Taking a Leh to Changthang bike trip in 2025 is the ultimate adventure for nature lovers and thrill seekers. Changthang bike trip offers views of stunning vistas including scenic high-altitude lakes, breathtaking landscapes, and a taste of Ladakh’s unique culture.
Whether you are a seasoned rider or planning your first Himalayan adventure, with our Leh Ladakh bike trip packages, you will definitely have a smooth and hassle free experience. From choosing the best route, to travelling at the right time, and covering most of the iconic spots, with us you don't need to worry about anything.
Further, if you have plans to go solo, as couples, or with your family, our Leh Ladakh tour packages are expertly designed to cater every type of traveller and travel style.
Leh to Changthang Bike Trip: Quick Overview
The Leh to Changthang bike trip is one of the most challenging yet scenic journeys in Ladakh. The Changthang Plateau is popular for its turquoise lakes, nomadic culture, and vast grasslands, it is a not to be missed spot for any traveller seeking a true Changthang biking adventure. This journey is full of remote villages, high mountain passes, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Ladakh.
On a Leh to Changthang bike trip, prepare yourself for a wild and raw Himalayan escapade. Changthang region is home to some of the offbeat places like Karzok Village, Tso Moriri Lake, Tso Kar, Chumur Village, Hanle Village, and Chumathang. Each destination here offers a unique glimpse into Ladakh’s untouched beauty, making it a top choice for those seeking unexplored bike routes in Ladakh.
The terrain of Changthang region varies with every turn, from dry, rugged highlands to cold desert valleys and surreal lakeside stretches. The altitudes here are as high as 14,000 ft, so it is essential to acclimatise properly before starting your Leh Ladakh bike trip. Also, for a safe and smooth travel, make sure to carry extra fuel, first aid kit, safety gears, enough water, dry food items, due to limited amenities in this region.
What is the Best Time to Visit Changthang Region by Bike?
Now if you are wondering what is the best time to visit Changthang region by bike, then here’s your answer:
- June to September: This is the best time for a Changthang bike trip as at this time the roads are open, weather is pleasant, and the landscape is at its finest, with most of the adventure activities being operational in full swing. The time is ideal for a comfortable bike ride as temperatures range between 15-30 degree celsius.
- July-August: This is the peak season and at this time you will definitely get crowded spots. This is also the time of rain showers in Ladakh that could make the roads slippery and prone to landslides, therefore you need to be cautious and carry proper rain gear.
- December to February: At this time, most of the region is covered with snow, with chances of avalanches and unpredictable weather conditions. It is risky to travel to Ladakh at this time and it is suggested to avoid the Ladakh bike ride journey in winters.
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What is the Best Route for Exploring Changthang on Bike?
Here is the best route for exploring Changthang on bike, this route is a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Route: Leh- Chumathang- Mahe Bridge- Sumdo- Namshang La- Kiagar Tso- Korzok (Tso Moriri)- Chumur- Puga- Tso Kar- Leh
- Distance: 250 km approximately
- Travel Time: 7-8 hours (one way)
- Highlights: Chumathang Hot Springs, Tso Moriri Lake, Tso Kar Lake, Remote Villages & Dramatic Himalayan Vistas
Pro-Tip: It is generally advised to plan your trip for multiple days in order to deal with acute mountain sickness and explore the region at a relaxed pace.
Top 8 Places to Visit on a Bike Trip to Changthang Ladakh
Amongst places to visit in Ladakh, here are the top places to visit on a bike trip to Changthang Ladakh:
1. Tso Moriri (Korzok Village):
Tso Moriri is a high altitude lake located in Korzok Village, surrounded by snow capped mountains and stunning reflections of the mountains, is home to a lot of migratory birds and unique wildlife species.
The lake is situated at a height of 4,500 meters above sea level and lies within the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve. The village nearby the river is inhabited by Changpa nomads, who offer visitors a cultural glimpse into their lifestyle. The lake is considered sacred by locals.
- Location: Korzok Village, Changthang, 220 km southeast of Leh
- Things To Do: Birdwatching, Visit Korzok Monastery, Camping, Interact with Changpa Nomads
- Why Visit? It is India’s largest high altitude lake, known for its spiritual atmosphere and pristine beauty
A small village, known for its natural hot springs that flow alongside the Indus River. The spot has sulphur rich waters that have medicinal properties. This offbeat gem is perfect for bike riders who are heading towards Hanle or Tso Moriri.
When in Chumathang, do taste local food in Leh Ladakh at local eateries and modest guesthouses that offer a warm break from the cold, and take a bath in springs or indulge in indoor hot springs baths and do not forget to capture the scenic beauty of Chumathang.
