Every rider dreams of riding through the majestic landscapes of Leh Ladakh at least once in their life. Most often referred to as biker’s paradise, Leh Ladakh bike trip is on every biker’s bucket list. However, as much as it sounds exciting, the difficult terrain isn’t easy to conquer. Being said, be prepared for a thrilling adventure and test your riding skills.
Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali (280KMS)
Collect your bike from the Bike Rental agency to begin your bike trip to Leh. As your journey begins, leave the bustling city of Chandigarh behind and hit the road to Manali. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you travel through Himachal Pradesh’s gorgeous hills and soak in the beauty of nature. Once you reach Manali, spend the evening exploring the Mall road or visit one of the popular cafes such as Cafe 1947, Rider’s Inn, Lazy Dog Lounge or Johnson’s cafe for dinner.
Day 2: Manali to Jispa (95KMS)
Gear up for an exciting day as you leave Manali and make your way towards Jispa. On this route, you will cross The Atal Tunnel, also known as the Rohtang Tunnel, which is the world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet. It connects Manali in Himachal Pradesh to Lahaul-Spiti Valley and is counted as one of the greatest engineering marvels. Moving forward you will enter Lahaul valley, admired for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. Enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings while riding through the mountain terrain. Reach Jispa and check-in to your hotel, there are several accommodation options available in Jispa, ranging from campsites to guesthouses, offering a comfortable stay.
Day 3: Jispa to Leh (335KMS)
Resume your Bike trip to Leh riding through the mesmerizing landscapes, conquering the High Altitude Himalayan Passes Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachung La and Tanglang La. These high mountain passes offer awe-inspiring vistas and a sense of accomplishment. At this stretch you will also cross Morey Plains, the famous 21 Hairpin bends of Gata loops, Deepak & Suraj Taal. This stretch will also be a challenging one as you will come across a number of water crossings.
It will be almost evening when you reach Leh, check-in to your hotel and take a rest. Remember, it is important to take proper rest and acclimatize to the high altitude otherwise one can fall sick due AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness).
Day 4: Leh Local Sightseeing
On day 4, it is suggested to stay in or around Leh to allow your body to get used to the climate and altitude. Utilize this day to explore the rich cultural heritage of Leh as you explore its local attractions. Visit the famous monasteries of Hemis, Thiksey, and Shey, which house ancient artifacts, intricate murals, and magnificent Buddha statues. Explore the historic Leh Palace, a former royal residence that offers panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Shanti Stupa, a white-domed Buddhist monument perched atop a hill. In the evening, explore the Leh market area, indulge in Ladakhi delicacies such as momos, thukpa, and butter tea.
Day 5: Leh to Nubra Valley (160 KMS)
Gear up to conquer the world’s second highest motorable pass, Khardung La, on your way to Nubra valley. Next, visit the Diskit Monastery, perched on a hilltop, and witness the grandeur of the Maitreya Buddha statue. Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Nubra Valley, adorned with lush green oasis-like landscapes and sand dunes. You can also indulge in a thrilling camel safari at Hunder Sand Dunes, where you can ride the double-humped Bactrian camels, a unique experience found only in this region. Spend the night amidst the tranquility of Nubra Valley, choosing from the available campsites or guesthouses.
If you have an extra day in hand, you can also plan a trip to Turtuk, the last village of India and come back to Nubra for a night halt.
Day 6: Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake (225KMS)
Resume your journey, bidding farewell to Nubra Valley and heading towards the famous Pangong Lake. This is one of the most scenic routes that you will embark on your Leh Ladakh bike trip. The picturesque landscapes and the ever-changing hues of the mountains makes a bike ride an experience of a lifetime. Reach the mesmerizing Pangong Lake, famously known for its azure blue waters reflecting the surrounding rugged mountains. Spend the evening mesmerized by the lake’s beauty and the tranquility it offers. Visit the famous 3 idiots Point for a quick photo session. There are a few accommodation options available near Pangong Lake, ranging from campsites to luxury tents, providing an immersive experience amidst nature’s splendor.
