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.
![What are tips for long-distance bike ride in Ladakh or Spiti? [10 Practical Tips]](https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/yt_vid_thumbs/ladakh/86.png)
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.
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
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Hats off to a Wonderful Blog !
am planning on a trip from Goa-Srinagar-Leh-Manali departing Goa on 14th May 2013 with my Mother,Wife, & kids aged 7 & 2.
I have just one question which would be a better car to take for the trip SX4 petrol or i-20 Diesel….
Rest all you have elaborated very well, Thanks
Karl, though it might be late but still I will suggest that take SX4 anyday. i20 might struggle with ground clearance.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS: Sorry for the delayed response, I was traveling to Spiti Valley for past 10 days.
Hi Dheeraj, Am planning to Visit Leh in Private Car (Innova with Delhi Registration) via Srinagar Route. Do we require any Permit / Registration duty to be paid for driving to leh via Srinagar? if yes than pl share details of the formalities and the estimated cost as well as where the permits can be taken.
Thanks & Regards
Harit
Hello Harit,
Nopes, you do not require permit on Srinagar – Leh route. But, once you reach Ladakh you will need inner line permits for yourself not for the vehicle. For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS: Sorry for the delayed response, I was traveling to Spiti Valley for past 10 days.
Hi Dhiraj,
i am from maharashtra and planning to visit manali,leh,shrinagar and other places near by to it.
i Just want to ask u that we have our manza car with self driven
and want to go by manali leh highway.
will we get it open from about 19-22 of may 2013 to cross it and return back by leh-shrinagar route.
can the permits be eaisly obtained to go through it at manali offices.
thank you…..
Hi Prathamesh,
Manali – Leh Highway is expected to be open by mid May types. I will suggest you follow the route in other direction so that it stabilizes as well as open by the time you are planning to make a visit. Read above 5 reasons as well in the article.
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 8 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan, then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thanks dhiraj for your valuable comment.
i would like to ask you also that….
1)are there also tough challenges for sedans on shrinagar-leh highway or it can be crossed eaisly????
2)are there all tar roads on shrinagar-leh highway??
3)can we get taxi or we are able to go by our car in mid of may with taking guide from leh for kardung la,numbra valley,pangong lake at reasonable rates if yes then which tour operator or guide will be better???
4)is in mid of may also they are covered with snow? can we play with it?
5)i saw in one of your post a photograph of swift dezire registered at delhi standing at spiti valley…is you went by that car…i am just asking about this beacuse i want to make sure about my manza car….
Thank You………
sorry,as it is mentioned in point on 5, it is not spiti valley, it is a pin valley..
Hi Prathmesh,
Please find my replies below:
1) When you talk about Trans Himalayan region, nothing comes easy for vehicles of low GC though with cautious drive and little skills it can be managed. In comparison to other parts of your trip, Srinagar – Leh highway will be a bit easy.
2) It is mix of all but majority is tarred.
3 +4) Mid of May, you might face snow on the raods of Passes. If you do not have any experience over driving in snow, then try to avoid I will say.
5) Yes, it is my car only and I have driven to Spiti with it twice and been to too rough roads on it. Pin Valley is a part of Spiti Valley only. I feel Manza would be more better than dzire 🙂
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
hii dhiraj
we are group of 5-6 friends we want to visit leh via manali. we want to explore manali leh highway at its fullest we can spend 4-5 days on manali -leh highway and another 5-7 days in laddakh please suggest itinerary
Manish, You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
While on Manali – Leh Highway, you can actually stay at Jispa after Sarchu to enjoy the beauty at a slow pace.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
we are 5 frnds planning to go leh from delhi by car… tell me which route z better??? and we have 3 car, wagonR, duster n pajero tell me which one z best??
one more question that we are planning for 7 days trip i.e. 11-18 may so is it enough or may we some more days???
thanx
Gaurav, take Pajero any day. Dusty will work fine too. Leave WagonR at home. 7 days will be very low, you need atleast 9-10 days for a hectic trip else a bit more. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am Nitin Sharma, planning a trip by my car…Can I explore Leh- Laddakh with personal car?
Will I need some extra permission.
also please let me know… from New delhi- Leh-New Delhi…how much time it will require for journey.
I have planned my journey from 15th June 2013 from Bangalore….plan to drive from Bangalore with my 2 friends…pl. suggest …..
hi Nitin,
Yes, you can go by your own car and there are no permits required for vehicle but you will need inner line permits for yourself and people traveling with you once you are in Ladakh. Also, if you are going via Manali then as you read in the article above, you will need to take permits for your car for driving over Manali to Rohtang Pass road but if you are coming from Leh side to Manali then no permits are required.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we are group of 5-6 friends we want to visit leh via manali. we want to explore manali leh highway at its fullest we can spend 4-5 days on manali -leh highway and another 5-7 days in laddakh please suggest itinerary
We are 02 couple visiting Shree Amarnathji Yatra 2013 in first week of August 2013. Thereafter, we are planning to visit Leh Ladhak in a rented car from Katra. We have total 09 days in our hand for said visit. Please give me a plan for same.
Raj, how are you planning to come back and from where? Will you be flying back from Leh?
Planning to go by road from Delhi to Leh Ladakh on my own SUV,time 7 to 10days,kindly suggest my route of travel & economical hotels to halt for 7 adult.
Vikas, you can follow the below route plan:
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
— Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
— 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 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 9 | 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 10 | Manali – Delhi
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj
we are planning to visit leh, leaving from delhi on june 3rd, we want to hire a taxi from here to leh, can u please tell me what are the things i need to make sure from the car company in terms of what are al the required documents and permits and where should i get them from, planning to travel to and fro from manali-leh route due to certain unavoidable circumstances
Shruti, how are you hiring a taxi from outside Ladakh. Only Leh – Ladakh taxis are allowed inside Leh Ladakh. You can use outside taxi only for exit and entry into Leh. Rest of the sightseeing should be carried by Leh taxi only
Hello Shruti,
i am a regular traveller to Leh, this year i am going alone by my SX 4 Petrol. to minimize the travel cost, i am looking for 4 people to join me. My Car having j & K no. so no problem in entering any area of J & K. if you have already planned your trip, you can recommend any other group, my no. is 9953325771
DoW have started an initiative under DoW as Himalayan Travel Community, leave your message in Travel Partners section at the link: Ladakh & Zanskar – Travel Partners Section. May be you meet someone online going over the same dates.
Hi Dheeraj!
We 9-10 friends are planning to tour leh via manali on bikes this june…
Need ur advice regarding route nd all…
Please let me know what inputs you require.
Hi Dheeraj!!
I have finalized the dates of travel as per the time window you had suggested (June 29th to July 14th 2013). I will be reaching Delhi on 30th morning.
For going to Leh, Delhi – Manali-Leh is set, but I am not able to decide the route for coming back, I want to cover everything possible 🙂
Is it advisable to take Srinagar highway from Leh for return trip? I can take a train to Mumbai from Jammu. Please help me finalize itenary for the trip.
Also would you be able to help me with the accommodation options (wherever tents possible 🙂
Cheers,
Minakshi
Hi Minakshi,
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 in the article above.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Is the road way from Leh to manali suitable to travel in june last week??
or do we prefer Leh to Manali via srinagar???
Hi Dheeraj, thanks for the article. It’s very helpful indeed. We, a small family of 3 from Kolkata are nature-lovers and avid trekkers by nature. Planning a 13-14 days trip to Leh-Ladakh in mid to end Sep’13 and intend to take the following route: Delhi-> Srinagar(flt)-> Leh (Road) -> Manali (Road)-> Delhi. We wish to cover Leh Town, Khardung-La, Nubra valley, Pangong-Tso and Tso-Morari. I will really two pieces of information:
1. Is it a good time to visit ladakh ? I know we would miss the view of snow-capped mountains & roads, but that’s okay.how it would be otherwise ?
2. Since we are just 3 and chances are remote that another family joins in..what could be the budgetary cost of hiring a 4-wheel vehicle to visit the places around Leh and drop to Manali (via Tso-Morari) ?
Hello Suman,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
1. Yes, indeed it is good time to visit as rains might have gone away and you will see Ladakh in its most beautiful form.
2. 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 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Namaste Dheeraj
I really appreciate ur patience in answering all kinds of varied questions by tourists and that too such meticulously.MY queries r
1} U’ve repeatedly suggested to choose SRINAGAR-LEH route for ascent and LEH-MANALI HIGHWAY for descent.In july 2011 I had been to AMARNATH VIA SRINAGAR–SONAMERG–BALTAL ROUTE.Till AMARNATH I did not face any physical problems[excluding slight stiffness in leg while climbing the stairs up to the main shrine as I had travelled till the base of cave on horse] But I hav’nt travelled at higher altitudes.Now as I’ve already visited the adjoined areas I am planing to stay in MANALI on 1-2 july’13 and then start for LEH USING MANALI-LEH HIGHWAY ON 3rd july’13.KINDLY GUIDE ME.I also plan to return by the same route.
2}Should Iplan to base my trip in LEH and move to other tourist spots like nubra valley,pangong lake etc and return by evening or I should change my places of stay?
3}Should I book hotels in advance or decide on the spot.Will JULY b the crowded season in LADAKH.
4}Should I hire a single taxi for the entire tour of ladakh[excluding reaching LEH and returning} or keep changing. Which will b cheaper?DO I need to talk yo ur recommended taxi drivers now itself or bargain after reaching leh .
5}LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST
‘PLEASE PLAN AN ITENERARY FOR MY TRIP” BEGINNING FROM DELHI ON 1 JULY AND REACHING CHANDIGARH BY 15 JULY 2013.WE ENJOY NATURE TOURISM SO PLS SUGGEST ACCORDINGLY . OFCOURE IMPORTANT PLACES OF INTEREST ARE ALSO APPRECIATED BY US.PLS RESPOND IMMEDIATELY AS I’VE TO BOOK MY RETURN TICKETS AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE{or else I’ll b at eonomical loss}
REGARDS
SUPRITA
Hello Suprita,
1. If you are planning to start from Manali then better stay at Solang Valley which will help you in acclimatization and like I suggested in other reply, you will stay at Keylong first and then move directly to Leh. Take rest in Leh and keep the body hydrated.
2. I have suggested the itinerary for the same, try to follow that and you should be OK. This is linked here
3. July is definitely a peak season and it depends how many people are traveling with you. If there are many then there should be some issue and you should try to book in advance. If there are few and all are OK with searching for a hotel a bit here and there then try to get it done once you reach Leh.
4. You can choose any path again, book from here or book them after reaching there. There should be a difference when you talk in person than when you do it over phone. Better keep a dedicated taxi for yourself but if you are 2-3 then it might be costly, so look for shared taxis of your tour which gives less flexibility but saves money.
