When planning a Himalayan Motorcycle Tour the Royal Enfield Himalayan often comes to mind because it is well suited to high-altitude roads, uneven surfaces and long days in the mountains. The Himalayan is rugged and designed for adventure terrain.

What bikes can handle Himalayan terrain?
Yes, there are other motorcycles that are suitable for high-altitude and rough roads of the Himalayas, especially for routes like Leh to Pangong, Umling La or Spiti Valley. Some good alternatives include:

• KTM 390 Adventure – a lightweight adventure bike with good power and handling.
• BMW G 310 GS – a smaller adventure sport touring option offering comfort for long days.
• Hero Xpulse 200 – a capable dual-sport bike with off-road ability.

These bikes can be chosen based on rider experience, terrain difficulty and load capacity required for the mountains.

Why does the Himalayan remain popular?
The Royal Enfield Himalayan has become synonymous with motorcycle tours in Himalayas because of its balance of comfort, torque and suspension setup for long and varied terrain. It also has an extensive service network across northern India.

Typical route you might ride
A classic itinerary for a high-altitude adventure includes:
• Arrival and acclimatisation in Leh
• Ride to Pangong Tso via Chang La
• Journey to Hanle and Umling La, the world’s highest motorable pass
• Return through remote valleys and high passes back to Leh

Choosing the right bike is essential for comfort and safety on a Himalayan Motorcycle Tour, and while Royal Enfield is a top pick, there are reliable alternatives for those seeking different performance or handling.