Nomads On Wheels

Category: essential list guide

  • The complete list of National Highways in India

    The complete list of National Highways in India

     

    NH 1 (km. 456) – Delhi to Amritsar and Indo-Pak Border
    NH 1A (km. 663) – Jalandhar to Uri
    NH 1B (km. 274) – Batote to Khanbal
    NH 1C (km. – Domel to Katra
    NH 1D (km. 422) – Srinagar to Kargil to Leh
    NH 2 (km. 1,465) – Delhi to Dankuni
    NH 2A (km. 25) – Sikandra to Bhognipur
    NH 2B (km. 52) – Bardhaman to Bolpur
    NH 3 (km. 1,161) – Agra to Mumbai
    NH 4 (km. 1,235) – Junction With NH3 near Thane to Chennai
    NH 4A (km. 153) – Belgaum to Panaji
    NH 4B (km. 27) – Nhava Sheva to Palaspe
    NH 5 (km. 1,533) – Junction with NH 6 near Baharagora to Chennai
    NH 5A (km. 77) – Junction with NH5 near Haridaspur to Paradip Port
    NH 6 (km. 1,949) – Hazira to Kolkata
    NH 7 (km. 2,369) – Varanasi to Kanyakumari
    NH 7A (km. 51) – Palayamkottai to Tuticorin Port
    NH 8 (km. 1,428) – Delhi to Mumbai
    NH 8A (km. 473) – Ahmedabad to Mandvi
    NH 8B (km. 206) – Bamanbore to porbunder
    NH 8C (km. 46) – Childo to Sarkhej
    NH 8D (km. 127) – Jetpur to Somnath
    NH 8E (km. 220) – Somnath to Bhavnagar
    NH NE 1 (km. 93) – Ahmedabad to Vadodara Expressway
    NH 9 (km. 841) – Pune to Machillipatnam
    NH 10 (km. 403) – Delhi to Fazilka and Indo-Pak Border
    NH 11 (km. 582) – Agra to Bikaner
    NH 11A (km. 145) – Manoharpur to Kothum
    NH 11B (km. 180) – Lalsot to Dholpur
    NH 12 (km. 890) – Jabalpur to Jaipur
    NH 12A (km. 333) – Jabalpur to Jhansi
    NH 13 (km. 691) – Solapur to Mangalore
    NH 14 (km. 450) – Beawar to Radhanpur
    NH 15 (km. 1,526) – Pathankot to Samakhiali
    NH 16 (km. 460) – Nizamabad to Jagdalpur
    NH 17 (km. 1,269) – Panvel to Chavakkad and
    North Paravur Junction with NH 47 near Edapally at Kochi
    NH 17A (km. 19) – Junction with NH 17 near Cortalim to Murmugao
    NH 17B (km. 40) – Ponda Verna to Vasco
    NH 18 (km. 369) – Junction with NH 7 near
    Kurnool and Nandyal to Cuddapah and Junction with NH 4 near Chittoor
    NH 18A (km. 50) – Puthalapattu to Tirupati
    NH 19 (km. 240) – Ghazipur to Patna
    NH 20 (km. 220) – Pathankot to Mandi
    NH 21 (km. 323) – Junction with NH 22 near Chandigarh to Manali
    NH 21A (km. 65) – Pinjore to Swarghat
    NH 22 (km. 459) – Ambala to Indo China Border near Shipkila
    NH 23 (km. 459) – Chas to Talcher and Junction with NH 42
    NH 24 (km. 438) – Delhi to Lucknow
    NH 24A (km. 17) – Bakshi Ka Talab to Chenhat
    NH 25 (km. 352) – Lucknow to Shivpuri
    NH 25A (km. 31) – 19 (NH 25) to Bakshi Ka Talab
    NH 26 (km. 396) – Jhansi to Lakhnadon
    NH 27 (km. 93) – Allahabad to Mangawan
    NH 28 (km. 570) – Junction with NH 31 Near Barauni and Muzaffarpur to Lucknow
    NH 28A (km. 68) – Junction With NH 28 near Pipra to Indo and Nepal Border
    NH 28B (km. 121) – Chhapra to Bagaha and Junction with 28A at Chapwa
    NH 28C (km. 184) – Barabanki to Indo and Nepal Border
    NH 29 (km. 196) – Gorakhpur to Varanasi
    NH 30 (km. 230) – Junction with NH 2 near Mohania and Patna to Bakhtiarpur
    NH 30A (km. 65) – Fatuha to Barh
    NH 31 (km. 1,125) – Junction with NH 2 near Barhi & Bakhtiarpur to Charali & Amingaon Junction with NH 37
    NH 31A (km. 92) – Sevok to Gangtok
    NH 31B (km. 19) – North Salmara to Junction with NH 37 near Jogighopa
    NH 31C (km. 235) – Near Galgalia to Sidili and Junction with NH 31 near Bijni
    NH 32 (km. 179) – Junction with NH 2 near Gobindpur and Dhanbad to Jamshedpur
    NH 33 (km. 352) – Junction with NH 2 near Barhi to Jamshedpur Junction with NH 6 near Baharagora
    NH 34 (km. 443) – Junction with NH 31 near Dalkhola and Baharampur to Dum Dum
    NH 35 (km. 61) – Barasat to Petrapole on India and Bangladesh border
    NH 36 (km. 170) – Nowgong to Dimapur (Manipur Road)
    NH 37 (km. 680) – Junction with NH 1B near Goalpara and Guwahati to Saikhoaghat
    NH 37A (km. 23) – Kuarital to Junction with NH 52 near Tezpur
    NH 38 (km. 54) – Makum to Lekhapani
    NH 39 (km. 436) – Numaligarh to Palel and Indo Burma Border
    NH 40 (km. 216) – Jorabat to Indo-Bangladesh Border near Dawki and Jowai
    NH 41 (km. 51) – Junction with NH 6 near Kolaghat to Haldia Port
    NH 42 (km. 261) – Junction with NH 6 Sambalpur Angual Junction with NH5 near Cuttack
    NH 43 (km. 551) – Raipur to Jagdalpur and Vizianagaram Junction with NH 5 near Natavalasa
    NH 44 (km. 630) – Shillong to Sabroom
    NH 44A (km. 230) – Aizawl to Manu
    NH 45 (km. 387) – Chennai to Theni
    NH 45A (km. 190) – Villupuram to Nagapattinam
    NH 45B (km. 257) – Trichy to Tuticorin
    NH 45C (km. 159) – The highway starting fromits junction with NH 67 near Thanjavur and connecting Kumbakonam to Panruti and terminates near Vikravandi on NH to 45
    NH 46 (km. 132) – Krishnagiri to Ranipet
    NH 47 (km. 640) – Salem to Kanyakumari
    NH 47A (km. 6) – Junction with NH 47 at Kundanoor to Willington Island in Kochi
    NH 47C (km. 17) – Junction with NH 47 at Kalamassery to Vallarpadom ICTT in Kochi
    NH 48 (km. 328) – Bangalore to Magalore
    NH 49 (km. 440) – Kochi to Dhanushkodi
    NH 50 (km. 192) – Nasik to Junction with NH 4 near Pune
    NH 51 (km. 149) – Paikan to Dalu
    NH 52 (km. 850) – Baihata to Tezu and Sitapani
    Junction with NH 37 near Saikhoaghat
    NH 52A (km. 57) – Banderdewa to Gohpur
    NH 52B (km. 31) – Kulajan to Dibrugarh
