The Ultimate Ladakh Road Trip Guide: Delhi to Leh and Beyond

The Manali–Leh Highway is one of the world's great road trips — a 490 km journey through some of the planet's most dramatic landscapes, crossing five mountain passes.

Route 1: Manali to Leh (2 days) Day 1: Manali → Sarchu (Baralacha La, Lachulung La) Day 2: Sarchu → Leh (Nakee La, Lachulung La, Tanglang La)

Route 2: Srinagar to Leh (2 days) Day 1: Srinagar → Kargil (via Zoji La and Drass) Day 2: Kargil → Leh (via Fotu La and Namika La)

Best Time: June to September. Manali–Leh road typically opens late May and closes in October–November.

Essential Tips - Acclimatise in Manali for at least 2 days before driving - Carry oxygen cylinders and first aid - Book campsites/guesthouses at Jispa, Sarchu, and Pang in advance - All vehicles need permits for certain areas — get Inner Line Permit in Leh