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Famous Stops on Indian Himalayas Motorbike Tour
If you have an adventure in your blood and mountains in your name, then the Himalayas are the journey of a lifetime. Known as the roof of the world, this range stretches 2,400 km and has some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. What can be a better way to experience its twisty roads, high-altitude passes and remote villages than by riding a motorbike? India’s Himalayan motorbike tour is a dream come true for riders who want thrill and serenity in a single ride.
With roads going up to 19,000 feet and stops where you can soak in nature and culture this trip will give you a story to tell. This blog covers some of the most incredible stops on your Himalayan motorbike tour that will leave a mark on your soul. Let’s gear up for the ride of a lifetime.
Why a Motorbike Tour in the Himalayas is Special
A motorbike trip through the Himalayas is not a trip, it’s an adventure that will push you to your limits and give you experiences you’ll never forget. From crossing high-altitude passes to visiting remote villages and cultural hotspots, every moment is action-packed.
The terrain, the fellow riders and the Himalayas themselves make this journey one of the most unique adventures you can do. When you look back at this trip you won’t just remember the places you visited, you’ll remember the sense of freedom and achievement that only a motorbike trip can give. So, are you ready to conquer the Himalayas and create memories that will last a lifetime? Start your engines and let the adventure begin.
Know about Reasons to Choose Himalayan Motorcycle Tours
Start in Manali
Your Himalayan adventure begins in Manali, a town of breathtaking beauty and energy. At 6,700 feet, it’s the perfect base for your motorbike tour. Manali is the gateway to the high passes of the Himalayas and you can feel the excitement as you get ready for the ride. Spend some time exploring the town, trying local food and getting your bike ready.
Check out Old Manali where you can visit riverside cafes and enjoy the view of Beas River. Before you hit the road make sure your riding gear is in place and your bike is ready. A Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 cc motorcycle is perfect for this terrain because of its power and reliability. From here the road starts climbing towards Rohtang La, your first challenge.
Rohtang La
Ready to test your skills early on? The first big test and thrill of your journey is Rohtang La. At 13,051 ft this high-altitude mountain pass connects Manali to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Famous for its unpredictable weather and sharp turns, Rohtang is a rite of passage for every biker.
As you climb the air cools and the views turn into surreal landscapes of snow-capped peaks. Keep an eye out for waterfalls cascading down the mountains and don’t forget to stop and click some pictures as they will be some of the most dramatic shots of your trip. It’s tough but that’s what makes it awesome. Once you cross it you will know why it’s one of the most iconic roads in India.
Sojha
After Rohtang, you can take a diversion to Sojha which is a less-known but very beautiful village. At an altitude of 8,700 feet, this hidden gem is a perfect escape from the chaos of the roads.
Sojha is surrounded by dense pine forests and meadows and is a perfect spot to spend a night. The village is also the starting point of Jalori Pass which is another beautiful route with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. If time permits then you can take a short trek to Serolsar Lake. It is a glacial lake that feels like a fairy tale.
Kalpa
Further up the road is Kalpa which is a beautiful village in Kinnaur Valley. Kalpa is famous for its apple orchards, Kinner Kailash Range views and peaceful atmosphere.
Imagine waking up to the sun rising behind the snow-capped peaks, air fresh and crisp with a hint of apple in the air. Spend a night here and don’t miss the Suicide Point (not as ominous as it sounds!). The journey to Kalpa itself is amazing with winding roads and dramatic views at every turn.
Tabo and Tabo Monastery
As you go further you will reach a small village that feels like a time warp and named Tabo. It is home to the Tabo Monastery which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in the Himalayas which was built in 996 AD.
The monastery is an architectural wonder with ancient frescoes, intricate murals and a very spiritual atmosphere. It is often called the “Ajanta of the Himalayas” due to its artistic and historical importance. Tabo is the perfect place to slow down and absorb the history and culture of the region before you move further into Spiti Valley.
Kaza
Kaza is the main town in Spiti Valley and an adventure riders hub. At 12,500 ft it’s surrounded by mountains and a perfect place to rest and explore. The roads to Kaza are tough but the views are amazing.
When you reach Kaza ride to Hikkim and visit the world’s highest post office. Send a postcard to someone back home as a souvenir of your trip. Then ride to the highest motorable village in the world, Komic. These places give you a sense of accomplishment and the views of Spiti are stunning. Kaza is also the starting point to explore Langza, a village famous for its fossils and the Buddha statue overlooking the valley. The views here are breathtaking and you will feel the vastness of the Himalayas.
Baralacha La
Leaving Spiti behind you’ll now face the mighty Baralacha La, one of the highest passes in the region at 16,040 feet. Known as the “Crossroads Pass” Baralacha La connects Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh and Zanskar so it’s a crucial point in your journey.