    NH 53 (km. 320) – Junction with NH 44 near Badarpur and Jirighat to Imphal
    NH 54 (km. 850) – Dabaka to Tuipang
    NH 54A (km. 9) – Theriat to Lunglei
    NH 54B (km. 27) – Venus Saddle to Saiha
    NH 55 (km. 77) – Siliguri to Darjeeling
    NH 56 (km. 285) – Lucknow to Varanasi
    NH 56A (km. 13) – Chenhat (NH 28) to 16 (NH 56)
    NH 56B (km. 19) – 15 (NH 56) to 6 (NH 25)
    NH 57 (km. 310) – Muzaffarpur to Purnea
    NH 57A (km. 15) – Junction of NH 57 near Forbesganj to Jogbani
    NH 58 (km. 538) – Delhi to Mana Pass
    NH 59 (km. 350) – Ahmedabad to Indore
    NH 59A (km. 264) – Indore to Betul
    NH 60 (km. 446) – Balasore to Moregram (Junction at NH 34)
    NH 61 (km. 240) – Kohima to Jhanji
    NH 62 (km. 195) – Damra to Dalu
    NH 63 (km. 432) – Ankola to Gooty
    NH 64 (km. 256) – Chandigarh to Dabwali
    NH 65 (km. 690) – Ambala to Pali
    NH 66 (km. 214) – Pondy to Krishnagiri
    NH 67 (km. 555) – Nagapattinam to Gundlupet
    NH 68 (km. 134) – Ulundrupet to Salem
    NH 69 (km. 350) – Nagpur to Obedullaganj
    NH 70 (km. 170) – Jalandhar to Mandi
    NH 71 (km. 307) – Jalandhar to Bawal
    NH 71A (km. 72) – Rohtak to Panipat
    NH 71B (km. 74) – Rewari to Palwal
    NH 72 (km. 200) – Ambala to Haridwar
    NH 72A (km. 45) – Chhutmalpur to
    NH 73 (km. 188) – Roorkee to Panchkula
    NH 74 (km. 300) – Haridwar to Bareilly
    NH 75 (km. 955) – Gwalior to Ranchi
    NH 76 (km. 1,007) – Pindwara to Allahabad
    NH 77 (km. 142) – Hajipur Sonbarsa
    NH 78 (km. 559) – Katni to Gumla
    NH 79 (km. 500) – Ajmer to Indore
    NH 79A (km. 35) – Kishangarh (NH to Nasirbad (NH 79)
    NH 80 (km. 310) – Mokameh to Farrakka
    NH 81 (km. 100) – Kora to Malda
    NH 82 (km. 130) – Gaya to Mokameh
    NH 83 (km. 130) – Patna to Dhobi
    NH 84 (km. 60) – Arrah to Buxar
    NH 85 (km. 95) – Chhapra to Gopalganj
    NH 86 (km. 674) – Kanpur to Dewas
    NH 87 (km. 83) – Rampur to Nainital
    NH 88 (km. 115) – Shimla to Bhawan and NH 20
    NH 90 (km. 100) – Baran to Aklera
    NH 91 (km. 405) – Ghaziabad to Kanpur
    NH 92 (km. 171) – Bhongaon to Gwalior
    NH 93 (km. 220) – Agra to Moradabad
    NH 94 (km. 160) – Hrishikesh to Yamunotri
    NH 95 (km. 225) – Kharar (Chandigarh) to Ferozepur
    NH 96 (km. 160) – Faizabad to Allahabad
    NH 97 (km. 45) – Ghazipur to Saiyedraja
    NH 98 (km. 207) – Patna to Rajhara
    NH 99 (km. 110) – Dobhi to Chandwa
    NH 100 (km. 118) – Chatra to Bagodar
    NH 101 (km. 60) – Chhapra to Mohammadpur
    NH 102 (km. 80) – Chhapra to Muzaffarpur
    NH 103 (km. 55) – Hajipur to Mushrigharari
    NH 104 (km. 160) – Chakia to Narahai
    NH 105 (km. 66) – Darbhanga to Jaynagar
    NH 106 (km. 130) – Birpur to Bihpur
    NH 107 (km. 145) – Maheshkhunt to Purnea
    NH 108 (km. 127) – Dharasu to Gangotri Dham
    NH 109 (km. 76) – Rudraprayag to kedarnath Dham
    NH 110 (km. 89) – Junction with NH 98 and Arwal to Ekangarsarai Bihar Sharif and Junction with NH 31
    NH 111 (km. 200) – Bilaspur to Katghora and Ambikapur on NH 78
    NH 112 (km. 343) – Bar Jaitaran to Barmer
    NH 113 (km. 240) – Nimbahera to Dahod
    NH 114 (km. 180) – Jodhpur to Pokaran
    NH 116 (km. 80) – Tonk to Sawai Madhopur
    NH 117 (km. 119) – Haora to Bakkhali
    NH 119 (km. 260) – Pauri to Meerut
    NH 121 (km. 252) – Kashipur to Bubakhal
    NH 123 (km. 95) – Barkot to Vikasnagar
    NH 125 (km. 201) – Sitarganj to Pithorgarh
    NH 150 (km. 700) – Aizwal to Kohima
    NH 151 (km. 14) – Karimganj to Indo and Bangladesh border
    NH 152 (km. 40) – Patacharkuchi to Indo and Bhutan Border
    NH 153 (km. 60) – Ldo to Indo and Myanmar Border
    NH 154 (km. 180) – Dhaleswar to Kanpui
    NH 155 (km. 342) – Tuensang to Pfutsero
    NH 200 (km. 740) – Raipur to Chandikhole
    NH 201 (km. 310) – Borigumma to Bargarh
    NH 202 (km. 280) – Hyderabad to Bhopalpatnam
    NH 203 (km. 59) – Bhubaneswar to Puri
    NH 204 (km. 974) – Ratnigiri to Nagpur
    NH 205 (km. 442) – Anantpur to Chennai
    NH 206 (km. 363) – Tumkur to Honnavar
    NH 207 (km. 155) – Hosur to Nelamangala
    NH 208 (km. 206) – Kollam to Thirumangalam (Madurai)
    NH 209 (km. 456) – Dindigul to Bangalore
    NH 210 (km. 160) – Trichy to Ramanathapuram
    NH 211 (km. 400) – Solapur to Dhule
    NH 212 (km. 250) – Kozhikode to Kollegal
    NH 213 (km. 130) – Palghat to Kozhikode
    NH 214 (km. 270) – Kathipudi to Pamarru
    NH 214A (km. 255) – Digamarru to Ongole
    NH 215 (km. 348) – Panikoili to Rajamunda
    NH 216 (km. 80) – Raigarh to Saraipali
    NH 217 (km. 508) – Raipur to Gopalpur
    NH 218 (km. 176) – Bijapur to Hubli
    NH 219 (km. 150) – Madanapalle to Krishnagiri
    NH 220 (km. 265) – Kollam to Theni
    NH 221 (km. 329) – Vijaywada to Jagdalpur
    NH 222 (km. 610) – Kalyan to Nirmal
    NH 223 (km. 300) – Port Blair to Mayabunder
    NH 224 (km. 298) – Khordha to Balangir
    NH 226 (km. 204) – Perambalur to Manamadurai
    NH 227 (km. 136) – Trichy to Chidambaram
    NH 228 (km. 374) – Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi
    NH 229 (km. 1,090) – Tawang to Pasighat
    NH 230 (km. 82) – Madurai to Thondi
    NH 231 (km. 169) – Raibareli to Jaunpur
    NH 232 (km. 305) – Ambedkarnagar (Tanda) to Banda
    NH 232A (km. 68) – Unnao to Lalganj (Junction of NH to 32)
    NH 233 (km. 292) – India to Nepal border and Varanasi
    NH 234 (km. 780) – Mangalore to Villuppuram
    NH 235 (km. 66) – Merrut to Bulandshahar.

