiple dhabas for you to choose from.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND LEH

Given how beautiful Leh Ladakh is, you will be mesmerised with its charms irrespective of what option you choose to travel.

Option 1 – Bus

You can take a bus to the various places to visit in Leh. However, these buses do not visit all the spots on a daily basis. Some spots may not have any bus service at all. Others maybe as low as once or twice a week as well. Therefore, it is recommended that you check before hand for when are the buses available for the places you choose to visit. You can get this information from the JKSRTC Bus Stand .

Option 2 – Taxi

Hiring a taxi for the duration of your visit is a much better option. it will prove to be expensive yes, but this will be the most convenient as well. You can either ask the place where you are staying to help you hire a taxi or hire one from the Leh taxi stand . Beyond that feel free to contact one of the most friendly taxi driver, Stup-gyes (Number: +91 9469660648) . To understand the rates, refer to taxi union rate list for 2020-2021 season . To give you an idea, we paid 20k for 2.5 days for Mahindra Xylo. We covered Nubra Valley, Turtuk and Pangong Lake!

Option 3 – Bike

One of the most popular option, especially when it comes to a group of friends or among a relatively younger group of travellers in general, is the motorbike. This place is literally heaven for the bikers! Traversing Leh and all those places around on a bike, is the perfect mix of adventure and breathtaking views at your own speed. You can hire a bike from the many shops on the Fort Road . You can get the rate list for the 2020-2021 season here .

Option 4 – Bicycle

This is no doubt the toughest option out there but also with the most sense of accomplishment. Bicycle has gained quite a bit of popularity to reach Leh from Manali and then to also conquer Khardung La on it. However, bicycle in not popular when it comes to other places a little far way from Leh, like the Pangong lake or Nubra Valley. Still, for the local Leh sightseeing a bicycle is a fun option. You can rent a cycle from the many shops on Fort Road . Another adventure activity is to drive with your cycle to Khardung La top, and cycle back down. Getting all the thrills of a downhill ride without having to bear the physical pain to get your cycle to the top. A lot of these cycle shops offer this activity!

PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH – LADAKH

There is no disputing the fact that Leh-Ladakh region is most popular for its monastries, lakes and the landscape in general. And to make the most of your time here, read the following places that you can visit depending on your inclination and the time that you may have on your hands.

In case you want to experience all the places to visit through a video, and at the same time get all the information on places that are worth visiting in Ladakh, then do watch this video!!

Section 1 – Local Sightseeing in Leh

Out of the innumerable places to visit in Leh Ladakh, lets start with the places that are perfect for local sightseeing in Leh and other nearby places . I would recommend that you take 2 days to cover the good part of what I am about to mention in this section:

1. Leh Palace

Built in 16th century by Sengge Namgyal, Leh Palace is a testament to the pride of Namgyal dynasty. Leh Palace has become quite the popular tourist place in Leh for the splendid views it offers and how majestically it overlooks the charismatic Ladakhi village of Leh. The palace now houses a small exhibition detailing about the history of the palace and Leh in general. It is a short hike up from the Leh Main Market if you are on foot.

2. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

Built in 15th century by the king Tashi Namgyal is a place famous for its Buddhist principals and teachings. Idols in Namgyal monastery are still worshipped and monks lights the lamps on a daily basis. It is at a walking distance from Leh Place and offer some splendid views for photography.

3. Shanti Stupa

Shanti Stupa is one of the more popular monastries in Leh-Ladakh. Every monastery offer peaceful and positive vibes and in that regard Shanti stupa is no different. Built in 1991 by Japanese Buddhist Bhikshu, Gyomyo Nakamura, it is a white-domed stupa on a hilltop in Chanspa. Make sure you head here for some peace of mind and the perfect sun-sets!

4. Hall of Fame

Hall of fame was built to memorialize the bravery and names of all those soldiers who fought and were martyred in the Indo-Pakistan war. It is to honor the Indian soldiers and serves as the reminder of the fact that their service to the nation will never be forgotten. Run by the Indian Army, the Hall of Fame houses, weapons, history exhibits & a souvenir shop as well.

