The ultimate adventure of a lifetime in India is the Leh Ladakh Bike Trip. Every adventure lover wishes to visit the ‘Land of High Passes’. And for an even better thrill, they dream of bike trip. To help you with this journey, we have the ultimate guide for the dream trip.
The beauty of Ladakh is certainly beyond words. Snow-clad peaks, barren lands, spots of green, crystal-clear lakes coupled with ancient monasteries, palaces and more lure your hearts. The high-altitudes are not just exhilarating but a challenge you would love to overcome. Pass through surreal beautiful spots, bask in the bliss of an unexplored world and set records for yourself. Test your spirit with Ladakh Bike Tour.
To start with, we help you prepare for the journey, the crucial challenges and all the possible guidance to overcome them all.
Best time for a Ladakh Bike Trip
Ladakh remains covered in snow most of the year. The warm months are therefore the best time to visit Ladakh. The summer months, May to June, and the monsoon season- July to September is the only time when a bike expedition to Ladakh is possible. Therefore, the best months to embark upon a Ladakh Bike Trip from the end of May to September.
Also, the summer is the pleasant season to start your bike expedition right from Manali, proceeding to Spiti and the region of Ladakh. You can proceed to Srinagar on the bike during these months. In fact, the summer and monsoon season, the months of May to September is the perfect time to plan a Himalayan bike trip!
Ideal Days needed for a Bike Tour in Ladakh
The days needed for the Leh Ladakh bike tour totally depend upon the route you take and what you would like to cover on your expedition. While you can start your bike tour from Delhi, there is an option to begin your thrilling expedition from Manali or fly to Leh and begin your bike tour in Ladakh.
For a bike tour to Ladakh from Delhi, the time required would be 15-18 days, while From Manali you can cover most of the places in 10 days. If you fly to Leh and begin your bike tour then it would take 7-8 days to have an unforgettable experience.
So, depending on the route you chose and the places you would like to stop at a Ladakh Motorcycle tour requires 7-18 days.
Suggested tour packages
- Manali to Ladakh Bike Trip 2022
- Delhi to Manali Leh Srinagar Bike Trip
- Manali Leh Manali Bike Trip
- Srinagar Leh Manali Bike
Best Routes for a Motorcycle Trip to Ladakh
To reach Ladakh by motorcycle, there are only two routes. The first is from Manali, while the second is from Srinagar. Where Srinagar has Zojilla Pass which is amongst the most challenging roads in the world, the constant altitude on the Manali-Leh highway keeps the travelers excited. While riding from Manali, pass through Rohtang Pass and gradually enter the region of Ladakh.
The road from Srinagar is equally impressive but not very popular among bikers to start the bike tour from. You can choose from both routes and plan according to what suits your driving skills, duration, and other factors. Ladakh Bike tour packages plan your expedition to the last details, with particulars about the best routes and itineraries, in addition to accommodation and other planning.
Route 1: Route Map: Manali to Leh
Manali- Rohtang La- Keylong- Jispa- Baralacha La- Sarchu- Nakee La- Moore Plains- Upshi- Leh
Distance Covered: Approximately 474 km
Route 2: Route Map: Srinagar to Leh from Delhi
Delhi- Jalandhar- Jammu- Srinagar- Ganderbal- Zojila Pass- Kargil- Leh
Distance Covered: Approximately 1080 kilometers (Srinagar to Leh is approximately 434 km)
Tip: Avoid the season of Amarnath Yatra, July to August as the road route will be crowded and have numerous check posts.
Also Read:
- A Complete Guide to Planning a Trip via Manali – Leh Highway
- A Complete Guide to Planning a Trip via Srinagar – Leh Highway
- A Complete Guide to Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi
Best Bikes for Leh Ladakh Bike Trip
While talking about the Ladakh bike trip, the very important thing that needs to be discussed is the motorcycle. For the best experience, you certainly need the best bike. While the best bikes depend upon various factors it is generally the bike with a powerful machine with a heavy engine. The bike must certainly have the stamina for the cold weather, high altitude and steep gradient.
While the Ladakh Bullet trip is the dream of many, there are also various other options. Choose the bike that you have driven before, the one you can easily maintain and service. As all through your journey, your bike remains your only true companion, you have to assure only the best for the best experience of a motorcycle trip to Ladakh.
Here are some of the best bikes for the Ladakh road trip:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan BS 4 and variants
- Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
- Hero Xpulse
- Royal Enfield Bullet 350/ Classic 350
- KTM Duke RC 390
- Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350/ 500
- Bajaj Dominar 400
- Bajaj Avenger Cruise/ Street 220
Ultimate Guide To Rent A Bike
- How to Rent a Bike in Ladakh
- How to Rent a Bike in Srinagar
- How to Rent a Bike in Manali
- How to Rent a Bike in leh
Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Expenses
The ultimate adventure of your lives requires careful planning with your budget. Therefore it’s important to discuss Ladakh Bike trip expenses. A budget of 30k-40k is the range you must keep aside.