The terrain here is harsh and alien, with snowfields as far as the eye can see. Riding through Baralacha La is a test of endurance but the sense of achievement when you top the pass is unmatched. Dress warmly as the winds here are fierce even in summer.
Leh
Your next big stop is Leh, the crown of Ladakh. After days of rough riding arriving in Leh feels like reaching an oasis of culture and comfort. At 11,500 feet, you have plenty of time to rest and explore. Visit the Leh Palace, a 17th century structure which has a great view of the surrounding mountains.
Shanti Stupa is another must-see, especially during sunrise and sunset. The town itself is very welcoming, with plenty of cafes, markets and shops to wander around. You will also meet other motorbike riders here, each with their own Himalayan stories. It’s the perfect place to share your experiences and get ready for the next leg of your journey.
Umling La
As you leave Leh, the road takes you to Umling La, the highest motorable pass in the world at 19,024 feet. This is not for the weak-hearted. The road to Umling La is steep, remote and tough but it’s a rider’s ultimate dream.
The thin air and extreme weather will test your endurance but the views are worth every bit of it. At this height the landscape looks surreal, the mountains towering and the sky almost within reach. This is not just another ride. It’s an achievement you will remember for the rest of your life. When you reach the top take a moment to soak in the beauty of the Himalayas. This is the pinnacle of your journey, both literally and metaphorically.
Lachulung La and Nakee La
As you leave Leh and head deeper into Ladakh, you will encounter two big passes: Lachulung La (16,616 ft) and Nakee La (15,547 ft). These two are part of the famous Manali-Leh Highway, every motorbike rider’s dream route.
Lachulung La has the most wonderful views of the Ladakh plateau, the barren yet beautiful landscape, mountains and roads. It’s a test of skill and endurance as the roads here are steep and narrow. Just a few kilometres away is Nakee La, another high-altitude pass with equally beautiful views.
Pro tip: Take it slow through these sections, as the thin air and sharp bends demand caution. It’s not a race it’s about savouring every moment on this legendary road.
Suggested Read: List of Things to Carry on a Motorcycle Trip
Hanle
After the adrenaline rush of Umling La, you will head to Hanle which is one of the most remote villages in Ladakh. Hanle has a 17th-century monastery and the Indian Astronomical Observatory, one of the highest observatories in the world.
The road to Hanle takes you through wide open spaces that feel untouched and serene. The village itself is quiet. You can visit the monastery, meet the locals or just sit and be still. Hanle also has some of the clearest night skies in the world. If you stay overnight you will see a starry sky that feels like a natural planetarium. This is a good place to stop and think about your journey so far.
Kunzum La
As you come back to Spiti Valley you will pass through Kunzum La, another high-altitude pass at 15,060 ft. This pass is the entrance to Spiti and is considered one of the most beautiful points on the route.
At the top of Kunzum La, there is a small temple of Goddess Kunzum Devi. Riders stop here to get blessings for a safe journey through the tough roads ahead. The descent from Kunzum La takes you through a series of hairpin bends and opens up to glaciers, rivers and the vast Spiti Valley.
Chang La
Next up is Chang La the 3rd highest motorable pass in the world located at a height of 17,590 feet. Known as the “Gateway to Pangong Lake” Chang La is a tough climb with sharp turns and steep inclines. Even in the summer months, the pass is snow-covered.
As you climb up Chang La you will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. At the top, you can take a break at the small tea stall run by the Indian Army where a cup of hot tea feels like a blessing in the freezing cold. It will be an unforgettable experience for you to cross the Chang La and will bring you closer to one of the most beautiful destinations in Ladakh that is Pangong Lake.
Jespa
As you head back to Himachal, stop for a night in Jespa, a tiny village beside the Bhaga River. Jespa is the perfect place to relax after days of hard riding. The village has great views and the river is so calm you can have a peaceful evening. If you are camping here, spend some time under the stars as it’s magical and will capture the essence of your Himalayan trip.
Why Guided Himalayan Motorcycle Tours are Best?
Riding in the Himalayas on a bike is exciting but can be overwhelming with unpredictable terrain, extreme weather and logistical challenges. That’s where Brahmand Tour comes in. As a trusted travel agency specializing in Motorbike tours across India, we take the stress out of planning so you can just ride. From expertly designed itineraries to experienced guides, we have everything covered whether it is accommodations, route planning or bike maintenance.
You’ll ride through legendary mountain passes like Rohtang La and Umling La without worrying about road conditions or fuel stops. Plus, our deep understanding of the local culture ensures an authentic experience, visits to monasteries, villages and hidden gems. Choose us for a safe, hassle-free and unforgettable Himalayan adventure.