Should I travel to Ladakh from Srinagar or Manali? Or should I travel from Manali to Ladakh and come back from Srinagar side? It is one of the most common questions on my blog, and I will write a detailed article on this topic today.
Every year in May – June, the heavenly place called Leh Ladakh open its door, and lots of adventure travel freaks hit the highways to the Himalayas from various parts of India to live their adventure of the year. The ride or drive to this adventure-filled journey to Leh Ladakh is nothing less than an adventure pilgrimage.
Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this infographic guide to learn why to choose Srinagar – Leh Road over Manali – Leh Road?. If, you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Should you travel to Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway?
Well, this is the most recommended suggestion I give on my blog that you should always travel to Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway and come back from Manali Leh Highway. I seldom share the reason in detail why do I suggest to travel to Ladakh in this direction.
Many folks also suggest or argue that traveling to Ladakh from Manali side is more adventurous and beautiful than travel in the direction from Leh to Manali side.
I will say, it depends upon with whom you are traveling and what kind of traveler are you? If you are alone/solo adventure traveler used to situations of getting stuck or returning in the middle, well the answer is you can give it a try.
However, if you are traveling to Ladakh with family or a kind of a traveler who prefers low risks and more comfort plus, then better travel to Ladakh from Srinagar side and comes back from the Manali side.
Still, not answered? Let’s look into more details.
I will try to enlist five reasons below why I suggest traveling to Ladakh from Srinagar to Leh over Manali to Leh direction.
1. Better Acclimatization, Less Health Trouble
When you travel to Ladakh via Srinagar Leh Highway, you ascent in altitude in a gradual manner. This means that your body gets more time to get acclimatized for the high altitude of Leh and you feel much better plus relaxed upon reaching there.
Always remember, when traveling to high altitude places such as Ladakh, the more acclimatized your body is, the less health (acute mountain sickness) issues you will face. And when you travel to Ladakh from Srinagar – Leh Highway, it indeed holds true and hence a good reason to prefer it over Manali Leh Highway.
If you start your Ladakh trip via Manali – Leh Highway then most of the terrain runs over 4000 Mtrs of altitude (you hit above 5000 Mtrs on the second day itself). Hence, by the time you reach such a high altitude, your body is not properly acclimatized. Traveling becomes a bit harsh on Manali Leh road.
So, there is a very high chance of falling sick due to AMS and ruining the trip altogether or returning in the middle. When you are traveling with family including children or old age people, going via Srinagar – Leh Highway makes even much more sense.
Read all about Acute Mountains Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization including some very important tips on how to prevent it. Even if you choose to travel from Srinagar Leh Highway, it does make sense to read this article.
2. Better Enjoyment of Views on Manali Leh Highway
As I said, many people argue that going from Manali Leh Highway to Ladakh offers much more scenic views than the other way round. I have covered Manali Leh Highway in the last decade years from all directions. Although I do agree to the extent that the views may be better it has to do with excitement and seeing such views early in the trip.
However, you should first ask yourself that “Is it worth risking (even about 30%) the AMS, fatigue or turning back in the middle of the trip ruining the entire Ladakh trip?”. If you say, yes, it is worth the risk, then go ahead.
When you travel to Ladakh from Srinagar – Leh Highway and then do sightseeing within Ladakh, your body gets very much acclimatized to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Hence, rather than worrying about your health, you definitely enjoy the beauty and explore Manali – Leh Highway in a much better way as compared to when you travel the other way round.
If you are traveling via Manali Leh Highway in a tweaked manner and get stuck at some high altitude pass (there are five passes on the way) due to some mechanical failure or landslide or road blockage, it will mean some serious trouble for you.
Without proper acclimatization, there are high chances of worsening the symptoms if you prolong your stay at such high altitudes. This may cause some serious health issues at one of the remotest places where even help would be hard to find for a long time. You know what it could mean.
Having said all that, I am not scaring you at all to travel on Manali Leh Highway. Rather, my job is to help you understand the risks and make an informed decision.
You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
3. Evenly Balanced Travel Distance and Time on Manali – Leh Highway
In order to combat acute mountain sickness issues, many travelers going via Manali – Leh Highway tweak the itinerary and tend to sleep at Keylong or Jispa (about 120 KMs from Manali) at the first night. Then they start very early in the next morning from Keylong or Jispa to reach Leh (about 350 KMs from Keylong) by nightfall.
Sarchu about 222 KMs from Manali, almost a midpoint, is almost at a height of 4200 Mtrs and causes some, mountain sickness issues many times to many travelers. Hence, the travelers prefer/suggest breaking the journey into 25:75 ratio when you travel to Ladakh via Manali – Leh Highway and still you feel heavy head/nausea in many cases.
All these tweaking means you will have less time on the second day to thoroughly enjoy the views on Manali Leh Highway as you are covering the distance of Keylong to Leh in about 10-12 hrs in a single day. Hence, you make a rushed journey on Manali Leh Highway when you travel in such a direction. Of course, if you travel to Ladakh by Manali to Leh bus service, you do not have any choice in either direction of travel.
However, if you are traveling from Srinagar – Leh Highway and coming back from Manali – Leh Highway, you are acclimatized in a much better way to sleep at the high altitude Sarchu where you find good accommodation as well.
Hence, halting your journey at Sarchu means, you divide the overall 474 KM long journey of Manali Leh Highway very much evenly between the two days.
What does it mean?
It means that you enjoy the journey of Manali Leh Highway over two days of evenly traveled distance and time. So, you can capture the views in both directions easily rather than rushing through the journey.
4. Better Placement of Tso Moriri Lake in the Itinerary
As you can see in my most recommended itinerary for Leh Ladakh followed by many travelers including me, if you travel towards Manali from Leh then you can better place Tso Moriri lake in your itinerary and save a day for you.
