Riding to Ladakh? Here's a checklist of must-have accessories

With these in tow have a humdinger of a time in the Himalayan outback.

If you enjoy the freedom and the pure wind-in-your-face exhilaration of biking, then Ladakh is the ideal destination for you. Ladakh provides a thrilling experience for every avid biker, mountaineer and adventure-seeker in the world.

But, the route to Ladakh is not like any other in India. Ladakh's terrain and landscape is very different from other mountainous regions and you need to be extra cautious, no matter how experienced you are. Therefore, it becomes necessary to carry a certain set of biking accessories with you. We have compiled a close to exhaustive list of riding accessories with the help of Rajiv Shah, who owns a motorcycle accessories store.

So read on and take due notes.

Riding Jackets

Besides being used for protection riding jackets help prevent abrasion injuries. They also help protect from the cold winds and another plus is that they look really cool.

Riding gloves

Your palms, knuckles and fingers need to be protected with sturdy, well-padded gloves. Good quality gloves will not let in too much air while riding and this will help in keeping your hands slightly warm.

Riding pant or knee guards

Knee guards will protect your knees from impact. Also, consider carrying a riding pant or a cargo pant, depending on your preference. Riding pants, which offer far superior protection than knee guards, will protect you in case of a fall.

Riding shoes or high ankle shoes

While riding in Ladakh, riding shoes are highly recommended. They will prevent your feet from going numb by not letting in air and water.

Helmet

Your helmet not only saves your life but saves you from the cold wind, headaches, turbulence and dust storms that in all likelihood you will face in Ladakh. A good quality full face helmet with a clear visor will go a long way towards saving your skull in case of an accident.

Dry sack

You will need a sack to keep your helmet and other riding gear in it.

Saddle bag or metal carriers (aka Ladakh carrier)

The Ladakh carrier/Saddle bag is designed to make your ride smooth. Ensure that it is well balanced so that your bike does not lean towards any particular side.

The worst enemy you will face when you ride in Ladakh is the cold. Thermals and woolen socks are therefore a must-carry. You will also need to carry a first aid kit.

While the above are necessary, you can also choose to carry these items:

LED lights: LED lights are very powerful and they will illuminate the road ahead and ensure you are visible to other vehicles

Hydration bag: In order to prevent dehydration it is advisable to carry a hydration bag such as a Camelbak

Tank bag: Carry a tank bag to protect your camera, phone, documents and other important objects

Sleeping bag: A warm sleeping bag will be required for camping throughout your journey

Mobile charger: Your phone battery is as important as petrol in your bike tank!

Bandana/Balaclava: These are required to protect you against cold winds and to give you excellent breathability

Insulated travel flask: You will be able to keep your food or drinks warm with the help of an insulated travel flask

Riding sunglasses: These will protect you from sunlight, wind and dust and other small particles