On May 19, 2024, Manali Leh Highway was declared open to the general public. So, the current status of Manali Leh Highway 2024 is OPEN now. Continue reading the article for more details.
In 2024, BRO has cleared and opened the Manali Leh Highway on April 23, 2024. It took about 45 days to clear the Manali to Leh road between Jispa and Sarchu over Baralachala Pass. Even though the Manali Leh road is open or cleared of snow, only army and essential supply vehicles will be allowed in the initial weeks. Only when the road is stable and safe will tourists, the general public be allowed to travel on Manali Leh Highway.
Making history in 2023, BRO opened and cleared snow from the Manali Leh Highway on 25th March 2023. In 2022, BRO cleared the snow from Manali Leh Highway on 26th March 2022, and it took about 144 days to open. However, in 2023 year, BRO opened the Manali Leh road in just 138 days.
Last year the Manali Leh Highway was opened to tourists and locals of the region at the end of May 2023. Initially, only light motor vehicles were allowed, in fact, only cars. Heavy vehicles and two-wheelers including bikes were not allowed initially to travel on Manali Leh Highway.
In 2021, Manali Leh Highway was thrown open for tourists by the middle of April 2021. And well as of March 28, 2021, BRO had created history and opened the Manali Leh Highway for the 2021 year Ladakh season. A convoy of essential supplies traveled from Manali to Leh after four months of the closure of the Manali Leh Highway that week.
In 2021, it was the first time in history that Manali Leh Highway was opened 2-3 months in advance but it suffered mostly with frequent closures in April and May. It got up and running smoothly only in June.
In the last couple of years, BRO started snow clearance operations on Baralacha Pass in March. In 2021, with the introduction of the Atal Tunnel, BRO has one less pass, that is Rohtang Pass, to clear Manali Leh Highway.
This year, 2024, the snow clearance operations on Manali Leh Highway for the season 2024-25 also began by March’s first week. Snow clearance started from Manali or Keylong’s side towards Baralacha La. By the middle of March, BRO troops reached Baralacha La for a recce on foot to survey the route and snow conditions. If the weather holds up during those days, BRO can expect to open Manali Leh Highway sometime in April end.
It means that the butterflies in the stomachs of all the adventure enthusiasts planning their upcoming trip to Leh – Ladakh in 2024 will be more frequent 🙂 :)…
The Manali Leh Highway Status 2024 is CLOSED, snow cleared as of 23 April 2024 and no one is yet allowed to travel beyond Jispa.
BRO started the snow clearance operations from Stingri – Zingzing Bar towards Baralacha La Pass on the Manali – Keylong side in March. Rohtang Pass will not be in the picture this year due to the opening of the Atal Tunnel. Hence, much like the last few years, we can expect Manali Leh Highway to open a bit earlier than it used to be, historically.
You might also be interested in tracking the road status for Srinagar Leh Highway.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
When will Manali Leh Highway open in 2024?
Last year, on March 25, 2023, Manali Leh was thrown open for essential supply vehicles, and snow was cleared over Baralacha La to open this strategic highway. However, after the initial two days, the highway remains closed for the next two to three weeks till the end of April due to inclement weather and unsafe road conditions. No tourists have yet been allowed to pass through it.
After offering prayers, BRO commences the snow clearance operations and targets to open Manali – Atal Tunnel – Keylong – Baralacha La – Sarchu – Leh route as soon as possible to support the locals. According to the sources, this year in 2024 as well, BRO will start the operations to clear snow in Lahaul Valley first in the week of March.
This road clearance will help them connect the Rohtang tunnel with the rest of the major villages in Lahaul Valley. They are also clearing the snow on Manali Leh Highway on different sections to move towards Sarchu.
However, we shall wait for the day for the Manali – Leh Highway to open soon and let the adventure for 2024 begin 😀 …
There has been less than expected snowfall this year in the entire Himalayas, but the snow seems just enough to let the Manali Leh Highway open by the middle of April or the end of April this year which will be a historic record. As per the authorities, there are about 30 feet of snow stretches that have to be cut around Baralacha La pass to connect Leh with Manali.
It will be interesting to watch for the weather in the coming days and as we all understand these predictions are only the means of interest & hope to us, the mere mortals. It is the weather and mountain gods that always have the last say when it comes to weather, especially in the higher Himalayas 🙂 🙂 …
When does Manali Leh Highway usually open?
This 474 KM long Manali Leh Highway (430 km long with Atal Tunnel opened now) usually opens up by early May to the middle of May. But this year due to less snowfall and Rohtang Pass not being in consideration as folks can travel via Atal Tunnel, I do feel that this year Manali Leh Highway may open by the end of April or early May.
It has been a norm that BRO set up the targets to open the highway early only to realize that the weather has the last laugh. We are seeing the same pattern in 2024 as well.
I have been watching it for the last fourteen-fifteen years now and eventually, it all gets down upon the weather, snowfall, and snowy road conditions in the month of April when snow clearance operations are at peak in many parts of the Himalayas including this belt of Himachal Pradesh too.
Should I travel on Manali Leh immediately after the road opening?
When making a road trip to Leh Ladakh over Manali Leh Highway, you must keep in mind that even when the road from Manali to Leh opens, it takes some time to get stabilized. Due to snow sliding, avalanches, and loose gravel, roadblocks are very common in the initial days. And the road is unsafe. The chances of getting stuck and then rescued are always high.
Hence, it is recommended that you wait for a couple of weeks before planning the trip on Manali Leh Highway after its official opening. The last thing you will want on your much-awaited Leh Ladakh road trip is to get stranded on some lonely yet feezing stretches of the Manali – Leh Highway in early May or late April.
Where can I track Leh Manali Road Status 2024?
As per the previous years, I will be starting this sticky post for Manali Leh Highway Status 2024, which so many adventure lovers await every year. I will keep updating this article with the latest updates.
Also, I am posting weekly Himalayan road status updates including both Manali Leh Highway and Srinagar Leh Highway on the community page of my YouTube channel. So, I will suggest you subscribe to my channel. It will keep you stay updated every week on the road status of various roads in the Himalayas including all updates on Manali – Leh Highway Status 2024.
Will this thread have updated Manali Leh Road Status in 2024?
Once the Manali Leh road opens, I may not be that active in updating the minor road closures or status because these roads in the high Himalayas close and open frequently. It is barely impossible for a single tiny soul like me to update this information daily once the road gets open, so please request you to excuse me on that front and accept my apologies :)…
However, if there is some major blockade of 3 – 4 days, I will try to update such information about Manali Leh Highway status in 2024. However, as I said, I am posting weekly updates on my YouTube channel where you can stay up to date.
I hope as per last year, and this year as well this article thread will be useful in planning your journey on Manali – Leh Highway and further to Leh – Ladakh.
If you are traveling from Manali to Leh over Rohtang Pass, you will need to get the permit for Rohtang Pass which can be applied online. Starting 2021, you are not expected to travel via Rohtang Pass because Atal Tunnel is opened which reduces the journey from Manali to Keylong by 45 km and about 4 hrs.
Current Manali Leh Highway Status = OPEN, one-way traffic allowed
Update Date: 19 May 2024
The current status of Manali Leh Highway is OPEN for one-way traffic between Sarchu to Darcha. The following restrictions are put in place as of now and everything is subject to weather conditions on the current day:
- Traffic will be allowed in one direction on alternative days only.
- The general public and tourists will be allowed to travel on the Manali Leh Highway from 19th May 2024. The direction of traffic allowed will be from Darcha (Manali) to Sarchu (Leh).
- On 20th May 2024, the direction of traffic allowed will be from Sarchu (Leh) to Darcha (Manali).
- Only high-ground clearance vehicles will be allowed to travel because of the heavy snow presence at Baralacha La Pass.
- Motorcycles or Bikes are not allowed as of now.
Update Date: 01 May 2024
The current status of Manali Leh Highway is closed because the weather has not been good for the last 4-5 days. There has been snowfall in the last few days in the higher reaches of the Himachal, Ladakh, and Zanskar ranges. This led to the closure of Manali Leh Highway. As per current reports, BRO has cleared the road again but they are waiting for the weather to clear up in the first week of May before allowing traffic again on this road.
So, far no tourist vehicles have been allowed in 2024 to ply on Manali Leh Highway. Once the authorities think it is safe for tourists/general public to travel on Manali Leh Highway, the traffic will be allowed.
Update Date: 29 April 2024
In the last couple of days, consistent snowfall in higher reaches of Himachal & Leh Ladakh has been reported. This snowfall has closed the Manali Leh Highway even for essential supplies and army vehicles. Once the weather clears up, BRO will resume the snow clearance on Baralacha La Pass to clear the snow again in 2024.
Update Date: 25 April 2024
Manali Leh Highway is cleared and open only for army vehicles and essential supplies as of April 25, 2024. Subject to weather and road conditions, local authorities will decide when to allow tourists to travel on the opening of the Manali Leh Highway this season in 2024. No tourists have yet been allowed to travel.
