Cycling in Ladakh: Book Cycling Tours @ Upto 20% OFF

Cycling in Ladakh is not an easy task to perform, one needs strong mental and physical health to ride through the Lands of High Passes. Ladakh provides one of the most serene cycling routes in India, offering majestic landscapes and off-road adventures. There are several routes from where you can choose to start your journey with. One can start right from Leh, or can opt for the Manali to Leh route. To add more thrill in your Ladakh trip book Manali to Leh Cycliing Tour.

Your ride will traverse through numerous famous attractions of Leh, such as, the Royal Palace, the ancient Buddhist monasteries, the Sanctum Sanctorum, and divine Shrines, representing the history of this beautiful hilly area. But the most interesting thing to witness during your cycling in Ladakh journey is the amazing street art representing the local routine of people living a nomadic life.

Understand the culture of Ladakh as you ride through the beautiful valleys of Jispa and feel the thrill at the steep curves of the highest motorable pass in the world, Khardung La. Experience the beauty of majestic landscapes as you pass through the Himalayan terrain of Sarchu, or admire the beautiful snowclad mountains surrounding crystal blue lakes.

Planing a trip to Ladakh, Checkout: Ladakh Tour Packages

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People Also Ask About Cycling in Ladakh

What is the best time for cycling?

Well, there are two roads to Leh Ladakh viz. Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highway and both of them remain closed for more than 6 months from November to April or Mid-May every year because of heavy snowfall. The best season considered to cycling in Ladkah is from Mid-May to Mid-October when the climate is friendly and isn’t much humid.
What are the types of cycles?

Cycling in Ladakh is the best way to explore this magical place. In fact, it helps in crossing different difficult terrains and reach the place faster. However, you need enough stamina and strength to cycle around Ladakh. There are different types of cycles one can choose for Ladakh trip:
Road Cycle: Focused on speed on the road, with little or no regard for rider comfort.
MTB Cycle: Focused on ride-ability across the harshest and steepest of terrains. In the hands of a skillful rider it will go where the average SUV will not.
Hybrid cycle: Like the word indicates, it is a cross — between a road cycle and an MTB. A huge variety of versions exist across the spectrum.
Touring Cycle: Focused on reliability, comfort and weight carrying — designed to carry you and all your belongings across the world.
Do I bring my own Cycle?

You can bring your own bike having in good condition, but it will be fully your responsibility. You are also responsible for assembling your bike upon arrival and disassembling it upon departure as well as any and all shipping arrangements.
What permits do I need for a complete Ladakh cycling Trip?

With the circulation published by DM in Leh, Indian Tourists will not be needing Inner Line Permits for Leh-Ladakh trip. However, to visit regions like Hanle, Tsaga, Chusul, beyond Loma bend, Marsimik La, Chumur, and Batalik sectors, the Inner Line Permit will be required. We would be taking care of issuing the permit for the same. The application form for the permit are available at the Photostat shops nearby Deputy Commissioner’s office. Inner Line Permit is an important document needed to visit certain areas of Ladakh during cycling trip.
What other gear do I need to bring if I am taking my own cycle?

Tools and parts to carry:
• Tire levers/patch kit
• Spare tube (and tire, depending on the trip)
• Mini-pump
• Blue Loctite (keeps bolts in tightly)
• Electrical tape
• Spoke wrench
• Spare spokes sized for your bike’s wheels
• Extra nuts, bolts, and wire (particularly for racks)
• Bicycle light (optional)
Is it good to take my own cycle or should I rent it?

This depends on your choice. If you’ve your own high-end cycle that can perfectly fit for expedition then you can carry your own cycle. However, it is important to note that your cycle should be in good condition and terrain friendly. It’s always good to join a cycling expedition in Ladakh as you will get the cycle as well all the support from the trip organisers.
Do I need tubeless tires for cycling Trip?

Tubeless types can run at any low pressure for good grip and they have sealant that can automatically fix punctures during the trail. It is a good idea to have tubeless tire in your cycle during cycling trip.
Do I need puncture Kit?

If you are not in a group tour carrying a puncture kit is advisable, if your cycle doesn’t have tubeless tire. Puncture kit comes in small size and are handy during such cycling trek.
Do I need an air pump for the Trip?

Company would carry the air pump for the trip, so you don’t have to burden yourself with such tools. The camp and hotels will also be equipped with such air pump. In fact, there are garages in frequent distance where one can pump-up the cycle tire.
Do I need to carry full set of cycle repair tools?

