I did one of the most extreme and adventurous rides to Hanle and Umling La in 2025. I felt breathless, not just because of the altitude, but because of the beauty. Umling La, the highest motorable pass in the world at an altitude of 19,024 feet. Here’s everything you need to know before you plan this ride.
Why Umling La is the Ultimate Adventure for Bike Riders
Leh Ladakh, Spiti Valley and Passes like Khardung La are dreams for many riders, but Umling La is not a regular pass— most riders never get to experience its beauty. It’s completely raw and remote, a true benchmark for real adventure. If offers silence, surreal beauty, and stunning views all around.
The Border Roads Organisation(BRO) constructed the roads to Umling La pass under Project Himank, which was completed in 2017. The oxygen level is less than 50% of sea level and makes breathing difficult, especially during any physical activity like riding, hiking, or even standing for long periods.
My Route from Leh to Umling La via Hanle (2025)
After reaching Leh, I spent a full day acclimatizing, as Leh itself is at a high altitude(11,500 ft.), and heading further without rest can be dangerous.
Leh ➝ Chumathang ➝ Nyoma (fuel available) ➝ Loma Checkpost (ILP submission) ➝ Hanle (overnight stay, stargazing, observatory) ➝ Photi La Pass (5,524 m) ➝ Umling La Top (5,798 m, the world’s highest motorable road), and then return the same way ➝ Hanle ➝ Nyoma ➝ Leh.
Day 1: Leh → Hanle(via Karu – Upshi – Nyoma)
The extreme ride started from Leh to Hanle on the first day, covering approximately 250-260 km via Chumathang route. The ride was scenic and calm, as it followed the Indus river before the terrain began to show the actual remoteness.
Day 2: Hanle→ Umling La Pass(Via Photi la) → Return to Hanle
This was the day i had been waiting for— to ride, test my endurance, and witness the journey towards highest motorable road, Umling La, standing tall at an altitude of 19,024 Feet. The distance from Hanle to Umling La Pass is approximately 80 km(one way) took me 2.5 hr. to reach the top. An unforgettable ride that i will carry with me for life.
Day 3: Hanle → Leh (Return)
The final day to say goodbye to the surreal beauty of Leh Ladakh, especially this remote region that feels like a different world. The distance from Hanle to Leh is 260 km, took 5-6 hours. to return to base with a lifetime of memories.
Important Things: Before You Ride to Hanle & Umling La (2025)
- Nyoma has a functional Indian Oil Petrol Pump, no fuel stations in Hanle, Umling La.
- You can experience Stargazing at Hanle, which is part of the India’s first Dark Sky Reserve.
- Make sure to carry multiple photocopies of ILP (Inner Line Permit) along with a Valid ID (Aadhar, DL, or Passport), as they may be required at various checkpoints.
Inner Line Permit(ILP)for Hanle & Umling La in 2025
In order to visit, Nyoma, Hanle, and Umlinlga La, every Indian traveler needs an Inner Line Permit (ILP). Without it, you will be stopped at multiple army check posts, especially at Loma, Mahe, and Hanle village entry. ILP is mandatory for all Indian citizens visiting restricted areas in Ladakh
- You can apply online for ILP on the official website, Pay ₹560 per person, and download the permit, and carry 5-6 physical printouts.
- You can apply offline by visiting the District Magistrate’s Office in Leh with 2 passport-size photos and 2 photocopies of government ID.
Please note: Apply 3–5 days in advance to avoid any delays and Ensure your Umling La sector is ticked.
Road Conditions – Hanle to Umling La(2025)
The road conditions from Hanle to Umling La are both challenging and rewarding, often described as a true off-road adventure. You can expect long stretches of dirt, sand and mixed terrain, consists of rough and smooth patches of tarmac.
- Weather: Can be unpredictable with sudden temperature drops and strong winds.
- Difficulty: Challenging due to steep ascents, loose rocks, and narrow sections.
- Elevation: Starts at ~14,700 ft in Hanle and climbs to 19,024 ft at Umling La Pass.
- Amenities: No fuel stations, food, or rest stops along the way; carry sufficient supplies.
Safety Tips/Health Advisory: 2025
- Start early morning to return safely to Hanle before dark.
- Watch for altitude symptoms even while riding — the road gains height quickly
- Don’t stop too long at Umling La Top — wind chill + low oxygen can be dangerous
While applying for the permit on the official Leh site, this advisory popped up — it clearly mentioned things like taking Diamox, resting for 48 hours in Leh, and avoiding physical activity before heading further.
I finally completed my long-awaited and most adventorous bike ride from Leh to Umling La via Nyoma and Hanle. It’s a journey that truly tests your limits and rewards you with the surreal beauty of a world that feels completely different. The roads are well-constructed for such a remote region, thanks to the BRO(Border Roads Organisation). Despite the oxygen drop and the physical strain, what stays with you is the untouched, raw beauty. This isn’t a another high-altitude — it’s one of the India’s wild places, where you feel small in nature’s vast beauty.
This was my real experience — raw, unforgettable, and fully documented for fellow Indian travelers on TopTravelJourneys.com.