5. Guess, already replied at the link here
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Namaaste Dheerj
I stay in Mangalore.First of all I would like to appreciate all the patience and hard worIam planning to enjoy the natural beauty of LADAKH with my family.I will b reaching DELHI on 30 june 2013 and plan to reach MANALI ON 1st JULY by HPTDC BUS.From MANALI I wish to start my trip to LADAKH via MANALI-LEH highway by hptdc volvo bus on 3 july 2013.Due to lack of leave we will return BY the LEH—MANALI HPTDC BUS latest by 13 JULY 2013 .I would request u to please help me out WITH THE BEST AVAILABLE OPTIONS.Please answer a few of my queries
Hello Suprita,
There is no Volvo bus from Manali to Leh rather a deluxe mini bus that runs on Manali – Leh Highway. You can follow the below plan in that case:
Day 1 (3rd July) | Manali – Keylong
Day 2 | Keylong – Leh
Day 3 | Leh Rest + Acclimatize
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley
Day 5 | Nubra Valley – Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso
Day 7 | Pangong Tso – Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Tso Moriri
Day 9 | Tso Moriri – Leh
Day 10 | Leh – Keylong by HPTDC bus
Day 11 (1th July) | Keylong – Manali
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thankyou so much for ur immediate response.I’ll plan accordingly and will again disturb u for some other queries if required.
thanks once again
regards
Suprita
hey dheeraj,I am planning to ladakh by mid may.me with a group of 6 people ll leave from pune.please suggest me from where should i start my journey so that i can enjoy biking n all highway fun?? what will be the best starting point for us as we all want to have fun riding bikes through mountains ??
I am planning to be there for 10 days including JOURNEY from pune to LADAKH n return..
Rishi, in 10 days it will really be very very difficult but still if you want I can suggest you the following itinerary for Ladakh:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | 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 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | 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 6 | 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 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
— Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 9 | 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 10 | Manali – Delhi
— Return home
Day 11 | Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning a road trip self driven from Hyderabad to Manali in 1st week of May. Is it advisable to go to Manali-leh–Srinagar with 2 kids of age 10 and 12?
We had been to many self driven family trips earlier and our last trip was to Rajasthan in October 2012.
I have read reviews about the altitude sickness so I’m rethinking to go directly to srinagar from Manali .
What do you advice?
Will the Manali –leh roads open in may.
Hi Dheeraj,
I must tell you your blog is very informative for a first timer like me. Me and my husband have been thinking of planning a trip to J&K for quite some time and I am hopeful that this June we should be able to do so.
Like I mentioned as this is a first time we would want your help in letting us know what is the best possible itenarary for Leh. We plan to take the Srinagar – Leh across 2 days time and then reach Leh to explore further. We are looking at doing a 10 days – 11 night trip post reaching Srinagar by flight, halt at Srinagar and explore the place for 2 days and then head towards Leh which means I get only 9 days to do the road journey and explore the best possible place in Leh.. Question being is it good enough time for everything?? I am not in favour of doing mad rush to see everything post reaching Leh, instead I would prefer picking up 2-3 most popular place and explore in and around that rather than going everywhere.. I would majorly need your help in letting us know what is the best possible itenary..I have gone through possible all your comments but right now it is too much information for me and I am kind of confused on what to cover and what to leave…
It will be definitely a great help.
Tnx….
How to do plan to come back? Fly out of Leh?
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 7 people planning a trip to leh via Srinagar. Our flight lands somewhere around 12 noon on 22 June.
1. Can we start our road journey to leh on the same day(22 Jun)?
2. Do the taxi drivers drive during the night on the srinagar leh road?
3. What all tourist places can we visit on Srinagar leh highway?
Hi Sparsh,
1. Better take rest and start next day, at max. you can try to reach Sonamarg if at all required.
2. If you want they can for the money you are paying but you will be missing on the beauty of the highway which is equally important.
3. For complete details, please check: How to plan a journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI DHEERAJ,
I AM PLANNING A TRIP TO LEH IN JUNE THIS YEAR.
A LITTLE CONFUSED ABOUT THE TRAIN/BUS /FLIGHT ROUTES WHICH I SHOULD FOLLOW FOR NEW DELHI TO LEH,PLEASE IF YOU COULD HELP ME ON THAT??:-)
Hitesh, how many days do you have in hand. Train do not go to Ladakh by the way. You have the option by road which will take at least 12 days from you or by flight which will need at least 8-9 days from you. Let me know and we can surely discuss the plans.
Hi Dheeraj,
Your travel advice and comments are very useful. For more doubts, I need a few clarifications, which will help decide my route. Assuming that we will travel in 2 or 3 of our own Scorpio vehicles,with two infants aged 1 and 2 yrs, with an Army background (Retd) and Army connections in Leh, I need to know the following: –
1) Lowest valley ht between the passes enroute, to which a vehicle can descend, IF we are stranded and need to lose height.
2) Emergency air evac if stranded, and cost.
3) Use of LASIX Tabs for medical acclimatisation.
4) The kind of help Army gives enroute in case of problems.
5) Does a night at Keylong assist acclimatisation?
6) Is there snow on the road at the passes?
7) What kind of wear and tear will our cars suffer, if the journey goes smoothly? Is it worth taking our own vehicles?
Looking forward to answers to these questions and any more suggestions you can give.
Thanks and warm regards.
Col Bedi.
Hello Col. Bedi,
Thanks alot. Please find below my replies in the exact order of your queries:
1. It will depend upon the place you are starnded. AFAIK, If on Manali Leh Highway then at least upto Jispa/Keylong you will have to Descend to be in safer limits and if in Ladakh then Nubra Valley is a good place at tolerable altitude, if on Srinagar side then Alchi is a bit lowere and then Kargil is much lower too.
2. No idea, guess no evacuation I am aware of.
3. Again sir will not be able to comment on such medicine, in fact cannot comment on any medicine 🙂
4. Very very very much helpful and always there for anyone in need.
5. Yes, definitely Keylong will help you assist for Leh overnight but not for any other place in between. Hence, from Keylong or Jispa you will have to directly reach Leh the very next day. I will suggest better stay at Jispa, much closer to nature.
6. Mostly you will find all gone aside roads by mid of July and then only passes will have some remaining ones. On road, you will find only very early in season and that too on some passes.
7. A Good amount of wear and tear for suspension/shockers for sure and some under body scrapes/scratches too here and there. If one can drive with care and caution plus want to save some money then yes, it does help a lot. I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks.
Can you give me the exact heights of the passes on Leh-Manali Road and the heights of the lowest places between every sat of passes, e.g. between Taglang la and Baralach la.
Thanks.
Hello Col Bedi,
I will request you to refer the article: Places on Manali – Leh Highway | A Detailed Description
You will find altitude of all the places that fall on Manali – Leh highway along with a graph of distances v/s altitude over the entire highway.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
There are a total of 5 high passes that you need to cross to get to Leh.
Rohtang pass (3978 meters)
second pass – Baralacha-La at 4930 meters
Sarchu is at a height of 4290 meters
3rd high pass en route-Nakee La. At 4965 meters
4th pass i.e. Lachung La (5079 meters)
The 5th Pass Tanglang La is supposed to be the world’s second highest pass at 5359 meters.
Thanks for such a clearly written travel-advice. This plus the comments have saved so much time on research through other means. Thanks Dheeraj.
Thanks a lot Col Bedi, glad that info. present on the blog is useful for you.
Hi,
Dhiraj
I want ask u that I wana go to leh
on a bike like duke-200 on may 12[sunday]plz suggest me road And it will be right time to travel to leh[road]
Ankit, by what BRO is claiming as of now to open the Srinagar – Leh Highway by the end of March, I feel by 12th May highway shall be open 🙂 … But, you can stay tune for the updates on link Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2013
ITERNARY;
29 th may – arrival at shirnagar airport at 1.30 pm and local sightseen in shrinagar.
30 th may – shrinagar to gulmarg and night stay in shrinagar.
31 st may – shrinagar to via sonamarg-vally at night stay in kargil.
1 st june – kargil to leh and night stay in leh.
2nd june – local sight seen in leh .
3rd june – nobravally and night stay in nubravally.
4th june – nubra to khadogara and night stay in leh.
5 th june – pangog lake and night stay in leh.
6th june – early morning at 6.00 am return to sarju and night stay in sarju.
7 th june – kalimong to manali at 4.00 pm so we pick up volvo manali to delhi.
Number of person – 5 adults and 2 child above 5 years
Hotel two star category or resort , two room in every hotels.
we only breakefast and dinner and vehicle is inova or zylo . (vegetarian.)
urgent quote for above iternary and call or mail .
hiren mehta
Shared your contact details with a friend, hope you get a good deal from him.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hiren, since you want a tour package, I have referred your name to a friend who is good in providing Ladakh tours. May be he will help you out with the same.
Dheeraj ,Tour Operator From Srinagar Saying road will open from last week of april for srinagar – leh highway .. are they are lieing .. or shall i take flight from delhi .. my trip date is 29th april throu srinagar -leh highway kindly suggest wat to be opt for
Arvind, it is not a certainty. If you have your plan flexible then only plan it. Sometimes it takes about a week or two into May to open Srinagar – Leh Highway. And also be prepared with initial road blocks and jams too.
hey…v r planning the same trip..!!
if u find some suitable solution then plzz contact me…and i’ll do the same.
Just messaged you a contact of a friend. I am sure he will help you out. Manali Leh High will not be open by that time and even if it will open it is not recommended to travel at that time due to unstable road conditions which incurs lots of snowslides. If you are looking to do the circuit by road please postpone the trip by at least two weeks.
this is the first blog iv read which provides wit all d minute of details..thanku for helping each one of us..
4 adults
date: somewhere b/w 25-30th april
my queries:
1.Srinagar-Leh road would be favorable to travel thru at this point of time?
2. Can we find company to travel along with?
3. Would i enjoy snow during this time?
4. Average pricing for hiring a taxi?
5. considering we visit pangong lake in first week of may, can we have an overnight halt there?
6. The colorful lake can be captured during first week of may?
Hello Jesal,
Please find below replies to the queries:
1. May be or may not be, though BRO has made progress all the way through zero point of Zojila Pass and expected to open Srinagar – Leh Highway by 5th april. However, things will still depend upon weather in coming week or so.
2. Once, you reach Leh chances will be more and more higher.
3. There will be plenty of snow!!
4. For Srinagar to Leh, you will be paying almost about 13-14K with overnight halt at Kargil. do not include accommodation in this price. It is just the cost of taxi 🙂
5. Might not be possible but cannot say because tented accommodation starts generally mid of May.
6. It starts to melt by that time. I was there last week of April at Pangong Tso last year and it was partially melted and partially froozen. Check my travelogue for the last year in Ladakh section or Travel Tale sections.
Regards
Dheeraj
thanks fr updated informations..tips….i need to know that any permit is required fr private car to travel..frpm srinagor to leh.
