introduction:
The Manali to Leh Ladakh biking trip is considered to be one of the most exhilarating and adventurous road trips in India. The journey takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, including snow-capped mountains, rugged terrain, beautiful valleys, and high-altitude passes.
The trip covers a distance of approximately 490 kilometres and is usually completed over a period of 11 to through some of the highest mountain passes in the world such as Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, Tanglang La, and Khardung La. The road winds through the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, crossing many streams and rivers, and passing through remote and picturesque villages.
The journey starts from Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, and covers a distance of around 480 kilometres to reach Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The best time to undertake this journey is from May to September when the mountain passes are open and the weather is comparatively warmer.
However the best time to travel from Manali to Leh Ladakh by bike is during the summer months between June and September. During this time, the weather is relatively warmer and the roads are mostly clear of snow.
The road from Manali to Leh is challenging and requires a lot of stamina, endurance, and a good bike. Riders need to be physically fit and have experience riding on rough terrain, high altitude, and extreme weather conditions.
Day 1: Manali to Jispa (140 km)
The journey begins from Manali and passes through some of the breathtaking scenery that theHimachal Pradesh region has to offer. The route includes crossing the Rohtang Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 3,978 metres above sea level. The ride can be quite challenging because of the steep ascent and the narrowHimalayas are famous for. The first day's ride is a relatively easy ride to Jispa, a beautiful town located on the banks of the Bhaga River. The route passes through Rohtang Pass (3,978m), one of the highest motorable passes in the world, and Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti.
Day 2: Jispa to Sarchu (85 km)
The second day's ride is a short distance but challenging, with two high altitude passes to cross. The route goes through Baralacha La (4,880m), which is a high mountain pass that connects Lahaul and Ladakh, and Nakee La (4,742m) before reaching Sarchu.
Day 3: Sarchu to Leh (253 km)
The third day's ride is the longest, with a distance of 253 km. The route passes through the beautiful landscape of Ladakh, with its barren mountains, rocky terrain, and winding roads. The journey passes through some of the highest motorable passes, including Lachung La (5,065m), Taglang La (5,328m) and the beautiful Tanglang La, with its stunning views of the mountains.
Day 4: Leh
The fourth day is a rest day in Leh, the capital of Ladakh. There are plenty of things to explore in Leh, including visiting the Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, and exploring the markets.
Day 5: Leh to Khardung La
The fifth day's ride is a short distance but challenging, as the route passes through the world-famous Khardungla Pass (5,359m), considered the highest motorable pass in the world. During this journey one has the view of beautiful valleys.
Day 6: Leh to Pangong Tso (150 km)
The sixth day's ride goes to Pangong Tso, a beautiful lake that is famous for its ever-changing colors. The ride goes through the scenic Chang La (5,360m), the third highest motorable pass in the world, and passes through small villages and monasteries on the way.
Day 7: Pangong Tso to Leh (150 km)
The seventh day's ride goes back to Leh, retracing the route taken on the sixth day. This day's ride offers plenty of opportunities to click photos of the beautiful landscapes on the way.
Day 8: Departure from Leh
The eighth day is the departure day, and riders can fly out of Leh to their respective destinations.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Manali to Leh Ladakh biking trip route itinerary is a challenging and exhilarating journey through some of the most beautiful Himalayan landscapes. The journey offers beautiful vistas, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling experiences that are sure to leave riders with unforgettable memories.
However, the rewards are immense. The stunning views of snow-clad peaks, the vast expanse of barren landscape, the deep-blue alpine lakes, and the colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind along the way, make this an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. It is recommended to take enough breaks during the journey to help acclimatise to the high altitude and carry essential medication for altitude sickness.
