Timing matters a lot when you’re riding to Umling La, a Guinness-certified record (2021). Umling La sits at 5,798 m (about 19,022 ft) in eastern Ladakh, and the weather, road conditions and temperatures change a lot through the season. This guide explains the best time to ride Umling La on a motorcycle and how to choose your month as an Australian rider. Whichever month you pick, every rider who rides Umling La, on any of our five tours, receives an Umling La completion certificate.
We’re D’Himalayan Riders, an Australian-led Himalayan motorcycle tour company based in Melbourne, VIC.
The riding season
The high passes of Ladakh are only open for part of the year. Our 2027 season runs from May to September, while the passes are open and the roads are rideable. Outside these months, snow closes the high roads and temperatures drop well below freezing.
At Umling La it can be cold on any day of the year. Even in mid-summer, expect strong wind and near-freezing temperatures at the top, so pack proper layers whatever month you ride. A good thermal base layer, a warm mid-layer and windproof glove liners make the summit far more enjoyable.
Early season: May and June
Early season brings the most snow on the peaks, which makes for spectacular photos. Mornings are cold and some higher roads can still have snow or meltwater, so conditions can change quickly. For Australians, it’s also a nice escape from the start of winter at home.
Mid-season: July and August
Mid-season has the warmest valley days in Ladakh, which makes the long days in the saddle more comfortable. Snowmelt can raise water crossings, especially in the afternoon, and the monsoon affects other parts of India at this time. Ladakh sits in a rain shadow, so it stays much drier, but the roads into the region can still be affected by weather elsewhere.
Late season: September
Late season tends to bring clear skies, crisp air and cooler nights. Many riders love the light and the quieter roads. Temperatures at the top drop further as autumn arrives, so warm layers become even more important.
So when is the best time?
There’s no single best month. It depends on what you want:
- For snow-capped scenery: early season.
- For the warmest days: mid-season.
- For clear skies and quieter roads: late season.
Our Umling La Extreme Ride runs across the season, so you can pick a departure that suits your leave and your preference.
Planning from Australia
Fly from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Perth to Delhi, then connect to Leh. Airport transfers are included, so we’ll meet you on arrival. Most riders connect through Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, and it’s worth arriving a day early if your connection is tight. Book flights early for the best fares, as prices rise quickly for peak months and make sure your travel insurance covers motorcycle riding at high altitude (up to 5,798 m) and medical evacuation.
Whatever the month, the tour starts with a rest and acclimatisation day in Leh. Our backup car carries oxygen support and first aid, and Inner Line Permits for eastern Ladakh are arranged for every rider as part of the tour.
What’s included
- Motorcycle (Royal Enfield Himalayan series)
- Riding gear (helmet, gloves and jacket)
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- One backup car with mechanic
- One luggage car
- Bike fuel
- Meals
- Oxygen support
- Inner Line Permits
Not included: international and domestic flights, travel insurance and riding boots.
For more on the route, altitude and permits, read our Umling La motorcycle tour guide for Australian riders.
Pick your month, ride Umling La, and take home your Umling La completion certificate.
Ready to ride Umling La?
The Umling La Extreme Ride is 14 days from Leh, from AUD $3,935 solo rider or AUD $3,364 twin-share, per person. A tour needs a minimum of 5 riders to run. To thank our early supporters, we’re running a First Riders Offer: 10% off with the code FIRSTRIDERS10 for bookings made by 31 January 2027.
Questions? Get in touch with our Melbourne team:
- Email: booking@dhimalayanriders.com.au
- WhatsApp: +61 452 337 260
Julley – see you in the mountains.
More planning guides: Riding Ladakh in 2027 · 2027 tour costs in AUD · All tours
