Taking a Leh-Ladakh road trip is still a dream for riders who are passionate about bikes. You have a unique riding experience by going through the high-altitude desert in the Himalayas as they are filled with incredible and challenging landscapes and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match. If you are planning to take this adventurous ride, here is a complete guide to help you for your ride to have a safe and wonderful experience throughout the journey.
Preparation: Getting Ready for the Adventure
1. Bike Selection and Maintenance: Choose a bike that is especially designed for rugged roads that contain some difficult patches in between throughout the route. These types of bikes are usually known as touring bikes that are specially designed for making your ride comfortable while traveling long distance. Some popular choices include the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the BMW R 1250 G S. It should be your priority to ensure your bike is being serviced and is in top condition, make sure you give special attention to your brakes, tires, and suspension as it is the most important part of your bike.
2. Riding Gear: It's important for you to invest in high quality riding gear whenever you are planning a long ride. A protective jacket with proper cushioning that acts like a shock absorber, riding jacket with proper layers as temperature can change drastically, helmet that has a visor that can help you and your eyes from UV rays, gloves that can specially designed for riders to make their hand comfortable while riding.
3. Physical Fitness: Riding in high altitude may be risky so it's important to work on your body to increase your physical stamina by getting yourself engaged in regular cardio exercises to train your body for long hours of riding and may cause some health issues while moving towards high altitude that can lead to decreasing of your body oxygen levels.
4. Permits and Documentation: As Ladakh is situated near international borders you require a permit to go in certain areas to travel as it is a sensitive zone. Certain areas require Inner Line Permit (ILP). This permit is required for the ones who are visiting Ladakh for a short period of time and make sure to carry all your documents of bike, identity proof and multiple copies of the same.
The Route: Navigating the Leh-Ladakh Highway
1. Manali to Leh: One of the most popular routes starts from Manali, by covering 430 kilometers to Leh. This route covers several high altitudes passes including Rohtang La, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La. This route can be completed in two to three days, but it fully depends upon the rider and his bike how much they are capable of by taking a break at Jispa and Sarchu.
2. Srinagar to Leh: Another route begins from Srinagar covering 420 kilometers. This route is relatively easier than the Manali to Leh, passing through attractive locations like Sonamarg, Drass, and Kargil.
3. Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake: Once you make it to Leh, make sure you visit Nubra Valley through Khardung La pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world and don't forget to visit Pangong Lake making it the world's highest saltwater lake situated at the height of 4350 m famous for changing colors.
Riding to Leh Ladakh is an adventure that can last in your memory for a lifetime. With proper planning and safety guidelines it can be more fun. So, gear up for your Leh Ladakh bike trip, hit the road, and experience the beauty and challenges that the Leh-Ladakh Highway has to offer.