Yes, this could be a good idea though if you are bringing your own cycle. Our team will also be equipped with cycle repair tools for emergency. There are terrains where cycle may breakdown or any mechanical problem may arise. So carrying full set of cycle repair tool is the best option.
Do I need to learn how to be a mechanic for a cycling trip?

Yes, having a mechanical knowledge for your cycle will be beneficial. Though expert co-ordinators carry a good knowledge about cycle and also carry repair equipment to avoid any kind delay. You can carry a catalogue of your cycle and equipment also to get your cycle repaired if any breakdown happens.
How many days are required to explore Ladakh?

There are different itineraries for Ladakh trip. These itineraries are for bike/bicycle trip. To explore Ladakh- 10 days would suffice, excluding travelling period. The total days would help you accommodate, rest and explore Ladakh completely.
How much distance will be covered in a single day during the expedition ?

The distance depends on the duration and places that will be covered. Check the itinerary provided by the company which would include the date, time and location. You can then find the distance of each place. However, one should keep in mind, due long terrains of Ladakh and changing climatic condition, one cannot predict the distance covered in the single day.
Will I be able to do it?

If you’re good in cycling for long hours and have an experience earlier for smaller cycle trek, then it can be easier for you to complete the cycling tour in Ladakh. But, if it’s your first time, then, it is important to have practice for month long. You can even join cycling tour course to have a practice of long hours of cycling. Above all is the determination and passion is required in you to keep going in the rough terrain of Ladakh. We will help our troop by encouraging them if any unforeseen happens.
What kind of physical preparation is required for this expedition ?

You need to be mentally and physically fit for such long and tiring expedition. Month long cycling preparation is required. Spend hours in cycling, especially in small mountain area near you. Also carry tools and baggage along during the practice, so your body gets accustomed with such weight. Do check with your doctor for any physical problem and get certification for the same. You might need such medical certification before the expedition begins.
Can I book cycling trip for a group?

Yes, you can book a group for cycling in Ladakh. Also if two or three are interested in joining the trip, then can join the departure. We’ve set different departure timings and dates, the information of which will be provided to all our members. It is advised to book for trip way in 2-3 months advance to avoid any issues later.
How many people will be on my tour?

It depends on the tour and people interested in cycling trip to Ladakh. Generally, there is a different batch each having 10-12 members. The group size also depends on the destination to destination.
What can I expect in terms of accommodation?

Accommodation will be provided to cycling group. The stay will be in cycling-friendly hotels and even in camps. These camps will have all the essential facilities. Homestays/Hotels and tented camps are available options.
What will be the facility for water/ Do I need to carry Food/Water along? What about refreshments during the ride?

The troop will be equipped with enough water bottles and food. However, the base camp will have enough water and food facility. If you want to carry food and water, it will be a good option. You can carry food of your own choice, but shouldn’t be heavy. Carry diet foods that can help in energizing your body for long hours of cycling. Well, there would be refreshments during the entire troop but it depend on the package you booked. However, you can also bring some refreshments like juice, healthy fresh fruits, biscuits and other such items that can keep your body pumped up.
Will I have free time?

Cycling is tiring and one needs enough rest to cover the long distance. Generally, during cycling trip the group will have a camp for resting. Cyclist will be given refreshments to energize the body and start the journey.
Will we have a tour guide to help us?

In most packages, you'll be provided with tour guide inclusive of the rate. However, it's advisable to check with the tour operator before booking. When it comes to cycling tour, there will be group leader and support vehicle to help as tour guide.
What if my cycle breaks down?

Well, if you’re going alone make sure you carry all the tools of your cycle and learn some basics of cycle reparing. If you going in group cycling tour you will have expert team who have good mechanical knowledge and will fix the cycle. Also, there will be a backup vehicle with the group which will be helpful if your cycle is not in reparable condition.
What if I become ill on my trip and am unable to continue?

You will be given proper medication from our expert team leader. You would be resting during the journey in a camp or hotel to make sure you get proper rest and medication and fit for further trip. However, if in case, you’re unable to continue, group leader would take care of transferring back to your destination but cost of transfer will be piad by the cyclist.
What is a support vehicle and how will it help me?

Support vehicle is generally SAG (Support and Gear) which is helpful for cyclers during the cycling trip to ladakh, when they experience fatigue or face mechanical problem in cycle. This is a great help given by non-cyclist by support the fellow cycler by volunteering to be a SAG driver. the SAG driver will have your supplies and provide instructions to the restrooms, as well as motivation.
What about medical emergency? What about medical help?