  • LONG DISTANCE ROAD TRIP – CHECK LIST

    LONG DISTANCE ROAD TRIP – CHECK LIST

    While you’re planning for Leh-Ladakh, Sikkim or North East Road Trips, here is a check list which we have prepared for you all. This check list has all the points which you can go through and plan your respective road trips in advance.

    1. MEDICINE – INCLUDING AMS

     

    For AMS Related Problems, use herbal medicine Gingko Bilabo
    (Avoid Diamox anyway which causes Nausea).
    Why Gingko Bilabo ? Read more at: https://photoseek.com/2012/acclimatize-to-high-altitude/
    a.) Carry medicines for fever, stomach upset, ache etc.
    b.) Dettol, Cotton, Bandage
    c.) Sunscreen: 100SPF

    2. MOBILE CONNECTIONS:

     

    When you are riding to remote areas especially near the International border, you can only use BSNL Post-paid Connections. Due to the restrictions, one might not be able to use Prepaid Sims.
    Get the BSNL Post-paid Sims before the trips.

    3. FOR MOTORCYCLES

    1. ) Extra Clutch Cables, Throttle Cables, Extra Tubes for Tire, Chain Link Locks, Clutch and Break Lever (In case it breaks during shipping or on a fall), Spark Plugs, Headlight Bulbs etc.
    2. ) Extra motorcycle ignition keys (Just in case).

    4. MOBILE CHARGERS

    Mobile Chargers with Power Sockets: Bolt Mobile chargers, Power Sockets.
    If you are using 10maH or more Power Banks, you can carry Asus Power Bank as a backup.

    5. TYRE INFLATORS

    Foot Pumps: Use Super Foot Pumps which are heavy duty once and these foot pumps come with extra spares too for the cylinder and the spring. Can be used to pump Car, Jeep, SUV and Motorcycle Tyres.
    Air Compressors: We recommend you to use Kennedy Air Compressors as these are heavy duty once. Kennedy Brand just like Stanley is premium tools suppliers worldwide.
    If you want to use these compressors for your respective motorcycles, you will have to install a Power Socket. Keep the Engine Running while using compressors.

    6. TOURING TOOLS FOR ROYAL ENFIELDS AND OTHER MOTORCYCLES

    We’ve handpicked all the necessary tools that are required for long distance road trips. NH4 Motorheads Touring Tools + Bag comes handy for any long distance road trips and has all the tools that are required to fix any Royal Enfields for e.g. Wheel Nut Opener, Chain Adjuster, Tire Levers, All Spanners, Allen Keys, Tyre Valve Remover, Knife, Chain Lube, Insulation Tape.