As, you will be riding a motorcycle, therefore the major share of your expense will go towards your ride. The fuel, petrol is the priority of a bike trip. If you consider that you will be covering a distance of almost 3500 kilometers, you will need around 100 liters of petrol if your bike gives an average mileage of 35 km per liter. Roughly estimated the fuel costs will amount to INR 7000 to INR 8,000.
Also, Leh Ladakh Trip Cost varies on the other factors such as permits, accommodation, meals, in addition of fuel. In the event that everything is under normal circumstances, you will end up spending approximately INR 35000 for a 15-day trip.
Accommodation on your Ladakh Tour
The bike tour to Ladakh ranges from 7-18 days and during the trip accommodation is one of the major points that must be discussed. Rest is quite important as you are not just riding a bike but riding at some of the highest altitudes not just in India not also in the world.
To start with, there are a number of budget hotels in Ladakh that are easy on the pockets as well as equipped with all required amenities. Campsites are the best options for a stay for an adventure holiday. Get to experience nature at its best and the pure rush of adrenalin.
Homestays in Ladakh are the best options if you would love to experience Ladakhi culture. The amiable folks of the region open their hearts and homes for guests.
Also Read: Best Hotels for Stay in Leh City
Petrol Pumps on the route
Petrol is the most important thing when it comes to bike tours and especially to Ladakh. There are very few petro pumps in the region. Therefore, on spotting a petrol pump get your tank filled. In addition of full tanks, carry extra fuel in jerry can and other containers.
If you are on the Manali-Leh route, there are four petrol pumps. Get you tank full at Manali, later you have one at Tandi, 110 km from Manali. The next one is at Karu, 30 km from Leh. Lastly, Leh city has petrol pumps. Therefore it is almost a 350km stretch on the road that does not have a single pump, therefore you have to depend on the fuel you carry.
The bike tour from Srinagar to Leh has better options when it comes to petro pumps on the route. Leave with a full tank from Srinagar. The next stop is Nagbal. Later, Ganderbal on the route has two petrol pumps. Get a refill at Kargil. Next, stop at Khalsi, after which you can smoothly arrive to Leh. While even on the route you must carry extra fuel for emergency purposes.
Also Read: A Complete Guide How & Where to Carry Spare Fuel for Ladakh Trip
Meals
While you are on the road to Ladakh, there are several options of roadside dhabas that serve delicious warm food at economical prices. Homestays also provide the option. But on your bike tour, it is extremely necessary that you carry small amounts of food and water with you at all times.
Miscellaneous
Permits, shopping and some other emergencies is a part and parcel of bike tour to Ladakh. It is necessary to keep aside a small budget for such expense.
Acclimatization in Ladakh
While planning to ride to the ‘Land of High Passes’ you must know everything about acclimatization. The high altitude of Ladakh often gives the visitors acute mountain sickness (AMS). Therefore, you need plenty of rest, fluids, exercise as well as proper nutrition to acclimatize to such heights. The higher you go up in the mountains the more there will be lack of oxygen. Acclimatization is the very basic requirement for a successful Ladakh Bike Tour.
Also Read:
Packing Essentials on Ladakh Bike Trip
Bike trips to Ladakh require careful packing. You will be carrying everything you need on your bike, therefore you must go for smart and light packing.
Some essentials are:
- Sturdy helmet which is also comfortable.
- Valid photo identity proofs and most importantly, driving license.
- All-weather jackets that you can use in rain, snow, sunshine and the changing weather.
- Sweatshirts, jeans, shorts, shirts, tracks, inner-wear, socks, towels, handkerchiefs, and other clothing items that you may feel necessary.
- Trekking shoes or leather boots.
- Extra pair of socks gloves.
- Riding goggles to keep the cold air from your eyes.
- First-aid kit for yourself and a tool-kit for your bike.
- GPS and also a physical map.
- Charger, power banks, Bluetooth headset, batteries for backup, torch etc.
- A good-quality camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes.
- A Swiss Army Knife for its multi purposes.
- Camping tents, sleeping bags, cooking utensils and small packets of ration
- Disposable small packs of toiletries of toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo sachets, face wash, liquid soap, moisturizer, cold creams, etc.
- Loads of sunscreen with maximum SPF.
- Medicine for AMS, high temperatures, cold, lose motions, nosebleeds and other medications prescribed by doctors and medical practitioners.
- Keep over the counter medications for pain, antiseptic cream, and re-hydration salts (oral) – 6-8 sachets/Gatorade type electrolyte, iodine based water purification tablets, and Insect repellents.
Tips
- Abide by the rules of driving and follow them wisely.
- Get basic training for servicing your Bike and Tyre change, even though you can easily get bike mechanics anywhere on the route.
- Try and plan a group bike tour. If you are riding solo, join one of the groups that are already on the route.
- Keep your fitness in check a month or two prior to your trip.
- Camp only at the sites allotted or ask permission of authorities before pitching in your tent.
- Do not harm the environs or the sentiments of the people.
- Keep your folks at home updated with your whereabouts.
- Keep emergency contacts on your phone in the event of some hard circumstances.
