Some places do not need an introduction, like Leh Ladakh. A trip to the Land of High Passes is not just a trip, but it's like therapy that gives you serenity and calmness. The Leh Ladakh road trips have the extreme chill of the place is well complemented by the warmth of the Buddhist community here. The Union Territory offers a diverse array of natural beauties, including landscapes, snow-draped peaks, shimmering high-altitude lakes, and remote monasteries.
Every turn tells a story of beauty in Ladakh, whether it is driving through the narrow passes of Zojila or experiencing the thin air at Khardung La, the changing landscape from verdant valley to cold desert is a photographer's paradise. It's a bucket list journey where the road is often more memorable than the destination.
So, the question arises: why should you visit Leh Ladakh? If you have this question in mind, you are in the right place. I know the weather in Leh is as cold as a frozen dessert.
If I had to describe what Leh is to me, it's not just a place on the map. It's where my mind finds silence, my heart feels fresh, and my stress melts away. It's my escape, a space where I can truly breathe and feel at peace.
This Himalayan gem offers a richer travel experience with improved roads, eco-tourism initiatives, and more traveler-friendly infrastructure.
In 2025, eco-friendly tourism is gaining momentum here, with homestays in Villages like Turtuk and Hanle focusing on Sustainability. New cultural tours and campaign zones are being introduced to show Ladakh's Buddhist and Balti heritage.
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I know the question arises: what is the best time for the visit to the Leh Ladakh road trip? Time is everything that matters; every season has its beauty to see, so what's the best time?
1 May: The Srinagar-Leh route usually opens, but mid-May weather is cold, and roads start to clear.
2 June - August: Peak tourist season, both Manali and Srinagar highways are open, temperature ranges from 15? to 25? during the day, and nights are chilly.
3. September: Post-monsoon clarity is ideal for photography. Roads are open, but nights get colder and the temperature rises to 0?.
4. October: early snowfall season risk for traveling.
5. November - April: snow covered the roads like a blanket, so it's risky to travel by road during this season. Only air travel is possible.
| Season | Month | Pros | Cons |
| Summer | June - August | Access to roads, active tourist infrastructure, the weather gets pleasant, and greenery | It's a season that welcomes the crowd, with high prices. |
| Early Autumn | September - Early October | The sky is clear, you will see the colors of stunning views, and crowds are less, with discounted stays. | The temperature gets colder, chance of early snow in October. |
| Winter | November - March | Serene landscapes, a cultural experience like the Chadar trek. | Snow-covered roads, extreme cold, and limited transport/ stay options. |
| Spring | April - Early May | Blooming flora, quieter routes via Srinagar. | The Manali route is often still closed, to unpredictable weather. |
When you are planning a road trip to Leh, you should choose the best route that shapes your entire journey. The two main highways, Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh, offer different road journeys in terms of beauty and culture. Many travelers list also plan a full circle to get the best view of both worlds.
The classic Adventure since 1989 is open from June to late October It is a 474 km approx highway, this highway is favourable for adventure junkies and bikers. Best undertaken between June to September, the route takes you across some of the highest motorable passes in the world. Rohtang La (13058 ft ), Baralata La (16040 FE ), Nakee La, Lachung La, and the stunning Tang Lang La (17480 ft ).
The route is more challenging due to its rapid altitude gain. You can expect stark landscapes, cold desert glacial streams, and remote mountain camps. Key halts include Key Liing, Jispa, Sarchu, and Pang.
This highway is best for adventurers; however, travelers should be prepared for AMS Acute mountain sickness, unpredictable weather, and rough patches, especially early in the season.
The Srinagar Leh highway spans around 434 km, and it remains open for traffic from April/May to October/November. The most breathtaking portion of the trip is climbing up the (11,499 ft) Zojila, along with the Great Himalayan wall.
There are regular premium and ordinary bus services run by the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) between Leh and Srinagar on this route, with an overnight stay at Kargil. Taxis, cars, and jeeps are also found in Srinagar for Travel.
Exploring from Delhi or Chandigarh to Leh is a Memorizing but challenging Experience. Travelers may encounter plenty of landscapes, cultures, and climates. Each path offers a different way to experience the beauty of the Indian Himalayas.
Whether you choose to drive or take a mix of Air and Road travel from Delhi NCR. This route provides tourists with in-depth knowledge of the region's stunning views, despite taking time.
| Route | Difficult level | Best time to travel | Key passes/ stops | Scenery | Distance |
| Manali - Leh Highway | Challenging | June to September | Rohtang, Baralacha, Tanglang la | High-altitude deserts, rugged mountains | 474 km |
| Srinagar - Leh Highway | Moderate | May to October | Kargil, Drass, and Zojila pass | Green valleys, cultural richness | 434 km |
| Delhi / Chandigarh - Leh varies | Varies | Year-round with stops | Mixed routes Manali / Srinagar | Drivers' landscapes and climates. | varies |
A classic Leh-Ladakh road trip usually lasts 7 to 10 days and features famous spots like Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, and Tso Moriri. A common route begins in Manali or Srinagar, leading to Leh. Travelers then explore nearby areas before heading back through the same or a different path. Many itineraries also include stops at monasteries, high-altitude passes, and distinctive landscapes such as dunes and salt lakes.
This route offers a mix of adventure and important places.
Route : Manali, Jispar, Srchu, Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Leh, Manali.
Perfect for those seeking a quick scenic glimpse of Ladakh with Minimal detours.
This journey takes both the Srinagar and Manali highways together to complete a complete loop with continuously varied scenery.
Route: Delhi – Jammu – Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil – Leh – Nubra – Pangong – Sarchu – Manali – Delhi.
Best for travelers who wish to have a wider Himalayan experience of differing valleys
Intended for experienced travelers, this journey explores the most secluded parts of Ladakh.
Route Highlights: Leh, Sham Valley, Nubra, Turtuk, Siachen Base Camp, Pangong, Hanle, Umling La, Tso Moriri, Leh
This trip is perfect for adventure seekers looking for challenging experiences and isolated high-altitude spots.
Here’s a quick guide to what each day of a Ladakh road trip might include:
Each day offers new landscapes, including deserts, valleys, and snow peaks. Ladakh is truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Traveling in Ladakh means exploring one of the most remote regions on earth with altitudes ranging from 9000 to over 19000 feet. There is a serious talk that should not be taken lightly. Proper adjustment and awareness are ways to secure a safe and enjoyable journey through a majestic view.
Ladakh is a region that is both strategically important and ecologically fragile, which means there are specific regulations that all tourists need to follow. It's essential to have the proper permits and documents to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Online (both domestic and foreign)
Use the official portal http://lachddehpermit.in Ladakh Tourists Management System)
Offline
Always carry original ID documents, particularly those provided in the ILP application. For self-run automobiles, always carry vehicle registration (RC), pollution certificate (PUC), valid insurance, and a driving license. If using a rented bike or auto, ensure a valid rental document and verify if the vehicle can be used on Ladakh roads, as most local operators limit outside rentals beyond Leh.
Having these documents in hand can help you out of paying unnecessary fines and delays at borders.
A Leh Ladakh road trip is often seen as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. With careful planning, you can manage your expenses mindfully while enjoying every moment. If you have a limited budget, you can visit Uttarakhand in summer.
Here’s a rough estimate of what a 9 to 12-day road trip to Ladakh might cost per person:
| Accommodation | Rs 700 to Rs 2000 per night (Budget to mid-range hotels and homestays). |
| Meals | Rs 300 to Rs 500 per day (Simple Dhabas to cafes). |
| Fuel | Rs 6000 to Rs 9000 per vehicle (for a round trip from Manali or Srinagar) |
| Permits & Environmental fees | Rs 500 to Rs 800 |
| Bike/Car Rental | Rs 1200 to Rs 2000 per day (bikes). Rs 2500 to Rs 4000 per day (SUVs) |
| Miscellaneous/Buffer | Rs 1500 to Rs 2500 for emergencies, snacks, and souvenirs |
Note:
A Leh Ladakh road trip is more than just a journey. It’s a blend of ancient culture, landscapes, and unforgettable adventure. From monasteries on cliffs to high-altitude lakes and barren mountain deserts, every stop adds to the experience.
Here are the must-visit places in Leh Ladakh and moments that define a classic Leh Ladakh road trip :
Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is your starting point and cultural center. Begin with a visit to the Shanti Stupa, especially at sunset, for panoramic views of the Indus Valley. Leh Palace, a 17th-century building inspired by Tibetan architecture, offers a glimpse into the region’s royal history.
Don’t miss strolling through Leh’s lively bazaars, where you can shop for Pashmina shawls, prayer flags, and local handicrafts, and enjoy Ladakhi food in cozy cafés lining the old town.
Cross the exciting Khardung La Pass (17,982 ft) to arrive in Nubra Valley, a high-altitude desert bordered by snow-capped mountains. Stop at Diskit Monastery to see the impressive Maitreya Buddha statue overlooking the valley.
In Hunder, you can ride camels across dunes on rare double-humped Bactrian camels. For something unique, visit Turtuk, a remote Balti village near the Pakistan border, known for its special culture, apricot orchards, and warm hospitality.
Among the highest and most famous lakes in India, Pangong Tso stretches from India into China and changes color throughout the day, displaying shades of turquoise, blue, and green. Camping by the lake under a star-filled sky is an unforgettable experience.
Tso Moriri, less commercialized and quieter, lies in the Changthang Plateau, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. It’s a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers, especially during the summer breeding season.
Remote, wild, and breathtaking, Hanle is home to one of the highest astronomical observatories in the world. From here, adventurous travelers can head to Umling La, the world’s highest motorable road at over 19,000 feet—a true test of endurance and excitement.
Another rare experience is a visit to Siachen Base Camp, now open to civilians with permits. The journey there goes through the stark yet stunning landscape of eastern Ladakh and offers unbeatable bragging rights.
Ladakh’s essence lies in its ancient monasteries and timeless villages. Visit Hemis, Thiksey, and Alchi monasteries to experience centuries-old Buddhist customs and beautiful murals. Stay in homestays in villages like Likir, Sakti, or Tingmosgang to enjoy Ladakhi hospitality.
Learn about traditional farming and savor home-cooked meals. Don’t overlook local festivals, such as the Hemis Festival in July, featuring masked dances, music, and lively celebrations rooted in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Ladakh is an adventure playground. Biking across high passes like Khardung La or Tanglang La is a must for thrill-seekers. In Nubra, the camel safari through the cold desert is surreal.
The region also has trekking trails like the Markha Valley, Sham Valley, and Stok Kangri for those looking to go off the beaten path. Whether you're a newbie or an experienced explorer, Ladakh promises exceptional excitement and breathtaking views.
“Ladakh didn’t just give me memories. It changed how I travel.”
In July 2023, I went on a 12-day road trip to Ladakh with three friends. We rode Royal Enfields from Manali to Leh and beyond. The journey through Rohtang, Sarchu, and Baralacha La was rugged and beautiful, with endless valleys, icy winds, and complete silence.
We spent two days in Leh to adjust, exploring Shanti Stupa, the local markets, and enjoying hot thukpa. After that, we crossed Khardung La to reach Nubra Valley. We rode camels in Hunder and visited the peaceful village of Turtuk near the Pakistan border. Pangong Lake was the highlight. Its color changed, and the night sky was surreal.
From there, we moved on to Tso Moriri and Hanle. We faced freezing winds, a flat tire, and no signal; every challenge felt worth it. This trip was not just about the landscapes. It was about letting go and reconnecting with nature, with people, and with myself.
If Ladakh is calling you, answer it. You won’t come back the same.
Question 1: When is the best time to visit Ladakh?
Answer: The best time to visit is summer, from the end of March to the middle of August.
Question 2: Can I reach Leh by train?
Answers: No, there is no train service to Leh to get to Jammu, and from there you can take a bus or taxi.
Question 3: Is Leh a part of Kashmir?
Answers: Leh is one of the two districts situated in Ladakh, the other being the Kargil district to the West in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Question 4: Will there be any lack of oxygen in Ladakh?
Answers: Anybody who is traveling 10000 feet above sea level will find difficulty in breathing.
Question 5: What are the symptoms of high-altitude sickness?
Answer: Loss of appetite, mountain sickness, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, nose bleeding, shortness of breath.
Question 6: What document is required for the Leh Ladakh road trip?
Answer: Driving license registration papers, bike insurance certificate, pollution under control certificate, and photographs of your PAN card and passport.
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