Ladakh is India’s highly sought-after holiday destination that piques the interest of bikers from not only across the nation but also foreigners. If you know how to ride a bike and have the skills to tackle challenging roads and weather conditions, the already breathtaking natural beauty and intriguing culture of Ladakh will feel ten times more rewarding to you. Leh Ladakh bike riding attracts tons of individuals annually. Blue lakes with crystal clear water, some of the world’s highest mountain passes, captivating valleys, historical and cultural attractions, sites that defy physics, etc., are some of the aspects that make Leh Ladakh bike riding a fascinating experience. You can now make this Leh Ladakh bike trip a reality with Leh Ladakh bike tour packages by SOTC. The Ladakh bike trip package options are carefully designed by travel professionals and intended to offer the right mix of thrill and tourism. Find more information on Ladakh bike trip package options and Ladakh tourism on this page.
Most Popular Ladakh Bike Trip Packages
Why Choose a Ladakh Bike Trip with SOTC?
Here are some reasons why you should consider the Ladakh bike trip package options by SOTC;
- Detailed itinerary: Our Ladakh bike trip package options include interesting itineraries that cover all the popular sites and attractions.
- Inclusion of bikes: Don’t have the right bike, or worried about how to transport your bike to Ladakh for the Leh Ladakh bike trip? Well, worry no more. Our Leh Ladakh bike tour packages include bikes for the trip.
- Crisis management: With Ladakh bike trip package options by SOTC, you get an experienced tour guide, a luggage van/back vehicle, mechanic support, emergency oxygen cylinder, etc.
- Equipment support: Forgot to carry helmets with your biking gear? Well, the Leh Ladakh bike tour packages include helmets for the rider and pillion on a returnable basis.
- Meals and stay: Our Ladakh bike trip package options take care of meals and accommodations for the entire journey. We even offer Leh Ladakh bike trip packages featuring optional flights.
Best Time to Visit Ladakh for Biking
Unlike normal tourism, the time frame for the Leh Ladakh bike trip is a bit different. You want to pick a time that offers the best visual experience and safe and accessible roads for your trip to Ladakh by bike. As the main entry points, i.e., Rohtang Pass and Zoji La, stay closed during winter, while monsoon increases the risk of landslides and slippery roads, these two seasons should be avoided for the Leh Ladakh bike trip. Hence, the best time to visit Ladakh by bike is between June and September. The weather stays warm and dry during these months, and the roads stay clear, which is ideal for your trip to Ladakh by bike. You can easily find Leh Ladakh bike trip packages for these months on SOTC.
Top Routes for Ladakh Bike Trips
Choosing the route for the Ladakh bike trip is one of the most important decisions you are going to make. For most cases, the most suitable starting point for the trip to Ladakh by bike is Delhi. Taking Delhi as the base, here are three of the most popular Ladakh bike trip routes you can consider for your journey;
Route 1
This is the Delhi to Leh Ladakh bike trip route. The Delhi to Ladakh bike trip starts from Delhi and moves over to Manali, then enters the small village of Sarchu on the Leh-Manali highway. After Sarchu, the Delhi to Ladakh bike trip route covers Leh, the joint capital of Ladakh and then Khardung La, Nubra Valley and Kargil before diverting towards Srinagar and then ending in Delhi. Some Leh Ladakh bike trip packages may cover this route.
Route 2
The second Ladakh bike trip route, though beginning in Delhi, goes towards Jalandhar and enters Jammu in J&K. From Jammu, the bike route heads towards the beautiful city of Srinagar before entering Kargil in Ladakh. After Kargil, this Leh Ladakh route on bike goes over Leh, then Karu and finally towards Delhi via Sarchu and Manali.
Route 3
The third popular Ladakh bike trip route is a simple one. It is the Manali to Leh bike trip route, starting from Manali to Sarchu. From Sarchu, the Manali to Leh bike trip route enters Leh, then Khardung La, Nubra Valley and Kargil, in order. After this, it heads towards Srinagar before ending in Delhi. You can also find Leh Ladakh bike trip packages starting from Leh on SOTC.
Must-Do Activities During the Ride
On your Ladakh bike trip, make sure to spice up the experience with these activities;
Test your riding skills covering mountain passes
Khardung La is one of the most famous mountain passes on the Ladakh bike trip itinerary. If you want to test your riding skills on your trip to Ladakh by bike, covering the Khardung La with challenging roads and weather conditions can be a thrilling experience. The scenic route of Khardung La will surely elevate this experience.
