Why is Leh the favourite destination for bikers?

1. Why is Leh the favourite destination for bikers? (Read at your own risk. You may end up planning a road trip) Seeking answers in words is impractical. Words fall short of an explanation, and we’re sure, all our fellow riders will agree. Bike riders spend months reading and getting to know about travels to this desirable destination, but at the end, Leh always ends up surprising them. In short, the answers lie on the roads. If you need an answer, just take out your backpack - refuel your motorbike - roll down your helmet glass – smile - and VROOM. Ladakh is the highest cold desert in the world. Spectacular mountains enfold this magical erstwhile Buddhist kingdom. Picture-perfect monasteries dramatically crown rocky outcrops, and colourful prayer flags splutter and spread their spiritual message with the mountain breeze. It is one of the last undiscovered destinations; an adventure to feed the soul. That is why people call it ‘heaven on earth’. | www.trailsofindia.com | info@trailsofindia.com |

2. There is a lot to talk about Ladakh, but what excites bikers most is the journey. Riding at a staggering altitude of 18,000 feet is at once punishing and rewarding. From rusty terrains to sapphire lakes to peaceful outbacks, anything and everything out there, makes you revisit your fantasy turn it into a reality. In a conversation with one of the riders of Trails Of India, we found out that bikers are also moved by the serenity and people of Leh. He added that you will never find such humble, obliging, and happy people anywhere else in the world. They love to meet riders, cook Tibetan food for them, and spend time talking about other parts of India. While in Leh, you can also head to Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, War Museum, Sankar Gompa, Stok Palace, and the Victory Tower. What you can’t afford to miss is the Pangong Lake. Roughly 170 kilometres from Leh, Pangong is a real piece of beauty and the best part of Ladakh’s humbling landscape. In fact, not many people know that the Pangong Lake changes colours with every hour and turns from emerald-green colour to velvet blue, to complement the varying hues of the sky. | www.trailsofindia.com | info@trailsofindia.com |

3. If you’re a nature lover, do spend some time in Nubra Valley, which is known for its beautiful flora and fauna. Also, visit Hunder – the famous desert area, and Panamik – house of natural hot springs in Leh- Ladakh. For a glimpse of art and culture, you can take a halt at Hemis Monastery and the Lamayuru Monastery. Here are some tips from riders who have already been on a road trip to Leh. Research the routes and the places you want to visit. Biker stories on www.trailsofindia.com can be a big help. Check Ladakh’s festival calendar before finalising your dates. The festivals give a glimpse of Ladakh’s beauty and its happy people. Try staying at guest houses, tents, and homes of local people to learn about the true culture of Leh. Keep a lot of Diamox with you. It’s a medicine for altitude sickness. (Do consult with a doctor) Hydrate yourself with glucose or energy drinks, and eat lots of energy bars. If you are planning your first trip to Leh, it’s good to have a chat with experienced riders. Drop in and drop a line on ‘The Junction’ section of Trails Of India. Source: http://bit.ly/2cVN9MP | www.trailsofindia.com | info@trailsofindia.com |