5. Leh Main Market

Leh Main Market or Leh Main Bazaar is one of the liveliest places to visit in Leh. It is always brimming with people and is popular for shopping, eating meals in the cafes, the delicious street food, buying souvenirs, pashmina shawls, Buddhist relics or jamming with strangers to perfect tunes, this market has it all. One of the best places to spend an evening in Leh.

6. Thiksey Monastery

Thiksey Monastery is a thing of beauty. This 12 storeyed gompa is a home to more than 500 monks. This monastery is one of the largest in central Ladakh and you should definitely visit, if you want to know more about the Buddhism culture in general and more specifically see all the beautiful artwork and stupas up close.

7. Hemis Monastery

Just like Leh Palace, Hemis Monastery is another important place in the Ladakhi history, that can be attributed to the king Sengge Namgyal. For any traveller, Hemis almost always makes the list of places to visit in Leh-ladakh. With all its murals, paintings and stupas it is a paradise for someone who can appreciate art or wants to learn more about the Buddhism culture. Hemis sees a huge influx of people during the annual two day festival which just makes the monastery absolutely vibrant.

8. Spituk Monastery

Spituk Gompa has as old a history as any other monastery out there. Having stood tall through the test of time, this beautifully carved monastery is home to more than 100 monks. Spituk Gompa (also known as Pethup Gompa) is about 8km from Leh. This serene monastery observes Gustor Festival from 27-29th of the 11th month of Tibetan calendar every year and it is a sight worth witnessing first hand.

Without a doubt, these are some of the must visit places in Leh. If you still end up with more time on your hand you can visit the following places – Zorawar Fort, Datun Sahib, Sindhu Ghat, Sankar Gompa and Phyang Monastery.

Section 2 – A Day in Sham Valley near Leh

It is important to note that all the places that I mention in this section are in between Sham Valley and Leh. A day trip on this Leh Srinagar highway till Sham valley and back can easily be done in a day. Read along to learn all that you can do in one day:

1. Gurdwara Pather Sahib

Amongst the many beautiful monastries and in the land of monks stand a Gurdwara to pay homage to Gura Nanak Dev Ji. According to the legend , Guru Nanak conquered a demon at this very same place and forgave him for his sins. The Gurdwara is about 23km from Leh, on the Leh-Kargil highway and is maintained by the Indian Army. Did you know – this place is equally respected by Sikhs as well as Ladakhis. Make sure you visit the place to soak in its peaceful vibes!

2. Magnetic Hill

Magnetic Hill is one of those places that you wouldn’t believe exists until you actually visit it it on your own. At about 27 km from Leh, there appears a yellow signboard after which the magic happens. You park your vehicle inside the marked box, switch the gear to neutral and voila, you appear to defy all laws of gravity. Two possible explanations are prominent: First, that it is just an optical illusion given the whole landscape and that you aren’t actually going uphill but rather downhill. Second theory, which is still unproven is that due to magnetic pull of the earth cars tend to move uphill on their own. Well, in any case you can only find out once you visit this intriguing place!

3. Sangam – Zanskar and Indus River Confluence

At Nimmu, a simple yet a soothing view awaits you. This is where Indus river and Zanskar River meet. This place of confluence of these two rivers has also popularly came to be known as Sangam. Given the various factors, the rivers change their color as well as force of their flow throughout the year. When the Zanskar river freezes in winters, the ever so popular Chadar trek takes place wherein the experience of walking on frozen lake and seeing waterfalls that have frozen mid-air is quite a sight.

4. Basgo Palace and Monastery

Basgo is quite popular for its ruins. At about 40km from Leh, Basgo Palace is stands tall atop a cliff. It houses three splendid temples that date back between 15th and 17th century. These temples are namely – Chamba Lhakhang, Serzang and Chamchung. Palace and monastery, given their position above the Basgo town, they offer some breathtaking views. This place has also been named in the world’s 100 most endangered heritage sites by the World Monuments Fund.

5. Likir Monastery

Likir monastery or Likir Gompa is quite deeply routed in the history of Buddhism. Built in 11th century, the monastery is believed to be protected by the serpent spirits. Some of the models are made of butter and yet they do not melt, how cool is that? The monastery is about 56km from Leh and one that you should not skip. Especially so, if you want to learn more about the Buddhist culture as there is a public library on the premises.