Once tourists are allowed, please plan very carefully and keep up to date on the timings and one-way movements on Manali Leh Highway. In the next 2-3 weeks you should expect disruptions, and weather changes and in case you are still planning to take the risk, go prepared with heavy woolen clothing so that you can beat the cold on this adventure highway.
Update Date: 3 May 2023
The current status of Manali Leh Highway is closed as of May 3, 2022. The weather is not favorable this week, so this may delay the opening of the Manali Leh Highway this season in 2023. As of now, it does not look like the Manali to Leh road will open before the middle of May 2023 even though the snow was cleared from the highway on 25 March 2023. No tourists have yet been allowed to travel.
Update Date: 25 March 2023
Snow has been cleared from Manali Leh Highway but only army vehicles and essential supply vehicles are only allowed. Once the road is safe, then only the local administration will allow tourists to travel on Manali to Leh road.
Update Date: 3 May 2022
Manali Leh Highway was opened on May 3 2022 for cars and light vehicles. Bikes, two-wheelers, and heavy vehicles were not allowed to cross Baralacha La Pass in the early days of its opening. As there was a lot of snow on Baralacha Pass, I. requested everyone to please take utmost caution and care when traveling on this route if you are planning early in the season to travel from Manali to Leh.
Update Date: 26 March 2022
Manali Leh Highway was opened on 26 March 2022. However, only army vehicles and essential supply vehicles were allowed to travel on it. Snow clearance on the Baralacha La pass was completed by BRO in March in the year 2022. The Manali Leh road was not yet stable and safe for tourists to travel so I urged everyone to wait and let the highway stabilize before planning their trip to Leh Ladakh.
Update Date: 4 March 2022
The snow clearance operations on Manali Leh Highway was begun early in March 2022. BRO worked hard to clear the snow from Baralacha La Pass and Tanglangla Pass, where they were expecting a lot of snow. In the year 2022, it did not look like they would be able to clear the snow from the Manali Leh highway in March as it happened in 2021. However, they did clear it eventually in March. In the year 2021 creating history, BRO opened the Manali Leh highway in March even though tourist vehicles were not allowed to travel till much later in the season.
Update Date: 10 Feb 2022
As of this date in February 2022, the Manali Leh Highway was closed due to heavy snowfall on the high mountain passes of Manali Leh road which includes Baralacha La, Lungalacha La, Namika La, and Taglangla. You do not need to pass through Rohtang Pass after the opening of the Atal Tunnel in 2021.
Update Date: 31 May 2021
On 31 May 2021, the road from Manali to Leh was opened but please keep in mind that there were intermittent closures at Baralacha La pass due to sudden snowfall or snowslides. These closures lasted for a day or two but overall the road from Manali to Leh remained open.
BRO had also cleared snow up at Rohtang Pass and the road was now through if people are interested to visit Rohtang Pass or travel via Rohtang Pass instead of Atal Tunnel. Traffic was allowed in the first week of June 2021 from Manali to Rohtang Pass as well.
Update: 21 April 2021
On April 21, 2021, the road from Manali to Leh was closed again due to fresh snowfall in the Lahaul Valley. Meanwhile, BRO had also updated the Bailey Bridge on Whiskey Nallah which connects Leh with Manali. The bridge was in bad condition after a snowfall in winter.
Update: 17 April 2021
Well, on April 17, 2021, the truck stuck at Baralacha La was cleared. All the vehicles which were stuck along with tourists and locals were rescued from Manali Leh Highway as it was thrown open. There were about 37 people who were stuck at Baralacha La on Manali Leh Highway. About 119 vehicles were allowed from Darcha to Leh from the Manali side.
BRO, ITBP, and Disaster Management teams had been deployed to monitor the traffic and the rescue of stuck people in these difficult conditions. I humbly requested that even though the Manali – Leh road was cleared early in 2021, everyone should please wait for the road conditions to stabilize and then only plan their Ladakh trips. Getting stuck in these conditions is not an adventure but comes like a nightmare.
Update: 15th April 2021
Manali Leh Highway which was expected to open on 14th April could not be opened due to a massive avalanche at Baralacha La Pass in April 2021. BRO cleared the snow immediately but then for the next couple of days snowfall was expected again which deterred the progress and closed the Manali Leh Highway again. The inclement weather in the high Himalayas continued to keep both roads to Ladakh closed.
Authorities requested travelers to carry winter clothing, essentials, food supplies, water, and medicines as the road could close at any moment. There were many travelers stranded and authorities tried to help carry out rescue operations. In the following days, Bikers, Tourists, and heavy vehicles were not allowed to travel on Manali Leh Highway.
Read more at: Hundreds stranded as another avalanche hits Baralacha La
Update: 13th April 2021
Manali Leh Highway continued to remain closed in the middle of April 2021 due to inclement weather in Himachal Pradesh and the upper reaches of the Himalayas continue to receive snowfall for the last few days. The Manali Leh Highway was expected to open up on 14th April 2021 for Ladakh-bound traffic. Some important point as the road from Manali to Leh opens in April 2021:
- All people traveling to Leh from Manali were required to get their COVID-19 RT-PCR report checked Upshi checkpost in Ladakh. The RT-PCR report should not be older than the last 96 hours.
- The Atal Tunnel allowed traffic at all times of the day.
- Bikes were not allowed to ply on Manali Leh Highway due to risky conditions in the initial days.
- Heavily loaded trucks were not allowed as well on this route in the initial days.
Update: 4th April 2021
As of April 4th, 2021, after the opening of Manali Leh Highway at the end of March, the road was again closed due to a landslide or snowslide somewhere in Baralacha La pass, and traffic was not allowed beyond the Darcha checkpost. Weather in the following days was inclement and snow was expected in higher Himalayan reaches. So, everyone should expect the road to be closed for a few days this week. Also, it is very RISKY to travel on Manali Leh Highway when such conditions exist. So, please take precautions and calculate risks only.
Update: 29th March 2021
Surprisingly or crazily, BRO created HISTORY and opened Manali Leh Highway in March 2021 for the first time ever. Usually, the Manali Leh Highway opens up in May-end of June early but in 2021 year was opened almost 2 months in advance. Civilians were not allowed at the start and the decision about allowing regular traffic was taken later as per the safety of the road and weather conditions in the later weeks.
BRO had started the snow clearance operations on Baralacha La Pass and expected to open the Manali Leh Highway way earlier than expected in history. And we know that, when the road opens, it will be time to take the bikes out, get the cars serviced, and go dug dug dug on a trip to Leh Ladakh.
In the year 2020, on May 18, the snow was cleared from Baralacha La Pass, and the vehicle movement started soon after. First, army vehicles were allowed to pass through the highway, and then small vehicles were allowed to travel from Manali to Leh. However, heavy vehicles and Manali to Leh bus service took some time to resume, almost till the middle of June.
The road from Manali to Rohtang Pass was closed to tourists as well and so was the road from Rohtang Pass to Keylong. The road to Leh Ladakh ahead of Keylong via Baralacha La was closed as well.
However, the road from Manali to Keylong was open via Atal Tunnel and it takes 4 hrs less than usual to reach Keylong when compared to traveling via Rohtang Pass road. In the year 2021, BRO had to only focus on opening Baralacha La, Lungalacha La, Nakee La, and Taglang La passes on the Manali Leh Highway. So, no Rohtang Pass because of Atal Tunnel was opened.
Some Important Articles for Reference & Regular Updates
- List of Accommodation Options on Manali Leh Highway
- 5 Reasons to choose Srinagar – Leh Road over Manali – Leh Road
- Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
- 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh
- 40 Must-Have Things to Carry on Ladakh Self Drive Trip
- List of things to carry for your Ladakh Trip
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.
Manali Leh Travel Guide Infographic
Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this Manali to Leh infographic guide. If, you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.
Manali – Leh Highway Status = OPEN | Update Date: 29 March 2021
Manali, March 29, 2021: The BRO has restored 425-km Manali-Leh highway for vehicular traffic, which will provide access to military and common civilians from the Manali side in Himachal Pradesh to Leh in the union territory of Ladakh.
The first convoy of IOC bowsers was flagged off from the Himachal side by Stanzin Chosphel, Executive Councillor, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), today in the presence of BRO officials to announce the opening of this highway.
The strategically important Manali–Leh highway remains closed for about six months every winter and Ladakh remains cut off from rest of the country which makes the region dependent on supplies through the aerial route.
Due to the ongoing border issue with China in Ladakh, the Union government had this year asked the BRO to restore this highway earlier as soon as possible.
As a result, the BRO had started snow clearance operation on the road stretch between Manali and Leh in mid-February with a strategy to simultaneously commence snow clearance on four important passes along the route — Baralach La (16,047 ft), Nakeela (16,170 ft), Lachung La (16,616 ft) and Tanglang La (17,582 ft).
