The Leh Ladakh bike trip is India's most iconic motorcycle journey. The route from Delhi to Leh via Manali covers approximately 1,000km, crosses five mountain passes above 4,000m, and takes you through landscapes that feel like another planet. Whether you own a Royal Enfield or rent one in Manali, this is a trip most riders attempt once and want to repeat immediately.
Delhi to Leh Bike Trip — Route & Passes
| Day | Route | Distance | Key Pass | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Delhi → Manali | 550km | — | 2,050m |
| Day 2 | Rest in Manali | — | — | Acclimatize |
| Day 3 | Manali → Jispa | 145km | Rohtang Pass (3,978m) | 3,050m |
| Day 4 | Jispa → Sarchu | 90km | Baralacha La (4,890m) | 4,253m |
| Day 5 | Sarchu → Leh | 255km | Lachalung La, Tanglang La (5,328m) | 3,500m |
| Day 6–7 | Leh sightseeing | — | Khardung La (5,359m) | — |
| Day 8 | Leh → Pangong | 160km | Chang La (5,360m) | 4,350m |
| Day 9–10 | Return via Nubra/Leh | — | — | — |
Best Bikes for Leh Ladakh
Royal Enfield Himalayan (411cc) is the top choice — purpose-built for off-road conditions, excellent torque at altitude, and widely available for rent in Manali and Leh at ₹1,000–1,400/day. The Classic 350 or Meteor 350 is the most common choice for those who own a bike — capable but needs proper maintenance before the trip. The KTM 390 Adventure and BMW G310GS handle the terrain brilliantly but are expensive to rent.
For renting in Manali: expect ₹900–1,200/day for a Himalayan with full tank, ₹700–900 for a Classic 350. In Leh: ₹800–1,100 for a Himalayan. Book well in advance for peak season (June–August).
Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Cost (7–10 Days)
- Bike rental (Delhi/Manali to Leh): ₹7,000–14,000 total
- Fuel: ₹3,000–5,000 (petrol is available in Manali, Keylong, Leh — sparse in between, carry 3L extra)
- Accommodation: ₹500–2,000/night (tents ₹300–500 in Sarchu)
- Food: ₹400–700/day
- Permits (ILP): ₹400–600
- Total per person (solo biker): ₹18,000–30,000
Preparation and Safety
Service your bike at least 2 weeks before departure — change engine oil, check chain, brakes, and tyres. Carry a basic puncture kit, tyre levers, and a chain lube. Carry extra engine oil (2L). Mobile coverage disappears after Manali — a BSNL SIM has the best coverage on the Manali–Leh highway. The road is rough between Pang and Leh (especially near Gata Loops) — ride at 40–50km/h on gravel sections.