Arup, no permits are required for your car from srinagar to Leha dn then from Leh to Manali. However, you will need permits for yourself or people traveling with you once you reach Ladakh and do sightseeing for Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri.
actually i am planning to get a round trip with my own gypsy..from kolkata…srinagar…leh..nubra ..pangong…upsi…manali …kolkata..starting from kolkata 20th may 2013 and return back with in june 15th…how far my program is right in terms of season ….i cant go july -aug..though i had bike expnc there on 2003.pls advise me.
Arup, your plan seems to be alright to me and since you have Gypsy so that also removes any roadblock in terms of road conditions. I am sure you will be able to manage through it. Manali – Leh Highway will also open most likely by the time you will reach that leg of the journey and it would be much better if you can delay the plan by a week of 10 days to let the roads get more stabilized. If not, then give it a shot with these dates only, if you are not that unlucky ones like me then you will be able to make it through 🙂
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, I am planning a trip to Ladakh with my spouse from May 8 to May 17. I am confused about my travel plans as to whether I should opt for the flight to Leh from Delhi or take a road trip via Srinagar Leh highway.
Is it advisable to take a direct flight to Leh, only concern being getting acclimatised to the high altitude.
What is the probability of Srinagar Leh highway to open by May 8 and usually what is the road condition when the road opens for civilians. Thanks in advance for all your help
Dattaraj, if you can get the flights for yourself then I will suggest better take it as option because road conditions would be terrible since either the road might have just opened or will not be open by that time. If dates aren’t flexible for you then better go bby Air. Regarding acclimatization, yes there might be a little concer but you can try your best to rest for first couple of days. You can follow an itinerary similar to below:
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 + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— 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 – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Make a Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | 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 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
Go down to Alchi on first day if you want to be on much safer side and then come to Leh the next day since you have that spare day with you. It will help alot in terms of acclimatization.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. What about last week of May. Is it a feasible option to travel via road during this time and what will be the road condition this time round
Even in last week of May only count for Srinagar – Leh Highway. Conditions are always bad in initial days.
Hi Dheeraj,
I read your blog and kudos to you for your passion.
I am here to ask for some help. I am planning trip to Leh in April 1st week. will that be enjoyable and safe?
Regards
Arpit
Arpit, in first week of April it will be very cold and food options will be limited too. Both Pangong Tso as well as Tso Moriri lakes will be frozen thereby will not offer the multi colors they are famous for. Try making the trip in June or May end.
DHEERAJ LET ME KNOW CAN ANY TAXI OR TOUR OPERATOR THEIR FOR DROP FROM SRINAGAR TO LEH WITH ONE DAY STAY AT KARGIL … MY JOURNEY DATE IS 29TH APRIL .. REACH LEH BY 30TH APRIL.
SUGGEST ME SOMETHING
2ADULT 1 CHILD
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
There is a list of drivers as well here, contact Naseer as he does come to pick tourists from Srinagar too. The advantage you will get is better price (if he do not offer any discount, refer my name) as well as Ladakh taxi number which can halt at other places of sightseeing on the way to Leh from Srinagar which srinagar taxi cannot.
Regards
dheeraj
Hello sir, u have done a commendable job with this blog about choosing Srinagar leh highway. I had a query and I hope ur experience will greatly help replying it. I am going to Kashmir and Ladakh on 20 may. It is mainly for photography purpose. Shud I choose to drive to leh from Srinagar via kargil or shud I take the flight option. If there are possible photography places on way via kargil I will readily accept that option. Please reply soon. Thanks in anticipation.
Meet, do take the route from Srinagar to Leh by road. There are awesome places to take pictures and practice photography there 😉
hello Dheerajji, We 2 of us are planning on a bike trip to leh-ladakh. initially i thought we could bike it from manali but after reading some of your blog, i think it would be better to fly into leh and bike it from there to manali. we want to travel around 22 of May after just getting married. we are coming from Pune and have around 8-10 days at hand. we would like our trip to include the more off the beaten track places than the usual tourist destinations.. though they r also welcome. On top of that we dont have a huge budget. Do you think we coud do it? n whats a good itinerary for it? could you suggest what would be a good plan? also if biking is not possible then what can be a good mode of transport and how much cost should we be looking at? thank you
Hello Armin,
You can follow the below 8 – Day itinerary for Leh – Ladakh:
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 + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— 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 – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Make a Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | 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 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour
— Overnight at Leh
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
Yes, you can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and 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
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we 6 friends are planning to visit laddakh via Manali (Road Trip) and return leh to delhi by flight. please suggest itinerary and what is the minimum time required. will it be ok if we plan the trip in 1st week of July
Manish, first week of July will be OK. If you want to visit Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley then a minimum of 10 days will be required.
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning for a trip to Leh from 8th-21st May 2013. Had a couple of queries:
• I have a 5 year old kid. Is it safe for him from his health perspective? Am worried in case he is not able to adjust to the altitude
• Does Srinagar Leh highway opens up from 12th May.
• I would be staying for 1 night at Pahalgam, Kargil, Alchi each before reaching Leh on 14th. Does this provides me enough time to adjust to the altitude there.
• Is it safe to stay overnight at Pangong Lake. As it is at an altitude of over 14K ft I am a bit worried if we would be able to the same. I am sure it would also be extremely cold at night over there.
Thanks in advance for your response.
Hello Nikunj,
1. It is fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age. It can happen to anyone of any age. The rissue 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!!
2. It may be open or may not be open. Chances are 60:40 as generaly by first week of May it does get open.
3. Yes, very much.
4. It depends how well have you acclimatized. Usually, after couple of nights at Leh and Nubra Valley, people cope up with night halt at Pangong Tso. In your case too, I feel should be fine.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj for your response.
dear dhiraj ji
we group of 6 persons planing to travel manali to ladakh (7-8 days) plz suggest itinerary and we are planning to visit in last week of may so will it be feasible to travel manali to leh in May.
Manish, if you have 7 – 8 days just for road trip to Ladakh then I am afraid it will not be feasible. Also, in May, Manali – Leh Highway is unlikely to be closed.
Dear Dheeraj,
We are planning 2 weeks trip from Mumbai to Leh-Shrinagar-Gulmarg between May 5 to 18,2013.We are four in the family.Request you to suggest us the best itenary,approximate cost of hirring vechile and hotels serving veg food. Will Leh-Shrinagar highway be open by this time.
Regards
sanjiv
Hello Sanjiv,
Most likely the Srinagar – Leh Highway should open by that time of the year. Will you be flying back from Leh? Or will you be coming to Srinagar back from Leh and then may be would like to fly from Srinagar to Mumbai? Let me know and I will suggest the itinerary accordingly.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks for your response.As regards my flying back to Mumbai,I am open to both the option i.e. either from Leh or Srinagar whichever you advise is best. Request you advise me the itinerary which is best.
Also should I do the hotel bookings in advance or do on the spot on reaching the destinations ( as per your itinerary), which option will be economical. Please advise the hotel details also at these locations.
regards
sanjiv
Dear Dheeraj,
I refer to my request of Feb 11 & 15,2013 seeking your advise for our Leh-Srinagar trip in May’13. Request your revert to enable us do our bookings accordingly.
regards
sanjiv
Dear Sanjiv,
You have about 14 days and yo umight like to follow the below itinerary:
Day 1 | Delhi – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Pahalgam
Day 3 | Pahalgam – Srinagar
Day 4 | Srinagar – Gulmarg – Sonamarg
Day 5 | Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 6 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | 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 9 | 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 10 | 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 11 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 12 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 13 | 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 14 | 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. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
I hope this helps. Sorry for delay, I missed out on your query earlier.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Many thanks for your quick response of Feb 26, 2013 giving itinerary for Leh-Srinagar trip. I had also asked your advise on should I do the hotel bookings in advance or do on the spot on reaching the destinations ( as per your itinerary), which option will be economical. Please advise the hotel details also at these locations.
Request your advise on above also.
regards
sanjiv
It depends on your choice. If you do not plan to stay at any specific hotel and if you are OK with searching the place a bit after seeing the room conditions once reaching the place, then I guess you could save some good amount of money too on the hotel bookings. Secondly, it provides you with more and more flexibility in terms of dates you reach on a particular place and allow you any last minutes changes. In places like Ladakh where road conditions are uncertain enough to force a change in plan, the flexibility always top the list.
Finding a place is not that difficult in Leh and your taxi will be able to help you through. Keep this list handy with you: A preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning a 8-10 day Road trip from Delhi – Srinagar – Leh -Manali – Delhi in last week of May. Will Leh- Manali be open by then fro the return leg of the journey? My friend is planning to take along his kids who are 3 & 4 year old, is that safe? will appreciate if you can suggest an itinerary.
Cheers
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 10 people travelling from Bangalore. We plan to arrive in srinagar on June 1st 2013 and start the same day. We are planning to rent an SUV for 4 ppl and the remaining 6 will ride to LEH. We will take SRINAGAR-LEH highway and exit from LEH-MANALI highway. Our plan is for about 14 days. Can you please let me know the following:
What are the options to rent a car ?
What is the cost and is it better to go for a taxi or rent a car ?
We plan to put all our luggage in the SUV so that we can ride on our bikes freely and just have the basic stuff in the saddle bags, do you think this is a good idea ??
We plan to have the bikes in the front and the car at the back in case of an emergency .
Hello Kaushik,
1. If you are talking about self drive, then sorry, you will not get that on hire neither in Srinagar nor in Manali.
2. Taxi will cost you about 12-13 K with overnight halt at Kargil
3. Will work nicely brother and help you travel/ride light. Plus will give you an advantage of backup vehicle as well.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
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.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you so much for your quick response and really appreciate it and your blog is awesome :-), in fact I am so happy i found one of this kind that i have don’t have to think too much, i can just ask you suggestions and make my decisions accordingly.
Warm Regards,
kaushik
Thanks Kaushik, feel free to ask any queries you have for your Leh – Ladakh trip.
Hi Dheeraj,
we are group of 6-7 guys planning for bike(rented bike) trip to Leh in July.
We are planning to start from Chandigarh-Manali-Leh-Kargil-Srinagar but dont want to drive back to Chandigarh.
Are there any options to take bike from Delhi/Chandigarh and leave it in Srinagar 🙂 🙂
Thanks,
Shiva
Hi Shivakumar,
Nopes, you might not be able to leave it in Srinagar but yes there will be options a bit costly, which will allow you to take bike either from Leh and drop at Manali or take bike from Manali and drop at Leh. If you are planning to ride in this way I will suggest that you go via Srinagar side and come back via Manali side 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
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your reply.
Actually we thought for Srinagar-Leh but due to some reasons we are planning from
Chandigarh-Manali-Leh-Srinagar-Chandigarh.
Can you please provide a itinerary for this route.
We can spend around 14-15 days.
is July-midweeks are fine to go by bike ?
Thanks in Advance.
Regards,
Shiva
Dheeraj,
i would like to know the places to see in between Srinagar – Chandigarh.
