Ladakh, or the “Land of High Passes,” is arguably one of the most stunning places to ride a motorbike in India. Its rugged roads, scenic landscapes, and hostile terrain are an excellent backdrop for a motorbike ride. Riding to Ladakh on a two-wheeler is less about the destination and more about the wonderful ride, the excitement, and the pleasure. Whichever bike ride you are taking to Ladakh, Leh Ladakh, or elsewhere, these are the top 10 things that you do while traveling for your bike ride to this heaven.
Ride Through the Renowned Khardung La Pass
Khardung La is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, a staggering 5,359 meters (17,582 feet) above sea level. Crossing over this pass is every motorcyclist’s dream. The meandering roads and snow-covered mountain ranges are an adventure and a humbling experience at the same time. Khardung La connects Leh to the Nubra Valley, and crossing over it is one of the highlights of your Leh Ladakh bike tour.
Experience the Tranquility of Pangong Lake
Pangong Lake at an elevation of 4,350 meters (14,270 ft) is where you ride and indulge in the beauty of nature. The blue lake surrounded by dry mountains is probably the most gorgeous thing you have ever seen. Pangong Lake has even been a showstopper in recent times with Bollywood films, but it’s Mother Nature who is going to leave you breathless on your Ladakh motorbike tour.
Ride Along Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley provides you the fantasy mix of deserts, Buddhist monasteries, and double-humped camel sighting if you’re lucky. It can be accessed by the Khardung La pass, and riding along the spiral roads of never-ending sand dunes and snow ranges is a fantasy of sorts. You can even camp here one night of your life under starry nights.
Challenge Yourself on the Magnetic Hill
The Magnetic Hill is an illusion, but a great one to be. Renowned for going against gravity, cars seem to move uphill when parked on a particular point. Although not magnetic in origin, it is a great place to take a rest at while bicycle trekked to Ladakh. You marvel at nature and secrets of the world in this activity.
Go to the Ancient Monasteries
Ladakh is also a place that boasts some of the world’s oldest Buddhist monasteries including Hemis Monastery, Thiksey Monastery, and Diskit Monastery. They are not only sacred comfort zones but also historical and architectural wonders. Visit them to find out more about the culture of the Buddhists and feel the peace that pervades these serene places.
Travel on the Chang La Pass
Chang La is one of the elevation passes to Ladakh at 5,360 meters (17,590 feet) above sea level. Riding to this destination is a bit demanding with the high elevation and changing climate, but it’s a ride every motorcyclist should not fail to experience. The scenery and the experience that one gets from riding through the pass are truly unbeatable.
Awe at the Zanskar Valley
Zanskar Valley is a remote and off-beat Ladakh area that provides you with the excitement of isolation and adventure. The trek of the valley is not for the weak-hearted as roads are unmetalled and the weather can go haywire. But if you are brave enough to accept the challenge, then this virgin paradise will welcome you with unparalleled landscape of untouched nature, rugged mountains, and shining rivers.
Visit the Magnetic and Remote Tso Moriri Lake
Tso Moriri, another high-altitude lake, is located at an elevation of 4,522 meters (14,836 feet). This lake is quieter than Pangong and offers a more serene atmosphere. It’s a remote spot, so the journey to the lake will feel like an expedition. If you’re looking for peace and solitude, Tso Moriri is a must-visit destination on your bike trip to Ladakh.
Sleep under the stars in a Ladakh camp
One of the highlights of your Ladakh motorbike tour is a wild camp under the Ladakh sky. Blue skies and fresh air with stars twinkling through will be just over every corner, such as at Nubra Valley or Pangong, or off the map somewhere along your way. The Ladakh night cold will have you pining for how cozy the warmth of the campfire will be and how beautiful the stars twinkle above.
Test Your Skills on the Manali-Leh Highway
The Manali-Leh Highway is the biggest challenge to cyclists. With bad roads, high-altitude passes, and the uncertainties of weather conditions, this highway is not for faint hearts. The highway winds through some of India’s most beautiful landscapes set against the backdrop of rough mountains, valleys, and serene lakes. Cycling this stretch of road is one of the pleasures of any bike tour of Leh Ladakh.
Also Read: Best Ways to Reach Himachal Pradesh: Road, Rail, and Air Routes
Conclusion
A Leh Ladakh bike tour or Ladakh motorcycle tour is the most thrilling tour you can ever experience. With its continuous challenging terrain, picturesque scenery, and interesting history, Ladakh has everything a motorcyclist can ever ask for. From the icy passes of Khardung La and Chang La to the breathtaking beauty of Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri, Ladakh is that one place which gives you memories even after the journey has come to an end. Every bend and turn of the road is a story and every landscape leaves you wanting to stop and take it all in. Therefore, get ready, take up the challenge, and experience the magic of Ladakh on two wheels.
FAQ’s
What is the best time for a Ladakh bike tour?
Best period to book Ladakh bike tour is June to September when weather is relatively good and roads remain open.
How long does it take to bike from Delhi to Leh Ladakh?
A normal bike tour to Leh Ladakh would take 10 to 12 days, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make in between.
Do I need special permits for a bike tour to Ladakh?
Yes, some places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake require permits. These can be booked in Leh.
What bike is ideal for a tour to Leh Ladakh?
A Royal Enfield is one of the most popular bikes for a bike tour to Ladakh because it’s rugged and can take bad roads.
How is Manali to Ladakh bike tour best done?
Manali to Ladakh bike tour is on Leh-Manali Highway through high-altitude passes like Rohtang La and Tanglang La. It’s a thrilling but challenging ride with horrible roads and unpredictable weather.
What is a rough Delhi to Ladakh bike tour price?
Delhi to Ladakh bike tour will be ₹30,000 to ₹50,000, depending upon fuel, food, accommodation, and permits. It relies on the level of accommodation and rental bikes.
Can one plan a Mumbai to Ladakh bike tour?
Yes, it is possible to have a cycling tour from Mumbai to Ladakh, about 2,000 kilometers. It would mean a little longer cycle trip with a couple of days’ cycle with rest and halt break in between.
Delhi to Ladakh bike kilometers, how many?
The Delhi to Ladakh bike tour is for 1,000 kilometers. The most used route is Manali, Leh-Manali Highway or via Srinagar.
At what time is it best to take a Ladakh bike tour?
The best time to take a Ladakh bike tour is between June and September, when the weather is perfect and all roads are open. July and August are the best months to bike.