6. Alchi Monastery

Located at about 66km from Leh, Alchi monastery or Alchi gompa is no more an active monastery and is maintained by the monks of Likir monastery. This monastery is one of the oldest ones in Leh. With such historic murals, sculptures and paintings, this monastery is a testament to an era gone by. There are camps as well in the Alchi village should you wish to spend the night here in absolute peace and away from hustle bustle of Leh.

Visiting all these places is sure to uplift your spirits, bring you quite a bit of joy and relieve the tensions of your daily lives. You can either choose to stay at Alchi or come back to Leh. Generally people travel back to Leh the same day. Should you end up with a lot more time on your hand feel free to visit Rizong Monastery and if you go further on the highway still you can visit the Hemis Shukpachan village for some photograph worthy views.

Section 3 – Rest of Amazing Ladakh

Now that we are done with places to visit in Leh and nearby areas, let’s move a little further. Even though the places in this section maybe a little distant from Leh they still are the ones that are most popular and on every ttraveller’s bucket list. If you plan on visiting all of them on this list it might take you about 3 days or so.

1. Khardung La

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads around. At 17,852ft, this mountain pass offers the perfect challenge to ride to the top. This ride is the holy grail for bikers. Also, A few of the operators and cycle shop owners (on Leh fort road) are offering to drive you to the top and then you can come back down on a cycle for an exhilarating adventure. At such a height Khardung La offers some splendid views that are second to none. When you set out on the tour for rest of Ladakh this mountain pass will serve as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra valley.

2. Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley is one of the most beautiful places in all of Ladakh. About 160km from Leh, Nubra has it all, be it monasteries, lakes, cold desert, sand dunes or absolutely peaceful villages. Any soul that has stepped foot here has left with nothing less than pure bliss and a peace of mind. That figures, given the profound natural beauty of the valley. However, given the sensitivity of the region and its proximity to Siachen, essential permits need to be taken to visit Nubra valley. Read along for the various places that you can visit in Nubra Valley:

a. Diskit Monastery

One of the oldest surviving monasteries in the Nubra Valley, the Diskit Monastery (Gompa) has become quite popular amongst tourists. It also features the statue of Maitreya Buddha, standing tall with an impressive height of 106ft. The monastery oversees the beautiful village of Diskit. The ministry also runs a school in association with the NGO, “Tibet Support Group”.

b. Hunder Sand Dunes

Ladakh is a cold desert and its terrain and beautiful landscapes are a testament to that. To add to that you can actually find sand dunes in Hunder village of Nubra Valley. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, how about the fact that you can find the Bactrian two humped camels here. Also, you can take a ride. Now, how cool is that!

c. Panamik Village

Panamik is a small village by the Nubra river and offers some splendid panoramic vistas to soak in. It is popular for its hot sulfur springs which is believed to have medicinal properties. Also, should you visit Panamik make sure you shop from here for their Pashmina shawls and other Kashmiri and Tibetan artefacts.

d. Turt uk Village

Turtuk is one of the northernmost villages in Ladakh. If you ever thought of having a place of your own amongst the mountains in a small beautiful village, well Turtuk is it. This village is surrounded by some of the most beautiful views you are ever likely to see. This untouched gem has now been open to tourists for some while. Locals are more than happy to share their stories and the cafes here serve good food. Do try Balti Kicthen, if you do choose to visit this place.

Other than these places Nubra Valley is also home to the Yarab tso Lake and Samstanling Gompa. Should you have more time on your hand and want to explore you can definitely try out these places.

3. Pangong Tso

Pangong Lake or Pangong Tso situated at a height of 14,270ft, it is the definition of calm. You could spend an entire day and still not get enough of it. 60% of the lake is in China while the rest remains within the borders of India and much lesser part of it is still accessible to public. And yet when you will look at it, you will only be able to see the lake till the horizon. Interestingly, given the time of day and year, you can see the water in the lake have different colors. The lake shot to fame after the movie “3 idiots” and has been on everyone’s bucket list when it comes to places to visit in Leh-Ladakh.

4. Tso Moriri

Surrounded by towering peaks, Tso Moriri (or Moriri lake) remains quite secluded from the outside world. It is a lesser known/visited alternative to Pangong Lake. Like Pangong lake, Tso Moriri is frozen during the winters too. And owing to the landscape around it, this is quite the place for photography. Given that the lake is situated in the Changtang Wildlife Sanctuary, you may also be able to spot the likes of bare-headed goose, the Brahmin duck, the great-crested grebe and the brown-headed gull. Himalayan hares are popular as well around the lake.

