Ladakh Bike Trip – The Ultimate Guide to Riding Through the Himalayas

Let me be honest – doing a Ladakh bike trip changed something fundamental in me. I know that sounds dramatic, but ride through those mountains, cross those passes, camp under those stars, and you’ll understand.

I did my first Ladakh trip three years ago on a rented Royal Enfield. I was nervous – never done high altitude, never ridden in mountains, didn’t know if I could handle it physically or mentally. But I’d been dreaming about it for years.

It was harder than I imagined. And more incredible than I could have dreamed. Standing on Khardung La at 18,380 feet, engine still warm, prayer flags snapping in the wind – that feeling is indescribable.

This guide is everything I learned from two Ladakh trips, plus conversations with dozens of riders and locals who’ve seen thousands of bikers chase this dream.

Why Every Rider Dreams of Ladakh

The roads are legendary. Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway are among the most spectacular roads in the world. Switchbacks, straight stretches through valleys, high-altitude passes – pure riding heaven.

The landscapes are otherworldly. Barren mountains in shades of brown, grey, and gold. Blue lakes that seem Photoshopped. Green valleys appearing like mirages. It’s Mars meets paradise.

The challenge defines you. Altitude sickness, rough roads, unpredictable weather, river crossings, mechanical issues. You earn every kilometer.

The camaraderie is real. Bikers helping bikers. Strangers becoming family. The community on these roads is special.

The achievement stays forever. Crossing world’s highest motorable passes, riding through impossible landscapes, completing what many dream but few attempt.

Best Time for Ladakh Bike Trip

June to September – These are the ONLY months roads are reliably open.

Month-by-Month Breakdown:

June:

• Roads just opened (usually mid to late June)
• Some snow still on passes
• Fewer tourists, quieter
• Weather unpredictable
• Rivers high from snowmelt
• Best for: Adventurous riders, but risky for first-timers

July:

• Peak season starts
• Roads fully cleared
• Weather more stable
• Still cold at night (0-5°C)
• All accommodations open
• Best for: First-timers, safest month

August:

• Peak season
• Warmest month (relatively!)
• Most crowded
• All services running
• Monsoon can affect Manali route (landslides possible)
• Best for: Peak summer travelers

September:

• Season winding down
• Weather still good early September
• Fewer tourists
• Services start closing after mid-September
• Risk of early snow (rare but possible)
• Best for: Experienced riders wanting quieter roads

My recommendation: Mid-July to mid-August for best balance of weather, open roads, and services.

The Two Main Routes

Route 1: Manali to Leh (Most Popular)

Distance: ~475 km
Time: 2-3 days
Difficulty: Challenging
Highlights: Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, Tanglang La, More Plains

Day-wise breakdown:

• Day 1: Manali → Jispa (140 km, 7-8 hours)
• Day 2: Jispa → Sarchu/Pang (90-150 km, 5-8 hours)
• Day 3: Sarchu/Pang → Leh (180-250 km, 8-10 hours)

Why this route:

• More dramatic scenery
• Higher passes (Tanglang La at 5,328m)
• Better acclimatization if done slowly
• More challenging = more rewarding

Challenges:

• Rougher roads (especially Manali to Rohtang)
• Higher altitude = more AMS risk
• Unpredictable weather
• Longer riding days

My experience: Did this twice. First 100 km brutal – traffic, dust, potholes. After Rohtang, pure magic. Moon Land section, wide valleys, dramatic passes – worth every rough kilometer.

Route 2: Srinagar to Leh (The Easier Option)

Distance: ~420 km
Time: 2 days
Difficulty: Easier
Highlights: Sonamarg, Zoji La, Drass, Kargil, Magnetic Hill

Day-wise breakdown:

• Day 1: Srinagar → Kargil (200 km, 7-8 hours)
• Day 2: Kargil → Leh (220 km, 6-7 hours)

Why this route:

• Better road conditions
• Lower altitude = less sickness
• Shorter daily distances
• Easier for beginners

Challenges:

• Less dramatic scenery (still beautiful)
• Security concerns near LOC (rare)
• Less sense of adventure

Best for: First-time high-altitude riders, those worried about altitude sickness.