Regards,
Shiva
Nothing much but may be Patnitop in place of Jammu and then last day Patnitop to Delhi/Chandigarh as per the below itinerary.
Hello Shivakumar,
In that case follow the itinerary below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | 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 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | 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 6 | 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 6 | 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 7 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— 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) – Taglang La – Upshi – Leh
— Come back via Tso Kar and Manali – Leh Highway to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | 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. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 11 | 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 12 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 13 | Srinagar – Jammu
— Overnight at Jammu
Day 14 | Jammu – Delhi
— Back Home
Day 15 + 16 | Buffer days to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot for providing itinerary.
I will check and get back to you for more information.
Regards,
Shiva
Hi Dheeraj,
Do you have any contacts for hiring bikes from Chandigarh.
It would be great help as its bit difficult to find out in chandigarh.
Thanks
Shiva
Sorry on this front brother, no contacts.
Dheeraj,
Is July month is best time to visit Leh by bike.
Thanks In Advance.
Regards,
Shiva
It is always nice to plan your journey in last 10 days of June or first 2-3 weeks of July when you can find ample of snow on roads and roads will be open by that time from both Srinagar as well as Manali side to Leh – Ladakh. However, please keep in mind that road conditions hardly improve on Manali – Leh road and remains almost quite challenging + adventurous all throughout the season. It improves slightly towards the end of season that is September or October first week but by that time snow is all gone and risk of road closure increases. So, you need to be prepared for all the adventure that Manali – Leh Highway offers a traveller in the month of June – July and situation worsens when monsoon comes in late July, August and early September now a days. So IMHO, overall whatever best window you will get so that you avoid monsoons, see ample of snow and roads are open for you will be like 15th June – 20th July window.
If you want to see beautiful colours of Ladakh then second half/late of September is THE best time to visit Leh – Ladakh when these colours are oozing and burning out vividly and of course, the road conditions does get better in late September type when rains reside the region completely. It is my favorite time to visit Leh – Ladakh region and yeah, tourists head count all dips a bit in late in the season.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 6 males aged around 25 yrs planning to visit Leh in August 2013. He is our travel detail:
Leaving B’lore on 11th August and will reach Srinagar at 1:30 PM. We want to go to Leh by Road. Some suggested that vehicles to Leh will start early morning only so wen cannot start our journey to Leh on 11th.
Kindly suggest what type of vehicles would be available for us and how much will it cost? And since all the vehicles halt at Kargil what would be the accommodation cost??
Also I guess we reach Leh on 13th and we have to get time to acclimatize and also I guess we need to get some permission from magistrate or DC as we want to roam around Leh on bikes. We are thinking to hire bikes in Leh. So 14th August also we cannot do much.
Now our trip will actually start from 15th August. Our return flight to B’lore is from Leh on 21st August. Kindly plan an itinerary for us from 15th August to 20th August in Leh.
Regards
Nikhil
hey nick
I think u should keep some uncertainties. That’s where d fun lies. Discovering it yourself rather than following someone’s itinerary
Hi Nikhil,
Very true, you will be reaching Srinagar at 1.30 PM, so better not to venture any where else rather enjoy Srinagar and start journey next day. You have about 7 days in Leh – Ladakh only and you can follow the following itinerary starting 14th August:
Day 1 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
— To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 2 | 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 3 | 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 4 | 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 5 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | 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
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and 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
You can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions.
For doubts related to budget for Leh – Ladakh trip, I am sure the link below will help you alot for getting an idea of overall budget:
How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
Still, in case you have any doubt, kindly let me know.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, Dheeraj,
We are a group of 7 People (5 Adults, 2 Kids (10 & 12 years) r planning to Kalka – shimla – Manali – leh – Srinagar – Jammu
in Mid may (starting from 13th May from Kalka).
Pls advise about , transport and hotels
Hi Bipin
We were planning to be in Ladhka in May – but were advised to travel by air to Leh from Mumbai. But still, since the roads would not be open till june, thre will be very few workers to run the dhabas, taxis and other service areas. So, my view is to be there after the roads open.
Bipin, in May Manali – Leh Highway very likely be closed at that time of the year. Do you still want to make a trip?
Hi Dheeraj. Our current plan takes us to Jammu from Mumbai by train. Then, Can we drive from Jammu to Leh – where would we halt for a night? Our schedule is 15th June and return to Mumbai via leh>Manali on 1st July. Will we be hitting per-monsoon at that time? Please advise. Regards, Kishore
Hi Kishore,
For Jammu to Leh by road, first night you will halt at Srinagar and next night at Kargil. Yes, it is before monsoon period only. 15 days is good enough to undertake this trip.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and 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
For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
Regards
dheeraj
Hi,
Dear Dheeraj,
I am planning to 5 night visit to Srinagar via flight from Delhi in the month of March 4th Week, It would be possible to reach Leh via Road from srinagar during this season
Hi Sameer,
At that time of the year, the roads to Ladakh both Srinagar – Leh Highway as well as Manali – Leh Highway remain closed. So, you will not be able to make a journey by road to Leh in April. If you are lucky enough Srinagar – Leh might get open in the last week but usually it is mid may that is safe bet for it.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to go to Leh via srinagar, by road, around 20th May this year. Do you think the road would be open by then? Also I would travelling with my wife and 9 year old daughter. Is it safe to take a taxi and go on those lonely roads ?
Hello Sai,
Srinagar – Leh Highway will be open by then, so no issues on that front. Manali – Leh Highway might have a slim chance of opening towards they end of your trip. Ladakh is one of the safest places in India at least as far as human crimes are concerned I have ever been, people are always there to lend you a helping hand where ever possible and always greet you with a lovely smile… So, I feel you should not have any issues on that front.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello Dheeraj,
am Ram from Kerala, we are 4 ppl are palnning to visit Srinagar on this May 17 – 26 (10 Days). We would like to go through this route = Delhi – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi. And we have no idea how can we go this route, and the places to visit. can u please guide me?
Hi Ram,
For 10 days, you can follow the below itinerary:
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
– 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 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 9 | 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 10 | Manali – Delhi
Hope this helps, let me know in case of any further queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank a lot Dheeraj for such a nice information. I am planning for leh and ladakh during Amarnath yatra from Sonmarg, kindly guide me.
Hello Kanti,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
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.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any inputs or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am planning to go from srinagar to leh via road route on 25th May 2013. Will this time be okay? Can I go with my 4 year old daughter?
Radha, well, It may be fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age and going via Srinagar will help in acclimatization too. It can happen to anyone of any age. The only 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. If you notice any such feeling or she tells you about such a felling 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!!
I will suggest do take advice from your pediatric doctor as well.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Wonderful blog, Dheeraj! Besides AMS, what risks and challenges, if any, might two Canadian tourists (male 62 and female 45) face on spiritual trip to Hemis Monastery, Leh, and Srinagar for about 7-10 days in late Aug or early Sep 2013? Where are foreigners not allowed? Thank you.
Hi Rolf,
Thanks alot. Since, you are going via Srinagar side, you might not face much issues. Just try go slow and steady, may be it is ind of Spiritual trip, so try staying at Alchi before finally arriving at Leh. I do not see any specific issue around it excluding the monsoon time of late August. You might be facing some furious rains on the way to Leh from Srinagar but those shall fade away as you get closer to Ladakh, being rain shadow region.
Foreigners are allowed to do the basic routes in Ladakh that is Tso Moriri, Pangong Tso, Dha-Hanu,Nubra Valley but not beyond there or any other unconventional route connecting these places. So, if you are targeting them then you will be able to visit it.
Also, You are just 2 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 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you need any further info. or have any doubt.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to travel at the begining of June from Manali to Kishtwar via Udaipur and Killar, then onto Leh to do the usual sightseeing.
My question is, is this route possible so early in the year?
Many thanks,
Matt.
Matt, I will say 50:50 chances. Usually the BRO guys first clean up the major in-roads and then they start to work more focusly on other roads. Manali to Kishtwar might be open and might not be open in June. The late you go the more chances you have.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thank you Dheeraj,
I guess I will need a ‘plan b’ just incase…
Matt
Matt, yes, it is better to keep the Plan B 🙂
hi dheeraj…i and my friend had gone to ladakh this year in august…it was wonderful..we covered pangong tso and nubra valley in 9 days…we are again planning to go there this summer (2013)…thought this time, we would like to explore this place you had been to this year(2012)…there is this valley you had been to that is accessible via kargil…can you please share the itinary for the same with me…and about how to plan the trip and what all to expect..that would be really greatful.
cheers
Hi Ravi,
I had been to both Ladakh – Changthang region and Zanskar Valley. Which one would you like to know about?
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
hi Dheeraj,
i was interested in knowing the preparations required to visit both these places…we plan to go there this march-april..please also advise me if 10-12 days are enough to cover both the places or we need extra time.
cheers
hi dheeraj
I really need Ur help.actually we r 7 frnds planning to leh in December last.first we have to go to Jammu by train and then go to vaishno devi and then we r thinking to hire a taxi frm srinagar for leh.bt we hav to come to Delhi in maximum 6 days.and we hav to do it.so plzzz help us to plan our trip.and we can’t cancel any of Jammu srinagar or leh..and we hav to come back to Delhi by train.coz we can’t afford flight tickets.
Ankur, roads are already closed for Leh Ladakh. Better plan it in the month of June now, when then the roads will re-open again.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
The first three weeks of september 2013 we are planning to cycle the Srinagar-Leh-Manali route. We are a group of 8 Dutch cyclists and maybe you can help us on the following matters:
1. what to bring for clothing & sleeping bag/what to expect to low temperatures
2. the airport Kullu-Bhuntar seems closed, could that be temporary?
3. what is the best way to arrange transport for us and our 8 bicycles from Manali to Delhi
4. water: what to expect on the route; we carry waterfilters, is that doable, or do we buy water in bottles/from tap; and are there enough watertaps for cyclists (we cycle 60-80km per day)
5. can we buy Diamox in Srinagar
6. is there always enough room for a group of 8 people in the accommodations on this route; we could take our own tents, but probably that would be too much.
It would be great if you could help us on one of these matters.
By the way: keep up the good job; hats off for all the hard work you put in this site!
Jim van den Berg, Rotterdam, Netherlands
Hello Jim,
Please find my replies below:
1. In September, first half the rains does prevails due to delayed monsoons for the last few years. So, carry a rain gear for sure. Then, for sleeping bags – yes. It helps you to stay even in tents without much biting cold. In then second half of the September the day times are pleasant and sometimes a bit hot too but nights get cold. Much colder and close to sub zero sometimes on Manali – Leh Highway almost majority of it as it runs over 14K altitude mostly.
2. I guess yes, but do not rely too much on it. Sometimes due to lack of flights it works like that only and in winters guess it closes though I am not 100% sure on this fact. It all depends upon availability of flights.
3. Hire a private tempo traveler I will say. It will be most apt and comfortable too and accommodate all of you in one vehicle only.
