Enjoying the autumn scenery in Ladakh at leisure on a Himalayan motorbike.

Hoang Thuy Duong (Duong Duong Blog) recently completed a 10-day trip conquering the "Little Tibet" region on her Himalayan motorbike. Ladakh, located in the Jammu and Kashmir state of India, is known as the beautiful "Little Tibet" of India. With its vast desert landscapes and numerous snow-capped mountains, Leh Ladakh is not just for those who enjoy relaxation, but an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Ladakh is often described as "the end of the world." For Thuy Duong, it's a land of unique "natural wonders" with diverse landscapes. Not only does it boast a breathtakingly beautiful, icy desert, but Ladakh also features lush green meadows, tranquil lakes, and picturesque valleys. The winding mountain passes, traversing snow-capped hills, sometimes present a surreal and breathtaking scene.

“Such breathtaking natural scenery can only be fully appreciated and enjoyed with all your senses by motorbike. Without a motorbike, you can't experience the crisp air, the towering clouds overhead, the echoing sounds of the mountains and forests, the winding road behind you, and the rolling valleys on either side. My hands felt numb from the cool, dry wind characteristic of Ladakh's weather, my face tinged with a tingling sensation, but I experienced it all. It was incredibly authentic and exciting!” Thùy Dương recounted.

The feeling of being able to relax on the roads amidst the Himalayan mountains, listening to the whispers of rivers and streams, the tinkling of bells at sunset while riding a camel in Hundar. Prayers for peace from ancient temples, the Lungta flag fluttering in the wind atop the Khardung La pass, conversations with the simple, genuine people of Ladakh. Together, braving the sun, wind, and desert sandstorms, then returning to enjoy a warm bowl of soup, waking up early the next morning to the call of "let's go!" eagerly anticipating a new journey… All of this is what truly impressed Thuy Duong about Ladakh.

Ladakh not only stirs hearts with its longing for freedom but also connects dreamy souls, fulfilling their passion for adventure. Whether you choose a motorbike or a car, this is truly an experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.

In Ladakh, Thuy Duong suggests countless experiences worth trying. Visit the system of ancient monasteries, hundreds of years old, such as Thiksey, Chemrey, and Hemis. Chat with monks and explore the Tantric Buddhist culture. Or conquer the Khardung La and Changla passes – among the highest passes in the world – by motorbike.

You can also go on a camel ride adventure in Nubra Valley and try archery in Hundar. Next, you can spend the night at Pangong Lake – the world's highest freshwater lake – and enjoy a campfire and dance to Ladakh music in the -10°C cold. And a must-try experience is enjoying tree-ripened apples in Leh and Hundar, or savoring the incredibly delicious Ladakh ginger milk tea.

Tips for exploring Ladakh by motorbike

The bikes Thuy Duong used were RE Himalayan 411cc, a popular choice, or similar models like the Classic 350/500cc. Since it was a tour, the experienced leader selected bikes for each member. During the trip, there was a local driver and a mechanic accompanying the group. The bikes were relatively new and carefully selected by the leader, ensuring a safe and trouble-free journey.

Throughout her trip to Ladakh, Thuy Duong emphasized that tourists should take altitude sickness medication before boarding their flight in Vietnam. They should prepare warm clothing, good protection for their hands and feet, and pay attention to keeping their nose, mouth, and neck warm, as the cold, dry air can easily cause runny noses and nosebleeds. Those with respiratory, blood pressure, or cardiovascular problems should consult a doctor before traveling.

Furthermore, this is not a relaxing vacation; you need to be in good health and learn the skills of walking and riding a motorbike long distances to have the most convenient and fulfilling trip.

In addition, the food in Ladakh is quite spicy, hot, and greasy, which may not be suitable for people with a history of stomach problems or sensitive stomachs, so tourists should bring canned food from Vietnam as a precaution. Prepare medicine from Vietnam as some essential medications may not be available in India, especially on trips to remote areas.

“Ten days and nine nights exploring Ladakh on a legendary Himalayan motorbike with a 360-degree view gave me a completely different experience. Not only was I immersed in the natural scenery and tranquil villages, but I also discovered a mysterious and wonderful spiritual world. Ladakh isn't as scary as people think. Coming and experiencing it is the key to understanding a culture with a history spanning hundreds of years and a unique religious culture. The people here are simple, down-to-earth, and friendly, just like the purity of nature itself,” Hoàng Thùy Dương shared her impressions of the trip.

Hoang Thuy Duong's 10-day, 9-night itinerary exploring Ladakh:

Day 1: Hanoi - Delhi

Day 2: Delhi

Day 3: Visiting Leh

Day 4: Leh - Khardung La - Diskit (Nubra Valley)

Day 5: Diskit – Hundar – Turtuk – Diskit

Day 6: Diskit – Shyok valley – Pangong Tso

Day 7: Pangong – Changla – Karu – Leh

Day 8: Relax in Leh

Day 9: Leh – Delhi

Day 10: Vietnam

Phuong Thao is an editor at Travellive magazine. She is passionate about traveling and enjoys capturing moments with her camera in every place she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are Phuong Thao's favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao - Photos: Duong Duong Blog, Letu Adventure