Mahabodhi Karuna Charitable is the famous hospital in Ladakh. There are also some military camps and tourist camps where emergency medical facility is offered. Trip leaders will remain equipped with required medical assistance like medical kit during emergency. Trip co-ordinators are equipped with medications to help cyclers during medical emergency. First aid kit and other medications are essential because cyclists may fall ill and face dizziness during the journey. In case of emergency back up vehicle will help you to take near by hospital.
Do I need insurance?

Yes, you should insure yourself with medical and travel claims with the respective insurance company. Having insured will help in covering the cost of medical emergency you face during the trip. Also you might have to cancel your trip at the last moment which may incur loss to you. By having travel insurance, you can cover the cost of cancellation of trip.
I am a single woman traveller, how safe is it for cycling?

It’s completely safe for a women to do cycling in Ladakh. All the troop leaders carry good experience and are certified cyclers. You’ll be given separate tent and accommodation for single women and if there are other females in the troop then they will be accompanied with you.
How cold is Ladakh?

Ladakh is situated at an altitude of 3514 Meters above sea level and this is one the highest habitable places in the world. Ladakh is a cold desert, and therefore the temperatures are in extreme – the summers can get a little harsh with direct sunlight falling at such a high altitude and winters can be really cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing point. The best time to visit Ladakh will be during summers that is in the months of June to September.
What kind of clothing is required for Ladakh trip?

It is important top carry wollen or cotton cloths to keep body warm. However, it depends on the season you visit Ladakh. Make sure you carry a pair of shoes with wollen socks. Apart from these, carry:
• At least one or two caps to protect yourself from direct sunlight as it is too harsh in this region.
• Carry at least 1 Balaclava too to protect yourself from cold entering the head
• Hand Gloves, must have in the months of October to June
• 1 heavy woollen jacket is always handy throughout the year even in the months of July and August
• From November to March, you must pack heavy woolens and prepare for extreme temperatures. Thermals are a must for these months.
• Carry multiple layers in form of cotton T-Shirts, thermals, light woolens and wind proof jackets during summer trekking.
What is advisable to eat and drink in Ladakh ?

One can have some amazing taste of Himalayan foods during the trek. Some of the foods to try are:
• Cheese from Yak's Milk: Yak is prominent in Ladakh and having a cheese made up of Yak milk can be interesting.
• Tigmo: It is a local dish in the form of fermented and steamed bread, served with a veg/non-veg stew.
• Momo: One can't stay away with this Himalayan dish. The momos are available in various shapes.
• Thukpa: The Tibetan soup is clear soup with lots of vegetables. Comfort food for cold temperatures of Leh.
• Kulcha: This is a kind of bun, which is very unlike what we know as Kulcha in North India.
What about the public facilities in Ladakh ?

As is the case with India, the public facilities are rarely good. They are usually doable, but score low on hygiene. You will find public toilets easily. You will find Western style toilets in all the standard hotels and restaurants. In some places, there may be a row of stalls with Indian-style “squat” toilets and one that is Western style. Keep toilet paper or tissues, paper soaps or liquid soaps and hand sanitizers with you for convenience.
What network services are available in Ladakh?

BSNL and Airtel have a good connectivity in Ladakh. However, in remote areas, there can be issues of network connectivity. Only postpaid mobile connection work well in Ladakh and other surrounding regions.
Are there any ATM’s in Leh? Do credit cards and debit cards work in hotels and restaurants?

Yes, Leh has ATM’s owned by Axis Bank, Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Punjab National Bank and State Bank of India. It is strongly recommended to carry enough cash because ATM’s can be non-functional sometime due to heavy demand. Also, there are no ATM’s available on the highways and places outside the Leh town, hence, it is highly recommended that you carry sufficient cash as even credit/ debit card acceptance will be an issue and most of these locations do not have this facility. Yes, few of the hotels and restaurants have credit/debit card payment faciltities. However, it is advised to carry cash, because many of the isolated area won’t have network.

