A Ride to Umling La, Ladakh – The World’s Highest Motorable Road on a 110cc Scooter (TVS Jupiter), Solo
Ride to Umling La — the highest motorable road in the world at 19,024 ft — is a dream for many adventurers. While most attempt it on RE Himalayans or ADV bikes, I set out on a journey that many would call “impossible” — solo on my 110cc TVS Jupiter, lovingly called Dhanno.
This is not just a travel story. It’s a testimony to determination, grit, and what happens when passion meets the Himalayas.
Route Taken
Start Point: Delhi
Route: Delhi → Manali → Whisky Nala → Puga → Nyoma → Hanle → Umling La
Each segment came with its own beauty and battle. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the silence of Hanle, every kilometer added a new layer to this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Altitude Sickness at Whisky Nala
Everything was going smoothly until I reached Whisky Nala, a high-altitude spot with bone-chilling winds and thin oxygen. The symptoms hit hard — dizziness, breathlessness, and headache — classic signs of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
I had to make an unplanned halt there for the night. It was tough. Cold, isolated, and uncertain. But somehow, I pushed through it — thanks to mental strength and hydration — and continued the next day toward Umling La.
How Did the TVS Jupiter Perform?
In one word: flawlessly.
- No breakdowns
- Handled steep climbs with patience
- Managed gravel, dirt, and cold like a champion
While others might think a gearless scooter doesn’t belong in Ladakh, Dhanno proved them wrong. With proper care, pacing, and breaks — even a 110cc scooter can touch the sky.
Reaching Umling La – The Emotions
Standing at Umling La Pass was surreal. The Indian flag fluttering at the top, snow biting at my face, and the crisp mountain air filled with silence — it felt like I had touched the roof of the world.
I was proud of myself. Proud of Dhanno. Proud of every turn, bump, and doubt I had overcome.
A dream checked off the bucket list.
Did you know? Umling La is higher than Mount Everest Base Camp!
Total Expenses & Planning
Category Estimated Cost Fuel ₹4,000–₹5,000 Accommodation ₹2,500–₹3,500 Food ₹1,500–₹2,000 Permits (ILP) ₹500 Total ₹9,000–₹11,000 approx.
Tip: Always carry extra fuel, dry snacks, and a power bank. Ladakh can be unpredictable.
Watch the Full Journey (YouTube Playlist)
Don’t just read it — experience the ride through my vlogs. From Delhi’s chaos to Ladakh’s silence:
Watch the full Umling La ride on YouTube
Tips for Riders Attempting Umling La on Small-Capacity Bikes/Scooters
- Start early, ride slow.
- Hydrate like crazy – AMS is real.
- Carry warm clothes, a basic tool kit, and extra spark plug.
- Don’t race — just enjoy the journey.
- Respect the BRO and army teams — they make this road possible.
Final Words
If you’ve ever doubted whether your machine is “powerful enough” — let this blog be proof that heart matters more than horsepower.
“If there is a will, there is a way. Never underestimate the power of a lower-cc bike. It can take you beyond what you ever imagined — even to the top of the world.”