With this comes the end to this section that talks about some of the most popular places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If after visiting all this you still seem to have time on your hand for your dream trip to Leh-Ladakh, I would recommend that you rent a bike from Leh and traverse the Manali-Leh highway. You will see sceneries that you didn’t know exist and you will have an experience to cherish forever. I along with two of my best friends cycled from Manali to Leh on the same highway and those are the days that are etched in my memory as some of my best on this beautiful planet!

Suggested Read: Should you feel like reading about the highway or our experiences from the trip feel free to give these articles a read .

HOW TO GET PERMITS TO VISIT PLACES IN LEH-LADAKH?

Ladakh being close to the border, some of these areas that lie under the Inner Line, require that in order to visit, Indian tourists get Ladakh Inner Line Permit (“ILP”) and foreigners get Protected Area Permit (“PAP”). Places to visit in Leh-Ladakh that fall under Inner Line and require permits are Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Dah-Hanu villages, Man, Merak, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Tyakshi, Chan La, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Chusul, Hanle, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only). Both ILP and PAP permits can be obtained online through the www.lahdclehpermit.in website. Please note however that permits for Hanle and Pangaon lake to Tso Moriri direct route can only be obtained by going in person to the Leh DC office . Alternatively, you can get the permit online but will still have to go to the Leh DC office to get the permits stamped. Please note that places like Leh, Tso Kar, or Zanskar Valley do not require any permits.

SOME HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE TRIP

• It takes 6-7 days or so to enjoy most of the places to visit in Leh-Ladakh. If you have lesser time, then you will have to pick which places interest you the most.
• While renting a bike, make sure that it is in a proper condition for a hassle free ride.
• Some parts of this tour can cause you high altitude sickness or mountain sickness. Best is to spend a couple days in and aroud Leh so as to acclimatize to the altitude.
• If at any point you feel breathless, you could return to the car and stay put for a while and/or use camphor (kapur). You should also keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Travelling in hills can always cause motion sickness. Please only keep doctor prescribed medicine.
• Tourists while visiting Nubra valley, generally sleep at either Hunder or Diskit village. Though, my personal recommendation is to spend one night in Turtuk, at one of their homestays and get to know more about the people and wake up to a peaceful morning with stunning views.
• Should you decide to stay the night at Pangong, there are camps available. Though, be ready for strong winds at night.
• Only BSNL and Airtel post-paid sim or a locally bought pre-paid sim card are the only ones that work in Leh.
• Generally speaking the temperatures are always low in the region and especially so at night, make sure that you pack enough warm clothes for the trip.
• Make sure that you do not litter at all. It is your responsibility to keep such a pristine place clean.

Have you made a list of places to visit in Leh-Ladakh yet? Let us know some of your favourite ones in comments below!

ENJOYED READING ABOUT PLACES TO VISIT IN LEH-LADAKH?

Read more articles related Manali and Leh: Manali to Leh cycling – Complete guide Photo Blog – Ditch your Enfield and take a CYCLE from Manali to Leh! 7 day solo trip to Manali Trek to Beas Kund, Solang in Manali

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10 Ultimate road trip routes in India for 2024

R oad trips offer the perfect opportunity to explore the country's rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant communities. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking adventure, India has a road trip to suit every traveller's taste. Let's dive into the top 10 road trips you must experience in 2024!

Leh-Ladakh Circuit: See stunning mountains and cool monasteries

One of the most popular road trip routes in India. Experience the peace and adventures of the Himalayas together on the Leh-Ladakh circuit! Drive through towering mountains, pass by turquoise lakes like Pangong Tso, and witness the unique culture of Ladakh. Don't miss out on exploring ancient monasteries perched on rugged cliffs, like Thiksey and Hemis. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you navigate through winding roads and high-altitude passes, discovering the raw beauty of this remote region.

Distance: Varies depending on starting point, but typically around 2,000-2,500 kilometres round trip from Delhi.

Places to Visit: Leh, Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Diskit Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery.

Preferred vehicle for trip: SUVs or motorcycles with good ground clearance and reliability due to rough terrain and high altitude.