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Ladakh Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Ladakh

Explore Ladakh

Pangong Lake

Heaven, Peace, Silence, and Tranquility at one place? Come and spend a few hours at Pangong Lake in Ladakh! A pristine place in Ladakh marked by subtle to high peaks around, crystal blue waters and the vast expansion catches the eye so much, so long as if a magic is happening right in front of the eyes.Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, lies calmly at a breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet. Interestingly, the lake is 12 km long and marks itself between the laps of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is stretching in the neighboring nation and this excites every traveler to be here.The surreal clean blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature and this feature doesn’t let any aquatic life survive in the same. Moreover, the temperature range between -30 to -10 degrees make even this salty lake freeze with thick ice sheets, which is quite opposite in case of salt ridden water bodies.This picturesque landscape location enhances its beauty with the arrival of migrating birds every year and attracts many travelers in search of adventure, photographs, bird-watching and chilling experience. Pangong has another unique and catchy feature; when it acts like a chameleon and changes its color from blue to green to even grey at times. The brackish water of Pangong attracts the migratory birds every year during winters in Ladakh.There is not a single reason to say No to this beauty once in a lifetime. And if you wish to repeat it again, it’s a blessing! Suggested Read: Leh Ladakh Tour Packages

Nubra Valley

One of the most beautiful parts of the moonscapes of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a deep-cut gorge created by the combined effects of Shyok and Nubra (Siachen) rivers. A high altitude cold desert, Nubra Valley is actually an extension of the Tibetan Plateau (Qing-Zang Plateau) that starts in China and extends up to Ladakh. This valley in the plateau separates the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. But more than anything, Nubra Valley is the most beautiful region in all of Ladakh. Home to wonders like the Diskit Monastery,Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and the villages of Turtuk and Panamik.Located about 160 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a great attraction to all those who come here. The gateway to the upper reaches of the country, especially Siachen, Nubra Valley has an oasis of a town in the heart, Diskit, making a great place to stop you and reflect at the beauty around. And while you are at it, take a short detour to the famous white sand dunes of Hunder. The shapes and forms that these dunes take during different times of the year mesmerize every visitor who comes here. To make it further interesting, there are the double-humped Bactrian Camels, offering rides through the dunes.And when it turns dusky, head to the Diskit Monastery and visit the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha which looks over the entire valley and blesses it for another day to come.Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Book Now Leh Ladakh Sighseeing Tour with an Experience of Chadar Trek - The Frozen River Trek

Khardung La

Khardung La pass is a gateway to some of the most enchanting and unexplored landscapes. This famed mountain pass is very popular amongst adventure seekers and regular tourists alike. Located in the Leh district of the Indian Union Territory, Khardung La is situated at an elevation of 5,359 meters. It is hailed to be the highest motorable pass all across the globe. Historically speaking, Khardung La is quite significant as it lies on the major caravan route that links Leh to Kashgar in Central Asia. During the second world war, an attempt to transfer war well to China was made through this route. Khardung La was constructed in the year 1976 and was made accessible to public motor vehicles in the year 1988. The pass is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation and is of great strategic importance as it is used to carry goods to the Siachen Glacier. A detailed travel guide for Srinagar to Leh Road Trip.

Places To Visit In Ladakh

More Ladakh Attractions

Tso Moriri Lake, ladakh Magnetic Hill, ladakh Alchi Monastery, ladakh Leh Palace, ladakh Spituk Monastery, ladakh Hall Of Fame, ladakh Chadar Trek, ladakh Mulbekh Monastery, ladakh Tso Kar Lake, ladakh Stakna Monastery, ladakh Chang La Pass, ladakh Shey Monastery, ladakh Chemrey Monastery, ladakh Kongka La Pass, ladakh Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, ladakh Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, ladakh Sakti Village, ladakh Jispa, ladakh Upshi, ladakh Ladakh Bungee Jumping Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, ladakh Karu, ladakh Hunder Village, ladakh Markha Valley, ladakh Kargil War Memorial, ladakh Zanskar Valley, ladakh Basgo Monastery, ladakh Lamayuru Monastery, ladakh Thiksey Monastery, ladakh Dah Hanu, ladakh Tanglang La Pass, ladakh Leh Market, ladakh Shanti Stupa, ladakh Nyoma Leh, ladakh Losar Festival, ladakh Lachung La Pass, ladakh More Plains, ladakh Tiger Hill ladakh Basgo, ladakh Ladakh Hot Springs Central Asian Museum, ladakh Shyok Valley, ladakh Zorawar Fort, ladakh Puga Valley, ladakh Shang Gompa, ladakh Turtuk Village, ladakh Sangam Leh, ladakh Hanle, ladakh Umling La Pass, ladakh Yarab Tso Lake, ladakh Hundur Monastery, ladakh Wanla Gompa, ladakh Tso Kar Lake, ladakh Zanskar Valley, ladakh Magnetic Hill, ladakh Hemis National Park, leh Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, ladakh Alchi Monastery, ladakh Namgyal Tsemo Monastery, ladakh Lamayuru Monastery, ladakh Spituk Monastery, ladakh Leh Post Office Thiksey Monastery, ladakh Phuktal Monastery, leh Hall Of Fame, ladakh Khardung La, ladakh Shanti Stupa, ladakh Donkey Sanctuary, leh Stok Kangri, ladakh

