In this post, I will explain how you can rent a bike in Manali for either local sightseeing or visiting places like Leh Ladakh or Spiti Valley. I will mention some of the most important things that you must keep in mind before you decide on which bike to rent and from where. This will save you a lot of hassle and money later.
I will first talk about the money that you will end up spending in Manali on different kinds of bikes followed by the procedure and necessary tips.
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How to Rent a Bike In Manali
Mentioned below are the rates for different kinds of bikes available on rent in Manali.
| Motorcycle | Per Day Rental in Rs. |
| TVS Jupiter or Activa | 500 / 800 |
| Bajaj Pulsar 180 | 800 / 1000 |
| Bajaj Avenger | 800 / 1200 |
| Royal Enfield 350 CC | 1200 / 1500 per day |
| Royal Enfield Thunderbird 350CC | 1200 / 1500 |
| KTM Duke 200 | 1500 / 1800 |
| Royal Enfield 500 CC | 1500 / 1900 |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan | 1500 / 1900 |
| Royal Enfield Thunderbird 500CC | 1500 / 2000 |
| KTM Duke 250 | 1700 / 2000 |
| KTM Duke 390 | 2000 / 2300 |
| Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 CC | 2200 / 2500 |
| Kawasaki Ninja 650 | 3500 / 4000 |
Where to rent a motorcycle in Manali?
There are several places from where you can rent a motorcycle in Manali. Almost all the travel agents and tour operators have this arrangement. In addition, the mechanics as well offer this service so finding a motorcycle to rent in Manali is not at all a difficult task. Just take a stroll around the town and you will see plenty of shops/workshops offering motorcycles for rent.
Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Manali – A Complete Travel Guide
FAQs on How to Rent a Bike in Manali
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about renting a bike in Manali and tips that must keep in mind.
Can I rent a motorcycle in Manali and use it in Ladakh as well?
A BIG NO. Please do not do this or you may land in trouble. If you are renting a bike in Manali, only use it to reach Leh and your return journey. For visiting the local tourist attractions like Nubra valley, Pangong and Moriri, please rent another motorcycle in Leh. The locals there do not allow tourists to use motorcycles rented outside of Ladakh to run there. You may however use it within the city of Leh.
Can I rent a motorcycle in Manali and drop it at Srinagar?
Not for free. Most of the renters will give you a straight no for this meaning that you will have to bring their motorcycles back to Manali itself. Some of them however would give you a choice to leave the motorcycle at either Srinagar or Jammu for an additional cost which could be anywhere between Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000.
Can I rent a motorcycle in Manali and leave it in Leh?
Yes, this too is an option provided by some renters for an additional cost. It is very rare that you won’t get charged for this. The additional cost would be around Rs. 10,000 in exchange for which you can rent a motorcycle in Manali and leave it at their drop point in Leh. That way you can either catch a flight home or make some other arrangements for your return journey.
Is there a minimum or maximum rental period?
It depends on the rental agency but some of them do have 7-day minimum criteria.
How much does it cost to rent a motorcycle in Manali?
It actually depends on which motorcycle are you renting but expect the cost to be somewhere between Rs. 1000 per day to Rs. 1500-1600 per day. If you are thinking of a Royal Enfield, then the charge would be a minimum of Rs. 1200 per day for Classic, Standard, or Electra and close to Rs. 1600 per day for Thunderbird. For Pulsar it would be close to Rs. 1000 per day and for other motorcycles, it may be a bit less by a couple hundred.
Is this price negotiable?
Hard to answer this question but I do not think it is negotiable. They pretty much have a standard rate all across the town and no travel agent or mechanic would lower the price unless it is a known contact or your negotiation skills are of export quality. LOL.
Do you have to pay a security deposit to rent a motorcycle in Manali?
Yes, you do. No travel agent or mechanic would lend you a bike without the security deposit. The exact amount of the deposit can vary highly. It can range anywhere from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000 or maybe even more.
Usually, the renters let you pay part of the deposit and take the rest as a cheque or maybe keep your credit card or some other document as a security deposit for the remaining amount. The amount can depend on how old the motorcycle is, or the renter you are dealing with.