![Why avoid traveling on Manali Leh Highway in October for Ladakh trip? [5 Safety Reasons]](https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/yt_vid_thumbs/ladakh/104.png)
You should not visit Tso Moriri while coming from the Manali side because first, you will not have any permits and secondly, even if you get the permits somehow your body will not be acclimatized to sleep at a very high altitude of Tso Moriri lake.
So, you will have to go to Leh first, get the permits for Tso Moriri, do all your sightseeing in Leh Ladakh and then visit Tso Moriri from Leh. Finally, then again, go back to Leh from Tso Moriri to exit from Srinagar – Leh Highway. All it means is that you should have one more day in your Ladakh itinerary.
Since you can always exit from Tso Moriri lake towards Manali via Tso Kar lake over Manali Leh Highway, it gives more flexibility to place it in the itinerary when you travel from Leh towards Manali.
For more details, you can check this comprehensive Travel Guide of Tso Moriri.
5. No worries of Manali – Rohtang Pass Permits for Non-HP Vehicles
In 2011, the Himachal government floated a strange rule which disallowed any non-HP vehicle (now) including two-wheelers (bike/scooters) to ply on Manali to Rohtang Pass road. The GOVT. stated that this rule was brought into effect to regulate un-necessary traffic plying on Manali – Rohtang Pass road and make the traffic situation a bit better.
Later the blanket ban was lifted and only 1200 tourist vehicles are permitted on Rohtang Pass every day. You have to get the Rohtang Pass permit to visit Rohtang Pass from Manali now.
For the people going past Rohtang Pass towards Lahaul or Spiti Valley or further to Leh Ladakh, the rule required to get a Beyond Rohtang Pass permit which is available online or using the mobile app now. If you plan to rent a bike, this will mean a delayed start from Manali as it required you to provide vehicle RC number to apply for Beyond Rohtang Pass permit.
The FUNNY thing about this Rohtang Pass rule is that only vehicles going from Manali towards Rohtang Pass need that permit but any vehicle coming from Rohtang Pass (i.e Leh Ladakh or Lahaul Spiti) to Manali do not require any permit.
Hence, if you are coming from Leh Ladakh towards Manali or Spiti Valley to Manali, you do not need any permit to cross Rohtang Pass 🙂 .. Yes, weird but true.
So, you can see by traveling from Srinagar to Leh to Manali, you save yourself from the political hassles of getting Rohtang Pass permit. However, by 2018, the Rohtang Pass permit process has matured a lot, and now the permit is available using the mobile app as well.
Itinerary for Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway
It will take four days to reach Leh Ladakh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stopovers at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil, and three days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. Finally, a day is required to sleep overnight in Leh for acclimatization. This plan makes it eight days.;
So, you can add three more days to make a three day trip to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso by traveling directly to Pangong Tso from Nubra Valley.
Here is the basic flow of this travel plan
- Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
- Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
- Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
- Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
- Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization + Permits
- Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
- Day 7 | Hunder / Diskit – Shyok route – Pangong Tso
- Day 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
- Day 9 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
- Day 10 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
- Day 11 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
- Day 12 | Manali – Delhi
To answer it in the end
As we learned, going to Ladakh from Srinagar Leh Highway will be much easier on your body, help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway, enjoy the beauty of Manali Leh at an easy pace and will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into your Ladakh itinerary in a better way.
I think it is a matter of getting to see such majestic views early in the trip v/s getting used to such barren yet beautiful landscapes upfront within Ladakh and then making a trip over Manali Leh Highway.
Video | Why travel to Ladakh from Srinagar side?
Don’t have time to read the full article? Check this less than 3-minute video on Discover With Dheeraj YouTube Channel to understand why you should choose Srinagar Leh Highway over Manali Leh Highway. If you like my video, please do not forget to SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this article and now understand why we should choose to travel to Ladakh from Srinagar – Leh Highway and opt to travel on Manali – Leh Highway while you return from Leh Ladakh towards home 🙂
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.
If you have been to Ladakh before, I would love to know your thoughts too on choosing Srinagar – Leh over Manali – Leh in the comments section of this article below. In case, you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram.
If you know your friends or family are planning a trip to Ladakh, do share this article with them to help them make a memorable Ladakh trip.
1,041 Comments
Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram. :)
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all thank you so much for share your experience with us. I am planning for Leh-ladhak trip in near future. Could you please assist me on the below query?
1. What would be the suitable time for a trip. Suitable in the sense of climate and senary.
2. I am planning to start the trip from Hyderabad. I have a stipulated time( total 1 week) to finish the trip.
Could you please suggest the best plan for me. I love bike riding. So if you can provide me some idea where I can cover leh- ladhak in bike would be great.
Waiting for hearing from you!
Regards,
Satish
June to September is a the good time to travel to Ladakh. June is crowded but snow views and snow is possible. However, in September the colors are beautiful
Are you planning to fly into Leh?
My heart surgery done in january2018
can i go leh ladakh pls suggest
Suresh ji, I will suggest that you consult your doctor
Hi Dheeraj,
we are going to Leh from Srinagar by Road. Does it mean that we need lesser time to acclimatise when we reach Leh ? Can we start local sightseeing on Day 1 post reaching Leh at evening and sleeping the night in Leh on Day 0 ?
You will be better acclimatized always when you travel from Srinagar to Leh, so you can do light sightseeing on Leh rest day
Hi Dheeraj, we are going by bike and want to go via Spiti and come via Kargil. Is that alright for acclinatising? We will reach Nako on Day 2 and Kaza on Day 3 and Jispa on Day4 and Leh on Day 5. Have done this trip few times and feel this is alright for acclimatising.