    7. BAGS TO CARRY

    a.) SADDLEBAG
    Motorcycle Saddle Bags (Highway 200-40L, Highway 500-50L, Highway 700-70L). 
    b.) TANK BAGS
    Street Mini Off-road Tank Bag, Street Master Off-road Tank Bag which can be used as a Tail Bag, DSLR Tank Bag which can be used as a Backpack (Designed for only DSLR Camera), Magnetic Tank Top.
    c.) TOOL BAGS/ BOTTLE HOLDER OR FUEL HOLDER BAGS/ CRASH GUARD
    Three Types Available: 4L 8L and 12L
    4L for Bajaj Avenger, 8L fits and Royal Enfield including Himalayan and 12L fits only Royal Enfield Himalayan.
    These bags are designed to carry tools, water bottles and fuel for long distance roadtrips.

    8. WAIST POUCH

    Waist Pouch which you can use it as a Shoulder Sling Bag. Comes handy and one can carry wallet, small camera, mobile, money, vehicle papers etc.

    9. WARM WEAR

    If you are planning for Leh-Ladakh, Spiti-Lahaul Valley, Sikkim & Bhutan, North East Trips, you can purchase these warm wear:
    Sweaters: mals.
    Shemaghs: mals.
    Multifunctional Headwear: mals.

    10. HELMETS

    Helmet: It’s very important to use a Good Quality full face helmet with clear visors for any long distance road-trips. It’s Mandatory for both rider and pillion. You can opt for MT helmets.

    11. TORCH AND SMALL KNIFE

     

    During the dark hours, if you need to fix something on the highway, Led Lenser Torches comes really handy. You can
    Quick access tool which comes really handy is Stanley 12-in-1 Multifunctional Tool, which comes with a Belt Pouch:

    12. BOOTS, GLOVES, KNEE GUARDS

     

    You can use Army Boots, JCB Excavator Boots and good quality Knee Guards.

    13. BUNGEE CORDS OR STRETCH CORDS

     

    Bungee Cords – Set of 4 or Set of 6. You can purchase it here: 

    14. WATCH

     

    Watch: 100m/200m like G-Shock.

    15. SUNGLASSES

     

    Sunglasses: Any sunglasses with good UV Protection.

    17. TENTS

     

    Tents: If you wish to carry tents,

    18. SLEEPING BAGS

     

    Sleeping Bags: If you wish to purchase sleeping bags,

    19. TYRES FOR LONG DISTANCE ROADTRIPS

     

    Your life is depended on those wheels and to be in Safer Side, use good button tires, avoids stock MRF ZAPPER Tires as Traction isn’t much in it and chances of slip is always there. CEAT, BIRLA, MICHELIN Etc will help.
    Tire Pressure: Front 22-23, Rear: 32-33 – Use Nitrogen instead air. During peak summer, air tends to expand whereas Nitrogen doesn’t.
    (Note: Do not use Puncture Patches, during peak summer puncture patches tends to come out and it’s very risky if you are at 70-80kmph.)

    20. ACTION CAMERA

     

    Motorcycle Helmet Mount Camera’s (Action camera’s) – Record your respective trips with SUNCO Camera’s. Check: or you can purchase Go Pro or Sony Action Camera’s too.

    21. GARBAGE BAGS

     

    Garbage bags M Size to cover your feet during any water crossings and if you are planning for Camping, use it for the Trash.

    22. Himalayan Saddle Stays

     

    If you install Himalayan Saddle Stays, you can use bigger saddlebags like Highway 500-50L or Highway 700-65L
    You can purchase Saddle Stays at:
    Highway 500 Link:
    Highway 700 (NH4)Link:
    Rynox
    Road Gods

    23. TOWING ROPES –

     

    For motorcycle get an 1 inch Nylon Ropes, available on any Hardware Shop and For Cars, use the 4 Ton Towing Ropes.

    Please Note :For Medicines Please consult with your Doctor .

  • Ladakh Winter Travel Guide

    Ladakh Winter Travel Guide

    Winter in Ladakh is one of the harshest in India and temperatures can fall upto -30 degree Celsius at night. For the adventurous soul, this is the best time to visit Ladakh, as you not only get to experience near arctic temperatures, but also explore it at a time, when even quite a few Ladakhis leave Ladakh for better employment opportunities and warmer climate and there are only handful of tourists around.
    While this winter travel guide would help you prepare for your upcoming adventure, you have to keep in mind that there are very real dangers of traveling to Ladakh in winter and no amount of planning can help, if the nature decides to unleash its full fury or if you throw caution to the wind and stop listening to your own body. So remember to proceed with caution and treat nature as well as your own health with respect and care.

    How to prepare and plan for a winter trip to Ladakh?

     

    Planning becomes all the more important, when you are traveling to Ladakh in winter and it is best to have a rough plan in place and carry essential things needed for a trip of this scale, in order to avoid any complications later. Planning well in advance will not only help you get your gear and travel plan ready, but also mentally prepare you for this harsh yet wonderful journey.
    When designing your itinerary, it is crucial to schedule at least first couple of days in Leh, in order to acclimatize to high altitude and cold environment. It is also a good idea to spend the last day in Leh, so that you have a buffer day to fall back on, in case of any delays en route. For free personalized itinerary,
    Please go through our list of essential things for winter trip to Ladakh, for our recommendation on things you should carry, including types of clothes, shoes and eatables.
    If it is snow you are after and wish to see and walk on the frozen Pangong Tso, then it is best to visit Ladakh between middle of January to end of February, when winter is at its peak and majority of snowfall occurs.
    While you do not need to be extremely fit to visit Ladakh, it is a good idea to start getting in the habit of walking and climbing stairs, before your trip. Because even after hiring a taxi, you will still end up doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs, while visiting monasteries, and at high altitude and in cold climate, your stamina would be a lot less than what it normally is.

    How to reach Ladakh in winter?