These passes receive 20 to 30 feet high heavy snowfall every year, which keeps the highway blocked for traffic movement for months.
BRO sources said the latest hi-tech machinery was swiftly inducted for clearing snow. BRO teams worked relentlessly day and night to provide early connectivity to Leh. The dynamics were different this year with the inauguration of Atal Tunnel as there was no necessity of opening the Rohtang Pass. This enabled complete focus on opening of Baralacha La with additional resources to restore connectivity at the earliest.
The opening of Baralacha La involved a two-pronged. The work started simultaneously from two sides — from Patsio to Baralach La and from Sarchu to Baralacha La.
After the restoration of the Manali-Leh highway, the people of Lahaul and Ladakh have conveyed their gratitude to Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhary, VSM, DGBR, and applauded the tremendous efforts put in by BRO to restore this highway in time.
External Source: Manali-Leh highway opens to traffic
Manali – Leh Highway Status = CLOSED | Update Date: 15 March 2021
Manali, March 15 2021: Amid the ongoing military tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, India is racing to open both road routes that connect the plateau of Ladakh with mainland India.
In February end, Zoji-La, a 11,500-ft-high mountain pass on the Srinagar-Leh route, was opened weeks ahead of the schedule. Now, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has sent a special team to open Baralacha-La, a 16,000-ft-high Himalayan pass on the Manali-Leh route.
Baralacha-La is the first high pass on the 427-km-long Manali–Leh highway. The road normally opens in mid-May, but the BRO might open it by the end of this month. Supplies like oil, food, ammunition and spares for the Army and IAF locations in Eastern Ladakh are dependent on these two routes. Once the passes close during the winter, the only option is to fly men and supplies from logistics hubs in Chandigarh or Hindon.
On Sunday, a team of the BRO clad in arctic clothing trekked across the snowbound Baralacha-La to reach Sarchu, a location where the road opening equipment was kept during the winter. The team is fully stocked with ration, spare parts, communication equipment etc.
It attempted to cross the pass on March 11 and again on March 12, but heavy snowfall held them back. The crossing was again attempted on March 13, which was successful. The team, however, fell short of the destination, Sarchu, where it reached the next day. Snow clearance work has started on access routes to the pass. There is a minimum of 20 feet of snow for more than 10-15 km on either side of the pass.
Meanwhile, Zoji-La, located 130 km east of Srinagar, was opened in February, but fresh snow around March 10 blocked the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh road.
External Source: Government rushes to open Ladakh roads
Manali Leh Highway Status = OPEN | Update Date: 18 May 2020
BRO has cleared the snow on Baralacha La Pass and opened the Manali Leh Highway way earlier than expected.
Manali – Leh Highway Status = OPEN | Update Date: 10 June 2019
Manali Leh Highway has been declared open for vehicular movement for tourists by BRO today. This year it took more than expected time to open the Leh Manali road owing to heavy snowfall in winters and inclement weather plus snowfall in May and June as well.
However, finally, the road from Leh to Manali has been declared open and now you can make your road trip to Ladakh from Manali.
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 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.
248 Comments
Comments section gets closed in 90 days. To ask your travel questions, you can follow my YouTube Channel for a faster reply or for a much slower reply follow me on Instagram. :)
Hi Dheeraj
I am thinking of a trip from delhi. Is it possible to travel via manali to leh at end of Sep ? Will it be possible seeing current Covid-19 situations?
Robin, I will not recommend a trip to Ladakh at this time of the year and conditions.
Hi Dheeraj
i m plannig a trip from delhi. is it now possible to travel via manali to leh ? will there be any checkings due to covid? im also applying an pass (covid) for vehicular moment.
Hello Ram,
The inner line permits are not issued. So, you may only reach Leh and in case there are lockdown enforced in the middle, you may get stuck.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Will it be possible to travel this summer because of covid-19?
Karan
Karan, it does not look like Inner Line Permits will be allowed at least for some time. However, things are changing fast, so, stay tuned. As soon as I have an update, will be posting on my Instagram
is 2020 ride possible?
Does not look like it will be possible.
Hello dheeraj,
We are planning a trip from 01 Sep. Is it right time during this UT issue.
What you suggest are the roads are open for tourists now
Personlayu can i have your pH number so that I can take some updates.
Is it Safe/Permitted to Travel to Leh via Manali on Aug 15th 2019? Considering the current situation.
Things will unfold further but as of now Ladakh via Manali side is still OK to travel
Is rohtang pass open now? I heard that it is closed again due to heavy snow fall.
Its not yet open as I was waiting at Upshi check post till afternoon on june 10 however local police didnt allow to move further. Better to call JK or HP tourism and get the confirmation.
Today they have opened up the Beyond Rohtang Pass permit as well. I believe that was the wait probably. I will call up Manali taxi stand and confirm if any vehicles moved or not.
I was in Leh, route still not open. Had to return from Upshi check post. BRO has advised it will take another 3 4 days to open route for public. Now returning via Srinagar
Thanks, Mayank for the update and sad to hear that. There are few taxis that made it to Manali, as per some locals and news. Hope it normalizes soon for safe travels.
CONGRATULATIONS… CONGRATULATIONS….
MANALI TO LEH IS OFFICIALLY OPEN NOW..
YES. YOU HEARD RIGHT..
PACK YOUR BAGS..!
ADVENTURE AWAITS…
Have a great trip
Any latest update regarding road opening (after 5th June post) ?
Rahul, there is more snowfall that is happening for the last few days. Next date BRO shared is 9th June again provided weather holds good.
Hi dheeraj
my 2 friends and me have planned to go to leh via sringar it is as follow, below-
24June2019
Day1 Chandigarh to srinagar -570km 14hrs
3am-5pm
•25 june
Day2 Srinagar sighting
•26june
Day3 Srinagar-Leh -430km12hrs
5am-5pm
Gurduwara pathar sahib , magnetic hill
•27june
Day4 Leh-Pangong tso -230km 6hrs
8am-2pm
Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
•28june
Day5 Pangong tso-leh 230km6hrs
6am-12pm
Shanti stupa , leh palace
• 29june
Day-6 Leh-Manali 480km14hrs
4am-6pm
•30june
Day-7 Manali-Shimla -250km7hrs
8am-3pm
•1July
Day8 Shimla-Jaipur 630km12hrs
9am-9pm
Is it all fine?
An we have rented self drive car from zoomcar
Maruti swift it is
Can we use it to roam around in leh to visit local sightseeing
And i want to know if we need any permit to visit Pangong-Tso and we will be self camping there at night, can we?
Any hope…. Can we have any prediction on the snow clearance. We are planning for 10th June. We also have to book accommodation. Apart from that I had a query regarding the campsites at Pangong. Some travel agent told me that we can not stay at Pangong.
Hey Amit, did you read the recent update in the article? 5 June?
Hi Dheeraj, I am an IT professional, and I am planning to take a car that is not on my name, but on my company’s name. It is a private number car (white number plate), and the company has given this car to me as a perquisite. I do have my company’s ID, Do you think there would be an issue, is there anything else that I need to take?
Hello Dheeraj!
Is there any new update on Manali to Leh road. As what i have confirmed from Some Army Official , that the road has been opened. Even in HINIDUSTAN TIMES (4 dAYS BACK) , it has been mentioned that Deputy Commissioner mentioned the road is opened soon between 1~2 June.
So Kindly let me know the current status of Manali to Leh Road
Dhruv, there are few more snow slides to clear up and the weather is not supporting. The road is not yet open and BRO expects Baralachala to be cleared in next 3-5 days at least.
4×4 MANALI to LEH LADHAK
We have a bolero 4×4 going to Leh once the road is open, in the first days of june 2019
We are looking for 2 to 3 passengers. Cost 3.500 R each. First day we go to Darcha, last village in Lahoul. The next day we reach Leh. We have a safe driver who travels slowly and we can stop whenever.
We plan to stay a few days in Leh and then return to Manali. Return ticket only costs 1500 R. So 5000 R for both ways if you choose to return with us.
Call 8922033556 Or watsapp +502 35196689
hy sir
we r plng tour leh ladk via jammu srinagar to leh to manali on 30 may is it psble if we r cmng ..plz tll sir
Hi,
First of all thank you so much for the thread and frequent updates over highway status. I planned Manali-Leh-Manali Tour from 01-06-2019 to 10-06-2019 via Manali Leh Highway by keeping dates of opening highway of year 2018 in mind but it seems weather has not been so kind this year so highway is not yet opened. I have all my bookings be it train reservation or hotel/sightseeing done from 04-06-2019 to 09-06-2019. Please tell what should i do now because manali leh highway is still closed and there are not any chances of opening it soon. Please suggest me any alternate rout/way to reach Leh via Himachal.
Regards,
Suraj
Suraj, I do not think there is any chance of Manali Leh being open before 5th of June at least. From ground level, it is more like 8-15 June what local are now suggesting especially after recent snowfall last week.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for giving the latest statuses. Really appreciable.