4. Yes, very much doable with water filters. Else there are mineral water bottle available almost throughout the routes over tea shacks or dhabhas or sops. Will say avoid taps once you are away from Trans Himalayan region though personally I never faced any water issue, may be being native to India and used to water here.
5. I guess, it will be available in Srinagar. But, I think going via Srinagar will help you very much in acclimatization and you might not need its dosage.
6. I will say avoid tents and travel light. You will find plenty of accommodation options and in September tourist number also drops, so unless it is any festival in town you will be able to find it easily.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and 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.
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
I hope it helps. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for your quick reply, this information will certainly help us.
I was also thinking of an alternative out of Leh, which is Leh-Taktok-Tangtse-Merak-Chushul-Mahe-Korzok-Tso Kar-Rumtse-Leh.
Is that possible for foreigners, and if so, can we find sufficient accommodations?
Jim
Hello Jim,
Nopes, you will not be able track that route. Foreigners are not allowed on that circuit of Inner Line of Control. Max. you can go to Pangong Tso is at Man-Merak check-post from where you will have to return to Leh. But, yes once you return to Leh, then you can go over to Tso Moriri and from there via Tso Kar exit towards Manali – Leh Highway.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for the detailed answer, really helpful.
Now I’m facing the following choice. First I thought of cycling Leh – Manali, but now I’m thinking of the route Leh – Pangsong – Shyok – Kardung-Leh. Looking even more tempting. What would you advise?
Hello Jim,
Well, Leh – Manali journey cannot be compared with anything like one cannot compare Ladakh with anything 😉 … So, if you happen to take only one of the two route I will strongly suggest you to go for Manali – Leh Highway and you will remember the journey for a long long time 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for the detailed answer, really helpful.
Now I’m facing the following choice. First I thought of cycling Leh – Manali, but now I’m thinking of the route Leh – Pangong Tso – Shyok – Kardung-Leh. Looking even more tempting, but maybe we need a tent for 1 or 2 nights between Durbuk-Shyok-Diskit. What would you advise?
HI Dheeraj,
We are 9 people (in our late 20s and early 30s) planning for a road trip Delhi – Srinagar-Leh-Manali- Delhi. How feasible is this for a 9 day schedule ? Could you suggest a travel itenary for a 9 day Leh road trip ?
Just forgot to mention, we are planning this trip in the first week of June 2013
Hello Neha,
Very difficult for a 9 day trip unless you are only interested in Srinagar – Leh Highway and Manali – Leh Highay but not in Ladakh. Best you can do for 9 day trip is:
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
– 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
OR
Day 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 8 | 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 9 | Manali – Delhi
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any query or doubt.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hii sir
i m planing to go leh ths summer in my ford figo via srinagar….ths will be the first time i vl drive on such a route …plz suggest me some imprtant points to while i go on trip….
Hello Karamjeet,
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan, then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Last July i visited Leh and took the same route. Srinagar to Leh while going and Leh – Manali while coming back……
It was a wonderful experiance…
How many days trip was it ?
Hi dheeraj,kindly suggest me the best Itinerary For leh ladakh (Srinagar-Leh-Manali-delhi) bike trip for 20 days,covering (Gurudwara{pathar sahib},lamayuru,sarchu,magnetic hill,tso moriri lake,pangong tso lake,nimmu,kargil,gulmarg,sonmarg,spiti valley and some good monesteries,etc. And pls share stay accomodaion also with ur suggested Itinerary.im planning to go in june or july 2013. kindly share the best Itinerary.
Hi Ashu,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh. You can include a 2 day trip to Dha Hanu Villages and 1 day trip to Sham Valley. Keep 2 days as buffer for Manali – Leh Highway
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
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.
For details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any further details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj, will u suggest any map , for leh ladakh bike trip (15-20 days) ? and which camera will u prefer for this trip ?
Hi Ashish,
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 travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
Well, it depends how much you know about photography. Otherwise, anything that can click will do a good job for you in Ladakh.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hu Dheeraj Bhai
As you knew I had to go Leh ladakh trip in september,2012 but due to acute illness of father-in-law I failed to go and cancelled my tickets and dream plan. Again hoping to go in early 2013. Suggest 13days plan( including GULMARG, NUBRA, PANGONG,MANALI MUST). I will start from Srinagar-leh road as this is your suggested road. I want to go Gulmarg also, please suggest when i will go and when i can see heavy snow without road block etc. You are requested to give total plan for me and my wife.
Suman, which month are you planning this trip?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj,PLease suggest the best Itinerary for leh ladakh trip (15-20) by bike .
hi dheeraj, please ignore previous comment,Basicly im belong from Udaipur (Rajasthan),Please suggest the best Itinerary for leh ladakh trip (15-20 days) by bike from Udaipur (Rajasthan) .
Hello Ashu,
Considering a 2 day buffer and 3 day to-from from Delhi – Ahmadabad, I feel You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj,can u suggest the best Itinerary for leh ladakh trip (20-25 days) via bike .including sri nagar,manali and any other good location.
Hello Ashish,
For 20-25 days I will suggest you follow something like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Pahalgam
— Overnight at Pahalgam
Day 4 | Pahalgam – Gulmarg
— Overnight at Gulmarg
Day 5 | Gulmarg – Sonamarg
— Overnight at Sonamarg
Day 6 | Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 7 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
–For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder – Turtuk
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Turtuk
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— enjoy the culture in the Turtuk Village
— do mention Turtuk on the permits
Day 10 | Turtuk – Hunder
— Spend whole day at Turtuk and reach Hunder by evening
— Overnight at Hunder
Day 11 | Hunder – Deskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur/Kyagar
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
— Enjoy drive upto Panamik, visit Yarab Tso Lake and back to overnight stay at Kyagar or Tiger or Sumur
— Enjoy walks in Hunder, Deskit, Sumur villages for the last 3 days
Day 12 | Sumur/Kyagar – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 13 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 14 | Leh – sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Alchi
Day 15 | Alchi – Dha/Hanu Villages
— Do mention Dha Hanu Villages on the permits
— Enjoy the local culture at Dha Hanu Villages
Day 16 | Dha/Hanu – Leh
— Overnight at Leh
— Enjoy local Leh
Day 17 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik)
Day 18 | Pangong Tso Lake – Man – Merak – Chusul – Tsaga – Tsaga Village – Loma – Hanle
— Mention all the places of this route as mentioned above on the permits and Nyoma as well
— Overnight at Hanle
Day 19 | Hanle – Loma – Nyoma – Mahe – Korzok / Tso Moriri Lake OR Hanle – Chumur – Tso Moriri Lake
— Overnight at Tso Moriri lake
Day 20 | 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 21 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Jispa
Day 22 | Jispa – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 23 | Manali – Delhi
— Return home
Day 24 + 25 | Buffer Day
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any queries or doubts!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
planning a trip to srinagar, gulmarg, sonamarg from 11/Nov to 15/nov.
q#1:is it a good time to travel?
q#2: planing to leave delhi by innova with my family ( husband, 2 children – 6yr son, 2yr daugther). how long the travel would be?
q#3should we stay overnight somewhere?
q#4is it safe to go by Innove or take any Volvo bus?
q#5: any idea on tour operators who operate good volvo buses?
q#6:or best would be travel by
flight?
q#6: what’s the best route to take?
q#7: any other place to cover during the enroute?
q#8: what precautions to be taken for my children if we decide to travel by Innova?
pls advise. your inputs will greatly help for better planning and enjoying the trip
hi dheeraj,can u suggest the best Itinerary for leh ladakh trip via bike .
Dear Dheeraj
I am palanning to be in Leh from 2nd May 2013. Are the Srinagar>Leh>Manali road open at that time?
If no, then I will fly Mumbai>Delhi>Leh. But again, will I able to travel to Nubra Valley, Kargil, Ladakh in the first week of May? I mean, will the roads be open?
I understand that JKTDC buses operate from SRinagar to Leh to Nubra?
What could be the temperature?
Regards
Kishore Nair from Mumbai
Hello Kishore,
50-50 Chances of opening of Srinagar – Leh Highway and very least almost NIL chances of opening Manali – Leh Highway. A lot depends upon how much it snows this year. You can visit all other places within Ladakh anyways including Kargil, Pangong Tso, Nubra Valley. I was there in the last week of April this year only and you can check my experience details in the Travel Tales section of the blog and see how it looks like in April last or May first week: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/my-never-ending-journey-ladakh-2012/
Temperatures will be cold and very cold at night and it is just the onset of season in Ladakh so do not expect too much in terms of food quality but still there will be very decent food options in first week of May. There might be spells of snowfall as well.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
That was prompt. Thanks Dheeraj.
OK, I will fly into Leh on the 2nd of May. But will the road from Leh to Ladakh be open at that time? I mean, will i miss any place in Leh and Ladakh by visiting in the first fourteen days of May 2013 due to roads?
Regards, Kishore
Hi Kishore,
Leh is the captial town of Ladakh district, so even if you visit Leh you are in Ladakh itself. For rest of the places, most of the routes are functional throughout the year but yes, it might close down due to heavy snowfall at any pass on a particular day and if that happens to be the day of your travel then it is your luck 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I did visit this: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/my-never-ending-journey-ladakh-2012/ AWESOME!!!!
Just need your info on ‘whether we will miss any place by visiting Leh and Ladkah during May 2nd to May 14th due to weather?
hi. I am reaching leh by air on 12th sept and leaving from srinagar on 19th Sept. Can you pl. suggest me the places what we can visit during this period. As I m keen for Leh Srinagar by road.
Hi Shelly,
You have about 8 days for the trip and you may like to follow the below 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 + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— 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 include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— 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 | 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 8 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Sonamarg
— Overnight at Srinagar
Would have been much better if you did this trip in opposite direction.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI Dheeraj !!!
Thanks for such a valuable advise and being done the Ladakh trip in the 2nd consecutive year , i do agree and appreciate your suggestions , as far as being wid family is concerned and time schedule of including tso morori is concerned .
However i have personally done the trip in the reverse order , i.e. while going Manali-Leh (NH-21)and while returning Leh-Srinagar(NH-1D). The reason being , we did the bikers trips without any time constraints . The reason for doing so was that Malai-Leh highway is more tough and pictursque with the landscapes and topograpies like nowhere in India , so doing that early with full enthu and excitement is also a good option but a bit risky as on day 2 its really difficult as the altitude increases . But doing that and after covering Leh-Ladakh-Nubra -Shok valleys when we descend on Srinagar highway its a sign of relief after crossing Zozila pass and entering Sonmarg and finally reaching Srinagar is a perfect end to the trip , provided u are comfortable and not wid families ..
Thanks again Dheeraj for your views .