     

    While Manali – Leh Highway normally closes in November, Srinagar – Leh Highway remains open till December. However these aren’t the best time to take the land route and once both these routes close, the only way to get in and out of Ladakh is by flight.
    While several major airlines operate regular flights to Leh from Delhi, Jammu and Srinagar, due to fog and severe weather conditions, there can be delays and postponements at times, especially if you are traveling in January or February.

    How to travel in Ladakh during winter?

     

    During winter the only comfortable way to travel in Ladakh is by taxi. However at that time, finding seats in shared taxis is extremely difficult due to fewer tourists.
    Hiring a taxi while being expensive is the most convenient option and allows you to travel at your own pace and stop as often as you want for photography and sightseeing., though contacting drivers directly will allow you to get a custom quote based on your own itinerary and get discount on the listed price. Rigzin (+919622954779 and +919469472772) and Dorjee (+919906971501) are two drivers who have been hired by several BCMTians and have a good rapport.
    Hiring a taxi in advance will allow you to know the total transport expenditure you would be incurring, and you will also have the option of getting accommodation booked at various places through your taxi driver. If you do not wish to book taxi in advance, then you can arrange one through taxi union or your hotel, after arriving in Leh.

    What to do after arriving at Leh?

     

    After your flight lands in Leh, you should head straight to your hotel and try and acclimatize to high altitude and cold weather. By noon if you are feeling alright, then you can visit Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace and Main Market. However make sure not to overstress yourself, otherwise Acute Mountain Sickness can strike in a nasty manner.
    Try and stay indoors, after sunset, since temperature can fall quite rapidly, once sunlight is gone and dogs in Leh can be quite aggressive as well. Try and reach your hotel/restaurant before sunset and if you need to travel after sunset, do it in a taxi.

    Places to visit

     

    While both the land routes to Ladakh close in winter, majority of internal roads remain open and can easily be explored in a taxi, even in peak winter. However please keep in mind that in case of Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, road can get closed for couple of days or more, in case of heavy snowfall. Hence it is best to keep your plan flexible and avoid covering the above routes on your last day in Ladakh. Also keep an eye on weather forecast and check with locals about the prevailing weather and road conditions.
    Ladakh and Zanskar Road Map by Aarti and Harsh. Click to enlarge

    Leh, Sham Valley and Monastery Circuit

     

    Leh along with Sham Valley and Monastery Circuit has a lot to offer to a visitor and can easily be covered in 2-3 days. Add to that, Leh and surrounding area is comparatively lower in altitude and generally isn’t as cold as the Changthang Region and Pangong Tso. Hence it makes sense to spend the first couple of days exploring Leh (Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa and Hall of Fame) along with Sham Valley Tour (Alchi, Likir, Spituk and Basgo Monasteries, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib, Indus and Zanskar Sangam and Magnetic Hill) or Monastery Circuit (Hemis, Thiksey and Shey Monasteries).

    Where to stay:

     

    While majority of hotels in Leh close down by middle of October, a few remain open. Since weather is extremely cold, it is best to stay in a hotel which offers central heating. Our recommendation would be for Hotel Tso Kar (Rs. 2500/night onward) or The Grand Dragon (Rs. 7000/night onward).

    Where to eat:

     

    Just like hotels, majority of restaurants in Leh are also closed during winter and finding delicious food is difficult, especially if you love spicy food. We recommend Neha Sweets in Leh Main Market, second last dhaba at Karu and restaurant next to samosa seller in Nimmu for delicious meals.

    Nubra Valley and Khardung La

     

    Khardung La along with Nubra Valley is a must visit for all those visiting Ladakh for the first time. Not only is Nubra Valley at similar altitude as Leh, it offers a wide variety of landscape and cultural experience to its visitors. You can either do Nubra Valley as a day trip, covering Khardung La, Diskit Monastery and Hunder Sand Dune. Or spend one or two nights there and cover Hunder Sand Dunes, Diskit Monastery, Turtuk, Sumur Village and Panamik Hot Springs and Monastery. If you are an NRI or Foreigner, you will need Protected Area Permit in order to visit Nubra Valley. Indian Citizens will just need to submit a self declaration form at check posts en route (available at photocopy shops in Leh.)

    Where to stay and eat:

     

    During winter, accommodation is severely limited in Nubra Valley, hence it is recommended to either book the accommodation in advance or at least confirm its availability, before your trip through your taxi driver or hotel in Leh. Our recommendation would be for Habib Guest House, which offers decent budget accommodation and food and has gas powered heaters.

    Pangong Tso

     

    Pangong is one of the largest high altitude lakes in India and while only one third of this 135km long lake is in India and rest in China, it is nonetheless a slight to behold. During peak winter (mid-January to February end), Pangong Tso becomes completely frozen and hard enough for cars to drive on! It is a must visit for all travelers, no matter how many times you have visited Ladakh. There are also several smaller lakes and streams en route, which you can explore and on normal permit, you can drive up to Merak Village.
    You can also take a detour from Tangste to Harong Wet Lands, which are quite scenic and are rarely visited by tourists. You can do Pangong Tso as a day trip, or with a night stop at Tangste Village, in order to spend more time at Pangong Tso and visit Harong Wet Lands. Indian Citizens with right permit can also drive along Pangong Tso to Chushul village and thereafter proceed to Hanle or Tso Moriri. Since Pangong Tso is on the LAC, NRIs and Foreigners need Protected Area Permit in order to visit Pangong Tso. Indian Citizens will just need to submit a form at check posts en route (available at photocopy shops in Leh.)

    Where to stay and eat:

     

    While you might be able to find homestays at Spangmik or Man and Merak Villages, it is best to spend the night at Tangste Village, which is lower in altitude and comparatively warmer. Only budget accommodation is available in Tangste with Ladakhi toilets and gas powered heaters, which you have to shut off at night. Food too is a basic affair at Tangste, and nonexistent at Spangmik, unless you can convince a local to cook for you. Second last dhaba at Karu is a good place to have breakfast.