Manali to Spiti Valley: Check out snowy peaks and ancient monasteries

Picture yourself driving through rough terrain, crossing tall mountain passes, and being amazed by the untouched beauty of Spiti. While you're there, make sure to stop by ancient Buddhist monasteries like Key and Tabo. Keep your eyes peeled for rare animals like snow leopards and Himalayan ibex. You'll be blown away by the breathtaking views and fascinating history of this Himalayan area.

Distance: Approximately 400 kilometres round trip from Manali to Kaza.

Places to Visit: Rohtang Pass, Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Chandratal Lake.

Preferred vehicle for trip: SUVs or motorcycles capable of handling mountainous terrain and narrow roads.

Mumbai to Goa Coastal Route: Enjoy beaches, forts, and yummy seafood

If you're up for a fun road trip straight out of a movie, head from Mumbai to Goa! You'll be in for a treat with all the sun, sand, and sea along the way. Drive along the beautiful Konkan coast, passing by fishing villages and stunning beaches. Treat yourself to delicious seafood and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Goa, where you'll make unforgettable memories.

Distance: Around 600-700 kilometers depending on the route taken.

Places to Visit: Alibaug, Ratnagiri, Ganpatipule, Malvan, Palolem Beach, Dudhsagar Falls.

Preferred vehicle for trip: Sedans, SUVs, or motorcycles suitable for highway driving and occasional off-road detours.

Golden Triangle (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur): Visit famous landmarks and shop in bustling markets

If you want to dive into the culture of North India, the Golden Triangle route is perfect for you! It takes you through the three most culturally vibrant cities. Check out the amazing Taj Mahal in Agra, stroll around lively streets in Delhi, and soak up the royal vibes of Jaipur. You'll see everything from busy markets in Old Delhi to grand forts in Rajasthan, giving you a taste of India's rich history, culture, and stunning architecture.

Distance: Approximately 600-700 kilometres round trip from Delhi.

Places to Visit: Delhi (Red Fort, Jama Masjid), Agra (Taj Mahal, Agra Fort), Jaipur (Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal).

Preferred vehicle for trip: Sedans, SUVs, or motorcycles suitable for highway driving and urban navigation.

Bangalore to Coorg: Dive into coffee plantations and lush forests

Exploring from Bangalore to Coorg on a road trip is a real treat for nature lovers! Coorg, one of the top hill stations in the South, is situated in the Western Ghats, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. As you drive, you'll pass through picturesque coffee plantations, where you can take in the fresh mountain air and marvel at stunning waterfalls like Abbey Falls and Iruppu Falls. Make sure to savour the aromatic Coorg coffee, take leisurely walks through the lush forests, and soak up the serene beauty of this charming hill station.

Distance: Around 250 kilometres one way from Bangalore to Madikeri.

Places to Visit: Madikeri, Abbey Falls, Raja's Seat, Namdroling Monastery, Talakaveri.

Preferred vehicle for trip: Sedans or SUVs for comfortable highway driving and navigating hilly terrain.

Kolkata to Sundarbans: Spot tigers and explore mangrove forests

Cruise along the tranquil waters of the Ganges, spot majestic Royal Bengal tigers and explore the mysterious mangrove forests. Dive into the rich culture of the Sundarbans' fishing communities, and learn about conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, making memories in the untamed beauty of nature.

Distance: Approximately 100-150 kilometres one way from Kolkata to Sundarbans.

Places to Visit: Sundarbans National Park, Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower.

Preferred vehicle for trip: SUVs or motorcycles for navigating rural roads and occasional off-road tracks.

Chennai to Pondicherry: Chill on beaches and try French food

This road trip is one of India's best because the journey itself is full of memories and experiences, even more than the destination. Along the way, you'll see amazing beaches in Southern India and can stop for some fresh coconut whenever you want. The East Coast Road is in great shape for driving or riding. Once you're there, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Pondicherry, check out the spiritual community of Auroville, and just chill in the calm vibes of this coastal town.

Distance: Around 150 kilometres one way from Chennai to Pondicherry.

Places to Visit: Auroville, Promenade Beach, Aurobindo Ashram, Matrimandir.

Preferred vehicle for trip: Sedans or SUVs for comfortable highway driving.

