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Leh to Umling La

Conquer what was once the world's highest motorable road at 19,024 ft (now surpassed by Mig La Pass at 19,400 ft) on this adrenaline-pumping solo expedition. Ride through the raw Changthang desert from Leh to Hanle, passing hot springs and observatories before the ultimate summit push. This 3-day challenge offers stark Himalayan beauty and a significant badge of honor for any motorcyclist.

✓ Verified Route

Verified on: 13 March 2026
Verified by: Partner
Status: Active
Roads: RoughAdvanced Only

Day 1: Leh → Hanle

📍 255 km⏱️ 7-8 hours

7:00 AM - Start from Leh

Fuel up FULL at the Indian Oil pump near Choglamsar. This is the last reliable pump. Carry 10-15L extra in jerry cans.

0 km

8:30 AM - Breakfast at Upshi

Stop at a roadside dhaba in Upshi. Submit permit copies at the checkpost here.

47 km

12:30 PM - Lunch at Chumathang Hot Springs

Witness steam rising from the Indus riverbank. Simple lunch at local dhabas (Maggi/Thukpa).

138 km

3:00 PM - Loma Bridge Checkpost

Cross the Indus River at Loma. Left goes to Hanle, Right to Demchok. Strict permit check.

190 km

⚠️ Do not photograph military installations.

5:30 PM - Arrive in Hanle

Check into a homestay (Padma or Sonam). Visit the Hanle Observatory for night sky viewing if permits allow.

255 km

Day 2: Hanle → Umling La → Hanle

📍 150 km⏱️ 5-6 hours

8:00 AM - Start Ascent

Leave extra luggage at homestay. Carry oxygen cylinder and warm layers. Ride towards Photi La.

0 km

11:00 AM - Summit Umling La (19,024 ft)

The World's Highest Motorable Road. Take photos at the yellow BRO signboard. Do not stay more than 20 mins due to low oxygen.

75 km

⚠️ Oxygen levels are 50% of sea level. Descend immediately if feeling dizzy.

2:00 PM - Return to Hanle

Ride back via the same route or the Chisumle-Nurbula loop if open. Lunch at homestay.

150 km

4:00 PM - Hanle Monastery

Evening visit to the 17th-century monastery offering panoramic views of the Hanle wetlands.

155 km

Day 3: Hanle → Leh

📍 255 km⏱️ 7-8 hours

7:00 AM - Departure

Early start to reach Leh before evening traffic. Purchase black fuel in Hanle if tank is low.

0 km

11:00 AM - Nyoma Stop

Quick tea break at Nyoma market. Explore the small monastery if time permits.

80 km

2:00 PM - Lunch at Karu

Late lunch at Karu. Refuel at the petrol pump here.

220 km

4:30 PM - Reach Leh

End of trip. Celebrate with a meal at The Tibetan Kitchen on Fort Road.

255 km

💰 Cost Breakdown

Fuel2000
Accommodation₹1,500 - ₹3,500
Food₹800 - ₹1,500
Activities₹200 - ₹500
Estimated Total₹4,500 - ₹7,500

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