Akshit, truly said brother. It is very important to understand and prioritize what you are upto and then decide which Highway to take. For adventure seekers, taking a chance is the only option and yes, Manali – Leh beauty is completely unmatched to anything, anywhere!! It is much better if one takes Spiti Valley side and goes to Manali – Leh Highway and finally to Leh but number of days is a concern here. So, if no issues with number of days this is the best road tripone can under take in life 😀
Thanks for sharing the views brother.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning on flying into Srinagar and going on the route you recommend. We need to make an extra stop at Shimla however, at what point should we include this? If budget is no limit, what car/four wheel drive would you recommend as a rental (with driver) for driving through these routes?
We would rather not travel in the midst of winter but the melting snow/ice could pose problems during the summer. What month is the best time to travel to these places? Thanks for posting this great guide!
Hello Maria,
Late September (third/fourth) week type is good time to travel to Leh – Ladakh, as you get to see some magnificent colors. You can hire any Xylo or Scorpio, which would do just fine on this terrain and loads of them are available. However, You will need three taxis for the whole trip. for a drop from Srinagar to Leh, then within Leh and other sightseeing in Ladakh along with drop to Manali and finally one for Manali to Shimla.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
I am traveling on this route in a couple of days
Hi Dheeraj,
Please let me know if going to Leh in 3rd or 4th week of september is fine in an Innova.
Regards,
Abhishek
Also will it be fine to hire a taxi from delhi with a private number or hiring a taxi in leh is a must??
Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them from drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Yes Abhishek, it is perfectly fine to travel at that time of the year. You will see some amazing colors of Ladakh at that time.
Sorry for the delayed reply.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
All the best for your trip.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello there,
Seems like you are really helpful. I need your assistance as much as possible as I have planned a clueless plan to visit these places. Heres my plan, ME and my frnds fly frm Dubai to Srinagar on 1st of sep. roam n stay in Srinagar on 2nd.
Late night or early morning of 3rd we start frm sringar to Leh. This is where I need your help. Shall we take a cab ! how long is the journey ! and whats the best way to plan from 3rd to 8th !
on 8th we plan to move early in the morning to haridwar and reach haridwar on 8th eve and stay there for 2 days.
on 11th early morning, planning to move frm haridwar to agra and stay in agra on 12th.
13th flight back to dubai frm delhi .
I know its confusing , beleive me we need your help in sorting it out. cheers 😉
Hi Subodh,
Well, buddy you have just 3 days in between for Leh – Ladakh!! I do not think it is worth going there for just 2-3 days. But, anyways you can follow the below plan:
3rd Sept | Srinagar to Kargil (hire a taxi to Leh from Srinagar Taxi stand)
4th Sept | Kargil to Leh
5th Sept | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits (6th August)
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
6th Sept | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
-– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
-– 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
7th Sept | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
–- Day trip to Pangong Tso
–- Overnight at Leh
8th Sept | Early morning flight to Delhi from Leh and then by road to Haridwar
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, I see that you are an experienced who can wisely guide travellers.i am from bangalore and plan for a trip to ladakh from sep1 to sep13. do you have any suggestions for our itenary? is it a good time?
Hi Inzane,
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 travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
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.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank you for the quick response Dheeraj. Whether September is a good time for visiting? Correct me if I am wrong with my plan. I am planning to drive my car.
Sep 1 Saturday
Bangalore to Delhi
Sep 2 Sunday
Delhi (stay)
Sep 3 Monday
Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil (stay)
Sep 4 Tuesday
Lamayuru – Leh (stay)
Sep 5 Tuesday
In Leh – Get the permit along with some sight seeing (I saw tuesday is a holiday so can I get the permit one day early
via some agents or through hotel? Will I be loosing a day due to this?
Sep 6 Wednesday
Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder (stay)
Sep 7 Thursday
Diskit – Khardung La – Leh (stay)
Sep 8 Friday
Pangong Tso Lake (stay at Spangmik or Lukung)
Sep 9 Saturday
Leh (tour to Sham valley) – Tso Moriri via Chumathang (stay)
Sep 10 Sunday
Tso Kar – Debring – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu (stay)
Sep 11 Monday
Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – manali
Sep 12 Tuesday
Delhi
Sep 13
Bangalore
If I need to reduce a day, then which will be better to opt out of these places?
Hi Sanju,
1. You cannot reach Srinagar in one day unless you are flying in.
2. Sep 8 = You need to make a day trip to Pangong Tso from Leh. You cannot stay overnight at Spangmik or Lukung.
3. Sep 9 = You cannot do Sham Valley and plus you need to carry fuel for about 550 KMs for Tso Moriri + Manali Leh Highway.
So, summarizing, the rest day you planning in Delhi, you have to be in Jammu/Patnitop to reach Srinagar on Sep 2. To reduce a day you will have to skip Tso Moriri. Yes, get the permits in advance if it is a holiday at DC office, through some travel agent or hote guys.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi all,
Based on the inputs of this post and the comments, we planned and executed our trip to Leh successfully in my Beat Diesel. The entire stretch from Delhi – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Delhi.
No photograph or video can show what you are in for.
We crossed Zozila, Fotula, Changla, Khardungla, Tanglangla, Barchalala easily, but Rohtang Pass was risky, as the roads were very muddy and slippery, and there was a huge traffic jam, and we had to drive after dark.
Overall 9 days and 10 nights of thrill and awe.
Loved offroading on More Plains on Leh-Sarchu route, and how it dramatically ends. Perfect.
Special thanks to Dheeraj!
That;s awesome!! Glad you have such a wonderful trip buddy!! and yeah, thanks for the wonderful updates.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj,
We are about 4 guys, travelling to Srinagar on 25th August’12. Want to take D1 to Leh. Need your help in getting bikes in Srinagar. (Hard to find any over the net)Do you know of any, where we can rent from ? Any tips about biking? 100cc bikes will do – unless suggested otherwise. Please let me know.
Thanks again for you suggestion.
Cheers,
Viks.
Hello Viks,
You will not find bikes in Srinagar for rent AFAIK. Best option is to travel Srinagar – Leh by taxi shared or private and then hire bikes in Leh. You can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi dheeraj, I am thinking of flying to Leh for a trip of 5 days only. I will be accompanied by my wife and a 2 yr old daughter. You have mostly discussed about the road route. How about flying to Leh from Delhi? Is it ok for a 2 yr old? What would be the best travel itenerary?
P.S – your blog has some fantastic insights. Kudos!!!
Hello Yash,
For 5 days, you would have to fly in and out of Leh only as you cannot make the road journey in 5 days. Still, I feel the number of days are short but, you might like to follow the below 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 + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
— 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 include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— 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 – Pangong Tso – Leh
— Do not plan to stay overnight at Pangong Tso as you will not be acclimatized and may fall sick. So, make a day trip only.
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Fly back home OR Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR Sham Valley tour
— Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only.
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. I appreciate your help.
Hi Dheeraj, Can u please suggest any hotels in Kargil?
Thanks a lot
Arunava, You may like to stay at PC Palace or Siachen, Carvan, J&K Tourism Tourist Bungalow, Kargil, near Hospital, Hotel Aziz.
Regards
Dheeraj
hii dheeraj,
we are planning to hire Xylo from delhi, n we have 9 days at our dosposal. After going thru ur various posts, we are thinking to go via srinagar n return via manali. cud u help us in making a itinerary so that we can take out maximum of our time.
Hello Saurabh,
9 days would be tough, make it 10 days buddy. For 10 days you can follow a plan like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
— Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
– 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 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 9 | 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 10 | Manali – Delhi
– Back home
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj!
The inputs provided by you are very helpful. We are planning a trip arnd 10th August. how is the weather at that time? any concerns to travel at that time?
Hello Vivek,
At some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you 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 certainity about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello Dheeraj,
V 6 of us r planning for leh ladakh trip via Manali for 10 days.I need ur help for d same,.firstly is 10 days sufficient or v shld extend.
2idLy,v wanna go by public transport by takin halts @ keylong n sarchu n proceed further.
3rdly is thr arrangement for hiring , bicycle or motor cycle in leh 4 site seeing.
Plz kindly help me thanx 🙂
Paresh
Hello Paresh,
Avoid sleeping at Sarchu or Pang at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there. It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you minimize the chances for falling sick or hit by AMS while going to Leh from Manali. And, then next day carry on the rest of the journey to Leh without sleeping in between anywhere by leaving early in the morning say, by 4-5 AM types. I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa. If you are coming back via Manali – Leh, then it should be OK to stay at Sarchu as your body will be acclimatized by that time.
Opt for the schedule of HPTDC bus service for Manali – Leh Highway.
If you can add a day or two, then it will be much more less hectic and yes, you can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200.
Do you need a plan for 11-12 days?
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Need some tips or input for making a planned ladakh visit.
we(6 members) booked tickets from bangalore to delhi, will reach delhi by 12PM on july 14th, will be back to bangalore on july 22nd. almost 8 day trip. Planning to hire a cab from delhi. can u suggest the best route with in this period also best places for night stay and visit in this duration.
Thank You.
Rgds,
Ashwin
Hi Ashwin,
8 days are too short for a road trip to Ladakh, buddy 🙁 … Least you can plan is of 9 days and that too taking chances with AMS by traveling on Manali – Leh highway. For 9 days you might like to follow the below itinerary:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
— Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
— If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
— Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
— It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
— Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
— I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
— Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | 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 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Leh
– Head for Nubra Valley very early in the day and come back by late evening after visiting Deskit. If you have time go little further and see Hunder sand dunes too
– 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 6 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 8 | 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 9 | Manali – Delhi
— Reach back home
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to hire a cab from delhi(thinking of scorpio,any suggestion for modification of vehicle) can i expect that they will be having the permits whihc you mentioned. Also please let me know whether these cabs are allowed for sightseeing at leh, also if you know any best cabs details from delhi -ladkah , please let me know.Also If yo have details of any good hotels please share the info.
Thank You.
Rgds,
Ashwin
Hi Ashwin,
You need to arrange all the permits yourself and no modification are required, just a good driver 🙂 … Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them from drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any doubts/queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for the info ..
Is it possible to check the weather information for next week, if so please let me know…
Could you please tell me where we have to take the permits….
Hello Ashwin,
For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
You can check Leh weather at this website: http://yr.no
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
you have awesome data on travel to Srinagar – leh – Manali. I was planning a trip via Manali, now have change it via Srinager – Leh – Manali Delhi. i plan to travel in my petrol ford fiesta with my wife and i have 14 days at my disposal from Aug 25th…can u please suggest a plan?
Hello Abhai,
Thanks alot for liking the information and I am sure this wise decision would help you alot. For 14 days, you can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan, then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj ji, Thanks for reply again, please write me, leh and ladhak is same or any diffrent part, also how many hours it will be take by car from ladhak to manali, how long distance from leh to ladhak?
Hello Binod,
Ladakh is a district and Leh is the capital town of Ladakh district or may be call sub-district where all the administrative offices are present including the Airport. It is a large town/village as compared to other villages of Ladakh. All other sightseeing places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri etc. comes under Ladakh and Leh is where from all the roads to these places are connected.
