Solo Trip to Ladakh – Planning, Cost, Itinerary, Safety Tips

by Vargis.Khan

Solo Trip to Ladakh

A solo trip is something that will definitely not suit everyone. Most people would prefer to have someone to keep them company while a lot of others are happy traveling all by themselves. Both the aspects have their own advantages and disadvantages. But when you are traveling alone, your planning would have to be a little more meticulous and precise, especially when you are planning a solo trip to Ladakh.

Ladakh in recent times has seen a tremendous boost in tourism. It is no longer a place that only adventure enthusiasts or bikers go to. Out here now, you will even find families including both kids and elders. Sometimes, even finding a Leh can be a little troublesome. That is the kind of tourist footfall Ladakh sees in recent years.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – Complete Travel Guide

With that being said, the fact still remains that it is a sparsely populated region and one of the remotest areas of our country. There will be several times in the trip when you will be all on your own with no one around for miles. Your phones will not be working and if you land in trouble somewhere, you will have to handle the situation all by yourself.

Keeping that in mind, below are a few important tips that you should keep in mind when planning for your solo trip to Ladakh.

How to Plan a Solo Trip to Ladakh

To begin with, I will share some tips on how the trip can be planned and executed in the best possible manner. Later in the article, I will provide an itinerary, related costs, and information on public transport services.

Plan your Budget

Of all the people that I have known to have traveled solo to Ladakh, most of them either went by public transport or on a motorcycle. I do not know of anyone who went to Ladakh alone in his car and just one person who went solo by flight.

This is because of the cost factor. For a journey that long, the cost per person comes down marginally if you have someone to share the cost with. A solo trip to Ladakh will definitely cost you a bit. When traveling solo, it will all be your own expense.

Wisely chose your accommodation if traveling on a budget. Plan your entire itinerary in a way that you are only stopping for the night at a place where you can find a budget hotel. There are dhabas all along the way and that is where you should be eating. That way, you will easily be able to keep your meal expense under Rs. 100 per day.

Campsites will be a big No for you if your budget is limited. They cost anywhere between Rs. 2000 per person to Rs. 5000.

Keep a minimum cost in mind and then bump it up by a few thousand. For example, after considering everything, if your total cost is coming out to be Rs. 15,000 plan your budget according to Rs. 20,000.  Keep a buffer in your budget for any unforeseen or unexpected expenses.

For more details on this topic, please take a look at How to Calculate Minimum Budget for Ladakh Trip.

Carefully Chose Your Mode of Travel

Even if budget is not of problem, you still need to carefully choose the way you are traveling. Keep in mind that you will be traveling through some of the most challenging roads. So if your driving experience is not that much, do not risk being at the wheel on your own.

It applies to both motorcycles and cars. If you have been driving or riding just for a little while, or have never been up in the hills, Ladakh is not the place where you would want to do it for the first time. In this case, you are better off using public transport services throughout your trip.

If traveling on a budget, then you should better forget about private taxis unless you are OK spending Rs. 50,000 above just on taxis.

If timings are of concern, then you should choose to travel in shared taxis because bus service in Ladakh is not that frequent. They are easily available in Manali, Srinagar, and all parts of Ladakh. The cost of a shared cab will be slightly more than a bus but it will also be a lot more convenient.

Carry Enough Cash

There are not many ATMs in Ladakh. As a matter of fact, there are no other ATMs except for the ones in the city of Leh. You need to plan your cash in hand.

I do not mean that you carry Rs. 20,000 from home, because if you lose your bag or wallet, then your trip is over. Carry enough that will last until the next ATM.

Withdraw some from Manali that should see you in Leh comfortably. Then withdraw from Leh before going to visit the nearby areas.

Before starting to visit places like Nubra or Pangong, ensure that you have cash in all denominations. Do not just carry large notes. Areas over there are small villages and you may not get change after producing a large denomination note.

For more details on this topic, please take a look at Banks & ATMs in Leh Ladakh.

Travel Light

This especially applies if you are traveling by public transport. Throughout your trip, you will be changing your mode of transport multiple times, and carrying multiple bags will become a big hassle. Carry one large backpack and try to stuff all your belongings in it. You absolutely must travel as light as possible.

Solo Trip to Ladakh

Documents

Ensure that you are carrying all your necessary paperwork with you. You should have valid identity proof, residence proof with your complete address on it, and copies of your permits.

If there is a medical background involved, ensure that you are carrying all required paperwork. In case you need any medical assistance during your trip, you will be able to provide any history related to it.

Also read: How to Travel to Ladakh by Public Transport Services?

Emergency Contact

This one is very important. Keep an emergency contact listed both on your phone and a paper. Write the name and number of the person on a couple of papers. Keep one in your bag and the other in either your wallet or pocket.

