How Many Days Are Needed to Cover the Main Himalayan Passes?
Riding through the Himalayas means crossing some of the world’s highest and most dramatic mountain passes. These routes connect valleys, deserts, lakes, and ancient villages, making them the heart of every Himalayan motorcycle journey. But the biggest question for most riders sk is, How many days are sufficient to cover the main Himalayan passes safely and comfortably? The answer depends on altitude, distance, weather, and which passes you want to include. This guide breaks down the planning with clear steps based on real travel routes.
1. What Counts as “Main Himalayan Passes”?
Most riders focus going on these high passes:
- Rohtang Pass
- Baralacha La
- Nakee La
- Lachung La
- Tanglang La
- Khardung La
- Chang La
- Zoji La
- Umling La (World’s Highest Motorable Pass)
Covering all of these means you’re doing the classic Manali-Leh-Nubra-Pangong-Srinagar circuit, plus a special detour to Umling La. This is the same route followed in popular travel plans, including an Epic Himalayas Motorbike Tour.
2. How Many Days Needed to Cover Each Pass
Rohtang Pass
1 day (Manali → Rohtang → Keylong)
Baralacha La
1 day (Keylong → Sarchu)
Nakee La + Lachung La
1 combined day (Sarchu → Pang)
Tanglang La
1 day (Pang → Leh)
Khardung La
1 day (Leh → Khardung La → Leh)
Chang La
1 day (Leh → Chang La → Pangong)
Zoji La
1 day (Drass → Sonmarg)
Umling La (5,883 m)
2 days (Leh → Hanle → Umling La → Hanle)
3. What is the Total Ideal Duration?
If your goal is to cover the major Himalayan passes, including Umling La, then:
You need 10 to 14 days.
This is the most accurate and practical duration for a complete high-altitude motorcycle route.
- Minimum for experienced riders: 10 days
- Comfortable duration: 12 days
- Relaxed pace with extra rest days: 14 days
This duration is also what many travellers follow during a Ladakh Motorbike Trip, as it balances safety and enjoyment.
4. Suggested Route Breakdown
Day 1–2: Manali → Rohtang → Keylong → Jispa
Covers: Rohtang Pass
Day 3: Jispa → Baralacha La → Sarchu
Covers: Baralacha La
Day 4: Sarchu → Nakee La → Lachung La → Pang
Covers: Both passes
Day 5: Pang → Tanglang La → Leh
Covers: Tanglang La
Day 6: Rest & Local Leh Exploration
Mandatory for altitude adjustment
Day 7: Leh → Khardung La → Leh
Covers: Khardung La
Day 8: Leh → Chang La → Pangong
Covers: Chang La
Day 9–10: Pangong → Hanle → Umling La
Covers: Umling La
Day 11–12: Hanle → Leh → Kargil → Zoji La
Covers: Zoji La
Total: 11 to 12 days on average.
5. Factors That Increase or Reduce Days
Many factors can reduce or increase your trip duration, so here is a simple breakdown:
Can reduce days if:
- You skip Pangong or Nubra.
- You skip Umling La.
- You ride for long hours daily.
Need more days if:
- Weather closes passes.
- You need acclimatization.
- You prefer shorter riding hours.
- Bad weather conditions
6. Most Important Tips for Covering Many Passes
- Keep 2 buffer days for weather or roadblocks.
- Stay hydrated; altitude causes dehydration fast.
- Never rush through high-altitude passes.
- Always check road conditions before starting your ride.
- Carry basic tools and extra fuel on remote stretches.
- Avoid overloading your motorbike.
- Start your ride early morning every day.
Conclusion
To cover the main Himalayan passes, including Umling La, you need 10 to 14 days depending on your pace, weather, and route. This duration gives enough time to experience every major high-altitude passes safely while enjoying the true beauty of the mountains. These major Himalayan passes will make your India motorbike tour truly unforgettable.
