The highway is opening. The walls are waiting.
Every year, there is a brief window in late May when the Manali-Leh Highway is cleared of winter snow, but the summer sun hasn’t melted it yet. This is the “Icebreaker” window.
While most tourists wait for the warmer days of July, a select group of riders gears up to be the first to cross Baralacha La (16,040 ft). They ride between massive corridors of ice, sometimes 20 feet high, on a road that feels like it was carved through a glacier.
For 2026, Ride & Fire is leading this charge. And the convoy has already begun to form.
The Route: The Full Circuit (12 Days)
This isn’t just a ride; it’s the “Grand Loop” of the Himalayas. We don’t backtrack. We ride forward, every single day.
- Start: Manali (The Green Valley)
- The Climb: Rohtang Pass & Baralacha La (The Snow Walls)
- The Desert: Sarchu & The Moore Plains (High-Altitude Flatlands)
- The Crown: Leh, Khardung La & Nubra Valley (The Double Hump Camels)
- The Exit: Kargil & Zoji La Pass (The treacherous “Gateway to Kashmir”)
- Finish: Srinagar (The City of Lakes)
Why Ride in May? (The “Brave” Choice)
Let’s be honest: May is colder than July. So why do seasoned riders prefer it?
1. The Snow Walls
This is the #1 reason. These roads are cleared by the incredible Border Roads Organisation (BRO), often weeks before civilians are allowed through. By riding in the first civilian convoy, you see the snow at its absolute peak height before the sun melts it down.
2. No “Monsoon Slush”
In July and August, the monsoon hits the lower Himalayas (Manali side), turning roads into mud pits. In May, the roads are frozen and firm. You stay dry.
3. Bragging Rights
Being among the first to enter Ladakh feels different. The locals are happy to see you, the hotels are fresh, and the vibe is pure excitement.
Not sure if May is too cold for you? Read our detailed month-by-month breakdown on The Best Time for a Bike Ride in Ladakh to compare the seasons.
Riding Solo? You’re In Good Company.
We know the struggle. You want to ride the Himalayas, but your friends can’t get leave, or they don’t ride.
You don’t need to convince them. You just need to join us.
Our May 2026 Roster already has its first confirmed Solo Rider. When you join a Ride & Fire expedition, you aren’t a “tourist”—you are part of a squad. We ride together, eat together, and conquer the passes together.
Don’t want to pay extra for a single room?
No problem. We offer a “Twin-Share” option where we pair you with another rider of the same gender, so you pay the standard group rate, not the expensive single supplement.
Join the May 2026 Convoy
Status: ● Roster Forming (4/12 Confirmed)
Dates: Late May (Exact Dates TBD based on Road Opening)
Route: Manali – Leh – Srinagar
Frequently Asked Questions (May Edition)
Historically, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) clears the snow by mid-to-late May. However, nature is unpredictable. If the pass is delayed by a few days, we have a backup itinerary that routes via Srinagar (Zoji La), ensuring the trip happens regardless of Manali’s status.
It is cold. While Leh city is pleasant (10°C – 15°C), the high passes like Baralacha La and Khardung La will be freezing (literally). Expect temperatures between -2°C to 5°C at the tops. We recommend 3 layers of thermals and winter riding gloves.
No. Our “Icebreaker” expedition is specifically designed for solo riders to form a squad. You will ride, eat, and stay with the convoy. We also offer a Twin-Sharing option where we pair you with another solo rider to save costs.
Not necessarily “extreme,” but you need confidence. The roads are mostly tarmac, but because the snow has just melted, there will be slush and water crossings. It is less about speed and more about balance. Our road captain will guide you through every tricky section.