by If you’re dreaming about riding your bike from Pune to Leh Ladakh, this detailed travelogue will give you everything — the routes, challenges, highlights, and practical tips you need before hitting the road.
In August, I started this unforgettable journey with my friends, covering thousands of kilometers through cities, villages, mountains, and high-altitude passes. From Pune to Leh, and back via Manali, this trip tested our endurance, planning, and passion for adventure riding.
Two Route Options from Pune to Leh Ladakh
Before starting, I studied two main route options:
- Long & Challenging Route – More kilometers, tougher terrain, but a richer riding experience.
- Short & Easier Route – Saves distance and time, but fewer adventurous segments.
For riders with limited time, the shorter route is practical. But if you have the energy, the longer route is worth it.
Our Journey – Day-by-Day Highlights
Pune to Manpur – Planned for Ratlam but stopped early due to time; first day’s ride was tough.
Manpur to Jaipur (515 km) – Spent a full day exploring Jaipur before heading north.
Jaipur to Amritsar (725 km) – A long push to reach Amritsar late at night. Visited Golden Temple and Jallianwala Bagh, and serviced our bikes.
Amritsar to Pathankot – Short ride due to late start.
Pathankot to Ramban – Faced travel restrictions at Nehru Tunnel during Amarnath Yatra. Had to stop early as tourists were only allowed through at specific hours.
Ramban to Leh (568 km) – Our toughest ride, nearly 24 hours on the road. Took short breaks at scenic Sonmarg and visited Kargil War Memorial en route.
Day-by-Day Leh Ladakh Trip Itinerary
| Day | Route & Distance | Key Highlights | Stay Point |
| Day 1 | Manali → Jispa (140 km / ~6 hrs) | Rohtang Pass, Lahaul Valley views | Jispa |
| Day 2 | Jispa → Leh (335 km / ~10 hrs) | Baralacha La, Sarchu, Nakee La, Tanglang La | Leh |
| Day 3 | Leh Local | Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Leh Market | Leh |
| Day 4 | Leh → Nubra Valley via Khardung La (160 km / ~6 hrs) | World’s highest motorable pass, Diskit Monastery, Hunder dunes | Nubra |
| Day 5 | Nubra → Pangong Lake via Shyok (274 km / ~8 hrs) | Shyok River, Pangong Lake sunset | Pangong |
| Day 6 | Pangong → Leh (225 km / ~7 hrs) | Chang La Pass, Hemis Monastery | Leh |
| Day 7 | Leh → Manali (Return) | Memories & mountain views | Journey back |
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Exploring Leh Ladakh
- Khardung La Pass – One of the world’s highest motorable passes.
- Nubra Valley – Home to the rare double-humped camels found only here in India.
- Pangong Lake – Crystal clear blue waters, freezing cold — not safe for swimming. We camped here overnight for an unforgettable experience.
Return Journey via Manali
We rode from Pangong to Karu, fueled up for the 368 km stretch with no petrol pumps, then pushed towards Manali. Stopped at Karu for rest due to bike issues and then completed the scenic but exhausting ride to Manali.
In Manali, we explored the local market but skipped buying winter wear because prices were higher than in Delhi or Chandigarh.
Logistics & Bike Couriering
Instead of riding back to Pune, we couriered our bikes from Chandigarh. The process was smooth, with professional packing, and cost around ₹6,000 per bike including packing. From Chandigarh, we headed to Delhi by road, explored the city on a sightseeing bus, and then returned home.
Pro Tips for Riders
- Fuel Planning – Always top up at major towns before entering long stretches without pumps (e.g., Karu to Kangdi).
- Time Your Pass Crossings – Be aware of seasonal travel restrictions, especially near Nehru Tunnel.
- Acclimatization – High-altitude passes require proper rest and gear to avoid altitude sickness.
- Packing Essentials – Carry spares, warm clothes, rain gear, and medical kits.
- Shopping – Skip expensive markets in tourist hubs; Delhi offers better prices.
Final Thoughts
A Pune to Leh Ladakh bike trip is not just a ride; it’s an endurance test, a scenic feast, and a life-changing adventure. Whether you choose the longer route for thrill or the shorter one for convenience, the landscapes, people, and experiences will stay with you forever.
If you have the spirit for adventure, this is a journey you must take at least once in your lifetime.
Quick Facts:
Bike Courier Cost: ₹6,000 approx. from Chandigarh
Best Time: June to September
Trip Duration: 15–20 days depending on route
Total Distance: ~3,000–3,500 km (round trip)
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