Ahmedabad to Kutch: See the white desert and enjoy cultural festivals

Travelling on Ahmedabad to Kutch be prepared to be mesmerised by the surreal beauty of the Rann of Kutch. Feast your eyes on the expansive white desert and experience the vibrant culture of the Kutchi people. Dive into the excitement of the Rann Utsav festivities, where you'll immerse yourself in music, dance, and tradition. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets painting the horizon, providing the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories in this one-of-a-kind landscape.

Distance: Typically around 600-700 kilometres round trip from Ahmedabad.

Places to Visit: Rann of Kutch, Bhuj, Mandvi Beach, Kutch Museum.

Preferred vehicle for trip: SUVs or motorcycles capable of handling long-distance travel and occasional off-road conditions.

Shillong to Cherrapunji: Hike to waterfalls and see living root bridges

Drive through the scenic wonders of Meghalaya from Shillong to Cherrapunji! Drive past lush green hills, chase cascading waterfalls like Nohkalikai and Seven Sisters, and trek to marvel at living root bridges hidden in the dense forests. Experience the warm hospitality of Northeast India and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this enchanting region.

Distance : Approximately 50 kilometres one way from Shillong to Cherrapunji.

Places to Visit: Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Living Root Bridges.

Preferred vehicle for trip: SUVs or motorcycles for navigating hilly terrain and occasional rough roads.

Delhi to Rishikesh: Relax by the Ganges and do yoga in the Himalayas

If you're after a quick, adventurous trip that's family-friendly, Delhi to Rishikesh is the way to go! Start your spiritual journey from Delhi to Rishikesh. Follow the winding roads alongside the sacred Ganges River, visit ancient temples and peaceful ashrams, and recharge your spirit with yoga and meditation. Experience the calming atmosphere of Rishikesh located in the Himalayan foothills, and set off on a journey to discover more about yourself surrounded by the peaceful beauty of nature.

Distance: Around 250 kilometres one way from Delhi to Rishikesh.

Places to Visit: Triveni Ghat, Laxman Jhula, Ram Jhula, Beatles Ashram.

Preferred vehicle for trip: Sedans, SUVs, or motorcycles suitable for highway driving and occasional off-road conditions.

Before hitting the road, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry essential supplies, and plan your itinerary to make the most of your adventure. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for an epic road trip across Incredible India in 2024!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is it safe to go on a road trip in India?

Generally, road trips in India are safe, but it's essential to take necessary precautions like ensuring your vehicle is in good condition, driving defensively, and being mindful of road conditions and traffic rules.

2. What is the best time for a road trip in India?

The best time for a road trip in India depends on the destination. For instance, the summer months (April to June) are ideal for hill stations like Shimla or Manali, while winter (October to February) is perfect for exploring Rajasthan or Gujarat.

3. What should I pack for a road trip in India?

Essentials for a road trip in India include valid documents (driver's license, vehicle registration), spare tire and tools, first aid kit, snacks and water, navigation aids (maps or GPS), emergency contact numbers, and appropriate clothing and footwear.

4. How can I ensure a memorable road trip experience in India?

To make the most of your road trip experience in India, plan your route, research attractions along the way, embrace spontaneity, interact with locals to learn about the culture, try local cuisines, and most importantly, stay flexible and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

5. What are the accommodation options available during road trips in India?

Accommodation options during road trips in India vary from budget guesthouses and roadside motels to luxury resorts and camping sites. It's advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or in remote areas.

Scenic road trips in India during Monsoon

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Top Places In India To Witness Snow In Summers

Snowfall is something that we love to witness at least once in life. Scroll down to take a look at the places in India where you can witness snowfall even in the summer. 

• Anukriti Srivastava
• Updated - 2024-04-25, 16:20 IST

Drass, Ladakh

Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

Gulmarg, Jammu And Kashmir

Pahalgam, Kashmir

Thajiwas Glacier, Jammu And Kashmir

Image Courtsey: Freepik/Unsplash

Your skin and body like you are unique. While we have taken all measures to ensure that the information provided in this article and on our social media channels is credible and expert verified, we recommend you consult a doctor or your dermatologist before trying a home remedy, quick hack or exercise regime. For any feedback or complaint, reach out to us at [email protected]

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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