Renting your own scooter, motorcycle or 4x4 is the best way to see the hills at your own pace. It also puts you in charge of everything: the vehicle, the road and the risk. A few minutes of checking before you leave saves a lot of trouble later.
This checklist covers the basics for our self-drive options: a scooter, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 and 450, and the Suzuki Jimny 4x4.
Documents to carry
- A valid driving licence for the vehicle you are renting (two-wheeler or four-wheeler).
- A government photo ID. Foreign visitors should carry their passport and an international driving permit along with their home licence.
- Copies of the vehicle papers: registration, insurance and pollution certificate. Ask for these at pick-up.
Inspect it before you leave
- Walk around the vehicle and photograph any scratches or dents, with the owner present.
- Check tyres (pressure, wear, cracks), brakes (front and rear), lights, indicators, horn and mirrors.
- On a motorcycle, check the chain, clutch and gear feel. On the Jimny, check the 4WD controls and the spare wheel.
- Check the fuel level and agree the fuel policy. Ask what is covered if the vehicle is damaged.
Which vehicle for which plan
| Vehicle | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Scooter (Ntorq) | Short, easy rides around Manali, Old Manali, Naggar and Kasol | Light and not suited to high passes or rough roads |
| Himalayan 411 | Mixed hill roads and moderate rides | Heavy; practise at low speed before long days |
| Himalayan 450 | Longer trips and rougher roads | More power means more care on wet or loose surfaces |
| Jimny 4x4 | Narrow hill roads and small groups | Short wheelbase and tall body; drive gently, avoid deep water |
Swipe the table sideways to see every column →
Driving in the hills
- Always wear a helmet, and protective gear on a motorcycle. Pillion riders need one too.
- Use engine braking on long descents and brake gently on hairpins. Wet roads and gravel are slippery.
- Uphill traffic has priority on narrow roads. Sound the horn on blind bends.
- Do not drive at night. Roads are unlit and can have debris or animals.
- Fuel stops are far apart in places. Fill up when you can.
Ask where you can go
Some routes need permits, and some may not be suitable for a given vehicle. Tell us your plan when you enquire, and we will confirm which roads and passes are sensible for the vehicle you choose.
Pick the vehicle for the road you will drive, not the one that looks best. A scooter that fits your trip beats a motorcycle that does not.
— Skypath Field NoteSee our self-drive rentals
Scooter, Himalayan 411 and 450, and Jimny 4x4, by the day.