Best time to ride is Aug-Sep, because the weather will not be so cold and roads will be in good shape.
Start your day early and wind up your day by 4-5 pm. Riding after dark would be risky.
Reduce your luggage as much as possible. Carry only essentials, lesser the weight more comfortable your ride will be.
Drink plenty of water even though it will be cold and you won't be feeling thirsty. At high altitudes your body would loose more fluids so keep yourself hydrated.
AMS (Acute mountain sickness) is a serious issue which if neglected can turn fatal. Due to low air pressure and low oxygen levels at high altitudes your body takes time to adjust to the environment. Don't stay overnight at high altitude areas. Climb down and stay at lower areas. So plan your night halts carefully. Symptoms of AMS - headache, dizziness, weakness, loss of appetite, swelling of face, hands and feet. If AMS hits you the best option is to get to lower areas as soon as possible or get to the nearest army base, they will have oxygen cylinder with them. You can also take tablets called 'Diamox' which you need to start taking one or two days before you hit high altitude areas. Eating raw garlic and cloves will also help to reduce the effects of AMS. Drink plenty of water.
People get AMS when they try to ascend fast. Even through the roads are good don't hurry, take ample time and climb gradually. Instead of doing Manali - Leh in a day and half, do it in 3 days.
If you are flying directly to Leh then spend at least a day to acclimatize , don't venture out.
Start your day early so that u can cross all major water crossings before noon because mid day sun melts the glaciers, water level gets higher, which makes it difficult to cross.
Energizers - Do carry dry fruits and chocolate bars which will be your source of energy when you miss a meal or if you get stuck at some place.
Keep your meal light, avoid spicy and oily food when on the road.
Most important tip - Don't litter, carry a garbage bag.
Carry all essential spares like clutch cable, throttle cable, brake cable.
Carry a puncture repair kit.
When you go via Manali after Tandi there are no petrol pump for about 365 km so you need to take jerry cans to carry extra fuel.
Surgical gloves under riding gloves doesn't work (tested) instead buy a waterproof winter gloves from local market and buy gum boots so that your feet doesn't get wet at water crossings.
If you are under medication remember to take all your medicines and better consult your doctor before the trip.
Take a post paid BSNL sim to keep yourself in touch with rest of the world.
Avoid consumption of alcohol because it makes you more dehydrated.
Smokers try to reduce or avoid cigarettes during the trip.
On mountain roads respect the truck drivers and be thankful to them.
Greet soldiers and if possible stop for a small chat, they will be more than happy to talk and help you in anyways.
Carry a sunscreen of higher PF value and remember to use it because the mid day sun is very harsh and you might get sunburn if you neglect. Sunglasses are also a must.
You need permits to travel around, so check well in advance and plan accordingly. Keep extra copies of all your documents.