Or would you recommend we go via Srinagar?
I will not suggest sleeping at Nako on Day 2 itself. Better stay at either Puh or Chango or Tabo. I am not sure about your stay at Day 1, so cannot comment. But Nako is high altitude and people does suffer that early staying over there. Srinagar – Leh is always much better, may be you can come down via Spiti Valley.
Hi Dheeraj – Day0, we will reach Zirakpur. Day1, staying at Rampur Bushahr. Then Day2 at Nako.
Day 1 Rampur, Day 2 should be either Puh or Chango or try the long haul to Tabo. Avoid sleeping at Nako
And your idea is good – we will stay at Chango.
Here are our next days:
Day3 – Kaza
D4 – Jispa
D5 – Leh
D6 – Leh
D7 – Kargil
D8 – Srinagar
D9 – Pathankot
D10 – Gurgaon
Please let me know what you think. Thanks a bunch
Hey Rishi, I am not sure what is the intent of the trip but you are just going their to map the roads and being on roads for long log hrs except one rest day at Leh. Rest it is all being on the road only for long hrs every day. I would have highly recommended to sticking to Spiti Valley only
Hi
We are a group of three bikers and planning a trip in may last week to laddakh. We wish to take Delhi-Shrinagar-Leh.Manali-Delhi route. Can you advise average days that we should keep with us and what is average costing for trip on own moter bikes. Can you please help with tips on preparation and things required?
I will reply to your other comment 🙂
Dheeraj, thanks for a great informative and explanatory post. Can i just add a few for your guided response
– Traveling from Del from March 24 – April 5..with young kids – is it the best time?
– would you recommend air or by car?
– Is the Srinagar highway still the best option for the dates?
TIA
Arjun
Hey Arjun,
March is still kind of winters in Leh – Ladakh. The roads to Ladakh including both Srinagar – Leh and Manali – Leh will be closed. You can only travel to Leh by air and then do sightseeing within Leh. You must read: Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to visit Leh from Srinagar by road in the month end of March. I have maximum of 5 days to plan. So how should I plan my itinerary ? Is it the right time to go by road ? Should I plan 1 day at Srinagar as well ?
Also I hope 5 days are enough for the tour ?
Mehak, the road from Srinagar to Leh gets open by May first week. So, in March you will not be able to make a trip to Srinagar to Leh Highway
Dheeraj ji,
I am planning to make a trip to Leh from Pune by road. My 9yr old son with me. I have only May and 1st week of june with me. Pls suggest the possibilities . and also the essentials to carry. Thanks
Hello Gautam,
How many days are you planning the trip? Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the list of good restaurants in Leh – Ladakh or eateries or food joints where food is enjoyed by many travellers including me, you can check the link here: List of Good Restaurants in Leh – Ladakh | Restaurant Reviews
Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip including basic medical kit, clothing, must haves etc. at the link here: List of Things to Carry for Leh – Ladakh trip.
To know about AMS and acclimatization including the tips to combat AMS, please DO READ: Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Dear Sir,
we are group of 5 people but due to lack of time, we are thinking to just do road trip from one side and fight from other side. which one would you suggest in that case – Srinagar to Leh or Manali to Leh
Raj
Hey Raj,
How many days do you have in hand? If this is the first trip, I will suggest flying to Srinagar, go to Leh by Srinagar – Leh Highway and then fly out of Leh.
Thanks Dheeraj, yes this is our first trip to Let. We have a total of 7-8 days. Should we stay in Srinagar for a night or just landed there and start?
Raj, if you just have 7-8 days then You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 9 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
Thanks
Hi, I read somewhere that returning via Manali-leh highway means that the element of surprise will be a lot less! You’ll have already seen the diverse landscapes, the challenge on the roads in the form of water streams and all; in Ladakh itself. It thus makes for a lot less engaging journey.
Thus, if i am reavelling in early September(less changes of any blockage on the highway), should I plan both to-and-fro journeys through Manali-Leh highwya only? Will I miss on anything? This will also give me one additional day in Ladakh!
Thanks,
Sanket
Hey Sanket,
Well, that depends on how you see and take things. For me, the above five reasons for taking Srinagar – Leh Highway with AMS being the biggest one, take much more precedence than anything else. Hence, if you will ask me that you have a choice and want to choose between going from one side and coming from other, I will always suggest Srinagar – Leh Highway and coming from Manali – Leh Highway.
If you do not have a choice, well, then you can take Manali – Leh HIghway but keep in mind that there is certain risk that keeps lingering of AMS and in case you are caught up in it, sometimes people return in the middle as well 🙂 … IT does not happen often but it does, so keep in mind.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj sir ,
Greetings!!
i want to going baralacha la from delhi,poblem is that i have my own bike and we have all the documents of bike but i dont have driving license without license permission allowed or not,kindly give me reply on urgent,last month as per your suggestion i m going sach pass now this is my second plan.
Thanks
Ravi kumar
Just replied to your other comment.
Dear Rajesh sir ,
Greetings!!
i want to going baralacha la from delhi,poblem is that i have my own bike and we have all the documents of bike but i dont have driving license without license permission allowed or not,kindly give me reply on urgent,last month as per your suggestion i m going sach pass now this is my second plan.
Thanks
Ravi kumar
sorry by mistake name is mentioned wrong,dheeraj sir pls help me and give me good suggestion
No problems 🙂
No Ravi, I do not think you will get the permit without license.
Dear dheeraj
I’m from Bangladesh. now I’m in Jammu.I will reach leh on 26 Sep.
what types of costumes should I keep.
with regards
Faruk
You must have at least one light woolen jacket/fleece and a couple of sweaters & inner thermals in case weather turn up its head.
