The Ultimate Himalayan Ride: Umling La & Beyond

Day 01: Arrive in Delhi

Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, you will be greeted by your tour leader and transferred to your hotel. After checking in and freshening up, take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to the city’s bustling environment. Depending on your arrival time, there may be the option for a quick guided tour of Delhi, which could include iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar. The weather in Delhi during summer months (July-September) ranges from 28°C to 35°C, and you’ll experience typical urban heat, so dress comfortably and stay hydrated.

Day 02: Explore Delhi

Today is dedicated to exploring Delhi, a city full of contrasts between ancient and modern India. In the morning, start with a visit to the Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and precursor to the Taj Mahal. Then, head to the Lotus Temple, an architectural marvel and a place for meditation and prayer. If time permits, explore the chaotic streets of Chandni Chowk, where you can enjoy the vibrant culture, street food, and local shops. In the afternoon, you can visit Akshardham Temple or Qutub Minar. The weather in Delhi remains hot, so take breaks and stay hydrated.

Day 03: Delhi to Chandigarh by Shatabdi Train and Ride to Kasauli

Distance: 60 km; Altitude: Chandigarh at 350 m; Kasauli at 1,800 m; Weather: 25-30°C (July to September).
Today, board the Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Chandigarh (approximately 3 hours), a fast and comfortable train ride. Upon arrival, you will take delivery of your Royal Enfield Bullet 500 CC or Himalayan 411 motorbikes. After a brief introduction to the motorbikes and a safety session, the ride begins toward Kasauli, a charming hill station nestled in the Shivalik Range. The route will gradually take you up into the hills, with winding roads and scenic views. As you climb, the temperature drops, offering a refreshing change. The small town of Kasauli is known for its colonial-era charm and laid-back atmosphere.

Day 04: Kasauli to Shimla

Distance: 75 km; Altitude: Shimla at 2,200 m; Weather: 15-25°C (July to September).
Today’s ride is relatively short but beautiful. Leaving Kasauli, you will head toward Shimla, the former summer capital of British India. The route takes you through pine forests, with winding roads that offer magnificent views of the Himalayan foothills. Shimla, with its pleasant weather and colonial architecture, offers a cool respite from the heat. Visit The Ridge, Mall Road, and Jakhoo Temple for panoramic views and some sightseeing in this charming hill station.

Day 05: Bradhi to Jibhi

Distance: 150 km; Altitude: Bradhi at 2,500 m; Weather: 18-24°C (July to September).
This morning, after a hearty breakfast, start your ride to Bradhi, a small village located off the beaten path, nestled in the hills. The ride to Bradhi will take you through scenic mountain roads, with small rivers, dense forests, and picturesque villages along the way. The roads might be a bit challenging, especially as you approach Bradhi, so expect some dirt tracks and rocky patches. Bradhi offers an authentic rural experience, with views of lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. Take some time to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the place.

Day 06: Jibhi to Manali

Distance: 140 km; Altitude: Manali at 2,050 m; Weather: 15-25°C (July to September).
Today’s ride will take you to Manali, a well-known tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, renowned for its adventure activities and natural beauty. The route takes you through the lush Kullu Valley, known for its alpine meadows and clear rivers. The winding roads will take you through quaint villages, and as you approach Manali, you will be greeted by spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and the Beas River flowing alongside. After arriving in Manali, enjoy a relaxing rest day to recover from the rides so far. Explore local attractions like the Hadimba Temple, Old Manali, and Mall Road, or simply relax in the town’s cool climate.

Day 07: Manali to Keylong

Distance: 115 km; Altitude: Keylong at 3,080 m; Weather: 10-20°C (July to September).
Today, you begin a thrilling ride to Keylong, a key town in the Lahul region. The ride is scenic and challenging, taking you up through beautiful valleys, alpine forests, and along mountain rivers. As you ascend, you will encounter more rugged terrain and colder temperatures. Once you arrive in Keylong, a small town that serves as a gateway to Leh, relax and explore its surroundings. Keylong is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and is a great place to stop and acclimatize before heading higher into the Himalayas.

Day 08: Keylong to Sarchu

Distance: 120 km; Altitude: Sarchu at 4,290 m; Weather: 5-15°C (July to September).
The ride today takes you higher into the Himalayan plateau, toward Sarchu, a high-altitude region located on the Leh-Manali Highway. Sarchu is famous for its vast open plains and rugged terrain. The ride will take you across Baralacha La Pass (4,890 m), which is a challenging stretch due to its altitude and the sometimes unpredictable weather conditions. Expect temperatures to drop as you near Sarchu, with strong winds and the possibility of snow at higher elevations. Upon arrival in Sarchu, relax and take in the vastness of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 09: Sarchu to Leh

Distance: 250 km; Altitude: Leh at 3,500 m; Weather: 10-18°C (July to September).
Today’s ride is a long but rewarding journey across the More Plains and into the heart of Leh, the capital of Ladakh. You will cross two high-altitude passes: Nakee La and Lachulung La, both at over 4,900 meters. The landscape along the way is stark and desert-like, with vast stretches of barren mountains and deep valleys. As you approach Leh, the terrain starts to change, becoming greener and more hospitable. Leh is an enchanting town with a unique mix of Tibetan and Ladakhi culture, and you’ll have time to relax and explore.

Day 10: Rest Day in Leh – Explore Local Attractions

Leh is a place steeped in culture and history, and today is a day for rest and local sightseeing. Begin your day by visiting Leh Palace, a 16th-century royal structure offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. From here, head to Shanti Stupa, a peaceful Buddhist monument that offers incredible views of the valley below. If you’re feeling energetic, explore the Leh Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, and souvenirs. Leh’s relatively mild weather (5-18°C) and its cultural vibe make it the perfect place to unwind and prepare for the rest of the adventure ahead.