The Perfect Loop (My Recommendation)

10-12 Day Complete Circuit:

1. Manali → Jispa
2. Jispa → Sarchu
3. Sarchu → Leh
4. Rest in Leh (2 days – mandatory!)
5. Leh → Nubra Valley via Khardung La
6. Nubra exploration
7. Nubra → Pangong Lake
8. Pangong Lake
9. Pangong → Leh via Chang La
10. Rest in Leh
11. Leh → Kargil
12. Kargil → Srinagar

Total distance: ~1,200-1,500 km
Riding days: 8-9 days
Rest days: 3-4 days (essential!)

This gives you both routes, major attractions, and proper acclimatization.

Budget Breakdown – Real Costs

Bike Rental: ₹40,000-70,000

Royal Enfield Himalayan: ₹1,200-1,800/day
Royal Enfield Classic 350: ₹1,000-1,500/day
Royal Enfield Thunderbird: ₹1,200-1,600/day

Security deposit: ₹5,000-10,000 (refundable)
One-way drop: ₹3,000-5,000 extra

Tip: Book from reputable companies. Check bike thoroughly. Take photos of existing damage.

Fuel: ₹8,000-12,000

Distance: 1,200-1,500 km
Mileage: 25-30 km/liter (mountains)
Fuel cost: ₹100-130/liter in Ladakh

Important: Carry extra fuel. Many stretches have no pumps for 100+ km.

Accommodation: ₹15,000-30,000

Budget: ₹300-700/night (basic guesthouses, camps)
Mid-range: ₹1,000-2,000/night (decent hotels)
For 10-12 nights

Options:

• Camps (Sarchu/Pang): ₹500-1,000
• Homestays: ₹800-1,500
• Hotels in Leh: ₹1,500-3,000

Food: ₹6,000-10,000

Daily budget: ₹500-1,200

Typical meal costs:

• Breakfast: ₹100-200
• Lunch: ₹150-250
• Dinner: ₹200-400
• Snacks/chai: ₹100-150

Reality: Food expensive in remote areas. Maggi can cost ₹100 at high passes.

Permits: ₹1,500-2,000

Required for:

• Nubra Valley: ₹400-600
• Pangong Lake: ₹400-600
• Tso Moriri: ₹400-600

Get in Leh – easier than doing it beforehand.

Miscellaneous: ₹10,000-15,000

• Bike repairs: ₹2,000-5,000
• Spare parts: ₹1,000-2,000
• Warm clothes rental: ₹2,000-3,000
• Emergency buffer: ₹3,000-5,000

Total Cost (10-12 Days):

Budget: ₹70,000-90,000
Mid-range: ₹1,00,000-1,40,000
Comfortable: ₹1,50,000-2,00,000

My actual spending: ₹1,25,000 for 12 days (mid-range, everything included)

The Bike – What to Ride

Royal Enfield (The Default Choice)

Why everyone rides RE:

• Mechanics everywhere
• Spare parts available
• Built for Indian roads
• Low-end torque for mountains
• Iconic Ladakh experience

Best Models:

Himalayan (My #1 Pick):

• Purpose-built for this
• Better suspension
• Lighter than Classic
• Fuel injection (starts better at altitude)
• ₹1,200-1,800/day

Classic 350:

• Most common
• Reliable
• Slightly uncomfortable long rides
• ₹1,000-1,500/day

Thunderbird:

• Comfortable seating
• Heavier (harder on rough sections)
• ₹1,200-1,600/day

Should You Take Your Own Bike?

Pros: Know your bike, no rental cost, can customize
Cons: Wear and tear, return journey hassle, risk of damage

My take: Rent unless you have Himalayan or similar. Royal Enfield Himalayan is perfect for this trip.

Permits & Documents You Need

Essential Documents:

1. Driving License (original)
2. Bike RC (rental agency provides)
3. Bike Insurance (rental agency provides)
4. ID Proof (Aadhar/Passport)
5. Inner Line Permits (for restricted areas)

Inner Line Permits:

Required for:

• Nubra Valley
• Pangong Lake
• Tso Moriri
• Turtuk

How to get:

• Online: www.lahdclehpermit.in
• In person: DC Office, Leh
• Through agency: ₹200-300 extra

Cost: ₹400-600 per permit
Processing: Instant online

Important: Get permits BEFORE going. Checkpoints will turn you back.