Hey Dheeraj thank you so much for every details you have shared which is helping a lot of adventure lovers in planning their trips.
i am planning to start my journey to leh-ladakh on 26th of September but i can only extend my days up to 9(max). Can you please suggest me an itinerary along with a budget if i opt for public transportation for the whole journey and if i opt for self ride by renting a motorbike.
which route should i take? can i make it like delhi-srinagar-leh-manali-delhi? since i have limited days will i be able to cover most of the attraction and sites or which ones i should keep in my check list?
Sorry, i am asking too much but need to plan it right since i am going solo on this one.
Thanks again for your amazing work in here.
Peace
It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 9 days. Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Also read: How to make a budget Ladakh trip by public transport
Hey brother, We (4 people in 2 motor bikes) planning to go to ladakh by august 1st week. our trip plan is Delhi- Sri nagar- Leh- Manali- Delhi. we are on a tight schedule, we have only 9 days in hand. Can you please suggest us an itinerary which contains the stop overs for day ends and the attractions which we can cover with in this short period. Thanks in advance 🙂
It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization.
Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the great information. I am planning to Leh-Ladakh in late July 17 on My TVS Jupiter. Please suggest me best itinerary and also please let me know, is possible to do this trip on Scooty? What are the major/practical problems i have to face??
Thanks,
Hi Saleem,
How many days do you have in hand? Please read: How to make Ladakh trip on 100cc Bike or a Scooty?
Thanks for your reply.
I have enough time around 18-20 days. I am an adventure lover and wanted to do this trip on Scooty.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Feel free to add any days you like in between
thanks for the quick reply and itinerary link. Few more questions:
1. Can i carry laptop?
2. How much luggage i should carry for this trip?
3. What about the fuel ? Should i have modified my jupiter for extra carriers for luggage and jerry can??
4. What would be the approx budget??
5. Is it necessary to wear proper ride suit?? Can i wear normal jeans, track pant, tshirt, leather jacket etc.
6. Should i carry extra sim cards or simple mobile phone along with smart phone?
Sorry for long questions 😉
Inputs below:
1. Please read: Carrying Laptop to Ladakh or High Altitudes
2. Please read: Tips for Carrying Clothes for Ladakh Trip
3. Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
4. How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
5. Not really required but riding jackets have safety in built.
6. Better to carry them along with Postpaid BSNL connections. Check: 10 Tips on Mobile Phone Connectivity in Leh – Ladakh
Hi Dheeraj
We are 4 people planning for road trip to Leh Ladakh on Tata hexa.
We will be traveling from Delhi and want to cover Spiti afterwards Leh Ladakh and then return from Kashmir.
Total days we have 15-17 and all 4 are good driver.
It will be great help if suggest itinerary to us.
We will be leaving Delhi on 2ns July Afternoon
Shivam, I will recommend something like below:
Day 1 | Chandigarh/Ambala – Narkanda – Sarahan
Day 2 | Sarahan – Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul
Day 3 | Rakcham/Sangla/Chitkul – Nako – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza Rest and Local Sightseeing
— Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang
Day 6 | Kaza – Hikkim, Komik, Langza circuit – Kaza
Day 7 | Kaza – Sissu / Keylong, leave early in the day
Day 8 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
— Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Acclimatization
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 11 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 12 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 13 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 14 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 15 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
— Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 16 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping
— Overnight at Leh
Day 17 | Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 18 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 19 | Srinagar – Jammu
— Overnight at Jammu
Day 20 | Jammu – Ambala – Delhi
— Back Home
Considering too much of snow this year which period you would suggest visiting Leh via Srinagar?
1) 22 July – 29 July 2017 OR
2) 13 September – 20 September
Though there was too much snow, it has gone away pretty quickly too 🙂 .. I will pick September window among the two days because the other one will make me go through monsoon hassles in lower Himalayas
Thanks for the prompt reply. Will there be any difference in scenic beauty betweeen July and that in September?
September offer beautiful vivid colors but not much snow while in July colors may not be that good though you get to see some snow here and there.
Okay. Thanks!
Hi Dheeraj Ji,
We are planing for leh via manali with own car. Please suggest where we will stay at night with own tent.
Hi Ramesh,
First you can say at Kothi/Solang Valley and then next day move to Jispa/Gemur/Darcha villages to stay overnight. After that leave at 6 AM from there to reach Leh directly. Avoid sleeping at Sarchu.
very nice of you Dheeraj Sharmaji ;Right name to a right person. Giving information with correctly in all angles with courage. dheeraj means courage sharma means learned person.Thanks a lot once again. I am planing for the said trip in the month of july and contact you before I decide dates
Thank you so very much for nice compliments !! Feel free to post any questions you may have for your trip to Ladakh.
Hey deeraj, we are 8th pepersons going to Starting form srinager-leh- manali is last… So i confrom that any permit need to these side… If any permit need then where we need that permit
Thank
Gourav, in this plan you only need inner line permits in Ladakh for local sightseeing to visit Nubra, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri.
The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits is required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been announced in April 2017. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Ladakh. Page 1 is Protected Area Permit applicable for foreigners. Fill in Page 2, 3 for Inner Line Permit applicable for Indians, got to DC office in Leh and submit the application with valid Photo ID nationality proof and pay the required fee of Rs 400 + Rs 20 x number of days you will be in Ladakh.
Hi Deepak,
We are planning a trip to Ladakh this August. On One way we are going via flight. & coming via road. Is Ladakh- Manali – Delhi route safe?? In terms of unrest in the valley & monsoon ?
Pls advice
Prashasti, Ladakh and Manali – Leh route are not affected by unrest in Kashmir. It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …
Dheeraj,
This is a very informative article and thanks for that.
