If you’re planning a road trip to Manali, Shimla, or Spiti Valley, renting a bike from Chandigarh is one of the best ways to travel. It gives you full freedom to explore the mountains at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and enjoy every moment of the ride. This guide explains the rental cost, types of bikes available, required documents, and everything you need for a safe trip.
Why Rent a Bike from Chandigarh?
Chandigarh is the most convenient starting point because the roads are smooth, bike rental prices are affordable, and you can easily find different models like Royal Enfield, Himalayan, Meteor, and more. Before you enter the hills, you also get proper bike service stations and mechanics, which makes the journey safer.
Popular Bikes for Mountain Rides
Different bikes work better for different routes. Here are the most popular choices:
Royal Enfield Classic 350/500
The best all-rounder for hills, with strong pickup and comfortable seats.
Royal Enfield Himalayan 411
Perfect for tough terrains like Spiti Valley due to its powerful engine and great suspension.
Royal Enfield Meteor 350
Stylish and powerful, great for smooth long rides.
Bajaj Avenger 220
A budget-friendly option suitable for Manali and Shimla (not for Spiti).
Scooty (Activa/Access)
Only recommended for short rides or Shimla city. Not suitable for Manali or Spiti.
Cost of Renting a Bike for Manali
Bike rental prices depend on the model, season, and number of days. Below are the average per-day costs:
Royal Enfield Classic 350: ₹1,200 – ₹1,500 per day
Royal Enfield Himalayan: ₹1,800 – ₹2,200 per day
Royal Enfield Meteor: ₹1,400 – ₹1,800 per day
Bajaj Avenger: ₹900 – ₹1,200 per day
Scooty: ₹500 – ₹700 per day
For a typical 5-day Manali trip, you can expect the following total rental cost:
Classic 350: ₹6,000 – ₹7,500
Himalayan: ₹9,000 – ₹11,000
Meteor: ₹7,000 – ₹9,000
Fuel Cost
The Chandigarh → Manali → Solang → Atal Tunnel → Chandigarh circuit is around 620–700 km. Fuel cost usually comes to ₹1,500 – ₹2,000.
Bike Rent for Shimla and Spiti Valley
Chandigarh to Shimla
This is a short and easy ride. Bikes can be rented for 1–2 days.
Royal Enfield: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 for 2 days
Scooty: ₹1,000 – ₹1,200 for 2 days
Chandigarh to Spiti Valley (Kaza)
Spiti is challenging and only recommended for experienced riders.
Trip duration: 7–10 days
Bike rent: ₹12,000 – ₹20,000
Fuel: ₹2,500 – ₹3,500
Only Royal Enfield Himalayan or Classic 500 is suitable.
Documents Required for Bike Rental
To rent a bike in Chandigarh, you need:
Valid driving licence
Aadhar card or passport
Refundable security deposit (₹1,000 – ₹5,000)
Rental agreement
Best Time for a Bike Trip
Manali: Best months are March to July and September to November.
Shimla: Can be visited almost all year, except during heavy snowfall.
Spiti Valley: Open only from May to October. Winter months are risky due to closed roads.
Safety Tips for Riding in the Hills
Ride slowly, especially on curves.
Check brakes, tyres, chain, and clutch before leaving.
Carry riding gloves, a raincoat, power bank, and a puncture kit.
Take breaks regularly to avoid fatigue.
Optional: Manali Tour Package
If you don’t want to ride but still want to enjoy Manali, you can choose a Manali Tour Package starting at ₹4,900, which includes hotel stay, Volvo transfers, and sightseeing. It’s a good option for families, couples, and travellers who prefer comfort.
Conclusion
Renting a bike in Chandigarh for a trip to Manali, Shimla, or Spiti Valley is an exciting and budget-friendly way to explore the mountains. Prices usually range from ₹1,200 to ₹2,200 per day depending on the bike. With the right preparation and safety precautions, your Himalayan bike ride will definitely become a memorable adventure.