Do you have any idea of Kargil Padum route, i was planning there by mid of June.
Thanks
Abhinav
Kargil to Padum road has been opened.
Is Hampta pass trek is possible now? If not, will it be possible in about 30 May?
You can go to the pass and come back the same way from Manali side. However, it will be too much snow.
Hello DOW.
Is there an App on your blog. If no, develop one. It will be a real help to travelers.
Thank you
Sunil
Hi
Is there any update on the road opening status? We are planning a bike trip to Leh via manali on 1st June.
Do you think roads would be open by then?
Thanks
Ajit
We have a trip planned in the 1st week of June, but we are starting off from Srinagar side, and returning back via Manali, so we will be hitting the Leh to Manali highway on 11th and 12th June, are we safe? Do you think the highway would be open properly by then?
Hii dheeraj
Im planning my ladakh trip likely on 20th—22nd of may via manali. Will the highway opened at that time?? And tell me one thing more. What about the procedure to visit umlingla pass?? Will it now open for civilians this year? Last year 2018 i spend almost a day in DC office to seek permission for it. They give me permission till noma lyoma
Hi ,
we planned leh trip from jun 1st to 10th. Without knowing the highway opening status. Home town to Delhi flight tickets are booked. Is any hope for opening the highway at the right time.
Any update on the status now?
BRO is making progress, they are about to reach Rohtang Pass but still, a lot is pending to be done. Till now, May end or June first week seems to be the time Manali Leh Highway may open.
Hi Dheeraj,
I got plans to ride from manali to kaza through rohtang pass in the last week of may, mostly the 26th. Is it a good time for my plan to workout?
Hi Dheeraj, I will be driving along with my friends of 10 members to Leh via Manali route. We will start our journey on 2nd June from Delhi and reach Manali on 3rd June .We Have a plan of Bhrigu lake trek for 2 days and on 5th june we are heading towards leh.Please suggest leh-manali highway will be opened or not at that time..
Hi dheeraj
Manali to gulaba open now ? How far can go from manali right now ? I am going in april 1st week
Hi Dheeraj, I will be driving along with my family by car to Leh via Srinagar route. Want to know if Sonmarg to Leh can be covered in one day.
Yes, Sonamarg to Leh can be covered in a day. It will take about 14 hrs.
Hi dheeraj
Manali to gulaba open now ?
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning road trip to leh via Leh Srinagar Highway during 27 Oct’18 – 5 Nov ’18. Is this possible, whther road will be opened. And what about Leh Manali highway at this around. What precautions and things to be taken care of while doing this road trip at this time of the year. Your thoughts?
Thanks
Robbie
It is possible Robbie but I do not general recommend traveling by road that late in the season when passes are about to close. Snowfall has already started on high passes. So, there will be risk. A big no no for Manali Leh Highway that late for sure.
Hi Dheeraj,
We friends are planning to go Leh in third week of September and we are taking ZOOM car from Delhi -Leh.
We got some information that Local Taxi peoples are not allowing yellow board cars, can you just give me a solution for this.
You can take the Zoomcar to reach Leh but then once in Leh you have to rent local taxi for sightseeing in Ladakh. Then you can come back with self drive rented car from Leh. So, it can only be used to reach Leh and come back from Leh
Hello Dheeraj,
First of all, great work you are doing by maintaining devilonwheels with your experience and such a wonderful information you are providing.
I have planned my journey from Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi for 15 days from 1st September. I just wanted to know whether highways and road condition will be opened well or is there any chance of closing of highways due to recent landslides?
The Delhi-Srinagar or Delhi-Manali highway is operation today or not? I’m bit worried about the road conditions due to heavy rains in these areas. Can you please help me out for this?
Thanks
Jaimin Prajapati
Thank you Jaimin, September is a very good time to visit Ladakh, Manali Leh Highway and Srinagar Leh Highway. The roads will stabilize a lot by the time you will start to reach them as rains should go away
Hello, I am planning a road trip from Manali to leh starting manali on 3rd September. Have heard of heavy rainfall and landslides happening, so will it be safe travelling now.
Well, I feel by the time you are starting your trip, things will begin to stabilize
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning for a round trip on Royal Enfield Bullet with my wife from Chandigarh to Leh via Leh-Manali highway, then Leh to Srinagar, and lastly from Srinagar to Chandigarh via Pathankot. It will be a 9 days bike trip.
Planned schedule- 11th August to 19th August 2018.
Detailed plan:
Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali (Night stay at Manali)
Day 2: Manali to Pang (Night stay at Pang)
Day 3: Pang to Leh to Pangong Lake (Night stay at Pangong Lake)
Day 4: Pangong Lake to Nubra Valley to Leh (Night stay at Leh)
Day 5: Leh to Kargil to Suru Valley to Zanskar (Night stay at Suru valley/Zanskar)
Day 6: Zanskar to Kargil to Sonamarg to Srinagar (Night stay at Sonamarg/Srinagar)
Day 7: Srinagar to Gulmarg to Srinagar(Night stay at Srinagar)
Day 8: Srinagar to Pathankot (Night stay at Pathankot)
Day 9: Pathankot to Chandigarh
I need your help in following:-
1. Please review my plan detailed above and make suggestions as per your experience.
2. Keeping in mind the current weather conditions, Is this good time and route.
3. Night stay at Pang is ok?
4. On Day 4 route, I have planned to to go directly from Pangong to Nubra via Shoyk village. Is that fine? If not, what alternate you would suggest.
5. Can you detail about Suru valley and Zanskar route. Where can i get accommodations on this route for Night stay. And are there cheap tent options available? I heard about white water rafting in Zanskar. Will that be available in these days.
6. What is the best place online or any contact number to inquire about any route blockages on Leh manali highway.
Anything you would suggest would be really appreciated.
Thanks
Please change the itinerary as below:
Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali
Day 2: Manali to Jispa
Day 3: Jispa to Leh
Day 4: Leh Rest day, permits and acclimatization
Day 5: Leh Nubra day trip or Leh Pangong Tso day trip
Day 6: Leh to Kargil
Day 7: Kargil to Srinagar
Day 8: Srinagar to Pathankot (Night stay at Pathankot)
Day 9: Pathankot to Chandigarh
Thanks Dheeraj for itinerary suggestion, but I will add Zanskar in this list.
One more thing, in Day 5, you mentioned Nubra and Pangong. you meant via direct route between them or should come back to Leh and then go to next one? Also there are two direct routes, which one you would suggest. I planned to take Skyok village which is the shortest between Pangong to Nubra.
You do not have time to add Zanskar Valley in the plan. Also, there is no way to do both Pangong Tso and Nubra on same day. I meant OR, you can choose one of the two. Frankly, you should extend the number of days for the trip.
Thanks I will extend the number of days.
Good, best wishes for the trip !!
Hi Dheeraj ,
I have completed ladakh trip by road in June. It was a great trip. I will do write ups later. This time I was solo but I am planning to take my family including 7 year old child to ladakh in April 1st week next year.
What about Khardung la and chang la in April 1st week ? will they be open ? How cold will be in ladakh that time ? In june I hardly find any cold. And what about Pangong, will it be completely frozen in 1st week of April ?
Do you see any issues if I plan that time because I want to see some more snow on the mountain and I am sure in April the snow deposit on the passes and on the mountain peaks will be much more giving beter look of snowy mountains.
Please advise.
Both Khardung La and Chang La remains open all round the year. If it snows heavily during the time of your visit, it will be closed for you but otherwise it will be open only.
Yes Pangong Tso will be frozen in April. Please read: Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary
Hi Dheeraj,
I am Planning a bus trip from rajasthan in Month of december around 25th.
could you help me to know which will be the best route for me to consider from rajasthan as this will be my first time.
Susmit, the road from Manali to Leh will be closed in the month of December
Hii dheeraj ,
I would like to know the road conditions of manali to leh highway . I heard that weather conditions are not good ! Actually am planning to visit leh by 19th july so can you update the road conditions and also I want to knw is there any public transport from manali to leh ? If yes then what are the timings and on which day they depart ?
It is raining for sure but no major roadblocks have been reported. There are intermittent blockades but those will persist till the rains. Keep a tab on weather reports. Bus from Manali to Leh starts at 5 AM.
Both Manali – Leh, and Srinagar – Leh roads are experiencing intermittent road closures every now and then due to heavy rains. Even Jammu – Srinagar road was also closed. Almost all of mountains are getting intermittent minor and major blockades including Killar, Kishtwar, Kinnaur, Spiti, Rohtang Pass, routes. If you are traveling on these routes,
1. Best is to go open-minded, be ready for getting stuck and travel safely.
2. Be prepared for getting stuck for some hrs till roads are not cleared or return back to the starting point choosing safety over risks.
3. Have some supplies in hand like food, drinking water so that in case you get stuck for long hrs in the middle, you have supplies to last the blockage.
