Umling La & the Highest Passes in the World

12 days
Delhi
Ladakh
Delhi
India
1200 KM

Overview

This 12-day Himalayan motorcycle tour is a newly designed journey of discovery through one of the most spectacular highland regions on Earth – Ladakh.
With a perfectly balanced mix of culture, adventure, and dramatic landscapes, we explore hidden monasteries, remote side valleys, vast high-altitude plateaus, and some of the highest mountain passes in the world – including the legendary Umling La, often referred to as the highest motorable pass on the planet.

Our journey begins with a flight from Delhi to Leh, where we acclimatize in a beautiful hotel in the Indus Valley. The first riding days take us to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Stok Kangri range, into the lush oasis of Alchi, and across two unnamed mountain passes near Hemis Shukpachen – an ideal introduction for gradual altitude adaptation.

We then cross the famous Khardung La Pass into the Nubra Valley before following a spectacular route along the Shyok Gorge to reach the turquoise waters of Pangong Lake. From there, the route continues into the remote region of Hanle, passing endless high-altitude plains and isolated monasteries. The undisputed highlight of this Ladakh motorcycle adventure – and a true test of spirit and endurance – is the ascent to Umling La at an awe-inspiring altitude of 5,798 meters.

After a final riding stage through the Indus Valley, we enjoy the peaceful comfort of a beautiful hotel in Sakti. Those who wish to stay active can opt for an additional ride up to the Wari La Pass or return to Leh for shopping and exploration. The return flight to Delhi marks the end of this remarkable motorcycle journey to the highest motorable pass in the world.

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At A Glance

Category Details
Best Travel Time June to August – ideal conditions for high mountain passes and clear weather
Tour Start/End Delhi / Delhi
Duration 12 travel days, 10 riding days
Total Distance Approx. 1,200 km
Daily Rides 90 to 230 km
Road Conditions Mostly paved; around 400 km of unpaved sections (gravel roads)
Motorcycles Royal Enfield Himalayan 450. Upon request, Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 or Royal Enfield Bullet 500 (left-side gear shift, electric starter, front disc brake) are also available.
Riding Skills Not an extreme tour, though some riding days can be demanding due to altitude and terrain. Suitable for pillion passengers.
Group Size Min. 4 and max. 10 riders. Pillion passengers always have a seat in the support vehicle
Accommodation Good mid-range hotels, lodges, and guesthouses
Included Services Motorcycle rental, fuel, support vehicle, mechanic, all accommodations, breakfast, lunch snack, dinner, drinking water with meals and on the road, all entrance fees & permits, domestic flights and transfers, full-time tour guide
Highlights The highest mountain passes in the world: Umling La (5,798 m), Khardung La (5,604 m); deep-blue lakes above 4,500 m; remote Buddhist monasteries; spectacular new routes; sand dunes at 3,600 m; cultural and historical insights, presented bilingually
Tour Guide From arrival to departure, the entire tour is accompanied and supported by an experienced local, English-speaking guide. Our tour guides ride their own motorcycles and are much more than just road captains — they ensure smooth logistics, share local knowledge, and take care of the group throughout the journey.
Extras Local mechanic in the support vehicle – also available as a backup rider if required
Important Visa for India required, to be applied for online from home. Asia Bike Tours offers a visa service – simply send us a short email with the subject “India Visa Service”

ITinerary

Day Description
Day 1 Flight from Delhi to Leh. We transfer to a charming hotel in the Indus Valley. Time to rest and settle in after the flights. We prioritize taking it easy and acclimatizing to the altitude.
Day 2 Leh loop ride (approx. 70 km): We explore Ladakh’s culture and landscapes, visiting small side valleys and enjoying scenic motorcycle routes with stunning views of the Stok Kangri range.
Day 3 Leh – Chilling – Alchi (approx. 110 km): Our motorcycle adventure begins through breathtaking high-mountain scenery. We leave the Indus River briefly and follow the spectacular Zanskar River gorge on smooth asphalt up to Chilling. Back in the Indus Valley, we arrive at Alchi – a peaceful oasis and home to one of Ladakh’s most historic Buddhist monasteries.
Day 4 Alchi – Hemis Shukpachan – Lamayuru – Alchi loop (approx. 110 km): Today is an exciting day of riding off the beaten path. We explore narrow, quiet mountain roads and discover remote regions around the Indus Valley. Crossing two unnamed high passes above 4,200 m, we immerse ourselves in Ladakh’s rugged landscapes and continue our altitude acclimatization.
Day 5 Alchi – Khardung – Nubra (approx. 150 km): We cross the legendary Khardung La Pass (5,359 m), now almost fully paved, and descend into the wide Nubra Valley with its sand dunes and Silk Road camels. A truly spectacular day of riding together!
Day 6 Nubra Valley: A rest day in the Nubra Valley or optional excursions to hidden villages. We also use this day as a buffer for any weather-related delays.
Day 7 Nubra – Pangong (140 km): We ride through the dramatic Shyok Gorge to the turquoise waters of Pangong Lake. Our accommodation is simple but the views are breathtaking. The landscape and culture here remind us strongly of Tibet, with the border just a few kilometers away.
Day 8 Pangong – Hanle (250 km): After a magical sunrise at Pangong Lake, we continue on a scenic ride to Hanle, passing endless plateaus, rolling hills, herds of wild donkeys, and remote monasteries. A memorable adventure through Ladakh’s vast wilderness awaits us.
Day 9 Hanle – Umling La – Hanle (110 km): Today we tackle the highest motorable pass in the world: Umling La at 5,798 m. A challenging but unforgettable day on our bikes, before returning to Hanle for a second overnight stay.
Day 10 Hanle – Sakti (approx. 190 km): We follow ancient Silk Road routes through the Indus Valley, riding a mix of gravel and asphalt roads. We settle in for the night in a comfortable hotel and enjoy the evening together.
Day 11 Sakti: A relaxed day in Sakti. We can choose to ride up to the Wari La Pass or take a taxi back to Leh for some shopping and sightseeing.
Day 12 Leh – Delhi: We transfer early to Leh airport and fly back to Delhi, concluding our amazing journey through Ladakh.

Termine & Preise

June 26, 2026
July 7, 2026
12 days

INDIA / Ladakh - Umling La & the highest Passes in the World / June 2026

  • Rider: €2,980
  • Pillion Rider: €2,480
  • Single Room Supplement: €390

This tour shows you unexplored areas of the Indian Himalayas. Spectacular roads, high passes, and breathtaking landscapes await us. This journey also involves pioneering work, as we will drive on the newly opened Umging La Pass (5799 meters) and the new road to the Zanskar Valley.

August 6, 2026
August 17, 2026
12 days

INDIA / Ladakh - Umling La & the highest Passes in the World / August 2026

  • Fahrer: 2.980 €
  • Beifahrer: 2.480 €
  • Einzelzimmerzuschlag: 390 €

This tour shows you unexplored areas of the Indian Himalayas. Spectacular roads, high passes, and breathtaking landscapes await us. This journey also involves pioneering work, as we will drive on the newly opened Umging La Pass (5799 meters).

Map

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