Try some off-roading
If you are on an adventure bike on your Leh Ladakh bike trip, you will find several off-beat, rugged trails. While it is always recommended to stick to official roads, these trails in Ladakh can offer you the ultimate off-roading experience. Before trying this out on your Leh Ladakh road trip, make sure to refer to your tour/ride guide about this.
Camp under the starry night sky
There are numerous iconic Ladakh tourist destinations where you can experience night camping. For instance, camping by the Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri, etc., is quite popular. The jaw-dropping beauty of the site, paired with the glittering starry night sky and peaceful atmosphere, makes this a must-try activity on the Ladakh bike trip. Some Leh Ladakh bike trip packages may feature this activity.
Experience a camel safari in Nubra Valley
Nubra Valley is one of the key sites included in the Ladakh bike trip itinerary. It is a dreamy location whose beauty will surely leave you speechless. While you are in Nubra Valley, ditch the bikes for 10-15 minutes to go try the Bactrian camel back safari. It is a thrilling activity that lets you explore the true beauty of Nubra Valley on your Leh Ladakh road trip. Nubra Valley is also ideal for Leh Ladakh trekking activities. Popular Leh Ladakh bike trip packages feature this activity in Nubra Valley.
Consider paragliding in Leh
Include paragliding on your Leh Ladakh trip itinerary. The visual beauty of the region remains unmatched, and experiencing all that from the sky is something truly remarkable. Leh is a key inclusion in most Leh Ladakh bike trip packages.
Detailed Itinerary for Ladakh Bike Tour
The Ladakh bike trip package options offered by SOTC each feature unique itineraries. For example, here is a detailed itinerary of a 7 Nights/ 8 Days Ladakh bike trip package for your travel reference;
- Day 1: On arrival in Leh, check into the hotel. There is a short city tour in the evening, where you will get familiar with your bike and end the day with dinner at the hotel.
- Day 2: The second day of the Leh Ladakh trip itinerary includes a bike ride to Sham Valley. There will be stops at popular Ladakh tourist destinations like the Hall of Fame, Gurudwara Patthar Sahib, Magnetic Hill, Sangam, Leh Palace and Shanti Stupa.
- Day 3: On the third day, you will ride to Nubra Valley via Khardung La. By afternoon, you should arrive in Sumur or Hunder, and there will be a stop at Diskit Monastery before getting to your stay in Nubra Valley.
- Day 4: There is a 5-hour ride towards Pangong Lake via the Shyok River and Durbuk Village. There will be an overnight stay near the Pangong Lake.
- Day 5: Ride to Koyul with stops like the War Memorial on the way. En route, you will be able to spot various wildlife. Upon reaching the camp, you can spend the evening stargazing in Koyul.
- Day 6: On the sixth day, you will ride to Umling La, covering Demchok, then return to Koyul by evening for a bonfire, dinner and overnight stay.
- Day 7: Ride to Hanle with stops at main Ladakh tourist destinations like IAO and Hanle Gompa. Then proceed to Leh with stops like Hemis and Thiksey Gompa. At Leh, hand over the bikes to the tour representative. Overnight hotel stay at Leh.
- Day 8: Journey back home from Leh Airport.
Essential Permits and Documentation
For your Ladakh bike trip, here’s what you need in terms of Ladakh permits and documentation;
- Driving licence: To legally ride a bike on your Ladakh trip, you need a valid driving licence.
- Inner Line Permit (ILP): It is one of the main Ladakh permits you need. It allows you to enter and travel to certain restricted areas in Ladakh, like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, etc.
- Proof of itinerary: Carrying a printout copy of your detailed tour itinerary is recommended.
- Wildlife & environmental fees: All travellers need to pay the wildlife & environmental fee and a Red Cross fund fee for this trip. Some Leh Ladakh bike trip packages may include this fee as part of the package price.
- PAP/RAP: Protected Area Permit/Restricted Area Permit to visit certain restricted and protected areas in Ladakh. Only foreign nationals require these Ladakh permits.
- Rohtang Pass Permit: If entering Ladakh from Manali via the Manali-Leh highway, you need a Rohtang Pass permit.
- ID proof: Carry a government-issued photo ID card, like an Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID Card, etc
Accommodation and Meal Plans
If you are visiting Ladakh for a bike trip, make sure to research and book accommodations in advance. Also, do make meal arrangements in advance, as you won’t find eateries everywhere. The Leh Ladakh bike tour packages by SOTC take care of meals and accommodation as part of the plan. Here’s some additional information on this subject;
- Accommodation: You can find/arrange for accommodations in Leh, Nubra Valley, near Pangong Lake, Koyul, Kargil, etc.