Leh to Manali will take more than 15 Hrs and distance is about 474 KMs, all in hills
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you need more info or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello dheeraj ji, Thanks for each reply, all I want to khnow again, by sentro car not stay some where in sarchu or at kelong or any where, possible by sentro car can go direct from ladhak to manali in two days? Please write me, just in same day can some one come to manali from ladahk or how many hours it takes? to reach in manali from ladakh? please write me, also any root from shimla to ladhak? is possible? by sentro car.
Binod, while coming back from Leh towards Manali you can stay one night at Sarchu and then doSarchu to Manali on the other day. In single day, it is possible but very very difficult and not recommended. It generally takes more than 15 Hrs to reach Manali from Leh. Yes, you can do route from Shimla as well but that is long route and takes at least 2-3 days extra than Manali route.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 6 people (2 families), planning for a Leh trip from Chandigarh on 5th August via Manali. Please suggest if Innova is suitable for the journey.
Yes definitely innova is suitable .bring good clothes for cold atmosphere.
Hi Kiran,
Innova is JUST suitable but not good and if the person behind the wheel is amateur, then there are high chances of getting stuck in water crossings, landslides that require good GC and some skills to negotiate. Over the past 2-3 years of my trans-Himalayan experience, majority of vehicles I have seen getting stuck in water crossings and landslides/slush apart from Sedans/hatchbacks are Innovas!!
So, it is just good as long as you have good skills behinds the wheels. No doubt, it is best in comfort!!
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello D Biswas,
Innova would be able to do it with careful and cautious driving especially at Manali – Leh Highway, though with tendency of getting stuck in water crossing Innova always comes at least priority for me for Ladakh journey. I hope it is not a taxi as Taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sighseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them from drop-in and take-away modes only. So, the taxi you are hiring locally must have private number plate otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it.
Regards
Dheeraj
by car without stay any wehere can it is possible come to manali from ladhak by sentro car in two days?
Hello Binod,
I did not understand what do you mean by without stay. You can do Leh to Manali journey in two days with night stop at either Sarchu (only consider it while going back to Manali from Leh) or Keylong or Jispa. Next day reach Manali from either of the place. Now, for driving in Santro on Manali – Leh highway:
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan back then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
First of all thanx to Devil on Wheels which assisted me greatly in undertaking this adventure trip of life time in my Indica Car from Jammu-Srinigar-Leh-Manali-Chandigarh in first and second week of june. Well yes an Indica can do it after a through preperation. There are a lot of passes which are really trecherous and spine chilling and require guts to achieve GLORY. I did it with my family, but please forewarn and prepare you family mentally for the route in advance. Taking your eldery parents is not advisable as it is very tiering and high altitude sickness is prevelent. The route can be planed as, One day from jammu to Srinagar. One day from Srinagar to Kargil (Zojilla is bad). One day from Kargil to Leh. One day from Leh to Sarchu (Route after Taglang la does not exist). One day from Sarchu to Manali (Barchala la is beautiful with lots of snow and Rothang was pathetic with bad road, dirty snow and comlete stretch infested with vehicles along with snow crazy tourists). One day from Manali to Chandigarh (Welcome back to civilization). Places to plan for a stay for 2-3 days, Srinagar-Leh-Manali. Go ahead plan and have a life time experience.
Thanks alot for this awesome update Paras. Would surely like to see some pictures of your such great adventure, please share them at DOW's FB wall if possible for you, so that we can also live such moments with you 🙂 … I am sure you would have already started planning for the next year 😀 … and yeah, Rohtang Pass is ugliest of places I have ever been too.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Is it possible to take my Chevrolet Cruse to Leh Via Srinagar-Leh route and come back vit Leh-Manali route.
I tried to google to find a story of Cruze touching Leh but could not find any.
What measures I need to take if this is possible.
hi hemant
I have driven to leh in a beat.No off roading and no rohtang pass/manali return.
AFAIremember Spark/nano has done it,even the rohtang/manali part.What is the GC of cruze?Be prepared for underbelly hits.
There is no chevy dealer north of srinagar and mandi.From where would u be starting from and when?rgds
Hi Nari,
GC of cruze on paper is 165 mm. But when its loaded, I have experienced that it touches some speed breakers easily.
I would be coming from Pune. I do have a Wagon R and i10 Automatic. While I am not at all considering the i10 as I hate the Auto transmission , I can consider to take Wagon R .
Please suggest.
Thanks
Hemant
Hi Hemant,
With Cruz it would be very difficult but again if you love adventure more than your car then keep reading.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, I will say:
You will indeed face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further, sedan is the worst candidate. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route as it will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh-Ladakh, then come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan back then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which you might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnel, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below:
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your sugesstion.
Its really very helpful .
I do have a Wagon R . How about using an Wagon R compared to Cruze ..
Wagon R has new tyres , new clutch plates , next service due in July 12
Please suggest.
Thanks
Hemant
Hemant, I feel WagonR would be much better choice the Cruz. But, do go over the tips in the articles mentioned earlier to prepare yourself properly and always be ready for the unknown in the land full of adventure 🙂 …
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
some time people from north indians think moutain travling is very easy for them, but when they reach on mountain withoust khowldge they start suffering, this kind of infomation very much help for travel.
Truly said Vinod, have seen many instances of people abandoning their trips due to negligence in planning or getting stuck at places.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for sharing Good Information.
Can u suggest, whether Leh-Laddakh trip is recommended with children of 5-6 years of age or not. Any precautions.
Hi Sachin,
Yes, you can take the kid that old but do make sure that he/she is not suffering from any illness prior to start of the trip and keep an eye on him over the activities to check nothing is troubling him/her internally. The problem with children is that they are not able to convey their uneasiness when hit by AMS, so as a parent you need to watch over him. Just take it easy with the plan and do not rush through the places. Initial days after you reach Leh, make sure the kid does not run around too much to avoid exertion so as to minimize AMS.
In the end, do read the article linked here: Traveling to Ladakh with Kids or Babies
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi,
Need your suggestion..
I am planning to go to Leh in July.
I have 9 days in total and directly flying to Leh (early morning). Now i need an idea of itenary and also the return way to delhi. Which way should I use to come back…either via Manali or Via Jammu (catch flight from Jammu)>
please suggest…will b so helpful to u
Hello Waseem,
Following itinerary will be of some help for you I guess:
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 + Inner Line Permits
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— 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 include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— 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 – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
— Cover Karzok Monastery
— Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – 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 8 | 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 9 | Manali – Delhi
— Return
Day 10 – Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are travelling from Manali to Leh by deluxe bus of HPTDC on 01.07.12. Do we need permit to cross Rohtang la? If yes, how and where can we get it?
Hi Vishram,
You do not need any permits to cross Rohtang La. When you will reach Leh then you will need Inner Line Permits for sightseeing in Ladakh. For more details on inner line permits of Leh – Ladah process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, on 2nd of june we 4friends are planing our trip from Delhi to leh via srinagar then leh to Delhi via manali by own Swift Dzire care (self driving) Please provide any prequtations we should take during the trip.
Hi Dinesh,
I would suggest you please go through the article linked here: 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh.
Apart from that, also, if I missed something here then read below:
For dZire taking on Manali – Leh Highway, I will suggest you read about section “Private Vehicles i.e. Cars and Bikes | Self Drive or Ride to Ladakh” in the article linked here: How to plan a journey on Manali – Leh Highway to give you an idea what to expect in self drive in hatch back. For a quick read:
The roads may be stabilized by that time but you will need to face few tough challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route which is opened for light vehicles earlier (most likely) and will be stabilized by then. It will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh Ladakh come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan back then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which yo might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnely, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your sharp reply…..
Hi all we four friends travelled by own swift dzire car on 4th to 11th june from faridabad srinagar then back by manali way. The trip was so amaging we cant say J & K (sonmarg & Pahalgam)is the beautiful state way way is good at some places it was bad but hemank has done great job for BRO. The way when we started climbing rohtang pass was realy realy bad mud all the climbing and going down to manali, any how the trip was funtastic now we are thinking to go again on this trip.
Dinesh, thankd alot for updating the details of the trip here and about road conditions. Ladakh is such a places that once visited the mind/soul keeps forcing you to visit again and again 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
How r u? Myself and one my friend wants to visit J&K (Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Dal Lake & Sonmarg) in the month of December 2012 with my kids of age 1.5year and 6years please suggest me can we visit the place by own swift car ( same car by which we have visited leh ( delhi-jammu-leh-manali -Delhi)or by air.
Hello Dinesh,
Yes, you can definitely Travel to these places in your car. Roads are good in conditions, much easier drive than drive to Leh 🙂 … How many days are you planning?
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your sharp reply, We have 6days for the trip.
Dinesh, with just 6 days in hand better go via Air not by car as you know it takes 2 days to reach Srinagar from Delhi.
Day 1 | Srinagar
– Take rest for the day. May be enjoy Shikara ride or stay in house boat itself.
Day 2 | Srinagar – Pahalgam
Day 3 | Pahalgam
– Just relax for the day and spend sometime around
– May be a visit to Chandanwari
Day 4 | Pahalgam – Gulmarg
– Explore ruins of Awantipura
– Enjoy vistas en-route
Day 5 | Gulmarg – Srinagar
– Enjoy vistas enroute, especially between Tangmarg to Gulmarg
– Enjoy in snow at ski slopes snow points and may be check out Golf course, if you feel like
Day 6 | Back Home
If you are flying back on 7th day then better make a full day excursion to Sonamarg as well.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,this is the excellent site for Leh Travelling knowledge, really appreciate your work.
We are 3 Couples from Mumbai planning to Travel Ladakh & Kashmir from 3rd June to 16th June2012. We are getting info that Manali route is not open yet,do you think it would be open by 3rd June,wen we reach .? THank You.
Hi Mayur,
Thanks buddy!!
Manali route should open at any day because only the road widening work is going on and it is open from Leh side. The problem going via Manali side is that since it is officially not opened, so SDM at Manali office will not give you permits if driving by your own car.
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 into 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 travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip at the link here.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, want some details regarding LEh Trip.
Hi Mayur,
Please let me know, what are your queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi dheeraj
its really important information u shared wid us .good knowledge u have with whole trip .i have seen manali in december .so dat time rohtang was closed .but in Future ,will must go on dis road . thnx for motivating people , for dis beautiful journey
Thanks alot Pranay, feels glad that the information was useful to you.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you very much for all this information. Its very helpful for planning the trip.
We are a group of 6 people (3 couples), planning for a Leh trip for 8-9 days. We are all from Delhi and have not yet decided on dates but it might be either July first week or August 2nd week. I had some questions:
1. Is it advisable and safe to travel by road during August as its Monsoon time in India during that season and there might be safely concerns on roads due to landslides.
2. Can we plan for one side road trip and return by flight. What could be best no. of days to plan for such a trip. What could be the estimated cost expenditure for such a trip.