We are planning a trip from delhi to Leh on Hyundai I20. Is i20 suitable for this route we have 9 days for the whole trip are they sufficient. We planned the first stop at manali.Where do think we can plan our second stop before we reach Leh via Delhi-Manali-Ladakh?
Thanks
Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for the information.
There are a couple I wanted to confirm:-
Are tourists allowed to drive(self Drive vehicles) to nubra valley and pangong tso (near by places in ladakh)?
If not, what about our own car (with a private number plate ofcourse)?
Are the road conditions good enough to drive to nubra valley and pangong tso in a hatchback as I read that it’s a suicide to visit these places near leh in a hatchback/Sedan?
thanks a lot for all the noble work you are doing.
Look forward to hear from you soon
Thanks,
Varun
Yes Varun, you can only take private own number cars to places like Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
I have been running my dZire and swift over the past 8 years in many corners of high Himalayas 🙂
Hi Dheeraj ,
I have finalized the below itenary as per your suggestions.However we want to cover Nubra valley somehow.
We are planning for june 17 start from delhi.Would the road conditions be good during 17th june -25june?
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali—Stay at manali
Day 2 | Manali –Jispa—Stay at Jispa
Day 3 | Jispa – Leh(level in difficulty in hatchback?)
Day 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder – Leh(level in difficulty in hatchback?)
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh(level in difficulty in hatchback?)
Day 7 | Leh – Taglang La – Pang – Sarchu (level in difficulty in hatchback?)
Day 8 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali(level in difficulty in hatchback?)
Day 9 | Manali – Delhi
— Return Home
Is it possible to insert a visit to Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri somehow in the below itenary without extending the days of the trip and also not compromising the safety as we are planning to take our own hatchback(i20)?
Look forward to hear from you soon
Thanks,
Varun
Hi Varun,
Deskit, hunder is in Nubra Valley only. Tso Moriri, you need one more day. You are already making a very rushed trip with running every day and being just on road only for most part of the trip.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
Dear Dheeraj,
Your write up on Leh Ladakh trip is very informative. I must congratulate you for the same. We, a group of 8-10 friends are planning for Leh ladhak trip during the third week of may this year. We will be traveling in our own vehicleI have some queries which I suppose, you are the right person to solve. We are planning to travel, as suggested by you, from Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Ladakh-Manali-Delhi. The issues are:
1. Is Srinagar save for traveling? Is there other route from New Delhi to Leh which would bypasses troubled area.
2. Which all places enroute require passes? Can we obtain pass online?
3. Does it require owner of the vehicle to travel along with us for purpose of getting pass?
4. What are the important places where we can visit enroute?
Thanks
Manu
1.
Thank you Manu. My replies below:
1. For the first hand info on Srinagar – Leh Status, please read the current experience by the traveller at the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions/srinagar-leh-highway-status-2017-2018-t5264-60.html#p40510
2. If you are traveling in that direction, you just need inner line permits for places in Ladakh. The environment fees of Rs 400 & Inner Line Permits (most likely as well) will again be required in Ladakh for Indian Tourists / Nationals with effect from April 1st, 2017. This has been recently announced and is available on official website of Leh administration. It is expected that a public circular should follow soon as well. Hence, like it used to happen before 2014, all Indian Nationals or Indian Tourists WILL need to pay environment fees and may need to also get the inner line permits in Leh – Ladakh region in order to visit the restricted places like Dah, Hanu Villages, Pangong Tso, Man, Merak, Tso Moriri, Nyoma, Loma Bend, Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Tyakshi, Digger La, Tangyar (for trekking only).
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Ladakh
3. No, the permit is for the person in Ladakh not for the vehicle.
4. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj,
I have planned Srinagar – Leh – Manali bike trip on Jun 23rd, 2017. I got to know that current situation in J &K is not that safe for travelling. Can anyone tell me will it get any better by Jun end. I really do not want to miss out travelling via Srinagar route.
Thanks,
Prash
No one can predict that Prashanth. You need to keep a tab on the current news during that time of the year.
Hi Dheeraj,
The article was really helpful.
I have tickets booked from Mumbai Srinagar- Mumbai in july, I have couple of questions, I am going to Leh for the first time
1. What do you suggest, how do we travel from Srinagar to Leh and back- bus/taxi/bike? we are only 2 of us.
2. Also is Srinagar safe for tourists, with the recent unrest?
3. Do you recommend any place in Srinagar to stay overnight?
Hi Yamini,
Since you are only two in number, either find more tourists as online travel partners OR travel by shared local jeeps to KArgil and further to Leh in the shared local jeeps next day.
No one can predict in July, right now as well it does not look like 100% safe.
There are many options near dal lake which you can explore after reaching there for best deal.
Hey Dheeraj,
Thanks a ton. That was very useful.
Do you a rough estimate of how much these shared jeeps would cost?
Shared jeeps cost about 1500 for a drop to Leh from Srinagar.
Hi Dheeraj
M planning for leh in August or September with my wife via pathankot jammu on own car vill it be safe n convenient??how much time it vill take or it vil be suitable on bike or flight via same route n thanks in advance for assisting ol dese guys
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hey Folks,
DOW wonderful job for sharing as deep info as possible.hats off sir.
I am planning to either ride alone from bangalore to leh via Srinagar and send the bike from Delhi to bangalore by train in the month of July /August mid week. Please suggest if this is possible.
If Anyone wanna join for the ride, most welcome and leave the number here so that we can connect and enjoy the ride riders:)
Cheers,
Darshan.