This amount of course will be refunded to you when you return the motorcycle. If there is any damage, the repair cost will be deducted from the deposit. If there is no damage or repair required, your deposit will be refunded in full.
What are the documents required while renting the motorcycle?
Your driving license is a must and pretty much the only document you will need to submit as it works both as an Identity proof and address proof as well. Someone asked me in an email if you have to submit the original and the answer to that is no. You are required to carry your DL with you during the trip and just need to submit a photocopy at the place you are renting the bike from in Manali.
Is Riding Gear available for rent as well?
No, it is not included with the bike rental. The only thing you may rent with the motorcycle is a helmet and that is pretty much about it. Riding jackets, knee guards, elbow guards or any other accessory will have to be paid for separately. It would be wise to discuss all these accessories in advance with the rental agency.
Is Luggage Carrier available for Rent?
Most of the Royal Enfield’s available are equipped with it already. The luggage carrier along with the space for carrying Jerry cans is mounted on the motorcycles.
However, if you need an Enfield without the carrier, that is available too. If you are renting some other motorcycle and it does not have a luggage carrier, ask the mechanic if he can mount one or give you some other motorcycle.
Is there any paperwork involved while renting the motorcycle?
Yes, there is. The agent or the mechanic will have you sign a document that pretty much lays down the terms; for example, what happens if you crash or damage the motorcycle, etc. Please make sure that you pay close attention to these terms and clarify anything that you are not sure of.
What documents should you ask for along with the motorcycle?
Make sure the RC, Insurance documents, and pollution certificate is handed over to you along with the motorcycle. Check the dates carefully and ensure that all these documents are still valid and not expired.
Can I book a motorcycle in advance over the phone?
Yes, you can but you must not. The most important thing before renting the motorcycle is to test it and you will be deprived of this option if you book it in advance. The best thing would be to walk through the town, check out several options, the condition of the motorcycle, the costs involved, and then make a decision of where to rent it from.
How is the condition of the motorcycles?
It is never good is what I can say. The condition will differ from being OK to bad to even being pathetic which is why it is of utmost importance that you do not book in advance and inspect the motorcycle closely before paying the amount.
These motorcycles have been used by multiple people and always in the hilly region. Used is actually the wrong word, these motorcycles mostly get abused and hence the bad condition. From the engine to fuel efficiency, it will never be at par with a personally owned motorcycle.
What to check before renting the motorcycle?
I am not a mechanic myself but I will still list a few things about how to rent a bike in Manali. The first tip is that check how old the motorcycle is and how many kilometers are on the odometer. Try to find a motorcycle that is comparatively new, has been bought in the last couple of years, and has run lesser kilometers. Finding a new motorcycle is hard but not tough so if you find one go for it.
Check the condition of the chainset and ensure it is not worn out. If the motorcycle is an electric start, try bringing it to life a couple of times and ensure that it doesn’t cough or give trouble when you press the start switch. If it is kick start, ensure that there is no starting problem and the motorcycle is a single or at most two kicks start.
Check the condition of the tires if they are worn out. Sit down on the motorcycle to check that the seats are comfortable enough. Do a thorough inspection of the motorcycle for any oil leakage, either from the engine or front shock absorbers. Check that the headlamp is bright enough and get it replaced if it is not. Also, check the tail light and that both the indicators are in working condition.
Other Tips
Make sure that you are carrying some essential spares like clutch/accelerator/brake wires, headlamp, spare tubes, a toolkit, chain link, and spark plug, etc if you are going towards Ladakh or Spiti Valley. You must learn how to take off the wheel and change the tube in case of a flat tire. Any other basic mechanical knowledge too will be beneficial to learn little basic of bike repair like fixing a puncture, changing sparkplug, clutch/cable wire, headlamp, headlight, attaching chain link, etc.
The second thing you must do is to stay in Manali for a day and test the motorcycle. Take it towards Rohtang Pass and get an idea about how it performs on steep ascents and fuel efficiency. If there is a fix required, get it done immediately. If there is a fault too big or time-consuming for repair, dump the motorcycle and find another one.