    Tso Moriri

     

    While being smaller in size than Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri is almost as beautiful and also freezes completely during winter. Located 211km from Leh in Changthang region, Tso Moriri is higher in altitude than Pangong Tso and route leading up to it is even more scenic than the one you encounter en route to Pangong Tso. Due to the distance involved, it is extremely difficult to do a day trip and hence it makes sense to spend the night at Chumathang Village, which is 70km before Tso Moriri. You can also incorporate Tso Moriri in a trip to Hanle or as part of a trip covering Pangong Tso and Changthang Region, Leh – Pangong Tso – Chushul – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Leh. If you are an NRI or Foreigner, you will need Protected Area Permit in order to visit Tso Moriri. Indian Citizens will just need to submit a form at check posts en route (available at photocopy shops in Leh.)

    Where to stay and eat:

    ng is just about the only option, if you are planning to visit Tso Moriri in winter. It is also a very comfortable place to stay, since it is located on top of Hot Springs and remains comfortable, even at night. Karu en route to Tso Moriri is a good place to have breakfast, while for lunch and dinner, Chumathang is just about the only option, since there is almost nothing available at Korzok Village, which is located on the banks of Tso Moriri Lake. If you are traveling from Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri, then have your lunch at Chushul Village, since the tea shop at Nyoma isn’t open at times.

     

    Chushul, Hanle and Changthang

     

    Chushul, Hanle and other areas in Changthang Plateau aren’t open for foreigners, and they can only go till Merak Village on Pangong Tso side and Loma Check Post. In case of Indians, getting permit for Chushul is half the battle, since even after having permit, Army or ITBP can turn you back, based on the condition along the LAC (ceasefire line between India and China). However if you do manage to get the permit and then permission to go across Chushul, then it is a lovely place to visit, since off road drive along the Pangong Tso is a wonderful experience and at Chushul, you can visit Chushul and Rezang La War Memorials. At Hanle you can visit the highest altitude observatory in India and Hanle Monastery.
    From Hanle you can visit Photi La, Chummur, Kyun Tso and from Chushul or Mahe, you have the option of visiting Mitpal Tso and Yeye Tso. However do these routes only if you are interested in exploring off beat places that few if any go to and don’t mind traveling on extremely bad terrain with no help around for miles.

    Where to stay and eat:

     

    Chushul has restaurant where you can have noodles or maggi, while Nyoma has a tea shop as well. Accommodation is available at Hanle in the form of Sonam Guest House, which only has wood/dung powered heating during winter. Observatory Guest House at Hanle is a comfortable place to stay at; however it is no longer open to civilians. Hence you will need contacts to get permission to stay there.

    Lamayuru and Kargil

     

    If you are interested in visiting Lamayuru Monastery and Kargil in the dead of winter, then you can do that as well, since the road between Leh and Kargil remains open even in winter. You would also be able to club Sham Valley circuit in this trip with a night stay at Kargil.

    Where to stay and eat:

     

    Majority of the hotels in Kargil would be closed at that time; hence the best option would be to stay at the JKTDC Guest House. Food at Nimmu is good and at Kargil, you should be able to get food at JKTDC Guest House.

    Tips

     

    Since you will be traveling in extremely cold climate, it is best to keep yourself warm, as much as possible and avoid taking off gloves while outside (change camera settings before getting out of the taxi) and if you have to take off your gloves, make sure to put them back on again, as soon as possible.
    Avoid moving from hot places eg. heated room/restaurant to outdoor immediately, spend a few minutes between both the places eg. door and let your body get used to the cold temperature, before proceeding further.
    Avoid going out with wet hair or cloths, since that can lead to headache or worse, hypothermia.
    Make sure to eat regularly and consume plenty of protein and fats, in order to keep yourself warm and energy level up. Regularly munching on dry fruits is a good way to get essential fatty acids and protein.
    Make sure to stay hydrated by regularly drinking water and make sure the water you are drinking is hot. Carry couple of thermoses per person and get them filled regularly at your hotel and restaurants.
    Avoid traveling with more than 4 passengers in a taxi (5-6 in case of Xylo), since due to heavy clothing, space is at a premium and more people will only make the trip uncomfortable. Also make sure heater isn’t running inside taxi, unless you really need to warm up fast. Because if the heater is running, then stepping outside the taxi can cause headache.
    In case you have any queries about traveling to Ladakh, please feel free to post comment
    Please Note :For taking Medicines along with Please consult with your First

  • List of things to Carry for Himalayan tours

    List of things to Carry for Himalayan tours

    Here’s a comprehensive list (hopefully) of things to carry for your motorcycle tours in the Himalayas — primarily Ladakh. This is designed for a group of 2-3 riders for a period of 25 days or more. Certain things may not apply to all riders depending on the route they intend to take and the availability of facilities.
    Btw, I read the list put together by Yogesh with respect to spares and tools and this I believe would be an useful addition.
    (* Common)

          I. Equipment:

     

    1. First Aid Box (scroll below for contents)*
    2. Tool Bag/Pouch (Contents)
    3. Bike-specific Spares Contents
    4. Foot pump or 12v DC Mini-Compressor*
    5. Aloksak Waterproof Zip Lock bags – 2 sets
    6. GPS with batteries & charger*
    7. Cell phone with charger
    8. Camera kit (with lenses & flash if SLR) with spare batteries & charger*
    9. Camcorder with charger*
    10. Tripod and/or Shoulder pod
    11. Microfiber cloth or Chamois Leather
    12. LED Flashlight/Headlamp – 2 with spare batteries*
    13. Swiss Army Knife
    14. Cigarette Lighter (windproof) – 2*
    15. Jerry Cans for Fuel – 2 x 10Lts
    16. Insulated travel flask

     

          II. Riding Gear

     

    1. Helmet with new visor
    2. Skull cap/bandana/balaclava
    3. Riding Goggles (UV/Polarized)
    4. Riding Jacket with Thermal Liner
    5. Armored Gloves
    6. Waterproof/Thermal Gauntlet (long sleeved glove)
    7. Waist support belt
    8. Riding Shorts/trunks
    9. Riding Pants with Thermal Liner
    10. Sealskinz Socks (waterproof submersible)
    11. Riding Boots