+91-8904023217
Thank you Darshan !! You can send to Srinagar with the help of Gati/Safe Express I believe else by train to Jammu or Ambala only.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning Leh -Ladakh trip in the month of August starting from Delhi (Will be landing to Delhi from Bangalore on 12th Aug’17 morning. Have holidays:-)) and also taking off form work and planning to take flight back to Bangalore fromm Delhi on 26th Night. Can you please advise the trip for us specially the Leh circuit (we are total 2 guys in our late 30’s and looking forward to this life time adventurous trip. Most importantly is it safe to drive through Srinagar route on 15th Aug on independence day or shall we take Manali Leh route while going and Srinagar route while coming back? Please advise. Look forward to your help and guidance.
Hi Shanky,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remain overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …
Regarding security issues, in general, the tourist areas remain safe there but bandhs can affect the traffic movement. It is advised always that you leave the city in the early morning hours in such cases. Usually, these bandhs are pre-declared and hence you can leave the city in early morning hours judging the situation around before the bandh gets active. As long as you can stick to the main highway and tourist areas, there is in general no issues.
If you are really concerned about it more then probably you can skip the stay at Srinagar and move to Sonamarg the same day you reach Srinagar.
Hi Dheeraj,
Is there any alternative route to reach sonmarg without passing through Srinagar( to avoid any volatile situation) during Independence day? I’m planning to halt at Pathankot on 14th August, 2017, and was curious if it’s safe to pass through Srinagar, and take the next halt at sonmarg? Per your suggestion, regarding leaving Srinagar in the morning, is it safe to take halt in Srinagar on 14th Aug night, and leave on 15th Aug 6:00 AM to kargil?
Halt at Patnitop and then move to Sonamarg next day.
Hi Friend,
We are planning leh trip. Please guide us to decide the route.
Do we start from delhi or chandighar?
Further, if chandighar then which one you suggest from below.
1. Chandighar – srinagar – kargil – leh – manali – chandighar.
or
2. Chandighar – manali – leh- kargil – srinagar – chandighar.
Please guide.
Datta, you should go with first option of Chandigarh – Srinagar – Kargil – Ladakh – Manali. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj
I and my friend(from europe) are planning for a trip to leh via jammu srinagar. Could you please tell what are the permits my friend would be requiring and if any then the process to get the same .
Thank you in advance
You are doing a great job . Kepp it up 🙂
Hey Amy, you can read about protected area permits for foreigners and OCI holders at the link: Protected Area Permit in Ladakh for Foreigners
Sir v r planing for leh on bikes which month is best for it and plzz hlp tht is bike carriers and tent r avalble for rent nd is it possible of v take it from jammu and drop in manali
September will be the good time for you to make the trip to Ladakh on bikes.
Bikes rented outside Leh are not allowed for sightseeing inside Ladakh except Tso Moriri and Tso Kar lakes which can be done while going to Manali from Leh. Private bikes are completely allowed. You can use the outside rented bike to reach Leh but then for going to Pangong Tso, nubra Valley, etc.. you need to hire rented bikes from Leh only.
To know more about this rule and present situation, please refer the link: Bikes Rented Outside Leh Banned in Ladakh
This year as per reports, rule is going to be stricter. Manali rental guys have formalized a deal that for the days Manali bike is parked in Leh and Leh bike is rented, they will charge 50% of the rent of the bike. So, confirm with Manali rental guys first about this signoff.
For renting bikes in Leh – Ladakh along with current Bike Union Prices, you can check the DwD Community thread: Leh – Ladakh Bike Rental Rates 2016 – 17 & Rental Shops
The one way bike rental is quite costly and leave a big dent in pocket for you, sometimes like 12K for just the pickup from Manali. Be sure if you are ready to make that investment or not or if at all it is worth the money spent. My suggestion is unless you are hard core biker and cannot live up the passion of biking, it is not wise to spend that much money just for the pickup of bike.
I will suggest that you go through the articles mentioned under the DwD Community thread for bike trip to Ladakh or any other part of Himalayas at the link: All About Bike Ride to Ladakh & Himalayas. This will help you cover almost all your queries related to bike trip to Ladakh or Himalayas.
Hi dheeraj
One of my friend from Nepal
he also will come with us for leh trip
I would like to know any Proof of ID for him to show?
Yes Prakash, you should be carrying his Id proof
Okay thanks for all information:)
Best wishes for your trip, feel free to post any further questions you may have.
Hi deeraj, my friends and i are planning a self drive trip from srinagar to leh and back. Can i check if you know any car rental companies in srinagar that allows self driving? Or where the nearest city to srinagar we can start our journey to leh from? (With a self drive car)
No Dave, there are no self drive car rentals in Srinagar. Also please read that Rented Self Drive Cars in Leh – Ladakh Banned “FORCIBLY”
Hi dheeraj
Me and my girl friend hmm dono via manali se leh planning kar rahe hai by Bullet 500cc
Can u suggest me plz
Is it safe ?
Prakash, lots of people make a journey to Ladakh every year with a pillion. If you have good experience of riding a bike, it should be OK to travel. When are you planning to make the trip?
Hi dheeraj
Me and my gril friend hmm dono by manali se leh planning kar rahe hai by Bullet 500cc
Can u suggest me
Is it safe ?
Prakash, lots of people make a journey to Ladakh every year with a pillion. If you have good experience of riding a bike, it should be OK to travel. When are you planning to make the trip?
You should read: 5 Tips to Rent Bike in Leh – Ladakh and Ride with Pillion
Actually i have flight on 1 june from singapore to Amritsar
And 3 june we planning to go leh
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
Hi dheeraj
Kya ham camping kar sakte hai leh road par ?
Yes Prakash, you can do your own camping in Leh Ladakh. You can refer: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley
Hi dheeraj
One of my friend from Nepal
he also will come with us for leh trip
I would like to know any Proof of ID for him to show?
