Manali to Leh bike trip: complete guide

Introduction 

Covering a distance of more than 450 kilometres at an average altitude of 13000 ft, the Manali-Leh Highway is a dream for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. That being said, it is an extremely hectic trip that would span over a period of 11 days and take you through a diverse topography which most of us are not familiar with. Thus, you must gather information which will prove to be beneficial for you in the long run. This complete guide to the Manali to Leh Bike Trip will provide all the details that will ensure a memorable journey for you.

Manali: In the Valley of Gods

The Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar is the nearest airport for Indian tourists to Manali at a distance of 50 kms. For international tourists, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi is the arrival destination. The closest railway station is the Joginder Nagar Railway station. From both these locations, buses are available to the popular hill station. It may take up to 2 hours from the airport and roughly 8 hours from the station. The most scenic option is to take the road. With verdant hills and azure rivers accompanying you throughout the journey, make the best out of this trip.

Preparations for the Trip

• Since you will be on the road for the better part of your trip, you need to choose the right bike as per your requirements. Some of the recommended bikes are the Royal Enfield Himalayan with a mileage of 25-27 kmpl and 411 CC engine, the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 cc, the Hero Xpulse 200 4V and the KTM 390 Adventure.
• The months of September and October are ideal for travelling from Manali to Leh because the snow usually melts and it is neither slippery nor too cold like in the monsoon and winter months, respectively.
• While you are travelling on the Manali-Leh Highway, ensure that you are carrying sufficient fuel with you because there are only 4 petrol pumps along the way and there is considerable distance between them. Also, do try and learn the basics of servicing a bike such as changing tires etc.
• Try to acclimate yourself to the high-altitude conditions by spending some amount of time in places like Solang Valley at the beginning of your trip. Maintain a healthy diet and engage in physical activity prior to the trip so that you do not suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness.

Manali To Leh Bike Trip: A Brief Itinerary 

Day 1 : After you arrive at Manali, you will be directed towards your lodging facilities. You will be briefed about the tour and then you can spend the rest of the day exploring nearby places such as the Hadimba temple and the Tibetan Monasteries in town.

Day 2 : Gear up for a strenuous 8 hour bike ride to Jipsa through the Atal Tunnel. You will have to cross the Rohtang La pass which is famous for its scenic vistas and connects the Kullu Valley to the Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Nestled in this picturesque valley is the Jispa village along the banks of river Bhaga. 

Day 3 : The next day you will be covering a distance of 140 kms from Jispa to Padum via the Shingo La Pass which connects Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh.

Day 4: The following day, you will be travelling from Padum to the capital city of Kargil. Catch some sleep and give rest to your sore muscles.

Day 5: For 5 hours you get to savour the beauty of the mountainous region while gearing towards Leh from Kargil. You will come across the famous Mulbekh Monastery/Gompa and witness the grandeur of the Maitreya Buddha statue. 

Day 6: In the Land of High Passes, you will get to visit the Khardung La Pass, world’s second highest motorable pass while travelling from Leh to Nubra Valley, known for its gorgeous sand dunes and camel rides.

Day 7: Travel for another 150 kms from Nubra Valley to the famous Pangong Tso, the world’s highest saltwater lake. Sparkling azure waters against the beige mountains and snow-white peaks during winters, is a sight to behold.

Day 8: After spending the night at the campsite near Pangong lake, prepare to traverse rough terrains as you head towards Leh. You will have to cross the Chang La Pass at an enormous altitude of 17,590ft, which is challenging because of the steep ascents and extreme weather conditions.

Day 9: The journey from Leh to Sarchu is interspersed by many tourist locations such as the Taglang La Pass, the More Plains (referred to as the Table-Top of the Earth), and the twin passes of Lachung La and Nakee La. As you travel a little further, you come across the famous Gata Loops, a natural rollercoaster consisting of 21 hairpin bends along a 10 km stretch.

Day 10: After crossing the Baralacha La pass and stopping at the Zingzing Bar, head towards Manali and retire for the night after an exhausting journey.

Day 11 : Before you board your respective vehicles to depart from Manali, spend a few hours exploring the culture of the hill station. Indulge in local delicacies such as Mittha, Khatta, Siddu etc. and shop for souvenirs at the Tibetan Market and shops at the Mall Road.

Conclusion 

As you bid goodbye to the scenic landscapes, you are filled with a sense of accomplishment and deeper regard for the wonders of nature. The bike trip from Manali to Leh rejuvenates you and helps you to expand your horizons.