Day 7: Pangong Lake to Hanle (170KMS)
Embark on an offbeat route from Pangong Lake to the remote village of Hanle. Don’t forget to fuel whenever you get a chance as in these remote areas getting fuel can be difficult. Once you arrive at Hanle, explore the Hanle Monastery, a hidden gem nestled amidst the barren landscapes. Experience the rural charm of the village as you learn about the way of life there. As the night falls, get ready for a unique stargazing experience at the world’s highest Observatory. The unpolluted skies of Hanle offer breathtaking views of the Milky Way, making it a haven for astrophotographers. You can find a handful of homestays run by the locals, however, if you have your camping gear, it is advised to camp and enjoy the astonishing night sky.
If you have another day in hand, you can also visit the Umlingla Pass, the highest motorable pass in the world, situated at an astounding altitude of 19,300 ft above sea level. Come back to Hanle for a night halt.
Day 8: Hanle to Tso Moriri Lake (165KMS)
Get ready for another exciting day on your Leh Ladakh bike trip. Start early in the morning from Hanle to reach Tso Moriri Lake before evening. This path leads you through magnificent views dotted with towering mountains, lush meadows, and harsh terrain. The entire stretch feels unworldly with no habitation around and only mountains accompanying you. Take enough water, dry snacks and most importantly spare fuel to complete the journey. Reach the pristine alpine lake nestled in the Changthang region, surrounded by vast open spaces and snow-capped peaks. Spend the night near Tso Moriri Lake, camping under the starry sky for a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 9: Tso Moriri Lake to Leh (214 KMS)
Begin your journey back to Leh from Tso Moriri Lake, cherishing the memories of the stunning landscapes you encountered. En route, make a stop at the hot springs of Chumathang region or the Puga valley, where you can witness nature’s geothermal wonders. Reach Leh by evening and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 10: Leh to Srinagar via Kargil
As you bid adieu to Leh, embark on an incredible route that takes you to Srinagar via Kargil. Explore the Magnetic Hill, a fascinating phenomenon where vehicles appear to move uphill without any external force. Visit the revered Gurudwara Pathar Sahib and immerse yourself in its spiritual ambiance. Learn about the Kargil War Memorial’s historical significance and pay tribute to the brave soldiers who gave their lives during the Kargil War. Journey through the captivating landscapes of Kashmir, crossing the picturesque Zoji La Pass. Consider making a stopover at Drass village, famously known as the “Gateway to Ladakh,” or enjoy the scenic beauty of Sonamarg before reaching Srinagar.
Day 11: Departure from Srinagar
Conclude your thrilling Leh Ladakh bike trip with beautiful memories of the enchanting landscapes and cultural experiences. Depart from Srinagar, carrying the essence of this adventurous journey in your heart.
How much will a Leh Ladakh bike trip cost?
The total expenses of your trip can be calculated keeping in mind the following points, however, the actual cost depends on the accommodation choices, personal expenses, food, etc. So here’s basic cost planning to help get you get started
- Bike Rental: Renting a bike for the duration of the trip might cost anything between INR 15,000 and INR 25,000, depending on the model you select. If you’re going to ride your own motorbike the entire way, you can ignore this expense however, make sure to include the expense of bike maintenance and servicing in your budget.
- Fuel costs: Depending on the mileage of the bike and fuel prices, the estimated fuel costs for the entire journey can range from INR 7,000 to INR 10,000.
- Accommodation: Depending on your preferences, the price of lodging varies. Mid-range hotels and resorts have rates between INR 2,000 and INR 5,000 per night, while inexpensive guesthouses and campgrounds might run you anything from INR 500 to INR 1,500 per night.
- Food: You can consider a budget between INR 500 and 1,000 a day for meals, assuming you will be dining at a mix of local eateries and restaurants.
- Permits are needed in several places of Ladakh and can be obtained through the local government. Depending on the regions you wish to visit, set up between 700 and 1,000 rupees for permits.
- Personal costs: Depending on what you buy.
This 11-day Leh Ladakh bike trip will be an adventure of a lifetime. From the mesmerizing landscapes of Manali to the rugged terrains of Leh and the serene beauty of Srinagar, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Each day of this itinerary unfolds new adventures, leaving you with unforgettable memories and yearning for more. So, gear up, rev your engines, and get ready to embark on this ultimate adventure.