My final advice would be that do not be tied down to a particular motorcycle, do not go with the mindset that you only have to rent an Enfield or a Pulsar. Rather look for a motorcycle which is in good running condition irrespective of which brand it is.
With all this said, another point to consider here would be that if you have a motorcycle of your own, transporting it to and from Manali would actually cost you less than going through the hassle of renting a motorcycle in Manali. Since it is your own motorcycle, you will always have trust in its capabilities and hence the peace of mind. Something to think about.
How to rent a Bike in Manali – Conclusion
I hope this information on how to rent a bike in Manali was helpful. If you have any further questions; or need any other details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum; and I will be glad to answer.
44 comments
Hi Vargis. Excellent blog, thanks!
Will it be an issue with Manali or Leh unions if I will rent bike in Delhi?
Hi Ivan – Not in Manalu but in Ladakh yes it will be
Hi Vargis, thanks for the article really helpful. I just wondering does the motorbike rental price will be different for local Indian and foreigner ? I’m from Indonesia and have a plan to explore Himachal Pradesh next year with motorbike. Appreciated for your reply.
Well done research, Vargis! A lot of useful information. I would like to know if you are familiar with any transport companies that will take my bike from Delhi up to Manali? And bring it back.
Once again, thank you for your input and response! God bless, brother!
Hi Stefan, Thank you for your kind words brother. I am sorry but I am not really familiar with any transport companies. Sorry. God Bless you !!
Salam vargis bhai,
Now after reading all the post and the comments my question is we are 2 ppl Md and my wife we want to travel from manali to ledhak and back to manali we are planning on August starting and trip duration is 9 days will there be lot of security checkups bocz of independence day or it will be normal and how will be the weather in August can we ride and last question can we put tent anywhere in between or its not safe please suggest me as I am traveling with 1 female.
And thanks for all your suggestions it was really great help
Walaikum as salam Ali Bhai,
1. Security – Yes there will be a lot of security at that time but towards Srinagar, not in Ladakh and Manali.
2. Weather – It is monsoon season so it will be raining cats and dogs.
3. Yes you can set up your own tent but do not do so in the middle of nowhere. Try camping near an existing camp site or near a dhaba. See the post below please.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/camping-in-ladakh-preparations-precautions/
Thank you very much for the promp reply bro i really appriciate your work and wish you to grow more and more in your work.
Thank you so much Ali Bhai. I wish you the same. God Bless you and your family.
Hi Vargis, Great Blog with complete information about renting. I am planning for Manali to Leh Trip. But I am confused that we should go with bike/car. Actually the reason is charges of dropping bike in Leh. Is there is any option that, we can get the bike with minimum dropping charges. Please let me know if there is any possiblity.
Hi Gaurav – Those dropping charges are pretty much the standard ones. Manali and Leh bike rental union are anyways always fighting with each other so its rare that anyone in Manali would agree to levy or reduce these charges.
Good article brother, this month last I am planning to come to manali. we are a group of two couple and one kid. I would like to explore manali in a rented scooter . Is scooters are available for rent there? can I visit rohtang valley and other places in scooter? please answer me, Thank you
Hi Jins, yes to both. You can rent scooter there and visit Rohtang on it.
Hi Vargis – This is great article, thanks for all the information. Your other articles on Leh is also awesome so detailed for someone who is coming for first time like me.
Me and my wife are planning to visit during July last week and August 1 week, (July 27th – August 9th) from bangalore. I am bit confused if i should get my own bike transported or hire one over there.
Also i ll share my itinerary with you pls let me know if it is feasible (sorry for asking you to be my consultant for tour :)) :
July 27th reaching delhi early morning and taking a bus to manali. Friday night i am expecting to reach manali stay there for a day.
on 29th morning i am planning to start for Leh from manali via road – Manali – rohtang pass – gramphu – kokhsar – sissu – tandi – keylong – jipsa – darcha- zingzingbar – baralacha la — bharapur – sarchu – pang – tanglang la – rumtse – upshi – leh , Stay at sarchu and then reach leh the next day.
