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.
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.
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.
In one word: flawlessly.
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.
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.
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
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.”
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