Why? This is because if (god forbid) anything happens to you, the person trying to help should be able to call and notify someone. If you were not in a condition to unlock the phone, then adding a contact there will be of no use.

tso moriri lake

Travel Partners

If your reason for traveling solo was because you could not get someone to accompany you on the trip, you can also try finding a travel partner either online or while on the trip.

A lot of people do a solo trip to Ladakh. So it won’t be rare that you will find someone traveling alone like you. If you were both on a motorcycle, then ride together.

If you do not find someone alone, you will definitely find other people traveling in a group. It would be wise that you ride either with them or closer to them so that in case there is a breakdown, they can help you.

A lot of people put up fliers at cafes, restaurants, or tour operators looking for travel partners. This is a good option to look for if you are traveling by public transport.

With all of that being said and done, there is also the risk factor that you need to think about. Traveling with a stranger is not always a good idea. You must practice caution while tagging along with someone.

Do not straightaway offer to travel together. Notice the other person for a while and then make the call. If the person seems suspicious or not trustworthy, travel alone. If you were thinking of sharing the cost with them, make sure you clarify that right at the beginning.

Also read: A Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh

Keep in Touch With Your Family

Throughout your trip, you must stay in touch with your family and keep them apprised about your whereabouts. Hand over a copy of your entire travel plan to your family, detailing where you plan to be on which date.

Call before you leave Manali because as soon as you get on the other side of Rohtang, your phone will most likely be out of network.

Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri have no phone connectivity as well. So do let your folks know about the same before you leave Leh.

If you have booked your stay in advance, then provide them the phone numbers of the hotels as well. If not, then call and update them about the name and numbers of the hotel you are staying in.

The idea is to keep your family posted as much as possible. In case you are in trouble somewhere and cannot get in touch with anyone, they at least would have an idea of where you could be.

khardung la

Time of Travel

If you are planning a solo trip to Ladakh, then you must plan it in either July, August, or September as these are the months of peak tourist season. All hotels/guest houses at this time are functional and you will have no trouble finding a budget hotel.

Also, if you are traveling by public transport, then this is the time when you will easily find a shared cab in Ladakh. In terms of travel partners as well, your chances of finding one will be highest in these three months.

If you are riding a motorcycle though, you must also consider that July and August are when the monsoon hits the Himalayan region. Landslides, road closures, incessant rains become common during this period. A better time for you will be either June or September.

Also read: Ladakh Checklist – Things you must Carry for Ladakh Trip

Bring some Basic Medicines

You must bring some basic medicines along for flu, fever, upset stomach, headache, body ache, pain relief spray, lip balm, and cold cream. There are medical stores in Leh, Srinagar, and Manali where you can buy these medicines. But finding medical assistance in remote areas can be challenging.

Do Not Push Yourself

If on any given day in the trip, you start feeling unwell, then you must take complete rest the next day. If you were in a remote area, please return to Leh as soon as possible and rest there. Do not travel unless you are completely fit. If your condition worsens, seek medical help immediately.

There are hospitals in Manali, Srinagar, and Leh but nowhere else on the route. You will however still find Indian Army posts and camps. If there was no hospital around, talk to the Army personnel and they will do all they can to help you.

ladakh bike ride

Itinerary Planning

This applies no matter how you are traveling. You very carefully need to choose places that you want to visit. If traveling by public transport, you should avoid routes where the frequency of bus service or shared taxis is less, like Changthang Valley (Chushul-Hanle-Nyoma route).

If traveling by your own vehicle (car or motorcycle both), you should avoid routes like Wari La, Kakasang La, Horla, Marsimik La. Roads here are challenging and chances of getting stranded are higher. Keep your travel plan limited to places or routes where there is a regular tourist movement.

Solo Bike Trip to Ladakh

Below is an example of an itinerary that you can follow for a solo trip to Ladakh by Bike. I am assuming Delhi is the starting point of the trip. If you were coming from a different city, only the first and the last day’s journey will change. The rest of the details will still apply.

Manali to Ladakh to Srinagar

This is an itinerary that will cover both Manali Leh and Srinagar Leh highways.

  • Delhi to Manali – Day 1
  • Manali to Keylong/Jispa – Day 2
  • Keylong/Jispa to Pang – Day 3
  • Pang to Leh – Day 4
  • Leh – Day 5
  • Leh to Hunder/Diskit – Day 6
  • Hunder/Diskit to Pangong Lake via Shyok Road – Day 7
  • Pangong Tso to Leh – Day 8
  • Leh to Tso Moriri – Day 9
  • Tso Moriri to Leh – Day 10
  • Leh to Kargil – Day 11
  • Kargil to Srinagar – Day 12
  • Srinagar to Jammu – Day 13

Another and slightly different way of doing this trip can be like this.