Acclimatization – Don’t Skip This!

What is Altitude Sickness?

Symptoms:

• Headache (most common)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping

Mild AMS: Uncomfortable but manageable
Severe AMS: Medical emergency – can be fatal

Altitude on Ladakh Trip:

• Manali: 2,050m
• Rohtang Pass: 3,978m
• Sarchu: 4,290m
• Tanglang La: 5,328m
• Leh: 3,524m
• Khardung La: 5,359m
• Pangong: 4,350m

Problem: You gain altitude FAST. Body needs time to adjust.

Acclimatization Rules:

Rule 1: Climb high, sleep low
Rule 2: Hydrate constantly (4-5 liters daily)
Rule 3: Rest days in Leh mandatory (minimum 2 days)
Rule 4: Listen to your body
Rule 5: Avoid alcohol first 3-4 days

My Strategy:

• Day 1: Manali → Jispa (slow gain)
• Day 2: Jispa → Sarchu (feeling tired)
• Day 3: Sarchu → Leh (headache by evening)
• Day 4-5: REST in Leh (walked, hydrated, recovered)
• Day 6: Started Nubra trip

Mistake first-timers make: Rushing to Pangong next day. Result: Severe AMS, ruined trip.

Take it slow. Your body will thank you.

Medications:

Diamox: Helps acclimatization. Start 1-2 days before. 125mg twice daily. Consult doctor first.

Painkillers: For headaches
Anti-nausea: If feeling sick

Complete Packing List

Riding Gear:

• Full-face helmet
• Riding jacket (with armor, waterproof)
• Riding pants or knee guards
• Gloves (waterproof, warm)
• Riding boots
• Balaclava/neck warmer
• Sunglasses
• Goggles (for dust)

Clothing:

Layer everything:

• Thermal tops/bottoms (2 sets)
• Fleece/down jacket
• Windproof jacket
• Regular pants (2-3)
• T-shirts (4-5)
• Socks (multiple pairs)
• Underwear
• Rain gear
• Cap/hat
• Down jacket for nights

Medical Kit:

• Personal medications
• Diamox (consult doctor)
• Painkillers
• Stomach medicine
• Antibiotics
• Band-aids, antiseptic
• Cold/cough medicine
• ORS packets

Bike Essentials:

• Puncture kit
• Spare tubes (2)
• Tool kit
• Chain lubricant
• Engine oil (1L)
• Duct tape
• Zip ties
• Bungee cords

Documents (Waterproof):

• License
• Bike papers
• ID proof copies
• Permits
• Insurance
• Emergency contacts

Electronics:

• Phone + charger
• Power bank (10,000+ mAh)
• Camera (optional)
• Headlamp
• Universal adapter

Miscellaneous:

• Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Lip balm
• Moisturizer
• Toilet paper
• Wet wipes
• Sanitizer
• Water bottles (2-3)
• Energy bars
• Cash (₹20,000+ small notes)

Keep luggage minimal – easier to ride!

Must-Visit Places

On Route to Leh:

1. Rohtang Pass (3,978m): First high pass, usually crowded

2. Keylong: Town for break, food, fuel

3. Jispa: Beautiful camping, good acclimatization stop

4. Baralacha La (4,890m): High pass, stunning views

5. Sarchu: Camping site, cold nights, amazing stars

6. Gata Loops: 21 hairpin bends – thrilling ride

7. More Plains: Vast plateau, feels like moon

8. Tanglang La (5,328m): Second highest pass, incredible views

Around Leh:

9. Leh Town: Palace, Shanti Stupa, markets – spend 2-3 days

10. Magnetic Hill: Optical illusion, fun stop

11. Sangam: Indus-Zanskar river confluence

12. Lamayuru: Ancient monastery, moon landscapes

Major Destinations:

13. Nubra Valley (via Khardung La – 5,359m)

World’s highest motorable road!