     

           III. Clothing & Accessories

     

    1. Thermal Underwear – long sleeve/long johns – 1 set
    2. Sweatshirts – 2
    3. T-shirts – 2
    4. Jeans – 1
    5. Shorts/Track pants – 1
    6. Chappals/ Quickdry Floaters – 1
    7. Y-Briefs or Trunks – 5
    8. Nylon Belt – 1
    9. Cotton Socks – 2
    10. Woolen Socks – 1
    11. Woolen Cap/Beanie – 1
    12. Woolen Inner Gloves – 1
    13. Wide Brimmed hat or Baseball cap – 1
    14. Micro-fiber Wind cheater or lightweight Fleece jacket – 1
    15. [ame=”https://www.amazon.com/MSR-PackTowl-Original/dp/B0009RNV28″]Micro-fiber Quick-dry[/ame] Towel – 1
    16. Handkerchief – 2

     

             IV. Camping Equipment

     

    1. High-Altitude Dome Tent – could be hired*
    2. High-Altitude Sleeping Bags – could be hired*
    3. Camping Stove with Fuel Tablets – could be hired*
    4. Cooking and serving Utensils – could be hired

      V. Personal Hygiene

    5. Toothpaste (small tube)*
    6. Tooth Brush
    7. Liquid Soap*
    8. Shampoo sachets or 60ml bottle*
    9. Face wash*
    10. Cold Cream*
    11. Sunscreen Lotion UVA/UVB – SPF50 or higher*
    12. Shaving foam (small) or cream (small tube)*
    13. Shaving Razor & Blade or Electric shaver
    14. Aftershave lotion/balm*
    15. Scissors
    16. Roll-on Deo or Spray
    17. Washing Detergent soap or powder (small sachet)

     

           VI. Food & Hydration (While Camping)

     

    1. Maggi Dal/Sambar Atta Noodles
    2. Ready-2-Cook food of your choice
    3. Tomato Ketchup & Mustard Sachets
    4. Dates, Dry fruits & Nuts
    5. Small sachets of Sugar, Common Salt & Pepper,
    6. Butter (small) & Mix Fruit Jam (sachets)
    7. Whole Wheat Bread/Buns (you get this at German bakeries)
    8. Marie Biscuits
    9. Chocolates or Energy bars
    10. Vegit Aloo Mash powder (instant, tasty, rich carb food — 0% fat)
    11. Milk powder
    12. Bru Ice cappacino sachets or MTR instant Badam mix
    13. Tea Bags
    14. Water Bottles and/or Hydration Pack

    First Aid Kit:

     

    IMPORTANT: Please review the following list with your doctor and eliminate the drugs you may be allergic to.
    • Diamox (Acetazolamide) – Useful as a prophylactic for acute mountain sickness (AMS) and as an aid to acclimatization
    • Nicardia (Nifedipine) – Only in case of emergencies if HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) is suspected
    • Okacet – Antihistamine (for allergies)
    • Crocin Pain Relief (Paracetamol) – Relief from pain/ache and fever
    • Brufen 400mg – Relief from mild to severe body pain
    • Voveran SR 100mg – Relief from severe pain
    • Coldact – Relief from Cold
    • Karvol Plus – Nasal decongestant (ayurvedic Inhalent – Not to be shared)
    • Avomine – Relief from Dizziness, Motion Sickness and Vomiting
    • Digene – Relief from Flatulence, Indigestion, acidity (mild)
    • Sooktyn – Relief from Flatulence/Indigestion/Acidity (mild to severe)
    • Zinetac 150mg – Acidity or gastric problems (only if severe)
    • Entroquinol – Relief from Loose motion (mild)
    • Eldoper – Relief from Loose motion (severe)
    • Genticyn 5ml – Eye and ear drops for relief from irritation
    • Streptsils Lozenges – Chewable tablets for relief from sore throat
    • Solvin – Expectorant and Decongestant (only if severe)
    • Digital Thermometer
    • Dispovan Syringes & needles – Pair each of 2cc & 5cc syringes and hypodermic needles
    • Latex Gloves – 2 pairs. Self-explanatory, Multi-purpose
    • Scissors & Tweezers
    • Cotton wool – 1 medium
    • Bandage Gauze – 5 (various sizes)
    • Micropore Paper plaster
    • Crepe Bandage – 2 (for fractures)
    • Belladonna bandage sheets – 2 (for sprains)
    • J&J Band-Aid FastHeal Washproof – Long, Square and circle patches
    • Voveran Thermagel – Ointment for sprains/muscular fatigue
    • Burnol – Antiseptic ointment (for Burns)
    • Betadine – Antiseptic Ointment for wounds and scratches
    • Candid B – Anti-fungal, Anti-bacterial Ointment for topical application (esp. skin rashes)
    • Healex Spray or equivalent Mediderma – Aerosol spray dressing for fresh wounds
    • Relispray – Ayurvedic spray for sprains and aches
    • Dettol Antiseptic Liquid – 50ml
    • Water purification tablets – mild concentration
    • Vicks/Amrutanjan Inhaler (Not to be shared)
    • Vaseline/Himalaya Lip guard (Not to be shared)

     

          Homeopathic Alternative:

     

    Important: Do Consult a qualified Homeopath for dosage
    Rhus Tox – Relief from severe body pain
    Belladona – Relief from Headache
    Coca – Relief from Altitude sickness (AMS)
    Gelsemium – Relief from Diarrhea/Loose Motion
    Veratrum album – relief from sever cases of vomitting and/or Diarrhea

    Please Note :For Medicines Please consult with your Doctor First

  • Long Ride Essentials : Part-2

    Long Ride Essentials : Part-2

    ESSENTIAL PROTECTIVE GEARS:

     