  • Delhi to Manali – Day 1
  • Manali to Keylong/Jispa – Day 2
  • Keylong/Jispa to Pang – Day 3
  • Pang to Leh – Day 4
  • Leh – Day 5
  • Leh to Turtuk – Day 6
  • Turtuk to Hunder to Diskit to Panamik – Day 7
  • Panamik to Pangong Lake via Shyok Road – Day 8
  • Pangong Tso to Hanle – Day 9
  • Hanle to Tso Moriri – Day 10
  • Tso Moriri to Leh – Day 11
  • Leh to Kargil – Day 12
  • Kargil to Srinagar – Day 13
  • Srinagar to Jammu – Day 14

Manali to Manali Itinerary for a Solo Ride to Ladakh

If you do not want to cover Srinagar Leh Highway and return to Manali only, you can modify the plan like this.

  • Delhi to Manali – Day 1
  • Manali to Keylong/Jispa – Day 2
  • Keylong/Jispa to Pang – Day 3
  • Pang to Leh – Day 4
  • Leh – Day 5
  • Leh to Turtuk – Day 6
  • Turtuk to Hunder to Diskit to Panamik – Day 7
  • Panamik to Pangong Lake via Shyok Road – Day 8
  • Pangong Tso to Hanle – Day 9
  • Hanle to Tso Moriri – Day 10
  • Tso Moriri to Pang / Sarchu – Day 11
  • Pang/Sarchu to Manali – Day 12
  • Manali to Delhi – Day 13

This is a 2 weeks plan. It ensures that you do not either travel too much or too little on any given day. It also covers all major tourist places in Leh. If however, you are short on time, you can add remove places from this itinerary.

Planning & Safety Tips

Below are a few tips that will apply especially to a solo bike rider.

Your biggest concern will be a breakdown on the way. Make sure that you get your bike ready well in advance. Replace or repair whatever seems dicey and then ride the bike around in the city for a week.

You should also learn a few minor repairs yourself. You should also know who to fix a flat tire and carry all necessary spares. For more details on this topic, please take a look at How to Prepare your Bike for Ladakh.

Ride slow and do not rush through the journey. Travel as light a possible and do not carry any unnecessary luggage. Waterproof everything irrespective of your time of travel. Whether or not to buy proper riding gear is really a personal choice. You may or may not decide to do so.

Water crossings can be a challenge if riding solo. Take a look at Motorcycle Water Crossing Tips & Techniques to know how to handle these when there is no one around to help.

Ladakh by Public Transport

Solo Trip to Ladakh by Public Transport

If you are traveling by public transport, below is a sample itinerary that you can follow. This is laid out keeping in mind the availability of buses from a specific area to another.

If you can travel like this, you will most likely be able to board a bus. If however there is no bus available, then there is always an option of finding a public shared taxi. This may cost you a bit more than the bus but will still be cost-effective.

This itinerary also ensures that you are never too far from an area where there is a regular tourist movement. You will be stopping at night at a place where you have a high chance of finding a budget accommodation.

  • Overnight Bus to Manali. Pick one that arrives as early as 5 AM in Manali – Day 1
  • Board the morning bus from Manali for Keylong – Day 2
  • Morning Bus from Keylong to Leh – Day 3
  • Leh. Rest and Arrange Permits – Day 4
  • Leh to Diskit by either the morning bus or a shared cab – Day 5
  • Diskit to Leh. There is no direct bus or cab available for Pangong – Day 6
  • Leh to Pangong by Bus or shared cab – Day 7
  • Pangong to Leh – Day 8
  • Leh to Tso Moriri by Bus or shared cab – Day 9
  • Tso Moriri to Leh – Day 10
  • Leh to Srinagar. The bus leaves at 2 PM from Leh and runs non-stop to Srinagar – Day 11
  • Arrival in Srinagar by evening – Day 12
  • Srinagar to Jammu – Day 13
  • Jammu to Delhi – Day 14

Planning & Safety Tips

Travel as light as possible if you are catching buses everywhere. You cannot be dragging along too many bags. Keep your phone, wallet, ID card, and cash at a place where it is easily accessible. Do not push it down to the bottom of the bag.

When you board a bus, pick a seat towards the front of the bus. The roads here can be bad at several places and sitting towards the back of the bus will just test your stomach and butt.

Before going to Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri, visit the Leh bus stand in the evening. Inquire about the bus and if there is none available, plan for a shared taxi. Even the shared cabs can be booked for the next day sometimes.