Also Read:
Places to Visit on Ladakh Bike Tour
Leh City
The capital city of Ladakh, Leh City is one of the must-visit places on your bike tour. The ancient town has much to offer. From ancient architecture, markets, and traces of Tibetan heritage, here you will experience the region’s rare beauty and bliss. On your arrival, keep a day for rest in the city. Here you can go sightseeing as well as shopping for souvenirs to take home.
Leh Palace
Built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal, this nine-storey royal palace of Leh is blessed with breathtaking views. Enjoy the sights of snowcapped peaks, Stok Kangri looming up to the sky, and the serene Indus River. The palace has a collection of artifacts of the time. Check out costumes, jewelry, religious scriptures, and other remnants of the royal family.
Pangong Lake
Nestled at 14,270 feet, the crystal clear Pangong Lake is about 134 kilometers long and 60% falls under China’s territory. The scenic beauty of the tranquil lake is beyond words. Displaying seven shades of blue, the waters certainly ensnare the travelers’ minds. The towering peaks and the tough road leading to the lake is an experience of a lifetime.
Also Read: Best Hotels for Stay Near Pangong Lake
Tsomoriri Lake
Situated at the height of 15,000 feet, Tso Moriri is fresh water lake in Ladakh. The environs of the water body is a magnificent landscape offering a change from rough to lush green. Fed by two streams and springs, the water body is 7 kilometers wide and 19 kilometers long. The beautiful lake is home to 34 species of birds and rare flora and fauna.
Also Read: Best Hotels for Stay Near Tso Moriri
Shanti Stupa
The Shanti Stupa was inaugurated in 1991 by the Holy Dalai Lama. The Japanese structure is located close to the town of Leh. Set at a height of about 4200 feet, the white beauty enjoys magnificent views of the panorama of looming snow-clad mountain peaks. The sunset and sunrise is worth seeing from this point.
Hemis Monastery
The Hemis Monastery has put the town of Hemis on the world map. The monastery is the largest and richest in India. The Tibetan-style architecture glows golden in the midst of the rugged environs. The Hemis Festival is one of the most celebrated festivals in the region. The monastery also houses rare and exquisite of Buddha, gold and silver stupas and Thangkas (Holy Scriptures).
Thiksey Monastery
The Thiksey Monastery is sited in the Indus valley and is just 18 kilometers away from Leh. The 12-storey monastery encloses ten temples, an assembly hall and living quarters for the monks and nuns. The 40 foot high statue of Maitreya Buddha is the prime attraction. Marvel at rare, precious stupas, wall paintings, statues and swords in the monastery.
Magnetic Hill
The curious natural phenomenon of the Magnetic hill is located on the National Highway from Leh to Kargil. The elevated road can pull any vehicle up its steep slope even with the ignition of the vehicle off. Road trips to Ladakh remain incomplete if you not been here.
Zanskar Valley
The isolated Zanskar valley is blessed with picturesque natural beauty. Inhabited by monks, it is one of the places that complete your Ladakh Tour. The Zanskar River flows through the valley and has lent its name to the place. It is full of adventures. From river rafting to frozen trek, there are numerous options of adrenalin gushing activities.
Read Must: Markha Valley Trekking
Khardung La Pass
At 18,739 feet, Khardung La is the highest motorable road in the world. The pass is located in the Karakorum Range north of Leh. The pristine air, scenic vistas, and the feeling on top of the world have made Khardung La a popular tourist attraction. Before you sojourn the region make preparations.
Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley is Ladakh’s beautiful secret. Known as the Valley of Flowers, the landscape is a treat. Verdant farms, double humped Bactrian camels, vibrant blooms, traditional villages, desert like landscape exist at one place. Breathtakingly beautiful, Nubra Valley cannot be explained in words.
Hall of Fame
The Hall of fame located near Leh Airfield is a museum constructed and maintained by the Indian Army. The monument honors soldiers who had lost their lives during Indo-Pak wars. Here you can get information about weapons, tough conditions and also how the Indian army guards the Siachen Glacier.
Phyang Gompa
Phyang Gompa is a renowned monastery dating back to early 16th century. Famous for its Digung teachings, 900-year old museum and ancient festivals, the Gompa must be visited to understand the nuances of the lifestyle and culture of people surviving these tough conditions.
Shey Monastery
15 kilometers from capital city Leh, Shey monastery was earlier the summer residence of the royal family. Located on the banks of River Indus it is adorned with number of shrines and stupas. The statue of 17.5 meter high, blue-haired Maitreya Buddha is a major attraction.
Diskit Monastery
The Diskit Monastery in the Diskit Village of Nubra Valley dates back to the 14th century. The ancient monastery is home to 106 feet tall statue of Maitreya Buddha in the prayer hall. Every year in February, the monastery is bustling with activities as the popular Dosmoche festival is celebrated.
Zoji La Pass
The Zoji La pass is an important mountain passes lying between Ladakh and Kashmir. The pass is located at a height of about 11,575 feet. The beautiful views are heartwarming and it is one of the important attractions.
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 second coldest inhabited region in the world, Drass Valley strikes a perfect balance between the lush greens, soothing blues, and bold browns.
To end with, the Leh Ladakh Bike tour is truly an experience you cherish forever. With this extensive guide, you have the complete details to have a safe and successful adventure!
Suggested tour packages