Safe ride to Ladakh
It remains every biker’s dream, and is within reach with preparation and practice. Here are some practical guidelines...
While adventure motorcycles are more suited for mountainous terrains, enthusiasts have taken all kinds of bikes to
Ladakh — from humble 100cc ones to superbikes.
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Ladakh is the undisputed holy land for every Indian motorcyclist. From Tamil Nadu to Gujarat to Assam, you will find motorcyclists queuing up at the foothills of the Himalayas, to be a part of this pilgrimage. The wind in your face and prayer flags, the roar of engines and the hum of monastery chants, are synchronous. The popularity of the inhospitable terrain and friendly people is a big draw. Here’s how to ride there safely and successfully.
Pre-trip preparation
A successful motorcycle expedition in Ladakh hinges on meticulous preparation. Your trusty steed is your primary companion, and choosing it correctly is crucial. Adventure motorcycles are built for such challenges. If you own any other bike, fret not; people have taken all kinds of bikes to the top of the world, from humble 100cc commuters to superbikes and everything in-between.
Regardless of your choice, a thorough bike check-up is paramount. Check all fluid levels, whether brakes are sharp, the tyres have sufficient tread, and all lights, battery and electricals are functioning flawlessly. Carry essential spares like clutch and accelerator cables, a puncture repair kit, a spark plug, and fuses, along with a basic toolkit.
The gear you carry is equally vital for survival and comfort in Ladakhi climes. Layering is the golden rule. Besides your riding gear, you also need to pack thermal wear, fleece jackets, and a fully waterproof outer-shell/covering to combat fluctuating weather conditions. Navigation requires a multi-pronged approach. A dedicated GPS device or a smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps are highly recommended) is essential, supplemented by a physical map as a backup.
Finally, prepare your body and mind. Understand the risks of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Plan your ascent gradually. Stay well-hydrated and avoid strenuous activity upon arrival at higher altitudes. A patient and adaptable mindset is key.
Route options
There are three primary routes for motorcyclists. The first is via Srinagar. This route is slightly longer, ensures you gain altitude gradually and is relatively easier to ride. The second one is the more adventurous route via Manali. Here you gain altitude much faster and reach Leh in less time. The third and newest route which adrenaline-seeking motorcyclists are exploring is via Zanskar valley. This also goes through Manali, before turning off at Darcha towards Shinku La and then Padum. The route you choose depends on your experience level and the kind of creature comfort you desire! A good option is to do a circuitous ride, starting from one side and returning from another.
Once in Leh and after a rest day, taking in the sights and sounds of the picturesque town, there are even more options for motorcyclists to ride. Nubra valley and Turtuk in the north are good places to visit for a change of scenery. You additionally enjoy climbing the mighty Khardung La to get there.
To the southwest of Leh, you have the gorgeous lake Pangong Tso, Hanle with its space observatory, Umling La, the highest motorable pass in India, Tso Moriri and other high passes to get to all these places! Typically, you need 10-14 days to cover parts of Ladakh if your starting point is Delhi/Chandigarh.
Navigating realities
Riding in Ladakh presents unique challenges. The reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes can significantly reduce your bike’s performance. Be prepared to ride at a more sedate pace. Water crossings are common. Approach them with caution, maintain a steady momentum, and choose the shallowest path. The terrain can vary from smooth tarmac to loose gravel, sand, and even slush or black ice, particularly on higher passes. Remember that road conditions in Ladakh are notoriously unpredictable; be vigilant and prepared for sudden changes. Safety should always be your priority. Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of AMS and descend immediately if you experience severe symptoms.
Fuel availability can be sparse in certain areas, so plan your fuel stops accordingly and consider carrying extra fuel as well.
Be prepared to handle minor punctures or breakdowns by yourself. Mobile network connectivity is limited, Airtel and Jio postpaid connections work best. Accommodation options in Ladakh range from comfortable guest houses and hotels in Leh to more basic homestays in remote villages. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during the peak tourist season. However, spontaneous stays in local homestays offer the best experience.
Trip of a lifetime
For many, a bike ride to Ladakh is a trip of a lifetime. Creating memories to one day tell your grandkids. For others, riding to Ladakh is an annual pilgrimage. No matter where you rest on this scale, a motorcycle tour to Ladakh is a life-altering experience.
— The writer is an automotive journalist
Essentials to pack
A well-stocked first-aid kit with remedies for altitude sickness, pain relief, bandages, and antiseptic. Other essentials include a power bank, headlamp, a sturdy water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen with a high SPF, and lip balm to combat the strong sun and dry air.
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Acute Mountain Sickness symptoms to watch out for
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) symptoms typically include headache, along with loss of appetite, nausea, shortness of breath, especially with exertion, rapid pulse/heart rate, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms usually appear within the first day or so of reaching a high altitude and often get resolved within a few days as the body acclimatises.
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