    A. Knee guard: Save ur knees from injury and blocks the cold wind hitting ur leg- Buy a branded guard, Beware of duplicates wen u buy in karol bagh. B. Elbow guard: If u r not wearing a riding jacket C.Gloves: Summer gloves: 1 pair(Scoyco , Probikers: 500 rs), Winter gloves(Rs250) (which stops wind): 1pair , Woolen liner gloves(150-200 rs): 2 pairs U can buy a polythene hand cover which u get in medical store for 30rs helps you a lot in rain time If not comfortable in winter gloves, Wear a woollen liner and riding gloves (More efficient) *carry extra gloves incase if it get misplaced or lost D.ANKLE BOOTS: DMS boot from civil army canteen(600-800 rs) or Quenchua shoes Carry a light weight extra shoe ( needed very much as a backup) or whichever shoes is comfortable for riding E. Riding Jacket F. Rain Coat: Get it from decathlon, Upper and lower- Helps in stopping cold wind to kiss ur skin G. Balaclava and buff: Prefer cramster , buff or tube (200) have some extra

    CLOTHING:

     

    Beauty is in the dusted jacket and jean, Forget the fashion
    1.T SHIRTS: 2 nos full sleeve, Half sleeve t shirt: 1nos ( wen the temp is more)
    2. Sweat shirt :1 nos for the rest day and local visit
    3.Woolen cap, Scarf
    4. Cargo with many pockets: 1 nos, Flexible Jeans : 1nos
    5.Thermal inner: 2pairs ( 300 Rs set in civil canteen)
    6.Branded Socks : 5 pairs

    BIKE SPARE PARTS & TOOLS

     

    Driving License, Bike registration, Pollution certificate, Insurance : 2 photostat handy & Orginal inside safely
    Keep one spare key inside luggage- Use your original key during trip
    1.Clutch cable: Attach it with the bike itself
    2. Throttle cable, Clutch lever, Brake Lever
    3. Chain link, Spark plug, Fuses
    4. Spare tube front & back( Put a new tube & use the old as spare)
    5.Engine oil, Brake oil, Chain lubricator
    6. Disc brake pad for front & back- Or install a new brake pad before the trip
    7.Foot pump, bike tool kit, cutting plyer, small winch, Loose wire, small petrol tube, PPE rope for towing, Puncture kit, Spanners to remove wheel, Lever for removing tyre, Salt paper to remove carbon from plug. ( For an emergency , But prepare bike in advance)
    8. Learn to adjust chain tightness, Tunning carburettor, To remove tyre, Changing clutch cable

    MEDICINES

     

    1. Diamox (AMS), Avomine, Metrogyl, betatine, Disprin, Digene, Band aid, Candid B, Electral, Moov spray or balm, paracetamol, Crepe Bandage, Combiflam ( Consult ur physician and know the purpose of tablet which u have)
    SNACKS:
    Biscuits, Nuts-Almonds, cashew, Peanut, Peanut cake Dry grapes, Any type of chocolates-sneakers and nut chocolates preferred
    Gatorade, Blue, Glucose, Try to avoid Red Bull

    OTHER IMPORTANT ESSENTIALS

     

    1. Post paid connection-BSNL more range, Basic model mobile 2. POWER bank 3. Sun glasses, Night vision glasses( if required) 4. Sunsreen lotion, Moisturizer, Olive oil,lip balm,Deodrant 5. Wet tissue paper, Toilet paper 6. Torch light, Safety pin, tooth brush,Paste 7. Lots of polythene bags 8. Mp3 player and usb speaker ( Usable for camp firing) 9. Water bottle or water back pack 10. Bathroom slippers(essential) 11. 5l petrol can-2nos (Based on your tank capacity)

    Please Note :For Medicines Please consult with your Doctor First

  • Essential list of things to carry for a motorcycle ride to Ladakh Part-1

    Essential list of things to carry for a motorcycle ride to Ladakh

    Motorcycle Essentials

     

    1. OEM Toolkit 2. Spare motorcycle key 3. Spare Chain link 4. Spare Sparkplug 5. Clutch and Accelerator wire 6. Tubeless puncture repair kit for tubeless tyres. 7. Rear tyre tube and tyre irons and valve key for tube type tyres. 8. Foot/electric pump/tyre repair can 9. 500ml engine oil 10. Electrical tape, m-seal and steel wire
    Rider Essentials
    1. Medical kit which came with motorcycle 2. Diamox and medicines for headache, fever, stomach ache, cold and cough syrup. 3. Sunscreen lotion SPF 30 or better from Lotus Herbal 4. Lip balm 5. Mustard oil 6. Glucon C or D. 7. Water bottles 8. Chocolates, biscuits, almonds, raisins and cashews. 9. Paper soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb and toilet paper.

    Riding Gear Essentials

     

    1. Full face helmet with clear visor 2. UV Sunglasses 3. Good quality riding gloves or insulated gloves. 4. Riding jacket or air and water resistant insulated jacket. 5. Riding pant 6. Riding shoes or trekking or army boots.
    Clothing Essentials
    1. Couple of spare pair of jeans or pants. 2. 2-3 shirts/t-shirts and a sweatshirt 3. Monkey cap 4. Warm inner from Neva (upper and lower) 5. 4-5 pair of underwear and inner vests 6. 5-6 pairs of socks 7. 4-5 handkerchiefs, small hand towel and normal towel. 8. Pajama 9. Slippers
    Documents and IDs
    1. Driving License 2. Original Registration Certificate and an attested photo copy 3. Motorcycle Insurance original and photocopy 4. PUC Certificate 5. Medical Insurance Card 6. PAN/Passport/Voter ID Card. 7. List of important contacts 8. Map and itinerary
    Electronic and Electrical
    1. Chargers for all the gadgets 2. Spare camera batteries 3. Car charger or battery bank for smartphone 4. 3 socket Belkin power strip 5. Enough memory cards for the trip 6. Torch
    Money
    Carry enough money for the entire trip; ATMs are only available in Kargil and Leh.
    Mobile phone connection
    MTNL or BSNL/Air Tell /Jio  Post-Paid Connection with roaming.
    How to carry
    1. Saddle bag 2. Tank bag 3. Day bag for small outings.

    Please Note :For Medicines Please consult with your First