Manali Leh Bike Trip

 

 

The Manali Leh bike trip is an exciting touring experience in the Himalayan region that tests one’s endurance, endorphms, and spirit of adventure with beautiful scenery thrown in the mix. The feelings of achievement, as well as the moments that took place during this trip, are incomparable. To fully appreciate this marvelous endeavor it is essential that one is well-equipped, has the right equipment and approach.

Biking from Manali to leh is not a journey but an experience which simply can’t be described in words. The magnificent sceneries, the difficult terrains, and the excitement of traversing the great Himalayan mountains make the journey something special.

Things to know before Manali Leh Bike Trip

Route Overview and Distance

There are indeed two main routes that most bikers opt for; the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3). This route is well known for its landscapes, high altitudes, sharp turns, steep slopes, and other related characteristics.

•  Manali to Rohtang Pass (51 km): The first leg: It starts from Manali which is a busy tourist town and goes up to Rohtang Pass, which is at a height of 3978 meters or 13050 feet. The road can also be a little challenging with steep gradients and bends.
• Rohtang Pass to Keylong (70 km): Following Rohtang, you come down into the Lahaul Valley where Keylong is the first major halt where people can acclimatise.
• Keylong to Baralacha La (80 km): This stretch is a little challenging because of Baralacha La pass standing at an altitude of 4,890 meters or 16,043 feet. Late night and early morning should be expected to snow even in summer.
• Baralacha La to Sarchu (55 km): Sarchu is another popular halting point, located on the borderline of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Accommodations: Tented camps.
• Sarchu to Pang (75 km): This section include the Gata Loops, which consist of 21 hairpin bends, and Nakee La pass at the altitude of 4739m (15,547 ft). It is bumpy and challenging, and one has to be especially cautious while on it.
• Pang to Leh (144 km): The final phase includes passing through the Tanglang La pass which is the world’s second highest motorable pass at the height of 5,328 meters/17,480 feet; the last phase is the descent to the Indus Valley and Leh.

Suggested Tour: Manali to Leh Jeep Safari

Best Time to Travel (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Ideal Travel Window: It is advisable to visit the two places during June to September. The road is available from May/June to mid-October as it depends on the weather conditions.

Weather Considerations

• Temperature Variations: During the day the temperature is 15 to 20 Celsius degree and at night it is -5 Celsius degree in this area.
• Rain and Snow: Lower elevation areas experience monsoon from July to early September, and it causes landslides. As you go higher in the altitude, you may find that there is snow even during summer.

Acclimatization and Health

• Altitude Sickness (AMS): This is a very alarming issue because most of the land is above sea level. These are the headaches, nausea, dizziness, and the feeling of fatigue.
• Preventive Measures: Three days are recommended for sightseeing because one requires some time to get used to the place, so start by visiting Manali and Keylong. They should drink a lot of water, refrain from taking alcohol and smoking and climb slowly.
• Medication: This medicine called Diamox (Acetazolamide) can be used to help with acclimatization, but it should be taken only under a doctor’s supervision. It is also advisable to carry oxygen cylinders with you for instance when going mountain climbing.
• Rest and Hydration: Regular breaks are essential. Carry rehydration salts, energy drinks, and plenty of water.

Suggested Tour: Garhwal Mountain Bike Tour

Bike Preparation (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Choosing the Right Bike: Opt for bikes with good ground clearance and reliability. Popular choices include:

• Royal Enfield (Classic, Bullet, or Himalayan)
• Bajaj Pulsar
• KTM Duke or Adventure series

Bike Servicing: Before the trip, get a comprehensive service check, focusing on brakes, clutch, chain, tires, and battery.

Carrying Spares: Essential spare parts include:

• Clutch and brake cables
• Spark plugs
• Tubes and tire repair kit
• Chain links
• Basic tool kit
• Extra fuel (at least 10 liters) as petrol stations are sparse.

Packing Essentials (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Clothing:

• Layered Clothing: For adapting to temperature changes.
• Thermal Wear: To keep warm during cold nights.
• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: Essential for protection against rain and wind.
• Gloves: Waterproof and warm.
• Riding Boots: Sturdy and comfortable.
• Rain Gear: Waterproof pants and jacket.

Safety Gear:

• Helmet: Full-face helmet with visor.
• Riding Jacket with Armor: For protection against falls.
• Knee and Elbow Guards: Additional protection.
• Reflective Vest: For visibility during low-light conditions.

Other Gear:

• Sunglasses: To protect eyes from UV rays and dust.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm: To prevent sunburn and chapped lips.
• High-Energy Snacks: Such as energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits.
• Water Bottles: For hydration.
• First-Aid Kit: Comprehensive kit including bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and personal medicines.

Documentation and Permits (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Essential Documents:

• Driving License
• Bike Registration Papers
• Insurance Documents
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate

Permits: Inner Line Permits (ILP) are required for certain regions in Ladakh. These can be obtained in Manali or Leh.

• Areas Requiring ILP: Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and other sensitive areas.

Accommodation and Food (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Accommodation:

• Types: Options range from guesthouses and hotels in towns to tented camps in remote areas like Sarchu and Pang.
• Pre-Booking: Recommended during peak season to ensure availability.
• Amenities: Basic facilities including a bed, food, and sometimes hot water.

Food:

• Carry: Ready-to-eat meals, dry fruits, and energy bars.
• Local Dhabas: Offer simple but nutritious meals along the route.

Fuel and Mechanics (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Fuel Stations:

• Limited Availability: Key points are Manali, Tandi (the last petrol pump for about 365 km until Karu), and Upshi.
• Extra Fuel: Carrying extra fuel is advisable due to the long distances between stations.

Mechanic Services:

• Basic Repair Shops: Available in Keylong, Sarchu, and Leh. It’s important to know basic repairs and carry essential tools.

Health and Safety Precautions (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Hydration and Nutrition:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
• High-Energy Foods: Consume foods like nuts, chocolate, and energy bars.
• Avoid Heavy Meals: Light meals are easier to digest at high altitudes.

Medical Kit:

• First-Aid Supplies: Include bandages, antiseptics, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and personal medication.
• Emergency Contacts:
  • Police: 100
  • Ambulance: 102
  • Tourist Helpline: 1363

Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and loss/theft of belongings.

Road Conditions and Driving Tips (Manali Leh Bike Trip)

Road Quality:

• Mixed Conditions: Paved roads in some sections, rough and challenging paths in others.
• Water Crossings and Landslides: Common, especially after rains.

Driving Tips:

• Cautious Riding: Maintain a steady pace and avoid rash driving.
• Water Crossings: Cross with caution, preferably in the morning when water levels are lower.
• Avoid Night Riding: Due to risks of falling temperatures and potential encounters with wildlife.

Cultural Respect and Environmental Responsibility 

Local Customs: Ladakh has a rich Buddhist culture. Respect local traditions, especially in monasteries and religious sites. Dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photographs.

Environmental Care:

 

• Keep the Route Clean: Dispose of waste properly.
• Respect Nature: Avoid disturbing wildlife and natural habitats.
• Reusable Items: Carry reusable water bottles and bags to minimize plastic waste.