Be very vigilant and keep a check on your health. Take a look at this article How to Handle Acute Mountain Sickness in Ladakh. Here I have explained what altitude sickness is, its symptoms, and a few tips on how to avoid it.

Solo Trip to Ladakh Cost

It will completely depend on how you are traveling, for how many days, and your spending habits. But a minimum of between 15-20,000 is safe to assume.

In a nutshell, for a 10-14 days trip, if traveling by own motorcycle, keep a budget of 20,000 – 25,000. If traveling by own car and alone, keep a budget between Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 30,000. If catching a flight, keep a budget of Rs. 10,000 for accommodation and food + flight charges + rented motorcycle or private taxi charge.

If by public transport, keep a budget of between Rs. 15,000.

cycling to ladakh

Solo Trip to Ladakh – Conclusion

I hope the information above on planning a solo trip to Ladakh was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below or at our Community Forum, and I will be to answer.

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65 comments

Abhiram Chadive September 28, 2021 - 7:17 am

Hey guys, Abhi here from Bangalore , I’m a solo traveller to Leh Ladakh travelling on Oct 9-15, will arrive to Leh by flight and planning on continuing the journey through rented bikes. Looking for travel partners, the more the merrier.

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Mukesh September 14, 2021 - 9:45 am

I am planning to travel solo to Leh in the last week of September ’21. Is it advisable time to visit.
what would be weather conditions. I am travelling by air from Delhi to Leh and will stay for 1 week. Is 1 week enough to visit most of the tourist places around.
What would be best mode of local travel, Bike or Shared Car. I am not riding the bike regularly, its almost 5 years ago i drive bike for more then 100kms in single stretch.

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Avinash Bhalla May 2, 2021 - 5:42 pm

Hi,
Am looking at a 3 to 4 weeks long solo trip by car from Chandigarh to Manali to Leh and then return via kargil, Srinagar to Chandigarh.

Guess after reading you blog it seems end August to end September would be ideal? Kindly suggest an itenerary

Regards
Avinash

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Ajay Saha March 6, 2021 - 2:55 am

Hi Vargis Bhai.
Words are not enough to thank you for the immensely detailed articles on Leh.
I am planning a solo trip in September.
Fly to leh-stay overnight- next day take a bus to diskit-staying overnight at turtuk.
Return next day to Leh.
From leh catch the bus to pangong-Stay at pangong- then return to Leh the next day.
Return to Kargil-then to Srinagar- then catch a flight to home.
Is this plan okay?
Also , is it more convenient to take the Srinagar-kargil route?
Thanks for your patience.

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Avinash Bhalla May 2, 2021 - 5:40 pm

Hi,
Am looking at a 3 to 4 weeks long solo trip by car from Chandigarh to Manali to Leh and then return via kargil, Srinagar to Chandigarh.

Guess after reading you blog it seems end August to end September would be ideal? Kindly suggest an itenerary

Regards
Avinash

Reply
Varun Saxena March 11, 2020 - 6:04 pm

I m planning for 35 days solo cycle tour in leh, diskit, turtuk, Panamik, warshi village and many more.. What r the things to keep in mind???? Plz suggest

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Bro August 17, 2020 - 5:53 am

Keep in mind no pandemic happens.

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Rajesh December 31, 2019 - 4:20 am

Hello Mr. Varish,

Excellent Blog. It is very useful stuff to Ladakh Rider. Appreciated for your excellent work.

Thank you

Reply
Vargis.Khan December 31, 2019 - 10:59 pm

Thank you Mr. Rajesh for your kind words.

Reply
nikita April 20, 2019 - 9:06 am

hi
very informative blog.
keep on doing the good work
I am also planning a solo trip in may

Reply
Vargis.Khan April 20, 2019 - 4:10 pm

Thanks for taking the time to drop a note Nikita

Reply
Nayan Patel August 15, 2018 - 6:49 pm

Hi Vargis bhai,

We all are very thankful to you for what you are doing here, it means a lot to everyone who reads your suggestions and its truly helpful.

I am planning solo for Ladakh in mid of September, I will fly to Leh and stay in town for 4-5 days. Then I am planning to Leh-Nubra-Turtuk-Leh and after that Leh-Pangong-Leh.
Request you to clear my following doubts :
1) Which bike shall I choose? (I am thinking about 350cc)
2) As per rent price list – charge for one day is 1600, is it for 24 hours? How much they will charge if I’ll take it for 3 days?
3) Is it advisable to bring own helmet or they will provide?
4) What is the procedure to obtain in line permit? Which documents and details will be required? What are the charges of permit? How much time it will take to obtain permit?
5) Will it be necessary to wear windcheater or heavy jacket in mid September for bike ride?
6) Is it permissible to place my own tent at Pangong Lake?
7) Any medicines can you suggest to avoide Acute Mountain Sickness?