Yes, you should carry a photo id for him. Does he have passport or any identity proof?
Dheeraj pls hlp me by suggesting me the correct ans of my queries..
We r 5 friends nd wants to go on an adventurous trip from Delhi to Leh via Manali in the month of June or july next year. We r planned to go there by a car.
Bro pls recommend me the day by day plans for staying there and to explore the sightseeing, and the total money we should take .. everything about the trip..
Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
I travelled from Leh to delhi in one single day withou any stopping in my bike ( CBZ ). on 4 th september 2016.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your valuable article
Me and my 5 friends are planning for road trip from Jammu to Leh in the month of April – may , can u please give me suggestion about the route and distance .
Prasun, Jammu to Leh road opens in the month of May mid, are you planning the trip at that time? Also, Manali – Leh will be closed by that time. So, you will not be able to make a round trip.
Yes Dheeraj,
We are also planning in the same time,
As I said earlier , can u please suggest me that whether it better to start our road trip from Jammu or straight away we can start it from Srinagar ..
I am completely new for these route that’s why I am asking you this .. Hope u don’t mind
Best is to land in Srinagar and start the road trip from Srinagar as it saves a day for you. For route details and what to see, You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hi All,
My friend is currently in Leh. He went on his newly purchased bullet but now it creating issues.
And keeps on shutting down. Hence he is not able to continue with his bike.
Could someone please help in case knows any tow service that could tow his bike to nearest railway station so that he could bring bike back to delhi.
Its urgent. Kindly help. Thanks in advance.
Ajay, best is to show in repair shops in Leh else tow it with pickup hire from Leh to Manali and then Manali to Ambala.
Hi we are 10 people can you please guide us for a trip to leh Ladakh and manali we want to cover all this in 5 days. Is it possible please help us.
Shruti, you mean you have 5 days from Manali for a Ladakh trip? It takes 2 days to reach Leh from Manali and 2 days to come back. Are you sure?
Dear Dheeraj we planned trip to Laddakh from Delhi by road.we r 6 guys.we Start from Delhi on 8/10/16 and end at chandigarh on 15/10/16 by road.so I just want to know that whether 7 days r suitable for this trip and which places we have to cover in this trip.
Thnx
It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. Even if you go from Manali side, you will just rest for a day in Leh
Sir,
I would love if you could help me in this,
1) how can i get a bike in srinagar for srinagar to leh and that too on learning licenece?
2) ill be leaving for leh from srinagar on 30 sep2016 can i come back by 3oct evening as i have a flight on 4th oct
3) what all should i carry of i am travelling alone and that too first time
Please let me know as this must awaited and i want to go desparatrly.
Thanks 🙂
Just replied to your other comment.
Sir,
I would love if you could help me in this,
1) how can i get a bike in srinagar for srinagar to leh and that too on learning licenece?
2) ill be leaving for leh from srinagar on 30 sep2016 can i come back by 3oct evening as i have a flight on 4th oct
3) what all should i carry of i am travelling alone and that too first time
Please let me know as this must awaited and i want to go desparatrly.
Thanks 🙂
1. It will be difficult to get a bike in Srinagar and also not advisable to go on that route with all the unrest in the Kashmir valley.
2. Well, it takes two days to reach Leh and two days to come back, are you sure you want to make this trip?
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to travel from Chandigarh to Leh via Srinagar by road, starting our journey on 3rd September.
I wanted to know how safe would this route be, considering the current situation in J&K.
Thanks in advance.
Nikhil
Nikhil, well, there are news that curfew has been lifted but I still feel one should wait about couple of weeks to see the situation comes back to normalcy or not. If yes, then only one should drive through that route else follow the route from Manali – Leh Highway
hi buddy
i have 11 days in my hand from 03 September for my leh ladakh trip with wife (both 27 years)…..i have no vehicle of my own, so would be travelling by air from delhi…. would you please mind giving me tips on following :-
1. should i take flight to srinagar or to leh (considering the current tension in Kashmir valley)
2. hiring of bike in leh for nubra, pangong tso and other sightseeing
3. what all places to cover and what to do for my period of trip
4. any other valuable advice
regards,
Prem, I will suggest you the following plan:
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
— Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
— Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
— Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
— After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
— If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
— Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
— Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Acclimatization
— Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
— Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
— Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
— Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
— Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
— If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing. To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 6 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR You can do tour to Sham Valley
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 9 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
— Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
— Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 10 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 11 | Manali – Chandigarh
— Return
Day 12 – Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
You are alone/couple and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
Hello Mr Dheeraj,
we are a group of 3 people travelling to Leh in the 1st week of October, 2016. This is our 1st time in Leh and we want to do a road safari. Can you please tell me if the Manali-Leh Highway is open at that of the year?
Thanks and regards.
Payel, Manali – Leh remains open during that time of the year but stay options are limited. It becomes almost sub zero on 3/4th of the Manali – Leh Highway and in case of getting stuck, you may get very little help. Sill, people do make trips now on Manali – Leh highway as late as second week of October. Personally speaking, to me it is a bit risky but first week of October I will still pass it by considering delayed snowfall for last few years.
Dear Mr. Dheeraj.
Thanks for your prompt response, now You have told me that Condition is Srinagar is not good for tourists. Then can you tell me if on Delhi – Manali – Leh route, is there any situation that might create hazard to smooth travelling, eg. Flooding due to rains or land slides etc due to rain, which might make it difficult to stick to the itinerary. I mean to travel on 23rd August onwards from
Delhi.
