Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Plan in December Include All Cost

Leh Ladakh is a dream destination for every biker who loves adventure, scenic landscapes, and the thrill of riding through challenging terrains. While most people visit Ladakh between June and September, planning a Ladakh bike trip in December has a charm of its own. However, winter biking in Ladakh is not for the faint-hearted; it’s an intense experience filled with snow-covered roads, freezing temperatures, and limited facilities.

There is a perfect balance of excitement and challenge in this journey, and if you too want to do a Ladakh bike adventure in December, then here are some tips which can make your journey easy and memorable.

How to Plan a Bike Trip in Leh Ladakh in December

1. Choose the Right Bike for the Ladakh Bike Trip

Having a powerful and sturdy bike is a must for the tough terrains and winter conditions of Ladakh. Bike selection is very important because of the snow and icy roads in December. You need a bike that provides good ground clearance and stability along with power.

• Best Options: Royal Enfield Himalayan, Royal Enfield Classic 350, KTM Duke 390, or Bajaj Dominar 400.
• Prepare Your Bike: Make sure your bike’s tires, brake pads, engine oil, and clutch cable are all in top condition. You can also consider studded tires or snow chains for better grip on snowy roads.

2. Weather Conditions in December

The temperature in Ladakh can reach -15°C to -20°C in December. Snowfall and icy winds are common, and some of the passes here like Khardung La and Chang La can be quite challenging for bikers. These extreme weather conditions can make the trip risky, so be prepared.

• Dress Appropriately: You should have multi-layered clothing that can protect you from the harsh cold. Thermal innerwear, woolen jackets, windproof gloves, heavy jackets, woolen socks, and waterproof riding gear should be your essentials.
• Hydration & Health: Dehydration and altitude sickness are common in extreme cold, so you should have warm water bottles and other sanitizers with you.

3. Route Selection for the Ladakh Bike Adventure

In December, many routes are blocked due to snow, so route selection and planning is important in advance. Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh routes are mostly closed in December due to heavy snowfall, so air travel is the best option to reach Leh. After reaching Leh, you can continue the bike trip to nearby locations.

Best Accessible Routes from Leh in December:

• Leh to Khardung La: Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads, is an exciting and challenging route for bikers, but bikers must take extreme caution on it in December.
• Leh to Pangong Lake: Although Pangong Lake is partially frozen in winter, riding a bike there is an unforgettable experience. Ride while keeping snow and ice in mind on the roads.
• Leh to Nubra Valley: You will love the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Nubra Valley. Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dunes are accessible even in winter.

4. Accommodation in Ladakh During Winter

In Ladakh, tourist facilities are limited during the month of December and many hotels are closed due to extreme weather. Therefore, it is important to pre-book accommodation and select winter-friendly rooms.

• Guesthouses and Homestays: Guesthouses and homestays are the best options in December, as local residents keep them open and they are also budget-friendly. Some guesthouses in Leh main town are centrally heated which provide you a comfortable stay.
• Camping: Camping in winter can be quite challenging. If you’re planning on camping, carry extreme cold weather tents and sleeping bags (rated for -20°C).

5. Essential Items for the Ladakh Bike Trip

In Ladakh bike adventure, you should carry some essential items which are important for your safety and comfort.

• Riding Gear: A full-face helmet, padded jacket, riding pants, waterproof gloves, woolen socks, and snow boots should be among your essentials.
• Tool Kit and Spare Parts: Mechanics are not available in remote areas of Ladakh, so it is important to carry a tool kit, spare tubes, chain oil, and clutch/brake cables.
• Medical Kit: A first aid kit should contain bandages, water relievers, altitude sickness tablets, and antiseptics. Oxygen cans can also become full at high altitudes.
• Navigation: Keep maps and offline GPS apps downloaded, as mobile network is very weak in the mountains.

6. Handling Altitude Sickness

At the high altitude of Leh Ladakh, oxygen levels are low which can cause altitude sickness. You may experience symptoms like headache, nausea, and dizziness. For this, it is best to do proper acclimatization and travel at a slow speed.

• Acclimatization: After reaching Leh, rest for 1-2 days so that your body can adjust to the high altitude conditions.
• Stay Hydrated: You should stay hydrated even in cold weather. Keep warm water and herbal tea with you.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid alcohol at high altitude as it increases dehydration which can worsen altitude sickness.

7. Food and Fuel Arrangements

Food and fuel facilities are limited in remote areas of Ladakh. Therefore, it is better to make fuel and food arrangements in advance.

• Fuel: There are limited petrol pumps between Leh and Nubra Valley, so keep your tank full and carry an extra jerry can of fuel.
• Food: In remote areas, local cafes and dhabas provide you with basic food. Apart from this, keep energy bars, chocolates and dry fruits with you which will give you instant energy and warmth.

8. Safety Tips for Ladakh Bike Adventure

Traveling to Ladakh in December is a forgettable experience for bikers, but make sure to follow some safety measures:

• Ride Slow and Steady: Biking on snow and rough patches can be risky, so always ride at a slow and steady pace.
• Check Weather Forecast: Check daily weather updates to avoid unexpected snowfall.
• Avoid Riding at Night: The temperature becomes lower at night and visibility also reduces, so avoid riding at night.

How much money is required for a Leh trip?

The cost of a Ladakh trip can range from Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 or more, depending on the mode of transport you choose, accommodation, and activities you do.

How much does a Ladakh bike trip cost?

Summary of Leh Ladakh Trip

Conclusion: Experience the Ultimate Ladakh Bike Adventure

The Ladakh bike trip in December is a challenging but fulfilling experience that takes you on an unforgettable journey through beautiful landscapes, thrilling routes and snow-covered mountains. If you keep your planning and safety measures right, this Ladakh bike adventure can become a lifetime journey in your travel memories.

So, get your gear ready, prepare your bike, and set out on this winter journey to discover the serene and snowy landscapes of Ladakh!

Read more…. How to Visit Uttarakhand on a Low Budget in December 2024?