8) And Most important, I am not a hard core driver, I have not experience of driving in mountains (but I am mountaineer), I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT BIKE TRIP ON DESCRIBED ROUTES, SHALL I TRY? WHAT TYPE OF PRECAUTIONS I SHALL TAKE BEFORE JOURNEY?

Please help.

Reply
Vargis.Khan August 15, 2018 - 8:11 pm

Hi Nayan Bhai,

Thank you for your kind words.

1. 350 CC is good
2. Yes it is 1600 per day. So 1600 x 3
3. Helmet is usually included in the deal but sometimes they may charge you a little extra for it. Don’t bother carrying yours all the way
4. See this … https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/
5. Yes
6. Yes
7. See this … https://vargiskhan.com/log/dealing-acute-mountain-sickness-ladakh/
8. If you have some decent enough riding experience then you should be OK. Just go slow, be careful and you should be OK.

Reply
Vaibhav July 4, 2018 - 5:22 pm

Hi Vargis

Thanks for writing down the article, seems helpful. Though I had some additional questions.
I ham planning to go on a solo trip there soon, reaching by flight. From what I can see, or atleast the things I want to do there, I will need a transportation to move around. Are there any decent taxi operators or is it feasible to get self-drive cars there? (I don’t know how to ride a bike :P, long story for another time)

Cheers
Vaibhav

Reply
Vargis.Khan July 5, 2018 - 2:54 am

Hi Vaibhav – Self drives are not available in Ladakh. But yes, you can rent a private taxi which will actually cost you a lot. Or you can depend on shared taxis which are cheaper and available from Leh Bus stand.

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Abhishek June 20, 2018 - 4:51 pm

I am too travelling alone to leh ladakh by bike on 10th july from delhi. Let me know if anyone want to join me.

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Vargis.Khan June 20, 2018 - 11:12 pm

It would be better to post a thread at the link below Abhishek so that if anyone is going at the same time, they can join you.

http://roadragas.com/index.php?forums/travel-partners.20/

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Omkar Parab July 2, 2018 - 5:24 am

hey hii bro.. I m also planning for leh ladakh bike trip from Mumbai . Searching for partner.. .give me ur contact details or contact me
9082772242

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kumar June 13, 2018 - 10:28 am

Very informative blog. Thanks a lot!

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Vargis.Khan June 13, 2018 - 3:58 pm

Thanks Kumar

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Riyesh Patil May 29, 2018 - 6:46 am

Hey there. I wanted to ask whether the itinerary you’ve provided for public transport, includes spare time to visit the attractions or it’s just ttavelling

Reply
Ray April 2, 2018 - 4:14 am

Hi vargis…Thanks for the detailed blog…
I am a solo traveller…and I consider using public transportation all throughout my trip..Here are my few doubts regarding the trip…
1) May I plan a solo trip in April?
2)Are public transportation and hotels easily available there in april?
3) Mountain sickness is a real issue? I mean can I travel without assistance?
4) I am from ahmedabad..which is the best route to follow? I am planning for a week-10 days..!!

Reply
Vargis.Khan April 2, 2018 - 2:22 pm

Hi Ray – If you are planning by public transport, then I will recommend that you push it by a month and plan in May. Availability of public transport in April is not that great. Manali Leh highway is still closed and Srinagar Leh highway has just opened so no bus service available.

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Ketaki March 13, 2018 - 8:11 am

Very Informative .. Thankyou so much..!! 🙂

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Vargis.Khan March 13, 2018 - 3:48 pm

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Ketaki

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gourav rawal March 5, 2018 - 7:04 pm

hi vargis , there was a question in my mind
as you told us we can get bikes on rent in leh.
but please tell me we can ride without assistance in ladakh.
as we take bike on rents from leh and trying to visit pangong lake by our self,or other place by driving in a group. is it possible and safe going without assistance

Reply
Vargis.Khan March 5, 2018 - 9:31 pm

Hi Gaurav – If you have done some motorcycle riding and have decent enough experience, then yes, you can definitely take a bike on rent and go to other areas of Ladakh.

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Arnab Chakraborty September 15, 2017 - 6:07 am

Thanks for the Detailed information. I am planing a solo trip from 28th of September’17 to 4th October’17. Is it ok? Do I get shared transport at that time so can I budget with in 25000/-?

Reply
Vargis.Khan September 15, 2017 - 3:26 pm

Thanks Arnab. Yes you will be able to get shared transport and cap your trip within 25k.

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Rahul August 24, 2017 - 11:45 am

Hi Vargis,
Your blog is just awesome thank you so much for the lots of information.