- Meals: In Leh, try Tibetan cuisine. Thukpa and momos are the top two choices for the Nubra Valley. In Kargil, you’ll find plenty of eateries in the Main Bazaar. Carry snacks and water for the ride to replenish in between.
Cultural Insights and Responsible Tourism
Cultural insights can help you understand and enjoy the best tourism experience on your Ladakh adventure tour. Also, you must be a responsible tourist throughout the Ladakh adventure tour to maintain the sanctity of the place. Here are some things you should take note of;
- Ladakh is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Tibetan Buddhists, Sunnis, Shia Muslims, etc. Be mindful of their cultural practices and treat everyone with respect.
- Be eco-conscious and pack reusable water bottles, avoid using plastics or single-use items, etc.
- Do not litter on the road. Carry waste in a separate bag and only dispose of it at proper sites, such as hotel dustbins.
- Observe animals, but from a distance. Don’t interfere with or disturb wildlife in Ladakh.
- Avoid taking pictures of strangers, and ask for permission when doing photography at cultural sites.
- Avoid making loud noises that may disturb others around you.
- Buy locally made products to share support and contribute to the local economy.
Safety Tips for Your Bike Ride to Ladakh
Don’t take the roads of Ladakh too lightly. Here are some safety tips for your Leh Ladakh bike trip;
- Wear proper riding gear, including helmets, riding jacket and pants, gloves, boots, etc., for the entire bike ride to Ladakh and back.
- Follow your bike tour group leader at all times and ride carefully while taking note of your surroundings.
- Avoid overspeeding and riding recklessly in general.
- Ride while maintaining proper distance between vehicles, front and rear.
- Keep an offline map downloaded on your mobile phone.
- Check brakes, fluid levels, etc., prior to the ride every time.
- Take short breaks in between the long Leh Ladakh route.
Things to Carry on Your Ladakh Bike Trip
Here are a few things you need to pack for your Leh Ladakh bike trip;
- Helmet and proper full riding gear for the Ladakh road trip.
- ID proof, ILP, and other essential documents.
- Extra pairs of warm clothes and waterproof clothes.
- Waterproof bags and covers for your phone and other electronics.
- Personal first-aid kit and prescription medicines, including OTC meds for altitude sickness, common cold and general sickness.
- Riding goggles on top of the helmet visor to protect your eyes.
- Battery-powered torch and power bank.
- Camera for capturing the mesmerising scenes on the Ladakh road trip.
- Tent, sleeping bag, dry food and water, and other camping essentials for Leh Ladakh trekking and emergency stoppages.
- Basic toiletries, like liquid soap, hand sanitisers, toothpaste and a brush, etc.
FAQs – Ladakh Bike Trip Packages
Do I need a license to ride in Ladakh?
Yes. You need to have a valid driving licence to ride a bike on the Leh Ladakh motorcycle trip. Find details on the average Ladakh bike trip cost on SOTC. You can find packages ranging from an affordable Ladakh bike trip cost to luxury plans on our website.
What type of bikes are available in the tour packages?
With Leh Ladakh bike tour packages by SOTC, you will be paired with powerful motorcycles that are fit to tackle the rough terrains of Ladakh. One of the most popular bike offerings with Leh Ladakh bike tour packages by SOTC is the powerful and reliable Royal Enfield Himalayan 411cc. For better bikes, you may have to spend extra in terms of the Ladakh bike trip cost.
Is it safe to go on a bike trip to Ladakh?
Yes. By following the proper guidance and riding responsibly while maintaining all safety measures, the Leh Ladakh motorcycle trip can be as safe as it gets.
What is the best time to go on a Ladakh bike trip?
The best time to visit Ladakh by bike is between June and September. Winter is not considered the best time to visit Ladakh by bike. Also, you should avoid the monsoon for your Leh Ladakh motorcycle trip.
What should I pack for the Ladakh motorcycle tour?
For your Ladakh motorcycle tour, it is better to pack only the essentials, such as full riding gear, basic toiletries, warm clothes, and necessary documents.
Are permits required for the Ladakh trip?
Yes. There are a few permits you need for the Ladakh trip, such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians and the Protected Area Permit (PAP)/Restricted Area Permit (RAP) if you are a foreigner. Some packaged plans may include the cost of these permits as part of the Ladakh bike trip cost.
Can I bring a pillion rider with me?
Yes. You can get Leh Ladakh bike tour packages for two people if you want to bring a pillion rider.
How to Book Your Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Package?
To book Leh Ladakh bike tour packages online, visit SOTC, search for Ladakh bike tour packages, choose a plan from the available options, provide booking details and pay the package price online to confirm the booking.