Expecting to reach Leh by 31st evening. then spend 5 days (1st – 6th) there and ride to srinagar and couple of days in sri nagar. Fly back to banaglore on 10th. apppreciate if you can help.
Thanks
Kartik
Hi Kartik, Happy to help !!!
My first question would be how are you planning to travel from Manali to Leh and then Leh to Srinagar? Are you talking about renting a bike from Manali?
Yes, renting a bike or take my own bike from banaglore. If i am taking my own bike will there be any problem anywhere? I am planning ride from both manali to leh and leh to sri nagar.
Kartik Bhai in that case I will recommend that you bring your own bike. There will not be any problem as long as it is registered in your name. If you rent a bike from Manali, it will not be allowed in Ladakh. So you will reach Leh, and then will have to leave it parked at the hotel itself. Then you will rent another bike in Leh for sightseeing in Ladakh. Next problem will be that you then cannot go to Srinagar and will have to circle back to Manali to return the bike. If you leave it at Srinagar, then you will have to pay another 15000 for this.
Cool thanks bro ! One more clarification, I have heard the route is not safe from leh to Srinagar, how true is that?? Over all how is the roads from Manali to Srinagar?
First Vargis, great blog!
Do you have some recommendations to hire cab in Manali.
Hi Nitesh – Thanks brother but sorry I really do not have any known taxi operators in Manali
Hello vargis
We are planning following plan for leh in July
4th july- we catch 17:00 flight from Surat and reach Delhi , from Delhi we catch bus @11pm for Manali
5th july- reach Manali early morning , book hotel n relax , bike booking n team briefing
6th – Manali- kelong- jispa (130km)
7th- jispa – sarchu (90km)
8th – sarchu- leh (250km)
9th- relax in leh (magnatic hill, patarsagar guru dawara,etc)
10- leh khardungla pass – leh city (40km one side )
11- leh to pangong lake (170km)
12th- pangong to leh (170km)
13th- leh – sarchu (250km)
14th- sarchu – Manali (350km) reach Manali by 7pm , return bikes , and take taxi/bus to Delhi @11pm
15- reach Delhi airport catch flight for Surat @14:50 and reach home sweet home
Also plz guide whr to hire bike in Manali ??should we book in advance ??
Also plz tell if we hire bike from Manali are they allowed in leh , nubra,pangong ??
Hi Rohit – Your please looks good. For booking bikes in Manali, please contact Parvez at 9318646559. You can take the Manali bike all the way to Leh but for visiting Khardung La and Pangong, you will have to rent another local bike from Leh City
Hello Vargis,
I have been following your articles closely for some time now and I have a few questions which I hope you can help me with.
I am planning a trip from Manali to Srinagar. I wanted to know if I can rent a bike from Manali, use it to visit Leh, Nubra, Pangong, Tso moriri then proceed to Kargil & Srinagar.
If not, then what’s the best and cheapest alternative for me?
Thanks
Riju
Hi Riju – No you cannot use Manali rented bike for sightseeing in Ladakh. You can only use it to arrive at Leh from where you will have to rent another Leh registered bike. All this, you will also have to keep a room at any of the hotels so you can safely leave your Manali rented motorcycle parked there.
Cant we rent a bike without paying 10k security deposit? Could we get it in a lesser amount?
No for both. Security in all probability will be more than 10k.
Hello Vargis, thank you for all the information. It helps us a lot. We are group of 4 people planning to visit Leh coming June. We have 2 Yamaha FZS, 1 Pulsar 220 and 1 Apache 160.
We are planning to get our bikes to Chandigarh by train and then travel to Leh.
Is it possible to do so? Bikes are in OK condition.
Do we face any issue because we have bikes of Maharashtra passing?
Can we make it from Chandigarh to Leh and back to Chandigarh? We also want to visit Kargil. We can spend enough days in traveling.
Hello Hrishikesh,
Just get your bikes well serviced and ready for the trip and yes, you can definitely bring those to Ladakh. I am assuming that all bikes are registered in the name of people traveling, correct?