3. Travelling in July is better or in August considering above travel plan (1 side by road and return by flight).
It would be grateful if you could share some experience of yours with us.
Regards,
Sandeep Mangal
Hi Sandeep,
1. No one can predict landslides, but yes of course the monsoons makes them much more vulnerable. Better plan in July first week, when you can also see some snow as well.
2. You should do it this way only. Plan to fly to Leh rather taking Manali – Leh highway upfront and then after sightseeing and getting acclimatized in Ladakh start journey back to Manali from Leh. For evertything related with budget for Ladakh trip, check: How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
3. July as suggest above 🙂
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj for the detailed reply.
I am planning for the following trip in June end. Can you let me know if its ok or I need to increase/decrease some day or adjust some days.
29-Jun Friday Departure from Delhi to Manali via Volvo
30-Jun Saturday Manali Stay and rest and Sight Seeing
1-Jul Sun Manali to Keylong/Jispa/Sarchu
2-Jul Mon Keylong/Jispa/Sarchu to Leh
3-Jul Tue Leh rest and some local sight seeing
4-Jul Wed Leh to Nubra Valley – Night Stay
5-Jul Thur Nubra Valley to Leh
6-Jul Friday Leh to Pangong Lake – Night Stay
7-Jul Saturday Pangong Return
8-Jul Sun Leh to Delhi via flight
Thanks,
Sandeep
Hi Sandeep,
Sandeep, plan looks fine to me. Just, do not sleep at Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized by then. Sleep at either Keylong or Jispa only. Rest looks OK but again if possible try to add a buffer between 7th and 8th may be by extending it to 9th, so that in case you cannot reach Leh by evening of 7th, you have a buffer day of 8th and you do not miss the flight. You can use un-utilized buffer day of 8th to do Sham Valley tour.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj, it is really pleasure to read your comments & the vast knowledge & experience you have in that part of world.
We are 4-5 Adult, 2 childred 9 yrs,planning for Sringar-leh-Manali from Aug 10-22, 2012, inspired by your view. Can you please suggest us places to visit, from whom to hire cab & budget hotels to stay at Srinagar, kargil, Leh. Thanks in advance for you reply.
Hi Arunava,
Thanks alot for the words of appreciation 🙂 .. Considering, you have 13-14 days, I will suggest you can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 and the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Great inputs really very helpful. I plan to start from Hyderabad on Jun16 and reach manali on 19. I plan to travel with my kids ( 10 and 6 yrs). Is this a good time to go or do I postpone it to next month? Srinagar to Leh will increase the days of travel so plan to take Manali-leh-manali only. Please advice if this is safe for kids?
Hi Chandu,
I guess the article says it all, my mind always vote for Srinagar – Leh Highway while going to Leh – Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway while coming back, it takes one more day only but benefits are huge and specially going with Children I will rather do not think twice in taking that route and may be perhaps have just one day trip to Pangong Tso.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj, is it possible to visit nubra valley for day visit and return back on same day. Kindly reply soon as we r due to go there on 20th may and what r taxi charges…..
Hi Vishvas,
Leave by 6 AM from Leh and you might be able to do it. However, so early in season you might find snow on the roads of Khardung La which will slow down your progress alot. So, in case there are frequent jams or there happens to be snowfall on that day then keep a buffer day as either might have to return if you have not crossed Khardung La or you will have to go back in worst case to Nubra Valley. In late season, one can do Nubra Valley (at least Deskit and Hunder) in a day if they start early.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj Sharma first of all thank you very much for all this information. You can't even imagine how helpful are all this information for someone who has to plan everything from the other side of the world! 🙂
around June 15th, me and two friendsare planning to do Srinagar-Leh-Manali trip by road and we're looking for a reliable taxi for the entire trip……
do you have any suggestions ?
anyone else who is planning to do the same trip in the same period?
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Edoardo,
Thanks alot, pleasure that the article were useful in planning your trip 🙂 … And yes, some really expressive pictures on your website, great work!!
Actually, the problem is for the entire trip you will not be able to hire taxi because Srinagar – Leh taxi is only allowed for drop in Leh and then within Ladakh you will need to hire another taxi for the rest of your route. IN fact you can somehow reach Kargil in Srinagar taxi and then for the rest of the trip any driver from Leh can pick you from Kargil and be with you for rest of the trip.
Good Drivers in Leh – Ladakh:
1. Rigzin – 09622954779
2. Naseer – 09906229203 and 09469293183
3. Dorjey – 09419372742
4. Tashi – 09906994647, 09419342238
5. Tsewang – 09622993372
Here, Naseer I guess can also pick you from Srinagar as well and be with you for the rest of the trip. Rest of the drivers can pick you only from Kargil I guess.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning a Leh-Ladhak trip from June 9 – jun 16. I know time is little less so i will try to push it from Jun 6 – Jun 16. can you suggest me some plan. We are in a group (friends) of around 6-7. Can you also help us in the mode if transport for whole trip (public or taxi or Bike rent).
Hi Puneet,
9 days appear to be short considering the unstabilized condition of Manali – Leh Highway at that time. Also, you have to take the risk of traversing Manali – Leh Highway only since you are short of time rather than going via Srinagar side and coming back via Manali side. If possible, for relaxing journey kindly increase the number of days in hand. For 9 days you can follow the below plan at best:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley (stay at solang for little acclimatization)
Day 2 | Manali/solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa (Jispa is more scenic and close to nature)
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | 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 6 | 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 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso Lake
Day 8 | Leh – Sarchu
Day 9 | Sarchu – Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts. Do you need contacts or suggestions on how to go about this plan in terms of mode of transport?
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj,
I didnt understand why we should not take Srinagar via Highway?
and also can you guide me on mode of transport considering we are travelling in a group of 6-7 people.
Hello Punnet,
Not sure, I guess there is some confusion. The above article is suggesting 5 reasons why you should take Srinagar – Leh Highway and NOT Manali – Leh Highway to reach Leh. You have to take a taxi from Srinagar – Leh taxi stand which will drop you to Leh and then you have to take a taxi in Ladakh for sightseeing purposes in Ladakh.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, really liked your tips for manali leh tour. But I am resident of Jammu and I have planned the Bullet Trip via manali to leh. What do you suggest me ? I have sufficient days for my trip.
Sir I and two of my college friends are planing to go to Leh via Srinagar and return by Leh-Manali road to delhi
We have decided to take hired tata indica from delhi @750 Rs per day. What will be the overall distance of the whole trip
delhi-jammu-leh-manali-delhi plus some local sight seeing at Leh-ladakh ..
Thanks in advance
Thanks a lot to all of u 4 all valuable tips. Can u pls help about from where & how to hire cab for Jammu-Srinagar-leh-Manali. & what will be the approx cost.
from srinagar to leh you have to pay 1800 in shared taxi & 11000 for full taxi.
for taxi pls vist TRC Srinagar.
hii i m planning for a trip to jammu and srinagar for 10 days kindly guide me ….the places to visit and route also …i m from chandigarh
Hi Pooja,
For 10 days you might follow something like below:
Day 1 | Delhi/Chandigarh – Srinagar by flight
— Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
— If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
— Overnight at Srinagar
Day 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
— Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
— On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
— Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | 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 6 | 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 7 | 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 8 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
— Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
— Overnight at Leh
Day 9 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
— Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
— Overnight at Leh
Day 10 | Fly back from Leh to Delhi/Chandigarh
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> I am traveling to Ladakh on today for 10 days, so might not be able to reply instantly.
Dheeraj
Nice article.
Hoverer imho, it's all about heart over brain. Brain says to go via Srinagar and heart says to go via Manali. I am glad I chose my heart in 2011 🙂
return trip came back via this route..but deliberately avoided Srinagar and Jammu.. Kargil_ Sonamarg_Ramban_Amritsar..
Hello Rama,
Correctly said!!! Mind will always say you to go with Srinagar – Leh and come back via Manali – Leh but heart will mostly say go via Manali – Leh and come back via Manali – Leh only 😀 … However, if you are traveling with a family or old people or do not have much experience of driving in hills then following MIND will always makes much much sense rather than jeopardizing the trip in between 🙂
to be frank enough, I have always preferred my heart but with my junior now on board, ready to join me on Himalayan adventures soon, I might go with Srinagar – Leh both ways 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
With family on board, I am flying to Leh next month 😀
Hi Rama,
That is great 😉 … have fun, I am flying this week only 😀
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi,
I have been thinking about Ladakh for a while but never really got a chance to do it. So for one by reading your blog, I really motivated to do this within next one year itself. Really informative and exciting blog and reviews. Thanks,
Hello Ekta,
Thanks alot. I am glad you found the articles useful and informative. Kindly, let me know incase you need any further information regarding planning your trip to Leh – Ladakh. BTW, I am just heading there again next week hoping to explore some unexplored places of Ladakh again 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
superbly u have penned the words
Hi Samaresh,
Thanks a lot buddy, glad you liked the article and I hope it will be useful for your trip to Leh – Ladakh
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Can add 2 more.
When you are driving from Srinagar to Leh the mountain is on your left which makes it safer.I have not travelled from Leh to Manali(as I returned via srinagar)but feel that the drop will be on your left so a lot less safer.
Since you will be going downhill on a road that is worse than srinagar leh(when u are going uphill) you will be saving on fuel consumption
thanks alot for your valuable inputs Nari. BTW, I feel the mountain side changes at Manali – Leh Highway but yes we can say that the drops are deadly scary on Manali – Leh Highway plus the nallas are much more nastier on Manali – Leh Highway as compared to Srinagar – Leh. Hence, for first timers the drive is a bit less tensed.
Thanks for the great tips. Would be a pain for someone to discover all these on his own. Probably would spoil half the fun, especially as everyone runs on tight schedules nowadays..
One more thing.. The link for the travel guide to Tso Moriri lake at the end of Point 4 above is missing..
Hi Hemant,
Thanks alot for letting me know about the missing link, just updated the article now 🙂 … I am glad you found the article useful. Kindly, let me know incase you need any further information regarding planning your trip to Leh – Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj, I plan to go there sometime in near future!
Hi Amit,
My pleasure, do let me know incase you need any further information regarding planning your trip to Leh – Ladakh 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
ठीक है जी अबकी बार श्रीनगर से जाकर मनाली से बल्कि कल्पा व रामपुर से आऊँगा।
Sandeep, I am sure you will enjoy it thoroughly this time as well via Srinagar Leh Highway 🙂
All points bang on! Only negative is that I would prefer to enjoy Srinagar after a drive to Ladakh than while going when I am in a hurry to get to Leh.
Hi HVK sir,
I agree with you too and yes, one will somehow sacrifice his/her urge to explore Srinagar in a hurry to reach Leh 🙂 … When Amarnath Yatra starts and till it ends, there are few negatives which also comes up while traveling to Ldakh via Srinagar.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma