Ladakh-Bike
The distance of the bike trip from Delhi to Ladakh via the route is approximately 1000-1100 km. However, most people prefer the route via the Manali Leh Highway, as it offers beautiful views of the mountains.
Popular Route
Delhi → Manali → Sarchu → Leh → Nubra Valley → Pangong Lake → Hanle → Umling La → Tso Moriri → Manali → Delhi
Key Highlights
Atal Tunnel
Baralacha La Pass
Tanglang La Pass
Khardung La Pass
Nubra Valley Sand Dunes
Pangong Lake
Hanle Observatory
Umling La - Highest Motorable Road
This bike trip takes approximately 10-12 days to complete.
Manali-Leh Highway Explained
Manali Leh Highway is the most famous road route used to travel to Ladakh. It connects Himachal Pradesh with the region of Ladakh. It crosses several high mountain passes, which are above 16,000 ft.
Distance
Manali to Leh - 475 km
Major Passes on the Route
Rohtang Pass / Atal Tunnel
Baralacha La - 16,040 ft
Nakee La - 15,547 ft
Lachulung La - 16,600 ft
Tanglang La - 17,480 ft
This road is open from June to September, depending on the weather conditions.
This route offers breathtaking views of glaciers, cold deserts, and beautiful mountain landscapes.
Day Wise Route Breakdown
Below is the 12-Day Delhi to Ladakh Bike Expedition route used by License2Roam.
Day 1 - Delhi to Manali
The participants will assemble in Delhi and proceed to Manali on a Volvo bus.
Day 2 - Manali Exploration
The participants will arrive in Manali and relax while attending a trip briefing session.
Day 3 - Manali to Sarchu (175 km)
The participants will cross Atal Tunnel, Lahaul Valley, and Baralacha La Pass to reach Sarchu.
Day 4 - Sarchu to Leh (250 km)
The participants will cross Gata Loops, Nakee La, Lachulung La, and Tanglang La Pass to reach Leh.
Day 5 - Leh to Nubra Valley (130 km)
The participants will cross Khardung La Pass and reach Nubra Valley.
Day 6 - Nubra to Turtuk
The participants will visit Turtuk Village, which is near the Indo-Pak border.
Day 7 - Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake
The participants will cross Shyok Route and reach Pangong Lake.
Day 8 - Pangong to Hanle
The participants will cross Rezang La War Memorial and reach Hanle Village.
Day 9 - Hanle to Umling La - Nyoma
The participants will cross Umling La (19,300 ft), which is the highest motorable road in the world.
Day 10 - Nyoma to Tso Moriri - Sarchu
The participants will cross Tso Moriri Lake and proceed to Sarchu.
Day 11 – Sarchu to Manali
Cross Baralacha La Pass again and return to Manali.
Day 12 – Reach Delhi
Return journey concludes in Delhi.
Fuel Stations
Fuel is scarce in Ladakh. Careful planning is required for fuel consumption.
Major Fuel Stops
Delhi
Manali
Tandi (last petrol pump before Leh)
Leh
Diskit (Nubra Valley)
Karu
Tip: Carry extra fuel (5-10 litres) in Jerry Cans.
Road Conditions
The road conditions on the route of Ladakh are very different.
From Delhi to Manali
Good highways and smooth roads.
From Manali to Sarchu
Mountain roads with rough patches and water crossing.
From Sarchu to Leh
High-altitude roads with hairpin turns and gravel.
From Leh towards Nubra and Pangong Lake
Mixed road conditions with off-road rides.
Riders need to be prepared for:
• Landslides
• Snow patches
• River crossing
• Weather
Accommodation Stops
During the expedition, tourists stay in hotels, camps, and homestays across Ladakh.
Accommodation locations are:
• Manali
• Sarchu camps
• Leh hotels
• Nubra Valley hotels
• Pangong Lake camps
• Hanle homestays
• Nyoma homestays
Accommodation details are mentioned as follows:
Manali Mantra
Gold Drop Camps
Hotel Jamshed Nubra
Mountain Chalet Pangong
Tsestan Homestay Nyoma
Safety Tips
A bike tour of Ladakh is a serious affair and demands careful preparation.
Acclimatization
One day of rest is needed before starting for Leh.
Riding Gear
Riding gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Hydration
One should drink lots of water to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Bike Preparation
Make sure your bike is in good condition, with
• Good tyres
• Brake pads
• Spare clutch cable
• Basic tools
FAQs
Is Delhi to Ladakh bike trip difficult?
Yes, but manageable.
What is the best time for Delhi to Ladakh bike trip?
Best time is June to September.
What is the best bike for the Ladakh trip?
Royal Enfield Himalayan, Classic 350, or any 200cc+ adventure bike.
How many days are required?
10-12 days are required for a comfortable trip.
Do we need permits?
Yes, we need Inner Line Permits for Nubra, Pangong, and Hanle.