Ladakh Cycling Reviews

30 November 2015

Balamani Mishra Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Excellent

Fantabulous time spent in the lap of the mountains, our entire cycling group had gone together and we enjoyed immensely. The cycling trip was really difficult at some time but the feel of it was really good. so positivity and cycling through high passes and snow clad peaks was really good. even the camping was good. after a long day of cycling they served us really good food everyday . The group leaders were also very helpful and were able to handle the fairly large group with utmost ease.

22 October 2015

Manoj Kapoor Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Excellent

Will recommend it to anyone who wants to reconnoiter the stunning wilds of Ladakh and that too on the challenging yet rewarding cycling trail. it was a difficult trail but worth doing it. i was very proud of myself and couple of my friends who did it. the leadres were very helpful and also the fellow friends we mad in all a brilliant experience of cycling !

06 May 2015

Amish Sharma Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Excellent

Had a great time, had gone here before but not on a cycling trail, so I just got admire the beauty ant my own pace. Please go!!I highly recommend it. The feeling you get after looking down at the valleys is like a rockstar!!!

16 October 2015

Chandraayan Shukla Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Superb

we had an amazing cycling experience across the tough terrains of manali to leh. specially tangla pass was very diffucult and ridiing at rohtang pass was very amazing. finaly when you reach ladakh valley everything changes and you fall in love the nature. No doubt, the trip will test ur endurance ,be prepared for the journey because you all will face certain climatic barriers a head of the journey. even camping at the couple of locations were really good. it was a very exploring ride for me. do it if you love riding !!

13 April 2015

Chandrabhaga Bhattathiri Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Superb

All in all a good cycling trail with adequate and well spaced out spots to relax and revel in the beauty. Did not imagine the things to go so smoothly but they did. Made me a better person in fact, I was humbled by the mountains!

Sarla Iyer Cycling from Manali to Leh Via Khardung La

Excellent

A happy trip was it for me. We prepared well before the cycling trip happened. Exercised and tried to get acclimatized by reaching Manali two days before the trip started. The food provided by the team was good, the camping was also flawless. I am looking forward to have a similar trip this year as well.

Chandrakala Achari Cycling from Manali to Leh Via Khardung La

Superb

Cycling is a very tough job that too the hilly regions of Ladakh in the cold. In the beginning I thought I cannot finish the trip but as we crossed Leh, I decided I want to see all of Leh Ladakh though I feel tired. But for my surprise, cycled long distances without hesitation. I found the mind blowing surroundings were giving me energy. A very good place to visit folks. Never be late.

Hiranya Tandon Cycling from Manali to Leh Via Khardung La

Excellent

A great deal of energy and physical fitness is needed to cycle for 14 days continuously and it will not be easy if you are not fond of cycling through difficult plains. We had the maximum fun throughout the trip because we were a team of cyclists. The big challenge was to cross the passes at a high altitude. But nothing to worry, the guides’ team was with us throughout and they helped us by providing water and biscuits in between. A backup vehicle was also there. We camped at some places with a campfire to keep us protected from the severe cold. The best time of our life was happening there.

10 March 2015

Anjushri Pilla Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Excellent

Rougher dirt tracks needs to be covered. Along with this we also made some very tough climbs. The descents were gut-wrenching yet interesting. If you think that it is very stressful, the distance we covered were somewhat less. It almost ranged from 40 to 80 km on an average. However, the traversing altitudes were over 4000 m. To be honest, if you are not an avid cycler, this can be really tedious and dangerous too. Also, with the altitude and weather conditions, I felt quite dizzy and easily dehydrated. If you are planning to do this, make sure to have great physical fitness. That all being said, this trip was fruitful.

06 February 2015

Marut Butt Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Superb

Cycling from Manali to Leh! Wow! It was a really fun ride. The cycling was quite tedious and unlike bike rides, they need a lot of effort physically. I really loved the cycling through the stretch. It was awesome.