Hi,
What’s the status of manali-leh route? Will be traveling on 9th & 10th July.
Is it possible to go Manali to Sarchu and then Sarchu to Leh? Or should I opt to stay at Zing Zing bar and then cross next morning?
Road conditions are stable, mos rivulets have water in them in late afternoon, so try to cross before late afternoon and it shall be fine.
Thanks Dheeraj 🙂
Hi,
Two of us are traveling to Manali, we will reach on 7th July and depart from Manali on 15th July.
Between 7-15th we are eager to see Spiti.
The weather forecast shows rains during that time.
1) Is is advisable to visit?
2) If so, will we able to cover Spiti, if we leave on 8th and return to Manali on 14th? (15th Afternoon we have bus to Delhi)
3) What can be the best route to take? In general we want to experience landscapes like Spiti & Leh. But since due to the available time, how far can we take the route?
Thanks in prior!
1. Once you reach Spiti Valley, it is a rain shadow region, so OK to visit. Also, weather predictions are only more accurate couple of days in advance.
2. You will have 7 days, you can follow the plan below
3. Refer plan below:
Day 01 : Manali / Solang – Kaza
Day 02 : Kaza – Pin Valley – Tabo
Day 03 : Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake trek – Kaza
Day 04 : Kaza – Ki – Kibber/Kaza
Day 05 : Kibber/Kaza – Langza – Komic – Hikkim – Kaza
Day 06 : Kaza – Chandratal
Day 07 : Chandratal – Manali
Thanks a lot for the recommendation.
My main worry are the rains!
Will the roads be safe to travel in any medium of transport?
Is local bus to Kaza advisable?
It should be OK more or less with some rain hassles. Bus services from Manali to Kaza will be available.
Manali – Leh Status Update
Heads up – Manali – Leh is temporarily closed due to a landslide near zing zing bar.
Expected to reopen in a day or two
Thanks Dheeraj for the update. Did it happen today ? What is the magnitude of this landslide ?
I am planning to cross Keylong – Leh on 19th June. BRO started work on this ? Please keep us posted once you have update
It should be clear in a day or two
Hi Nilavra. It was a flash flood due to which the massive dry landslide. It should be open by 19th.
Is the roadblock cleared now?
Road is open but it becomes difficult to cross in later noon. Check the video we posted.
There was a flash flood and thats why the massive slide. It will be cleared by 19th. Don’t worry and travel safe!
Hi Dheeraj,
Is. batal to rohtang open now?
Its open!
Hi Dheeraj,
Is. batal to rohtang open now?
Regards,
Dip
Its open!
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to Visit Jispa with Hatchback ( Vw Polo). Kindly advice about road condition and nearby places which can be done with a hatchback.
I have 5 days and traveling from Delhi.
Thank you in Advance.
As of now the road conditions are quite bad north of Rohtang Pass due to slush and rains. Otherwise with some cautious driving, you can make a trip to Jispa in a hatch back if there are dry conditions of roads.
Thank you for your reply and advice. I got the permit for 17th June with same day validity but I am planning for a night stay at Jispa and likely to return on 18th June.
I have few queries-
Do I again need a permit while returning from Jispa to Manali?
is it possible to visit Kaza from Jispa and return on the same day?
Suggest hotel is jispa .
Thank you!
You do not need permit when you travel from opposite side or north side of Rohtang Pass. So, you should be fine.
Hi Dheeraj
heard that today again zingzing bar was flooded…can. you pls gather update if the road is open ?
Road is open but it becomes difficult to cross in later noon. Check the video we posted.
Thanks Dheeraj. I will start by HRTC bus from Keylong at 5 AM. How far is zingzing bar from Keylong and how much time does it take to reach there from Keylong ?
Bus will mostly not have problem and 5 AM from Keylong is a good start and zinzing bar should not be problem
I heard of 12KM long traffic jam in the way to Rohtang from Manali.
Is it a regular affair there?
Can we avoid it if we start around 7.30AM? We will be travelling to Jispa from Manali as part of our Leh journey.
It is regular jam in June due to mad tourist rush. You may avoid it by leaving around 4-5 AM. By 7.30 most of Manali will be at Rohtang Pass 😀
On an average, what is the waiting time in such jams?
If we leave at 4-5AM, won’t we miss the beauty of Rohtang pass? As it might be still dark??
Reach the top of Rohtang Pass and relax for couple of hrs, then you will have to descend down. There isn’t any thing special on the top, the views are better on Northern side too. Anyways, if you leave at 4 Am, you reach top around 5.30 AM and then an hr or so rest, will give you good views.
Sir, we are planning to start our journey from 8th june to 17th .Following are the iternery
1. Chandigarh to solang Valley. will stay one night. 8th jun
2. Solang to Jispa.will stay for one night
3. Jispa to Upsi. we r avoiding sarchu due to ams.but What about accomodation?
4. Upsi to leh.
2.Actually we have 10 days only.so we have doubt should we go to Ladhak or not?
3.Can u tell us best possible iternery. we r only 2 on a single bike.Actually we r more concerned abt Ams.
4.Also I have migraine prblm. Should I worry reaching leh?
5. Most imp question is regarding carrying of fuel.we have avenger 220 2018 model.when we require it?
thanx in advance
Jispa does offer many places to stay, no need to sleep at Upshi. Go direct to Leh. and I think I replied to it somewhere else too. Let me know in case I missed.
I don’t even know the way I stopped up right here, but I thought this post used to be good. I do not know who you are however definitely you’re going to a well-known blogger for those who aren’t already 😉 Cheers!
Thank you
Hey Dheeraj,
I am planing to hire an Innova for a family of 3 during my trip to Ladakh in late June.
I will start my journey from Manali and will cover Nubra and Pangong.
Is this vehicle ok for those roads or should I look for alternatives??
Thanks in advance.
Innova should be able to do the Ladakh trip successfully and will be comfortable too.
Manali – Leh Highway Status Updates thanks to Vipin Agarwal
1. Baralacha la is a problem zone due to the single lane being opened right now. He was stuck there for over 3.5 hours. Still has tall snowfalls.
2. There is a new fuel bunk at Zingzing bar which is currently selling only diesel.
3. There was mild snowfall at Rohtang and before Pang yesterday
4. Except about 30kms before Pang, roads are good and well laid
hi dheeraj
heard chushul route is cut off…any update ?
Hello Mr Dheeraj.
How are you.??
This is Raj Sihani from Bhopal “MP”
I M PLANNING TO COME TO LADAKH VIA MANALI ON 30TH OF MAY
IS THIS THE RIGHT TIME TO VISIT LADAKH
IF YES WILL IT BE POSSIBLE TO GET A ROHTANGH PERMITT AT THE SAME TIME FROM MANALI BECAUAE GETTING ONLINE PERMITT IS HAVING SOME ISSUE..
Yes, Raj, the roads to Ladakh are open and people are traveling every day. Even HRTC bus has started. You need to get Beyond Rohtang Pass permit for Rs 50 to travel to Leh from Manali side. Do not apply the other permit which says Rohtang Pass permit.
Hi Dheeraj ,
I called at manali taxi union and as per them authorities have not yet allowed tourists for Leh as of today …you can go up to Keylong as Rohtang has just opened not beyond that so they have not started plying even small vehicles for Leh…Do you have any update on this ?
Sorry Dheeraj for posting the same query multiple times…there was some technical issues that I was not able to see my post in this site even after I sent the message…I thought the post is not delivered for some reason so did it multiple times..Apologies…
But talking to the taxi union, they said it would take another 10/15 days to open the Manali Leh route for tourists. so I am worried a bit.
As per latest article circular posted in the article, it should be allowed: Rohtang Pass Permit Mobile App & Other Updates 2018-19
Thanks Dheeraj. Heard that Barlacha la is temporarily closed due to snowfall. Is that true ?
Yes, it got temporarily closed.
As per the article…it says “Beyond Rohtang permit…” does that mean permit up to Leh or beyon Rohtang means up to Keylong ?
My understanding was up to Lehwhen it means beyond Rohtang …then manali taxi union says that…so i was surprised…
Beyond Rohtang Pass covers everything beyond it including Keylong, Spiti, Ladakh, Pangi
Thanks Dheeraj. In case of closure due to snowfall I have read reports in past that BRO clears the road generally in a day or two. Hope that happens…
Then I am not sure why manali taxi union says they have not started yet plyin vehicles….
The road is open now again.
Actually my Driver would have arranged it but I am reaching Leh 2 days before I start my journey and my driver would be busy in completing the previous tour by then. So I talked to him and he said if I do not want to waste time then he will talk to the hotel manager where I am staying and give him the tour plan and will do all arrangements….the hotel manager will arrange for the permit…
Yes, go with the hotel option.
Hi dheeraj
any update on chushul route…heard it is cut off at man merak…why ?
