Top Places to Explore on a Rented Bike in Leh

 Bikers, there's no better way to explore the magical landscape of Ladakh than on a bike rental in Ladakh. Winding roads slice through barren mountains, crystal clear blue lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and ancient Tibetan monasteries peeping from hilltops - Leh offers exciting sights around every bend.

Having rented Royal Enfields and toured the region multiple times, let me share my pick of top spots near Leh that make for epic bike rides. Whether you get a bike on rent in Leh through agencies like Rentnhop or bring your own set of wheels, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to bike trips here.

1. Pangong Lake

Nestled at 14,000 feet, the glittering blue expanse of Pangong stretching till Tibet is easily Leh's number one biking adventure. Ride 145 km from Leh passing deep gorges and Chang La - one of the highest mountain passes in the world at 17,600 feet. Spend a night camping under a million stars reflecting on Pangong's crystal clear waters for an experience of a lifetime. Nothing beats sunrises and sunsets from Pangong on your bike.

2. Nubra Valley

Crossing Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world at 18,350 feet, to reach the pristine Nubra Valley is a thrilling bike challenge. The starkly beautiful landscapes around Hunder dunes and monasteries like Diskit and Sumur make it worth the rough ride. Don't forget to indulge in a camel safari and some local Ladakhi hospitality in Nubra to get the most out of your biking adventure with your bike on rent in Ladakh. 

3. Tso Moriri Lake

The route from Leh towards Tso Moriri crossing Taglang La pass is breathtaking as the landscape changes from barren cliffs to lush green meadows. Spend a night by Tso Moriri to fully soak in the serene beauty of this high-altitude lake tucked away in the remotest Ladakh. Watch the sun cast its golden glow on the surrounding snow-clad peaks from the lake's rocky shores.

4. Sham Valley

For scenic monasteries interspersed with villages surrounded by green fields and apricot orchards, head to Sham Valley about 40km from Leh towards Likir. Some of the oldest monasteries around Leh like Likir, Yangthang, and Hemis Shukpachan dating back centuries are found dotting this picturesque valley, making it perfect for a peaceful one-day bike trip.

5. Khardung La Pass

Famed as one of the world's highest motorable mountain passes, no Leh bike trip is complete without attempting to ride up to Khardung La Pass at 18,380 feet. Treat yourself to piping hot noodles and tea at one of the cafes at the top to celebrate your biking achievement. The route crossing South Pullu and North Pullu camps en route gives stunning valley views.

6. Magnetic Hill

Ride 25km from Leh to discover one of its most mind-boggling mysteries at Magnetic Hill. Watch your parked vehicle roll uphill defying gravity! The optical illusion is attributed to the hill's magnetic properties. Make your bike stand still on the 'magnetic road' to experience this natural phenomenon that will leave you stunned.

7. Alchi

Ride 65km down the Indus River to view ancient Buddhist wall paintings at Alchi Monastery dating back to the 11th century. Out of over 100 ancient monasteries in Ladakh, Alchi's preserved artworks make it historically and culturally significant. Spend time decoding stories depicted in the Indo-Himalayan murals.

8. Nimmu

Picnic amidst sprawling fruit orchards around Nimmu village just 10km from Leh. The green oasis surrounded by craggy mountains is perfect for cycling, angling in the Indus River, or sampling fresh local produce. The village's ancient fort ruins on the river bank add historic charm.

Conclusion

So set out on the ride of a lifetime exploring many wonders on bike rental in Ladakh. Each twist and turn reveals Ladakh's distinctive raw beauty. Buckle up and let those dreamy mountain trails leading into the clouds call out to the biker in you! The Land of High Passes awaits.