Hello. Great post. Thank you for it. I don’t have a driving licence for geared vehicles however I know to ride it. Will lit be a problem? Or is it ok if I have learner’s licence for geared vehicles?
They won’t rent out unless you have a permanent license for geared vehicles. For Learner’s, you can rent only if you have someone with a permanent license accompanying you.
Good job broo….first of all a big hats off bro….. If I am starting from manali today and I have reached leh in 3 days..whether it is safe to our body or it will shows side effect like AMS??…next is how much days does we want to spent in lehh for fully enjoy???
Hello Badshah – Thank you for your appreciating words. Yes, if you travel from Manali to Leh in 3 days, your body would have acclimatized properly. To explore Ladakh properly without any rush, give it at least 5-6 days there.
Hi vargis, could you clarify me that if I hire a bike in Chandigarh to ride thru Manali Leh and Srinagar and them back to Chandigarh. Will I have to problems with the union issue of bikes being stoped and not allowed to pass
Hi Arjun – You will not have any problem reaching Leh and coming back but they won’t let you use that bike for local sightseeing. For visiting places like Nubra valley and Pangong, you will need to rent another bike from Leh itself.
If I do not have learning licence in place of DL and want to rent a bike in manali it is possible to rent a bike ?? Or not ??
you do not have learning license in place of DL or you HAVE learning license?
Vargis Khan. Hello bro. I am planing a ladhak trip on 5may. 2017 to 13 may.. Leh to Leh.. Please suggest me iternity, Leh bike rental provider Name & no. With a low cost. good bike provider.
Hello Naved … I am a little confused. Leh to Leh? Are you asking for a bike rental in Leh to visit nearby areas? How are you reaching there?
Can you explain what happens if I ride a rented bike, not from Ladakh, on the roads throughout Ladakh? How will the locals know the bike wAs rented elsewhere? And what might they do?
I am not from India so bike rental is my only option but I was planning to get on bike for a months riding from Amritsar to manali via Srinagar and leh. How will this work while in Ladakh?
The easiest way to recognize such bike is by the registration number James. For local sight seeing, they only allow rented motorcycles that have Ladakh’s registration number on it. They have check posts at several places and will send you back to Leh and in some extreme situation, may even vandalize the motorcycle. Your best bet is to not take risk and rent another motorcycle in Leh. Leave the one you rented from Amritsar or Manali parked at the hotel.
Do you have any recommendations, any known reliable contacts in Manali?
You can try the following contacts.
1. Manali Bike Rental – Contact No 9816622344. Website – manalibikerental.com
2. Bike Rentals Manali – Contact No 9816044140. Website – bikerentalsmanali.com
3. Hardev Motors – Contact No 8262800005. Website – hardevmotors.com
4. Bike Hire Manali – Contact No 9418778899. Website – bikehiremanali.com
5. Manali Enfield Center – Contact No 9816003010. Website – manalienfieldcenter.com
Vargis, great blog! I am a group of 7 and essentially want to explore in the areas of Manali and Leh for about 10 days.
From the way the bike rental scheme is looking, I will need to have two rentals…
It seems my only option is to rent a One Way from Manali to Leh, then once I arrive in Leh, drop off the bike from Manali and get another bike in Leh. The one-way will be annoying because it seems all companies have a 7-8 day minimum, and the trip from Manali-Leh will not take that long. Do you have any other ideas? Essentially we need bikes for 10 days, some of us even longer…
Could another option be to purchase a bike in Manali, complete the trip and sell it when we finish? I was just in Vietnam, which is exploding with bike tourism. People are able to purchase second hand, big bikes, for as low as $200 USD and selling them at the end of their trip.
Actually you cannot rent from Manali anymore and take it to Leh. There is currently a dispute between the rental agencies in two cities because of which they are not letting bikes rented from Manali enter Ladakh and vice versa. Even if you bought a motorcycle from Manali, then too I am sure they will create trouble for you in Ladakh. Better option would be to rent/purchase from either Srinagar or Delhi.