Hi Dheeraj ,
The ATMs around Leh main bazar are reliable enough or you advise to carry all cash for the whole trip in ladakh ?
More or less they are reliable but I will still advice that you carry enough cash to come out of any emergency situation.
Hi Dheeraj
Considering weather pattern this year it seems that it may rain heavily late june when i go manali to leh….i have 3 days buffer….have u heard in last 8 years that the highway is blocked for a week ? i am trying to understand how fast BRO works to clear the landslide…both hrtc and hptdc runs buses in monsoon only so authorities are likely to give much importance to the highway….
No such news of that long closure. 3 days is good enough buffer and well, unless you are extremely unlucky you will use all of it.
Hi Dheeraj ,
I called at manali taxi union and as per them authorities have not yet allowed tourists for Leh as of today …you can go up to Keylong as Rohtang has just opened not beyond that so they have not started plying even small vehicles for Leh…Do you have any update on this ?
Hi Dheeraj ,
As per manali taxi union the authorities have not yet allowed tourists for Leh so they have not yet started plying private vehicles… DO you have any update ?
Hi. Thank you for all the information! I would like to know what is the status of the Beyond Rohtang Pass Permit as the Tourism Development Council Manali (HP) Website shows the status as Coming Soon. So even though the Roads are cleared, tourists are not yet allowed to enter? Is it so? I was planning to Travel to Khardung La on my bike after 20th May. Kindly give your suggestion.
Thank you
Akshay Chikhale
Akshay, you can get the permit from SMD office in Manali in the absence of the permit availability online.
Ooh. Thank you. And does this mean that the permits are available offline too? And what can be done in case the permits are available online later but the quota is over? Can a person end up stranded there for not having a permit to travel?
Akshay, the quota problems are only for just Rohtang Pass permit. Beyond Rohtang Pass Permit is generally available without much issue at all.
Rohtang Pass Permit Mobile App & Other Updates 2018-19
In a very welcoming news from Kullu administration today, “Beyond Rohtang Pass Permit” has been enabled for season 2018-19 on the main website of Kullu Administration. Now, everyone including tourists can apply for Rohtang Pass permit online at either official website of Kullu administration or using the newly launched Rohtang Pass Permit Mobile App by Kullu administration. If you are new to it, you can read more about the process on how to apply for Rohtang Pass permit online. Hence, finally today, the Manali – Leh Highway has been officially open for 2018-19 to travel beyond Rohtang Pass for all type of vehicles including private tourist vehicles.
Read more at https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/rohtang-pass-permit-mobile-app-updates-2018-19/
Actually the snow has been cleared but the road is still not safe for tourist that’s why BRO has not opened for tourists till now. It will be opened by the coming week and you can get the permit.
Thank you
Rohtang Pass Permit Mobile App & Other Updates 2018-19
In a very welcoming news from Kullu administration today, “Beyond Rohtang Pass Permit” has been enabled for season 2018-19 on the main website of Kullu Administration. Now, everyone including tourists can apply for Rohtang Pass permit online at either official website of Kullu administration or using the newly launched Rohtang Pass Permit Mobile App by Kullu administration. If you are new to it, you can read more about the process on how to apply for Rohtang Pass permit online. Hence, finally today, the Manali – Leh Highway has been officially open for 2018-19 to travel beyond Rohtang Pass for all type of vehicles including private tourist vehicles.
Read more at https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/rohtang-pass-permit-mobile-app-updates-2018-19/
Hi Dheeraj ,
I called at manali taxi union and as per them authorities have not yet allowed tourists for Leh as of today …you can go up to Keylong as Rohtang has just opened not beyond that so they have not started plying even small vehicles for Leh…Do you have any update on this ?
The permit is now available online as well, please check the site. SDM office passed the circular today and it has been enabled on the main website too.
Hello Dheeraj,
The information and the updates are really helpful and probably you have heard it a lot already 🙂
We are planning to travel form Manali to Leh on road via Rohtang, Baralacha pass in August (4th-13th). As you have mentioned the place seeing less snow this year, are there any chances of getting snow in any of the passes or in Leh Ladakh?
Thank you Smitha 🙂 ,
it is very difficult to get snow during that time unless it was crazy weather as it happened few years back. It has only happened once in last 9 years I have been traveling to these places. It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains. Landslides or slush or road blocks are pretty common in the month of monsoons but these landslides are cleared in a day or two unless there is a very major one. Having said that, rains does reach Ladakh nowadays but in general, it is overcast days or in form of light drizzles. I will suggest you also read my article on 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am Sunil, you helped a lot for my previous trips so thank you for that, this year again traveling Manali to Ladakh from 3rd June, this is my 3rd time and this time I want to visit Umling la, is there any problem to get inner line permit for this place / is it easily available or I have to take permission from someone high authority? Please suggest.
Thanks,
Sunil khairnar
Umling La is banned for visit for civilians, even Hanle is not allowed right now.
It’s very nicely written. Will it continuously snow in a year
Thank you
Thanks! for the full information about Manali. in which season it’s better to visit Manali? Because we are planning on Srinagar to Leh and Leh to Manali on May 1st week. I need to know its good time to go there or not?
Are you saying May first week or June first week? May first week is already gone?
🙂
It seems to be working 🙂
Manali – Leh Highway Status Update:
Manali – Leh Highway has been opened for vehicular traffic ahead of schedule by BRO. Hats off the work done despite bad weather and recent snowfall. More bad weather is predicted all across Northern India and it is wise to plan your trip to Manali – Leh Highway in a week’s time as the highway stabilize so as the weather in next few days. But, in any case, a very welcoming news, so let the adventure begins.
Manali – Leh Highway Road Status Update:
Manali – Rohtang Pass – Keylong road has been opened for vehicular traffic but tourists are still not allowed to go beyond Marhi to Rohtang Pass. Tourists will only be allowed to go beyond Marhi to Rohtang Pass when enough parking space and toilets are available at Rohtang Pass.
As of now until road widening work completes at Rohtang Pass, in the early hours of the day vehicles will move from Manali to Keylong and in evening/late hours vehicles from Lahaul Valley to Manali will be allowed. HRTC bus between Kullu – Lahaul valley is also resumed now.
BRO is working to clear the stretch between Sarchu – Baralacha La after which whole of Manali – Leh Highway will be opened too.
Hey Dheeraj I’m planning a bike trip from 18 or 19 from manali to leh. A bit confused with the road status. I’ll begin my journey from Chandigarh.
Any advice regarding the trip and how may i plan, requirements and all will be really helpful.
Abhishek, with recent heavy snowfall in high himalayas, it looks a bit difficult that Manali – Leh Highway will open before 20th May. I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
I will suggest that you go through the articles mentioned under the DwD Community thread for bike trip to Ladakh or any other part of Himalayas at the link: All About Bike Ride to Ladakh & Himalayas. This will help you cover almost all your queries related to bike trip to Ladakh or Himalayas.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Keeping in mind the political unrest in Srinagar do you advise Srinagar route ? How about the places of Srinagar bus stand, taxi stand and adjoining areas ? Have you heard of criminal activity there putting tourists in trouble ?
Well, there has been one incidence I read in the recent news and probably you might have also heard/read about it. Kashmir is not safe at the moment but you still have 40 more days, if things settle better to immediately move from Srinagar to Sonamarg as soon as you reach or stay locked in rooms of Srinagar hotel and travel in the night to Sonamarg. I, personally, would have avoided stay there.
Manali – Leh Highway Status Update:
Manali – Leh Highway has been opened for vehicular traffic ahead of schedule by BRO. Hats off the work done despite bad weather and recent snowfall. More bad weather is predicted all across Northern India and it is wise to plan your trip to Manali – Leh Highway in a week’s time as the highway stabilize so as the weather in next few days. But, in any case, a very welcoming news, so let the adventure begins.
Hi Dheeraj,
we are planed manali to leh 1st june is this write time or not.
Jatin, first week of June should be fine to travel to Ladakh and on Manali – Leh Highway
Manali – Leh Highway Road Status Update:
BRO has cleared snow from Baralacha La pass and has started moving towards Sarchu to clear snow from rest of the Manali – Leh Highway and open it for vehicular movement. Inclement weather continues in the high Himalayas this spring which is delaying the opening of Manali – Leh Highway despite less snow this year. It appears that as Manali – Leh Highway opened last year on 25th May, this year with more snow predicted in coming days and few days of stabilization, Manali – Leh Highway is expected to open somewhere between 15th May to 20th May.
What is the expected time for Manali leh highway to be fully operational?
Manali – Leh Highway should open by mid May
Hi Dheeraj ,
Is it possible to get a private taxi hired from Keylong taxi stand for Leh not from Manali ? If so, what would be the cost ? I was thinking if Keylong Leh taxis are available at all ?
I believe you will be able to get the Keylong – Leh taxi too. The cost should be around 12K.
Thanks Dheeraj. Heard that both chushul route and Hanle are suspended right now and vehicles are allowed upto merak village not beyond that.
Yes BRO thought of opening manali leh by mid May but this week we see couple of Western disturbances affecting western himalayas upto May 7. So next week we should get another update from BRO regarding the revised timeline after snowfall in coming days due to WD.
could u please check mid of next week and keep us updated ? it would be of great help.
Sure, will keep everyone posted on the Manali – Leh updates. Regarding Hanle permits, they are suspended but I do have a copy of Chusul permit from couple of weeks back where they were being issued. As per report from few days back as well they were being issued. You need an extra stamp on the permit for Chusul now.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Meanwhile I see the following link which gives the latest report from BRO –
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/bro-clears-snow-from-baralacha-pass-leh-road-to-open-in-a-week/articleshow/64021872.cms
Hi Dheeraj ,
Regarding chushul permit I understand we need an additional stamp but, are they giving the permit to anybody who wishes to do Chushul route or they have some criteria or restrictions that they will give the additional permit to only handful of people ?
The permits are being given to people who want to do Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri via Chusul. No such restriction I have heard apart from that week when that chaos started.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Another thing …do you know any budget hotel very near to Leh Bus stand ? I see in DOW site contact of several hotels but I am trying to find a hotel very near to the bus terminus.
Sorry, I just do not remember any one particular very near to bus stand. There was one Paul Guest House that was very near to main market and taxi stand.
Hi Dheeraj ,
I will reach Leh from Manali by HRTC bus late June. I enquired at HRTC Keylong and they said once the road opens the bus will start plying one week after that. If I book a hotel in Leh 2/3 kms away from Leh bus stand, can I get private taxi near Leh bus stand to drop me at the hotel ? I am first timer in Leh so I don’t have an idea about the availability of local vehicles inside Leh city to drop me at the hotel.
Marsimik la permit is given these days or Off limit now ?
No Nilavra, the taxis or public transport are not readily available in Leh town. So, either you can pre-book the taxi for your tour which can come to pick up and drop you on the day you arrive OR work with your guest house guys to provide you a pickup once you reach there.
Marsimik La permit was on hold too but once you reach there, try applying it.
Thanks Dheeraj. Is there a taxi stand at Keylong where i can get private taxi for leh or I have to wait for empty taxis coming from manali ? in that case it will depend on luck.
I am keeping different options open like taxi or bus etc.
There is indeed a taxi stand in Keylong where you will be able to go and book Leh based taxis
Hi dheeraj
when you say leh based taxi you mean the taxis of Leh that comes from leh to keylong and wait for return ?
Hi Dheeraj
Do these vehicles come from Leh to keylong to drop passengers and i can get hold of them at keylong taxi stand to drop me at leh ftom keylong ?
Sometimes yes but not that frequent.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks much.i understand leh taxis are not that frequent at keylong but i will get any privatr taxi at keylong taxi stand for leh drop .Right ?
Yes, that you will be able to get but if you are looking for taxis from Leh that drop people in Keylong, it will be less. The frequency of Leh taxis going to Leh is more.
Thanks Dheeraj. One final thing…
I have postponed my travel to 20th June from Manali to Leh looking at the weather condition and on/off of the highway very frequently. Earlier it was 10th June. I know landslides due to rain are quite common late June. But have you ever heard in last few years of snowfall on Rohtang and Barlacha la in late June causing highway blockage as it is happening now in May ?
I am solo traveler and I have booked a Scorpio…I have got the driver from DOW forum…Do you advise Nidar, Kyul Tso, Chillig Tso route or you do not recommend because our car may be the single vehicle on the road ? How is the road condition now ? Is this very bad and completely isolated like kaksang la ?
Well, nothing can be certain though the highway did close in June but it was not of snowfall if I remember correctly.
Secondly, I will not recommend you taking the Nigar – Kyon Tso Twin lake routes alone. Roads are extremely bad and yes no one takes that route.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for the reply. If the highway close in june due to rain how soon bro restores the connection ? have you heard of highway close on june for 2/3 days in past ?
If it is a massive landslide, then yes, indeed it closes down for 2-3 days. Have happened numerous times in the past few years.
and also what about the route via tso kar debring tanglang la from tso moriri…is this as bad as nigar kyul tso route and not recommended ?
Nopes, the Tso Kar route is all fine, just that there is no paved route rest is completely fine and with SUV taxi it hardly feels in comparison to what you would have already seen.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Glad to know Manali LEh has opened up…by the time I would cross on 19th June hopefully all will stabilize…in the meantime do you have any update on Hanle permit ?
Hanle permit has been issued to few people but Loma checkpost did not allow them to pass by. I got this info from Sonam Dorjay who runs Sonam Guest House at Hanle. According to him, tourists will only be allowed to Hanle once BRO establishes the checkpost on the route to Umling La so that people are not allowed beyond that point and travel to Umling La
Got it…thanks…any idea when BRO will establish checkpost for Umling la so as not to allow people beyond ? Any plan to set up the checkpost near future or there is no chance this year at all ?
They are working on it that’s what he said 🙁
Hi Dheeraj
any revised timeline from BRO on opening the msnsli leh road ?
Hi Dheeraj
about mobile connection in ladakh… .Do vodafone postpaid work there ? if not then bsnl prepaid work ? or it is just bsnl postpaid that work only.
All about mobile connections: 10 Tips on Mobile Phone Connectivity in Leh – Ladakh
Thanks Dheeraj. I will go Manali to Keylong by HRTC bus so I hope I don’t need to apply for ROhtang permit as the permit I believe stands for the vehicle not for individual unlike Ladakh. Please confirm.
No, if you go by HRTC bus, you do not have to apply for permit of Rohtang Pass. Yes, Rohtang Pass permit is for the vehicle
Hey Dheeraj,
Thank you sharing such a valuable information. After reading all your articles, I still have a question ticking in my mind again and again so I decided to ask it anyway.
We are 8 people ( including 2 Couples and only two being experienced drivers including me :D) and we are planning a trip to Leh Ladakh in first week of June 2018. I have VW polo petrol car and I strongly want to take it there but, after getting many reviews from friends and acquaintances I came to know that only the ground clearance is the matter of worry otherwise Polo is a great car to take. So, here I need your personal advice regarding this ( though I know it all depends upon my confidence to drive) 😉
Please also let me know that, which route is better Leh Via Srinagar and return Manali or vice a versa in a hatch back as we are planning to cover both the routes.
For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway, Spiti Valley and Ladakh, I will say Possible = Yes, Difficult = Yes, at quite a few place:
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
Thank you so much for this valuable info. I’ll be looking forward for more tips from you in future. 🙂 Have a good day…
Feel free to post any further questions you may have for planning your trip to the Himalayas.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Just came to know that Permit for Hanle, Chusul, Umling La is suspended this year due to growing tension with China. Do you have any update on this ?
Umling La is not my concern but I am very keen to visit Hanle this year in June.
Please read the latest update from DoW Facebook page.
Ladakh Update: As per updates from Gurmat bhai,
“Nothing is banned officially till now , my clients were still traveling in mention routes but Yes Umlingla la is not open for tourist till now as recently me and my team being to recce tour to Umlingla la pass to know the ground situation exactly and Yes we were stop by FUKTSAY check post and says no one is allowed beyond that post towards Umlingla la pass being a sensitive area close to LOC and we ask how come few pics running on internet if you are not allowing anyone to cross beyond that point as there are lot of pics and videos circulating on internet by few riders conquering Umlingla la, and army people says they make lot of request and insists the army much for allowing them for Umlingla la and troops out of pity, allow those guys but they never expect that those guys make videos and take pictures which later on resulted into a big enquiry on army post.”
Hi Dheeraj ,
How about the Aryan villages Dah and Hanu ? Is it worth visiting keeping landscape in mind ? I do not see much people intend to visit these places.
They are more famous to get the portraits of Aryan sect people than of views. So, if you are short on time then you can skip it or else have seen other routes few times, then no harm in taking this route in Ladakh
Hi Dheeraj
Any update from BRO on manali leh opening date after very recent snowfall on April 20-21. Earlier they were pushing hard to open the road by May 5th but now it seems it can get delayed particularly after snowfall in last two days.
It does not seem like that that 5th May will be possible, it most likely that 15-20 May is next possible date
Hi Dheetaj
I plan to cross manali leh on june 10. do u think in all probabiliyy its possible ?
Yes, of course, Manali – Leh Highway should in all likelihood be open by mid-late May and should be stable by June 10. It is a different thing that it can close due to fresh landslide at that time.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Any update on Hanle , Chushul permit issue ?
No update on Hanle permit but for Chusul permit you will need to have an additional stamp on your permit from dC office which will say permit for Chusul – Tsaga.
That means, with that additional stamp we can go chushul tsaga la up to loma bend…Is that true ? What about shyok road ?
Can I get that additional stamp on my permit or there will be some limitations that everybody who wishes that route won’t be given that stamp ?
Yes, that is true. The additional stamp will allow you to go up to Loma bend where you might be sent back unless Hanle permit is sorted out. If you mean by separately applying permits for your group online, I Will recommend you apply one permit using updated form then and there at the DC office. It is a trivial process.
Moreover, earlier also people needed to get permit for Chushul Tsaga la route…so what’s the change in now ? Permit was required earlier and is also needed now.
Earlier there was no additional stamp that DC office used to put on the permit. Just names we write and single sign/stamp would work out. Now apart from the official stamp of the permit, you also get an additional stamp. I will soon upload the copy of permit that I received to make things clear.
Hi Dheeraj,
Heard that the hotel where we stay in Leh would arrange the ILP and I don’t need to visit personally at DC office. Is that true ? Originals are required or the xerox of the ID proof ?
Generally How much time it takes to get the permit and the stamp for Chusul route in June considering the rush at DC office ? Will the office open at 9 AM Monday to Saturday ?
Yes, hotels or travel agents can arrange the permits for you in advance. The permit process is trivial and if the officers are present, it will take about 30-45 mins at max including filling up of form and paying the fee. If the officers are in meeting or busy elsewhere you may be asked to collect the permits later in the day.
Manali – Leh Highway Status Update: 6th April 2018
Rohtang Pass has been thrown open for small vehicular traffic and now Manali is connected for Keylong for the season. BRO is claiming that if the weather holds good then the entire Manali – Leh Highway will be thrown open by 20th April 😯 😮
Hi Dheeraj,
I am Planning a road trip from Delhi in Month of May around 15th. by that time Manali-Leh by that time?
could you help me to know which will be the best route for me to consider from Delhi as this will be my first time.
Arun, I will suggest starting from Srinagar side and by the time you come to Manali side, this year there are very high chances that Manai – Leh Highway will open by late May. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Hey Dhiraj,
Just wanted to confirm, can we plan Manali Leh highway around 4 June 2018?
Seeing much less snow and Srinagar – Leh Highway almost about to open, I will say, yes you can plan for Manali – Leh Highway in June first week.
will it be possible to reach leh from srinagar by bike in one day.
It takes 16 hrs ride, if doing by local shared taxis, I will still say to go with it but then doing a bike ride of 16 hrs in one day is not at all recommended.
Manali – Leh Highway Status Update: 2nd April 2018
Rohtang Pass is expected to open within a week’s time as BRO has almost reached near the Rohtang Pass top from Marhi as well as Khoksar sides. As the weather was favorable and less snow was present this year, BRO was able to make good progress and have reached within a touching distance to open Rohtang Pass for vehicular traffic in a week or so.
Hi Dheeraj ,
I am planning to travel Manali to Leh by HRTC bus around 20th of June. HRTC starts its service one or two weeks after the road is open. Heard that Rohtang is closed on Tuesday.
On Day 1 I will reach Keylong by HRTC and will have a night stay there. Tuesday is closed for the govt bus as well or just for private vehicle ?
Rohtang Pass is closed for tourist activities but beyond Rohtang Pass vehicles does commute on Tuesdays too.
Thanks Dheeraj. That means I can travel from Manali to Keylong on Tuesday. That’s really good for me.
Hi Dheeraj ,
Heard that Kargil to Padum road declared open on Sunday. Is this true ? This is unbelievable indeed.
Unbelievable but very much true: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions/kargil-penzi-padum-road-status-2015-t2838-30.html#p47719
As of now, in last couple of days, there has been a heavy snowfall all over the Himalayas and all snow clearance operations have come to an halt
Is it snowing today? Will i be able to go to Leh on May 7 or 8 th from manali?
Manali – Leh Highway will not open at the very least by the middle of May to the third week of May. So, in first week of May, I do not think you will be able to travel from Manali to Leh
Oh! Does Srinagar to Leh Highway usually opens before Manlai-Leh highway? Which one offers better experience? Thank you in advance
Yes Srinagar – Leh Highway usually opens much earlier than Manali – Leh Highway. Both have their own charm and I will suggest you include both in your trip when both roads are open 🙂 You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
By Mid may, if the whole manali-leh highway is not open, is it possible that Manali-Keylong gets opened?
Replies to other comment.
By Mid may, if the whole manali to leh highway is not open, is it possible that Manali-Keylong gets opened?
Seeing the way other roads are opening and Srinagar – Leh almost about to open, it feel possible that Manali – Leh will be open by mid of May
Hi Dheeraj,
Me and my friends are planning tour to Ladakh via car in the last of may , 25th to be precise. Is it the right time to plan or we should shift the dates to 1st june and what should we include in our tour. it will be 9 dayand 8 night tour .
Hi Anchal,
I will recommend that you shift it to first week of June and let Manali – Leh Highway stabilize a bit after opening. It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 9 days. Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are reaching Leh from delhi via Flight on 25th May and after the local itinerary there we get done on 2nd June and we wanted to do Leh to Manali by road. I just wanted to know
1. Is it safe for us to travel by road on those dates. (we are 5 couples)
2. Can we hire a bike from leh and drop it at Manali?
3. Can we take one car and 2 bikes?
4. How much time will it take to reach Manali?
5. What are the costs involved?
6. Will we get places to stay on the way?
7. What other ways are there to reach Manali if not bikes?
Thanks in advance
Hey Rishab,
1. Manali – Leh road would have just opened, it will be cold and expect some surprise road closures.
2. You can do so, but will cost about 12K for a bike drop
3. 10 people will need a tempo or two cars or one car and three bikes.
4. Leh to Manali is a two day drive with night halt at Sarchu or Jispa/Keylong
5. Depends, taxi costs around 18-19K and bike per day starts from 1200
6. Yes Sarchu, Jispa and Keylong you will be able to stay
Hi Dheeraj,
Me and my brother are planning a trip to Leh in the second week of June, 9th to be precise. Is it a good or rather I should say a safe time to plan our ride. Some one told me that there are some legal issues in Leh if we take a rented bike initially once the roads are open.
Thanks,
Durgesh Jaiswal
Yes, by June second week Manali – Leh Highway road settles. Well, Bikes rented outside Leh are not allowed for sightseeing inside Ladakh except Tso Moriri and Tso Kar lakes which can be done while going to Manali from Leh. Private bikes are completely allowed. You can use the outside rented bike to reach Leh but then for going to Pangong Tso, nubra Valley, etc.. you need to hire rented bikes from Leh only.
To know more about this rule and present situation, please refer the link: Bikes Rented Outside Leh Banned in Ladakh
Thanks a Lot for sharing the information !! But is it like we can’t go to Leh before 15th June as it’s not open before that. Please confirm as there is a lot of confusion because of that.
Durgesh, you can travel to Leh from Srinagar side by start of May and from Manali side by end of May.
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning a bike trip from Manali to Leh -Srinagar and than back to Manali.
We plan as follow:
Day 1-Manali to Jispa-
Day 2-Jispa to Sarchu-
Day 3-Sarchu to Leh- and local sight seeing on that day-
Day 4-Leh to Nubra-
Day 5-Nubra to Pangong-
Day 6-Pangong to Tso Moriri Lake-
Day 7-Tso-Moriri to kargil-
Day 8-Kargil to Srinagar and than back to Manali
Is this itenary possible ??
Can i just rent a bike from Manali and leave it at Srinagar ?
I also plan to do river rafting at Nemu? Will it take extra day ?
I m planning to go on 31 st May ? So should i book the hotels or should bargain at the hotels there ?
Can you please tell me the time (hours ) for the above itenary?
Thanks in advance
Hi Namrata,
I will suggest that you do not sleep at Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized for it. Go directly to Leh from Jispa, easily doable now a days with better roads. Day 3 will be your rest and acclimatization day, you can get the permits done though. Then you have to drop Tso Moriri and do 3 day trip to Nubra Valley and PAngong Tso and come to Leh. Pn Day 7 go to Kargil from Leh. If you do not have any particular hotel in mind, you can land up there and bargain on the spot.
Thanks Dheeraj..
If I want to include Tso Moriri, how can i include it ??
And will i need a extra day for river rafting at Nemu ?
Is there any scope for leaving bike hired from manali at Leh ?
Hi Dheeraj,
we are planning on Srinagar to Leh and Leh to Manali on May 1st week. Should we consider the rescheduling or wait until mid-April?
Please suggest.
I will highly recommend you plan something towards the mid of May to late May or better late May to early June.
Hi Dheeraj,
Hrishikesh again. We 4 friends again visit Leh in June 2018 through Manali – Leh highway. We are starting from Manali on 11th June 2018 (Monday) and will be planning for night halt in Jispa. As this year snowfall is less, so what will be the possibilities of getting snow filled roads (mainly in Passes) on June 2018.
Your response is much appreciated.
Thanks
Hrishikesh
Hrishikesh, I will say there will surely be snow but not in abundance. However, it does snowfall in March too.