6 Days Leh Ladakh on Bike: Epic Road Trip Guide + Instagrammable Spots for Bikers

If adventure had a name, it would beLadakh. And if you want to truly feel itfeel the cold wind on your face, hear the hum of the engine on silent roads, and watch the mountains change colors with the skythen theres only one way to do it: 6 Days Leh Ladakh on Bike.

After the first few lines of this guide, youll know why a trip to Ladakh is not just a vacationits a story you'll carry for life.

Why Take a Bike Trip to Ladakh?

• The freedom of riding through the Himalayas

• The thrill of conquering worlds highest passes

• Ever-changing landscapes from deserts to lakes

• Riding alongside glaciers, yaks, rivers, and monasteries

• Pure connection with natureand yourself

6 Days Leh Ladakh on Bike: The Perfect Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Leh Acclimatization

• Altitude: 11,500 ft

• Rest day to adjust to high altitude

• Visit Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Market

• Gear check & briefings

Day 2: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La (130 km / 56 hrs)

• Highlights: Worlds highest motorable road at 18,380 ft

• Stop at South Pullu for tea

• Visit Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes

• Optional: Double-humped camel ride

Day 3: Nubra Valley to Turtuk and back (180 km round trip)

• Turtuk: Last village before the LOC

• Balti culture, apricot orchards, and unique architecture

• Return to Hunder/Nubra by evening

Day 4: Nubra to Pangong Tso via Shyok Route (160 km / 6 hrs)

• Adventurous offbeat route with river crossings

• Reach Pangong Tso by afternoonwitness the changing lake colors

• Overnight at lake-facing camps

Day 5: Pangong to Leh via Chang La Pass (160 km / 6 hrs)

• Ride over Chang La Pass (17,590 ft)

• En route: visit Hemis and Thiksey monasteries

• Return to Leh and relax at cafes

Day 6: Buffer Day / Local Exploration / Departure

• Extra day for weather, rest, or exploring cafes, local shopping

• If flying out, keep this buffer to avoid high-altitude sickness delays

Best Time for Leh Ladakh Bike Trip

• May to September is ideal

• JuneJuly: Clear roads and warmest weather

• Augustearly September: Lesser crowds, stunning greenery

Avoid October onward due to road closures and freezing temperatures.

Bike Options & Rentals

Popular Bike Choices:

• Royal Enfield Classic 350/500

• Himalayan 411

• KTM Adventure (for solo riders)

• Scooters (for Leh local only, not for passes)

Cost: ?1200 to ?2500/day depending on model and condition
Rentals Available: Leh city, Manali, Srinagar

Permits You Need

• Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for Nubra, Pangong, Turtuk

• Cost: ~?500 including environment fees

• Apply online at [LAHDC Permit Site] or offline in Leh

Cost Breakdown for a 6-Day Bike Trip

What to Pack for the Ride

• Riding jacket & gloves

• Thermals, balaclava, windproof layers

• Waterproof pants

• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm

• Power bank, torch, basic meds

• Chain lube, puncture kit, extra fuel can (2L)

Top Instagrammable Spots in Ladakh for Bikers

As you cruise through Ladakh, dont miss capturing these Instagrammable spots in Ladakh for bikers:

1. Khardung La Signboard The iconic Worlds Highest Pass photo

2. Pangong Tso Lake Blue, green, grey hues with your bike in foreground

3. Hunder Sand Dunes Ride into the desert with snow-capped peaks in view

4. Shyok River Valley Epic curves and mirror-like water

5. Diskit Monastery Statue Giant Buddha overseeing Nubra

6. Turtuk Village Bridge Wooden bridge with Himalayan charm

7. Chang La Snow Walls Capture snow even in summer

8. Magnetic Hill Road Optical illusion magic

9. Leh Market Lane Street shot with prayer flags

10. Thiksey Monastery Roof Viewpoint + cultural backdrop

Pro Tip: Use wide-angle lens or drone for maximum dramatic effect.

Where to Stay Along the Route

• Leh: The Grand Dragon, Zostel, Goba Guesthouse

• Nubra: Hunder Residency, Nubra Ecolodge

• Pangong: Royal Camp, Pangong Delight, Nomadic Life Camp

Book in advance during season. Some camps may not have Wi-Fi or hot waterpack accordingly.

Tips for First-Time Riders

• Acclimatize for 24 hours before riding

• Carry cash (ATMs are rare beyond Leh)

• Avoid riding after sunset

• Ride slow on curvesgravel patches are frequent

• Always wear helmet, gloves, and boots

Photography & Drone Tips

• Drones are allowed with permission in non-military zones

• Early morning and sunset light is best

• Use ND filters at high altitudes for clear shots

• Avoid flying drones near monasteries or wildlife

Local Food Stops Worth Trying

• Leh: Neha Snacks (samosa, jalebi), Gesmo Bakery

• Diskit: Desert Himalaya Kitchen

• Pangong: Camps offer Maggi, momos, and tea

• Leh Market: Try butter tea and apricot jam

Responsible Travel & Road Safety

• Dont litter; carry your trash

• Avoid honking near monasteries

• Dont overspeed for videosrespect local life

• Support local dhabas and homestays

• Stay on designated roads, avoid damaging fragile terrain

Final Words: The Ride That Stays Forever

A 6 Days Leh Ladakh on Bike trip is not just an adventureits a memory machine. Every mountain bend tells a story, every lake teaches stillness, and every pass challenges your limits.

Whether youre a seasoned rider or a first-time explorer, this journey will fuel your soul in ways no other destination can. And yesdont forget to stop, breathe, and clickbecause the Instagrammable spots in Ladakh for bikers are everywhere.