14-Day Srinagar To Manali Bike Trip - Including Hanle

Essential Trip Notes

1. Acclimatization
Altitude sickness is the biggest risk on this route. Day 4 in Leh is a mandatory rest day. Do not skip it. High-altitude locations:
Leh: ~11,500 ft
Khardung La: ~17,982 ft
Hanle: ~14,760 ft
Sarchu: ~14,000 ft

2. Inner Line Permits (ILP)
An ILP is mandatory for Indian citizens to visit protected areas like Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri, and Hanle.
When to Apply: Apply immediately upon arrival or during your rest day (Day 4) in Leh.
Where to Apply: You can apply online through the official Leh district tourism website or offline at the DC office in Leh.
Crucial: Ensure your permit explicitly lists Hanle, Tso Moriri, Nubra, and Pangong. Carry 10-15 photocopies of the permit and your ID proof for checkpoints.

3. Fuel and Supplies
Srinagar to Leh: Fuel is readily available.
Leh: Tank up completely.
Leh to Hanle Loop: Fuel is scarce. The last reliable pump after Leh is at Karu. You must carry extra fuel (jerrycans recommended) for the entire Nubra-Pangong-Hanle-Tso Moriri circuit, as you will not find another pump until Karu again or Keylong (after crossing the high passes).

4. Road Conditions
Best Time to Travel: July to September is the ideal window, as snow clearance is complete and the monsoon effect in Ladakh is minimal (though Kashmir/Himachal may receive rain).
Zoji La Pass (Day 2): Can be extremely muddy and challenging.
Shyok Route (Day 6): Water crossings are common, especially in the afternoon.
Hanle Road: Mostly well-paved now but extremely remote with little traffic or cell reception.

5. Accommodation
Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, Manali, Keylong/Jispa: Hotels and guesthouses are available.
Hunder, Pangong, Hanle, Tso Moriri, Sarchu: Accommodation will be limited to local homestays