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Vargis.Khan August 24, 2017 - 1:17 pm

Hi Rahul – Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I appreciate it.

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Nikhil P August 14, 2017 - 9:58 am

Hi, I have planned a solo bike trip to Leh this September. I will be starting from Manali on 3rd September and will leave from Leh on 10th September. I will be happy to have good company during the trip. If anyone happens to travel during the same time, looking forward to meet…. email – [email protected]
Hi Vargis, Do we need a permit to be taken beforehand? I am planning to hire a bike from Manali. If yes, can you please share some details around the same?

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Vargis.Khan August 15, 2017 - 5:32 am

Hi Nikhil – All the best for your trip. You do not have to take any permits beforehand. Just reach Leh and arrange the permits to go towards Nubra or Pangong etc.

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Prashant August 7, 2017 - 8:56 am

Vargis bhai – thanks for this excellent blog, a lot of us Ladakh aspirants find it super useful.

Guys, I am planning a solo trip next week – dates 14-21 Aug.

Please let me know if anyone is traveling around these dates, wants to tag along.

Safe travels!
Prashant

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Vargis.Khan August 7, 2017 - 2:35 pm

Thanks Prashant Bhai and all the best for your trip.

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Bilal Siddique July 21, 2017 - 7:09 pm

Hi Vargis,

Information providef are really good and helpful,however please advise the expected cost involved from Mumbai-Leh-Mumbai pure bike trip.
Me and one of my frnd have planned to start journey by 1st week aug.

Reply
Vargis.Khan July 23, 2017 - 11:15 pm

Hi Bilal – It depends on how many days long your trip is. Let me know.

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Bilal Siddique July 24, 2017 - 5:43 am

20 days …bro

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Vargis.Khan July 24, 2017 - 2:24 pm

Bhai excluding the cost involved in reaching Manali from Mumbai and back, a 14 day bike trip, starting from Manali, ending at Srinagar or vice versa, staying at budget hotels will cost at least 17-20k per person. Any expense that you will incur in traveling from and to Mumbai will be in adddition to this.

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Bilal Siddique July 24, 2017 - 3:19 pm

Thanks bhai..
As per my calculations i am considering 16k only for fuel to and fro our journey rest would be as per our other expenses (Food and accomodation).

However i will keep on disturbing you throughout my journey..

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Vargis.Khan July 24, 2017 - 3:33 pm

Keep around 20k minimum to be on a safer side, just for the Manali-Leh-Srinagar journey. And no problem at all, let me know of any help that you need Bhai. Happy to help.

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Akanksha Chauhan June 6, 2017 - 4:11 pm

Hi Vargis..

I am a solo traveller. I have been to many a places in India but Leh is one for which I have just been planning from last 1 year. I am willing to do it backpacking style via public transport as I am not sure how safe will hitch hiking be there. I have a detailed itinerary made for approx 15 days starting from Srinagar ending in Manali via LEH. Can you advise me if the same can be completed via public transport? I am keeping 30+ as my budget but I am still skceptical.
Can you take a look on the route and suggest something?

Route: Srinagar – Kargil – Padum – Kargil – Leh – Nubra Valley – Leh – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Jispa – Chandratal Lake – Manali.

Key Areas for Visit: Dal Lake, Zoji La, Dras, Kargil, Padum, Lamayuru, Alchi, Confluence of Zanskar and Indus, Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib, Khardung La, Diskit, Panamic, Chang La, Pangong Tso, Chushul, Hanle, Tso Moriri, Mori Plains, Baralacha La, Sarchu, Jispa, Confluence of Chandra and Bhaga (Origin of Chenab), Keylong, Chandratal, Rohtang Pass and Manali.

Akanksha

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Akanksha Chauhan June 6, 2017 - 4:30 pm

and yes.. I am pretty open with the dates as well… July-aug-sept anytime. If I get a partner to do this along, I would not mind that. Please confirm me as a member of this forum so that I can find someone to travel with.

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Prakhar June 18, 2017 - 1:26 pm

Hi Akanksha, I am planning to travel approx 1st to 15th July from Delhi, please let me know if we can tag along.
P.S. : Thanks Vargis, this info was very helpful.