Thanks in advance once again
Pravin
Pravin, no one can predict floods but you can check the weather reports in case it rpedicts too much heavy rains better to avoid traveling in hills else once you reach around Keylong, you enter rain shadow region where it does not rain. So, keep a tab on rain predictions during that time and make decision to go or postpone it by a week.
Hi Dheeraj,
It was very interesting to read your write up. I am booked on 22nd Aug., 2016 By Train up to JAT I think it means Jammu Tavi. Then I will travel by road shared taxis from Jammu -Srinagar – Kargill – Leh. And on return I am planning to travel via Manali.
I am travelling alone, so your guidance will help me a lot. My main worry is Jammu to Srinagar In particular about safety seeing latest commotions and then from Sringar to Kargill. I would like to know if it is safe to travel on these route these days.
I have travelled in 2013 from Mumbai – Srinagar (By flight), Then Srinagar – Kargill and then Leh, As I had to leave half way through from Leh due to some urgency, I could not see much except enjoyed road travel from Srinagar to Leh.
Besides, I have not done any hotel booking, I am thinking of doing it as I reach the place. Do you think it will be okay to do it?
I hope you will respond soonest.
Thanks in advance
Pravin
9004160161
Pravin, hotel bookings on the spot shall be OK unless you wish to stay at some particular hotel or have too much choices. However, things are no so good around Srinagar and traffic only moves at night. Last heard that too was stopped for three days. So, you may get stuck in curfew situation. I will not advise you going from Srinagar side. Rather take a direct flight to Leh or go from Manali route.
Hey Dheeraj,
My wife and I have planned to travel between 13th August 2016 to 20th August (we need to join work on Monday). Thanks for the information, it has mostly cleared my doubts. A few which are still hovering my head, I am hopeful you will target shoot them too :). Here they go:-
1) Is it safe to drive across and take stoppages at Jammu, Kargil and Srinagar? I really am not keen on getting stuck there by any chance (anxious)
2) Can we take alcohol along? Also, can we consume it while travelling or you wouldn’t recommend? (Asking coz we want to add all the flavors of fun in this trip- this was long dreamed of)
3) We want to make it a budget trip – Would you recommend budget hotels or give us other ideas to make it simple ?
4) We have a diesel Figo (45 ltr tank capacity). Would 10 Ltrs of extra diesel do or should we carry more? (More the weight, lesser the mileage 😉 )
5) Would you have an idea of how much cash we would be spending on a budget trip (excluding diesel)?
Would have a few more questions before we start on 13th.
Cheers,
Devanshu
Hi Devanshu,
1. Situation has not improved much in Kashmir, I think you should avoid the route
2. I will not recommend alcohol in take unless you are full acclimatized
3. You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
4. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
5. How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
hi,
can you let me know which route did you take while going to Leh?
also was it safe to travel via Kashmir due to recent situation in Kashmisr?
It is not safe currently to travel from Kahsmir. Better plan the trip from Manali side.
Okay, if I travel from manali… Till which point I can go safely… Drass valley?
Yes Prabhat, up to Drass there isn’t any issue.
Hi Dheeraj Sharma,
One thing I would like to ask is that I have a diesel car which is more than 10 yrs old. Will I face any problem if I head to Ladakh via Srinagar with the same car and come down via Manali ? From where exactly I need to take any permits if any ? And I will be taking my mother who is almost 60 yrs of age with me to visit the place. So can you please suggest any precautions that I shall take in order to avoid any unnrcessary circumstances while on the trip.
Thanks you in advance.
If you are taking Srinagar – Ladakh – Manali route, there will not be any issue as you do not need any permits. The best way to travel with aged people is to to travel slow with gradual ascend. The night stays at Sonamarg/Srinagar, Kargil, Alchi, Leh, Leh, Nubra are recommended before heading to Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. Do read: Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Hi dheeraj,
Thanks for the article. Me and my frnds are planning a trip to leh frm delhi via srinagar .. by flight and then hire a taxi from srinagr to leh ..
Could u please guide us if thats the rigjt way to go .. or any other suggestion woulf be welcomed. Also, m asthematic.. is it really safe for me to go on such high altitude in august weather.?
Thanks in advance
Anshul
Yes Anshul, best is always to travel to Srinagar and then travel by road to Leh. You should take it easy and stay at Kargil, if possible stay at Alchi too before reaching Leh in case you have time on hand. Apart from that, you should read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons
Hello sir I m planning to go to leh from lucknow via delhi, Srinagar by bike… But some of my friends told me that if u want to go by bike to leh then the bike should be registered on your name… And 1 more thing can I go by ninja 300… How r the roads? Plz give some suggestions..
Thanx 🙂
Shiv, I think I replied already to it. Right?
Thnku so much for your valuable guidence sir but one question which i asked…u did not reply me…can i give him diamox for precautionary side as we all adults will be taking…thanku once again in advance
Just replied.
Hi…i am travelling to leh in aug via manali, rohtang, jispa and pang…have my 9.6yr old son with me. Is it ok to take him along with us and if yes..shall i give him diamox or children gdnerally dont ve any problem..we are 19 of us inculiding one child only
Hello Payal,
In general, it is fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age or sex or any fitness level. It can happen to anyone of any age or sex or fitness I shall say :D.. The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With 5+ year child, I think he/she would be able to convey the uneasiness with little efforts. If you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a feeling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
Regards
Dheeraj
Thnku so much for ur valuable guidence sir but still my one question has not been answered….can i give him diamox befre we start travelng towards jispa on precautionary basis….we elders will be taking as it…thanku in advance
Well, I will say that Diamox is a sulpha drug and shall not be taken unless you are sure you are not allergic to sulpha drugs. It will have side effects to most people like tingling toes or fingers. It should be taken at least 36 Hrs before reaching the high altitude mark.