What to see:

• Diskit Monastery (giant Buddha)
• Hunder Sand Dunes (double-humped camels)
• Turtuk (last Indian village)

Stay: 2 nights
Distance from Leh: 150 km

My experience: Khardung La was terrifying and exhilarating. Hunder dunes at sunset magical.

14. Pangong Lake (4,350m)

That “3 Idiots” lake. 134 km long, stunning colors.

Routes:

• From Leh via Chang La (most common)
• From Nubra via Shyok (easier)

Stay: Lakeside camps
Distance: 160 km from Leh

Reality: Touristy now, expensive, BUT still worth it. Wake early for sunrise.

15. Tso Moriri

Less touristy, more remote, beautiful.
Only go if extra time available.

Day-by-Day Itinerary (12 Days)

Day 1: Delhi → Manali (bus/car)

Day 2: Manali → Jispa (140 km)
First day riding. Cross Rohtang. Take it slow.

Day 3: Jispa → Sarchu (90 km)
Beautiful valleys. Cross Baralacha La.

Day 4: Sarchu → Leh (220 km)
Longest day. Multiple passes. Start early.

Day 5-6: REST in Leh
Acclimatize! Walk town, get permits, service bike.

Day 7: Leh → Nubra Valley (150 km)
Cross Khardung La. Visit Diskit.

Day 8: Nubra exploration
Hunder dunes, maybe Turtuk.

Day 9: Nubra → Pangong (160 km)
Via Shyok route. Reach by afternoon.

Day 10: Pangong → Leh (160 km)
Sunrise on lake. Cross Chang La.

Day 11: Leh → Kargil (220 km)
Srinagar highway. Easier road.

Day 12: Kargil → Srinagar (200 km)
Last riding day. Drop bike.

Common Challenges & Solutions

1. Altitude Sickness
Prevention: Proper acclimatization, hydration, Diamox
Solution: Rest, hydrate. Severe = descend immediately.

2. Bike Breakdown
Common: Punctures, chain issues, electrical
Solution: Carry basics. Mechanics in major stops. Bikers help.

3. Weather
Challenge: Sudden rain/snow, strong winds, cold
Solution: Rain gear, flexibility, layers

4. River Crossings
Technique: Check depth, maintain momentum, feet on pegs

5. Rough Roads
Tip: Stand on pegs, lower speed, look ahead

6. Fatigue
Solution: Join groups, take breaks, rest when needed

Safety Tips

Riding:

1. Always wear helmet and gear
2. Don’t ride after dark
3. Start early (6-7 AM)
4. Comfortable pace
5. Watch for military convoys
6. Animals have right of way
7. No alcohol and riding

Health:

1. Acclimatize properly
2. Stay hydrated (4-5L daily)
3. Eat regular meals
4. Sleep well
5. Sunscreen and lip balm

Environment:

1. Don’t litter
2. Respect local culture
3. Don’t disturb wildlife
4. Stay on marked roads
5. Support local businesses

Ladakh is fragile. Be responsible.

Do this if:

• Love riding and adventure
• Willing to push limits
• Can handle discomfort
• Respect nature and culture
• Want transformative experience

Standing on Khardung La, wind howling, prayer flags snapping, mountains everywhere, engine cooling – I felt alive like never before.

That’s what Ladakh gives. Not just photos. But a piece of yourself you didn’t know existed.

So should you do it?

If you’re reading this, you’re halfway there. Dream is planted. Now it’s about preparation and commitment.

Start planning. Book that bike. Face those fears.

The roads are waiting. The mountains are calling.

See you on Khardung La.

Jullay! (Ladakhi greeting)

Quick Pre-Trip Checklist

✅ Bike booked from reputable agency
✅ Riding gear arranged
✅ Documents ready
✅ Permits plan
✅ Accommodation (first few days)
✅ Route planned (stay flexible)
✅ Medical checkup done
✅ Diamox (consult doctor)
✅ Travel insurance
✅ Warm clothes packed
✅ Cash ₹20,000+ (small notes)
✅ Emergency contacts saved
✅ Offline maps downloaded
✅ Physical preparation
✅ Mental preparation
✅ Excitement: MAXIMUM

Frequently Asked Questions