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agushoe June 24, 2017 - 8:09 pm

Hi guys, I’m from Indonesia. Now in Mumbai for an assignment. I’m planning to go solo backpack to North India before going back to my country. I plan to have 3 days in Delhi-Agra, 4 days in Kashmir and around 14 days in Leh, Ladakh. I’m thinking to make a route Mumbai-Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi-Mumbai. I’ll be available sometime around July 1st, 2017 (in Delhi or Srinagar). Please Let me know if I can join. So, we can share cost (transport, accomodation, etc). I don’t have any fix itinerary yet, still doing some research tho, so still open to any suggestion. Thanks

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lokesh soni July 2, 2017 - 5:04 am

hey akanksha i am also planning for solo drive to leh, lets make this together if uh dont mind? this is my number 8058950714

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Nilu August 4, 2017 - 5:32 am

Hi,

I am planning a solo trip to Ladakh between sept 2-9th. Anyone interested in coming along can contact me at [email protected]. Thanks

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Vargis.Khan June 6, 2017 - 4:50 pm

Hi Akanksha,
Your itinerary is definitely doable except for the Hanle and Tso Moriri part. There are no direct buses from Hanle to Karzok and finding a shared taxi going that way will be only be if you luck is at its best. From Hanle, you will have to come back to Leh and catch a bus going towards Tso Moriri. To plan it better, I suggest you go through the following article. The key here would be to plan each and every single day journey as per the bus schedule. Take a look.
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/plan-budget-trip-to-ladakh-using-public-transport-services/
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/srinagar-to-leh-bus-service-fare-schedule-book/
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-to-nubra-valley-bus-service-fare-schedule-book/
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-to-pangong-tso-bus-service-fare-timings/
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/manali-to-leh-bus-service-frequency-fare-book/
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https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-bus-service-buses-ladakh/

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anish May 18, 2017 - 4:00 pm

hi vargis
I am planning to go leh via public transport this june 2017 on solo basis. I am getting a package for 18000 rupees which will pick me up from from manali in tempo traveler. its a 6 nightz and 7 days tour.
Day 1: Manali – Jispa (130 kms/ 4 Hours)
Today morning leave for Jispa. Jispa is a village in Lahaul, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Jispa is located 20 km north of Keylong and 7 km south of Darcha, along the Manali-Leh Highway and the Bhaga River. On arrival check into the hotel and enjoy the day at leisure.

Day 2: Jispa – Leh (320 Kms)
After breakfast checkout and depart for leh, Upon arrival in Leh, welcome by our local representative and transfer to a Ladakhi Style guest house or Hotel. Later take a complete rest for Acclimatization to the arid high altitude of Leh (3505 m) .Evening enjoy your dinner and overnight in Hotel.

Day 03 Leh – Nubra valley (125Kms / 4Hrs)
Today after breakfast drive about 04- 05 hrs [125 kms] to Nubra – known as valley of flowers. After drive about 02 hrs we will reach – The world`s highest motor able road called Khardungla high about 18,380 feet’s above sea level. From the top we can see the most beautiful view of Indus valley & its snow covered peaks towering the sky and other side of the pass if weather remain clear we can see Karakorum mountain range and peaks too. We descend down to beautiful valley & transfer to the hotel, later have rest till evening ,before sunset we will take you for a short drive to Hunder sand dunes to visit & ride double humped bacterium camel, later back to hotel for overnight stay. If time permits we will have a village walk to see local people & its culture.

Day 04 Nubra to Leh
Morning after breakfast we will visit the most picturesque Disket monastery on the hill top. Later continue drive to other side of Nubra valley – was the main part of silk route. We will continue our drive back to Leh via Khardungla. Reach Leh & transfer to Hotel for overnight stay.

Day 05: Leh to Pangong, via Chang la pass – 5320mts) (150 kms /5-6hrs) Excursion
After breakfast, drive (154km/ 6 hrs) to the spectacular Changthang Valley, winding your way over the exhilarating Chang la (5320m.)- The second highest point of our journey. The landscape on the way to Pangong is just spectacular. On arrival enjoy the famous pangong lake.
The Lake is situated at 13,930 ft./ about 4300mts. above sea level and is 125 km long, but is only four km at its widest, and extends almost in a straight line, way to Tibet; in fact, only a quarter of the lake is in India.
Later return back to Leh. Overnight stay at hotel in Ladakh.

Day 6: Leh – Jispa (320 Kms / 8-9 Hours)
After breakfast checkout and depart for Jispa, as it’s a long journey hence its advisable to leave early. Jispa is a village in Lahaul, in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Jispa is located 20 km north of Keylong and 7 km south of Darcha, along the Manali-Leh Highway and the Bhaga River. On arrival check into the hotel and enjoy the day at leisure.
Day 7: Jispa – Manali (130 Kms/ 4 – 5 Hours)
After breakfast check out and depart for Manali where your trip ends.

I have few questions.
Is it safe to travel with new travel agency as they want me to submit all the amount before travel.
Can I get better packages for leh when I go to manali.
what precautions should I take while travelling.
thanks in advance

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Vargis.Khan May 18, 2017 - 7:51 pm

Hi Anish – This itinerary looks Ok except for the day at Pangong. They want to bring you back to Leh on the same day which will be very tiring and you will have very little time at the lake. The price too looks a little steep for 7 days. Why do you not add a few more days and just travel on your own?