Day 11: Leh to Nubra Valley

Distance: 160 km; Altitude: Nubra Valley at 3,048 m; Weather: 10-20°C (July to September).
Today, you will embark on an incredible journey from Leh to Nubra Valley, passing through the iconic Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world (5,359 meters). The ride to the pass is thrilling, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and rugged valleys. As you descend into Nubra Valley, the landscape changes dramatically, with vast sand dunes, green oases, and small villages nestled along the river. Nubra is often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers” due to its lush greenery and unique flora. The temperature here is generally milder, and the landscape is a blend of arid desert and fertile land. After reaching Nubra, you can explore Hunder Sand Dunes and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the serenity of the valley.

Day 12: Nubra Valley to Tso Moriri Lake

Distance: 240 km; Altitude: Tso Moriri at 4,595 m; Weather: 5-15°C (July to September).
The ride from Nubra Valley to Tso Moriri Lake is a long yet mesmerizing one, taking you through high-altitude plains, mountain deserts, and rocky terrain. As you ride towards Tso Moriri, you’ll witness the stark beauty of the region, with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks surrounding the lake. The lake itself is a pristine alpine body of water, offering a peaceful environment to relax and take in the vastness of nature. The altitude at Tso Moriri is quite high, so be prepared for colder temperatures, especially in the evening. This remote area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, so keep an eye out for some unique sightings along the way.

Day 13: Tso Moriri to Hanle

Distance: 140 km; Altitude: Hanle at 4,300 m; Weather: 0-12°C (July to September).
From Tso Moriri, the ride to Hanle will take you even deeper into the remote landscapes of Ladakh. Hanle is a high-altitude village known for its monastery and proximity to the Hanle Observatory, one of the highest observatories in the world. The ride is an adventure in itself, crossing rough, unpaved roads and steep ascents. As you near Hanle, the temperature will drop, and you’ll be surrounded by vast, barren plateaus and rocky ridgelines. The peaceful atmosphere of Hanle makes it one of the most secluded and serene locations in the region. The weather will be cold and dry, so make sure to carry adequate warm clothing.

Day 14: Hanle to Umlingla and Back to Hanle

Distance: 180 km (round trip); Altitude: Umlingla at 5,830 m; Weather: -5 to 10°C (July to September).
Today’s ride will be one of the most thrilling of the tour, as you head towards Umlingla Pass, which is the highest motorable pass in the world at 5,830 meters. The route is incredibly rugged, with dirt tracks and rocky surfaces that require steady riding. The ride to Umlingla will take you through stark desert landscapes and remote high-altitude areas. Once you reach Umlingla, you’ll be at the top of the world, surrounded by the vastness of the Himalayan range. After taking in the views and capturing some photos, you’ll return to Hanle, retracing your steps through the challenging terrain. The altitude at Umlingla will require extra caution, so take breaks, stay hydrated, and listen to your body.

Day 15: Hanle to Leh

Distance: 300 km; Altitude: Leh at 3,500 m; Weather: 5-18°C (July to September).
After the intense ride to Umlingla, the journey today is more relaxed, as you make your way back to Leh. The route will be a combination of descending roads and dirt tracks, offering a contrast to the high-altitude adventure of the past days. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful valleys, barren landscapes, and some small Ladakhi villages. Upon reaching Leh, you will have some time to rest and enjoy the comfort of the town. Leh is a great place to relax after the high-altitude rides, and you can explore more of its local attractions, including Leh Palace and the Shanti Stupa.

Day 16: Rest Day in Leh – Explore Local Attractions

Weather: 5-18°C (July to September).
Today is a well-deserved rest day to explore Leh. Visit the Leh Palace and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Next, head to the Shanti Stupa, which offers incredible views of the city. For a more cultural experience, visit the Hemis Monastery, one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh. Leh’s markets are perfect for buying local handicrafts and souvenirs, and you can also enjoy some traditional Ladakhi cuisine. Relax in the cooler climate and take in the peaceful atmosphere before the next leg of the adventure.

Day 17: Leh to Srinagar (Fly Out Option)

For those choosing to head directly to Srinagar, today will be the day for your flight. After a leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred to the Leh Airport for your flight to Srinagar. The flight is short (approximately 1 hour) and offers a scenic view of the Himalayan peaks below. Upon arrival in Srinagar, you will be transferred to a houseboat or hotel for a relaxing stay on Dal Lake. You can enjoy a peaceful evening with a Shikara ride on Dal Lake, admiring the floating gardens and houseboats that make Srinagar famous. The cool climate of Srinagar in summer is a pleasant contrast to the high-altitude heat.

Day 18: Fly to Srinagar (Optional Stay on Dal Lake)

This day can be a relaxing exploration of Srinagar, where you can visit the famous Nishat Bagh (Garden of Joy), Shalimar Bagh, and the Mughal Gardens. A boat ride on Dal Lake will give you the opportunity to see Srinagar’s beautiful lakeside life. You can also visit the Shankaracharya Temple for sweeping views of the city. If you’re staying longer, explore the local bazaars for Kashmiri handicrafts, such as Pashmina shawls and carpets.

Day 19: Srinagar to Delhi (Fly Out)

After breakfast, transfer to the Srinagar Airport for your flight to Delhi. From here, you’ll take a connecting flight to your home destination, or if your flight is later in the day, you can explore more of Delhi, including shopping for souvenirs at Connaught Place or enjoying a final meal in one of Delhi’s renowned restaurants.

This concludes your incredible motorcycle journey through some of the most breathtaking and rugged terrains of India. The memories of the high passes, serene lakes, remote villages, and stunning landscapes will stay with you long after the journey ends.