- Location: On the Leh-Tso Moriri route, 140 km from Leh
- Things To Do: Dip in Hot Springs, Taste Ladakhi Cuisine, Enjoy a Riverside Meal
- Why Visit? Ideal for therapeutic break with scenic views and natural warmth
Hanle is one of the remotest villages in Ladakh and can be covered during biking in Changthang. It is home to the world’s highest Indian Astronomical Observatory. Due to less pollution here, the spot is best for stargazing in Ladakh and astrophotography, it is a paradise for nature lovers.
Hanle is a peaceful settlement where travellers can experience clear night skies, local hospitality, and calm desert landscapes. The village also has a beautiful Hanle Monastery, which was established in the 17th century.
- Location: 225 km from Leh, via Nyoma and Loma Bend (permit required to travel)
- Things To Do: Visit the Hanle Observatory, Stargazing, Exploring the Barren Terrain
- Why Visit? Offers the best skies in India for astronomy and is an offbeat spot for remote travellers.
4. Tso Kar (Rupshu Valley):
Tso Kar, also called the White Lake, is a saltwater lake situated in the Rupshu Valley. It is less visited in comparison to Tso Moriri, therefore it has untouched and unmatched solitude and raw Himalayan landscapes.
Tso Kar is part of a high altitude wetland ecosystem that supports a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and Tibetan wild asses (kiangs). The salt rimmed and stark shoreline, offers a surreal experience.
- Location: Rupshu Valley, 153 km from Leh
- Things To Do: Photography, Wildlife Spotting, Camping, Nature Walks
- Why Visit? Offbeat & photogenic, ideal for solitude seekers
Puga Valley is a geothermal hotspot located near Tso Kar, it is popular for its mud pools, sulfur springs, borax deposits, and steam vents, creating a unique landscape just like the planet Mars. The valley is part of the energy exploration and offers a dramatic natural setting.
Despite being remote, it draws visitors with its visual uniqueness and scientific importance. Tourists visit here from all over the world to treat skin ailments and problems like rheumatism. Puga Valley is also home to unique wildlife species such as the Tibetan wild ass (kiangs), marmots, and diverse bird species.
- Location: Between Tso Kar and Tso Moriri
- Things To Do: Photography, Explore Geothermal Springs, Witness Unique Wildlife
- Why Visit? Ideal for offbeat explorers, one of a kind landscape that must be witnessed
Amongst monasteries to visit on Ladakh bike trip, when biking in Changthang, you can visit Korzok Monastery which is situated above Tso Moriri Lake, this monastery belongs to the Drukpa lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. It is a 300 years old site and sits at one of the highest altitudes for a monastery in India.
The monastery is visited by travellers and pilgrims to observe Buddhist rituals, engage with Changpa tribe, and to admire its location. Bikers on Ladakh bike trips often stop here for a spiritual break when heading ahead through Changthang.
- Location: Korzok Village, above Tso Moriri
- Things To Do: Attend Morning Prayers, Enjoy Lake Views, and Interact with Monks
- Why Visit? Spiritual and cultural landmarks on the shores of Tso Moriri
Amongst lakes to visit on Ladakh bike trip, another lake that you can cover during Leh to Changthang bike trip is Kyagar Tso, which is a small but stunning high altitude lake that lies near Sumdo, en route to Tso Moriri. The lake is surrounded by open plains where pashmina goats and yaks graze.
The best part of visiting this lake is that it provides a peaceful aura and is rarely crowded, making it a great stop for a small break. Kiagar Tso also offers a dramatic view of blue water contrasted against dry brown mountains.
- Location: Near Sumdo, between Tso Moriri & Mahe
- Things To Do: Photography, Wildlife Spotting, Sightseeing
- Why Visit? Perfect for a peaceful retreat, unspoiled and untouched
Another spot that you can cover during the Changthang bike trip is the Chumur Village. It is a remote village situated in Ladakh, close to India-China border, it requires a permit to travel due to its strategic location.
The village features Chumur Monastery, which is home to rare murals and scriptures, and comes under the stronghold of Changpa nomads. The region is politically and historically significant, and its untouched beauty preserves its authenticity.
- Location: Southeast of Tsi Moriri, near the LAC (permit required)
- Things To Do: Visit Chumur Monastery, Explore Nomadic Trails
- Why Visit? Highly offbeat, rarely visited spiritual and cultural site
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Your Ultimate Changthang Biking Journey with WanderOn
Therefore, a Leh to Changthang bike trip is a perfect blend of adventure, solitude, and natural beauty. From the calm waters of Tso Moriri and Tso Kar to the offbeat charm of Chumthang, Puga Valley and interesting spots like Hanle, every stop on this journey offers something unique.
The terrain is highly challenging full of high altitudes and limited amenities, therefore it is essential to acclimatise well. And with WanderOn by your side, you’ll cover this offbeat route with expert guidance, local insights, and full support that will make your overall experience smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
So get ready and gear up for your ultimate Ladakh adventure, and witness untouched Himalayan wonders.