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Jigish May 7, 2017 - 10:57 am

Dear vargis! Hi u r great! And your detailing and concern are appreciable. Thanx.
We r 4 riders from surat. We wish to go to leh trip starting from ambala(17th june 2017)Then to manali. We actually had planned to go from shrinnagar but are worried about the disterbances.
The most important question is should we camp all the way???
We have tents and sleeping bags. As sleep is the most important thing. Will we be able to rest properly at night? In the tents?

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Vargis.Khan May 8, 2017 - 1:59 am

Hi Jigish – Thank you so much for your kind words brother. I appreciate it.

You can camps at most of the places on your own if you wish to. I recommend that you look at the post at the link below. I have shared a few camping tips here. Let me know if you have any further questions after reading this.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/camping-in-ladakh-preparations-precautions/

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Jigish May 8, 2017 - 10:28 am

Thanx sirji. Will communicate. Thanx.

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Vargis.Khan May 9, 2017 - 3:52 am

You are welcome brother

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rony April 18, 2017 - 12:27 pm

Hi, I am planning to go solo, this july, (or late June). Duration: 14/15 days. Mode of transport: shared taxi/public transport. Budget: 20K/25K. Read in blogs that it is better to start from Srinagar and reach leah, instead of taking Manali-Leh route, as in first case bosy gets better acclamatized, better road condition and return trip can be made through leh-manali and tsomoriri lake can be added while returning from leh to manali.
please tell me,
Can I reach leh from srinagar by only sleeping one night at kargil or some other place, and not spending more days in that route? will I get public transport from kargil to leh?

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Vargis.Khan April 21, 2017 - 3:20 am

Hello Rony – Yes you can go to Leh in two days with night halt at Kargil, no need to spend more days on the route. Yes you will easily get public transport.

Please take a look at the article below explaining how to plan a budget trip to Ladakh by public transport services.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/plan-budget-trip-to-ladakh-using-public-transport-services/

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Aniket Mazumdar May 25, 2017 - 10:27 am

Hi Rony,

I’m planning to visit Leh in June too..you Wana go together?

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Prakhar June 18, 2017 - 1:28 pm

Hi Rony and Aniket, I can join as well, if you are planning in 1st 2 weeks of July.

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agushoe June 24, 2017 - 8:20 pm

Hi guys, I can join as well. let’s go together. I’ll be in Delhi from 26 June onwards.

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Hyacinth May 8, 2021 - 7:18 am

Hey Bro,
Thnk U FR All Detailed Info On Said Trip.
I Hv A Kashmiri Frnd Who Organises Car Tour Trips Over there , He gave Me A Solo Travllr Quotation Of Rs 1, 30,0000- Wd SUV Small Car to Travel Frm Srinagar To Leh & Further Places Too . Inclusive Of Hotel Accomodation . Kargil Is Also Included In This 5N/6D Itenary.
Could U Plz Tell Me ,If This Is The Right Tour Fare , Exclusive If To & Fro Air Fare Frm Bombay .
Plz Guide ….Thnk U , God Bless. Contact – 9833637955

Abhishek June 20, 2018 - 4:54 pm

I am too planning on 2nd week of july by bike. Can we join?

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Dennis April 8, 2017 - 6:54 am

Thanks a lot brother! I take your words and leave aside my tent-trip! I will opt rooms instead.

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Vargis.Khan April 8, 2017 - 4:41 pm

You are welcome Bro …

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Dennis April 7, 2017 - 5:22 pm

Hi Vargis,
Thanks millions for this wonderful blog. I am planning a solo bike trip in this September. Is it advisable to carry a tent? or should I stick to hotels alone (due to any safety reasons)? Whats your opinion? My route is from Srinagar to Manali, 12 days. Will it be easy to get budget accommodation without prior booking during this time?
Dennis

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Vargis.Khan April 8, 2017 - 5:01 am

Hi Dennis – Thank you for your kind words brother.

Traveling Solo with a tent, I would say no. Primarily because it will be a bit much to carry on a motorcycle and you will be all alone setting and wrapping it up. If you are Ok with these two factors, then by all means carry it along. I would suggest that you read the article at the link below though. It covers most of the factors required for self camping in Ladakh. If you still have any questions, let me know.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/camping-in-ladakh-preparations-precautions/

As for accommodation, no need to book in advance. There are plenty of budget accommodations available. Actually if you are on a budget, you must not book in advance. Just walk in and negotiate a good deal. Hotels are in ample in Ladakh.

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