Leh-Ladakh is the place every adventurer within you should be.
Ask any tourist, would they be able to avoid going to Goa for the thrill of riding a bike through the imposing mountain ranges of Ladakh? Most likely, they will reply with a huge Yes! The word ‘Ladakh’ is associated with the mountains covered in snow, the monasteries and lakes, and the motorable Khardung La Pass. Ladakh is a place that leaves you utterly in awe when you’re riding a motorcycle or just enjoying the sights.
However, situated at the highest altitude, you should be mindful of a few things when riding to Ladakh.
1. The Routes
Two routes exist to get to Leh-Ladakh. The Jammu to Srinagar and then Leh motorway, as well as the Manali Leh Manali dual carriageway. Both are amazing to drive and arrive at Leh. I would suggest following a particular direction when you go to Leh-Ladakh via Leh Ladakh tour packages and then choose the other route when returning from Leh-Ladakh.
From my experience, I recommend taking the Srinagar highway to travel to Ladakh and then selecting the Manali route when returning.
2. The Best Time to Visit Ladakh on a Bike
To experience the pleasure of a bike journey in the high-pass country of Ladakh, it is essential to go at the right time. Are you wondering why? The reason is that Ladakh roads for biking are only open for six months along the Srinagar and the Manali routes.
I’ve visited Ladakh myself and chose Motorbike Tours. The company organized my motorbike adventure in Leh-Ladakh and for my two buddies too. Based on my experience, the most suitable time to travel to Ladakh on a bike is between the last week of May and the middle of September.
3. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
If you suffer from low endurance levels at high altitudes, be aware of this before making a trip by bike to Leh-Ladakh. Acute mountain sickness may cause stomach pain, headaches and shortness of breath.
Suppose you are looking to travel to Ladakh anyway to see the beautiful barren landscape of Ladakh surroundings while imagining yourself in the Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley or Turtuk Village. In that case, it is best to bring an anti-mountain sickness kit with you.
4. Eat and drink whenever you want to
Water is essential for those who live in the high-altitude regions of Ladakh. Your body requires more hydration when you’re located at a higher altitude.
It’s advisable to drink 3-4 litres of water at the highest altitude in Ladakh. And don’t forget to bring a nutritious snack as well as you need to eat and drink more for energy.
5. Avoid alcohol
I realise that, as a Delhite or Mumbaikar, it might be hard to resist drinking alcohol during your trip to Leh-Ladakh. But be warned, alcohol doesn’t help reduce severe mountain sickness and can instead increase dehydration.
Instead, let yourself be enthralled by the breathtaking splendour of Ladakh by drinking in its sights and enjoying the freedom amongst nature.
