Road To The Himalayas: The Leh-Manali Highway Adventure

What makes the destination more memorable is certainly the journey. And if we are talking about journeys then we cannot miss the Leh Manali road trip through the famous stretching approximately 490 kms and promising an adventurous, scenic and worthwhile trip for a long time.

From the lush green valleys of Manali to the stark, barren beauty of Leh, from traversing some of the highest motorable passes in the world, including the famed Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft), Baralacha La (16,040 ft), Lachulung La (16,600 ft), and the majestic Tanglang La (17,480 ft) to enjoying culinary diversion, in this journey I assure you, not a pinch of regret can touch you even for a second.

It can be arduous for you to plan on your own so that's why I am going to help you with the entire research and be your absolute trustworthy guide on your next Leh Manali road trip.

Let's make this dream happen and live the traveler life like nobody else!

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Brief of Manali-Leh Road Trip

Distance from Manali to Leh Ladakh: ~490 km

Duration: 2-3 days

Start Point: Manali, Himachal Pradesh

End Point: Leh, Ladakh

The road trip starts from Manali and slowly you can experience a dramatic shift from Manali's lush greenery to Leh's stark, arid beauty. You can divide the entire route in 3 days so that the traveling and acclimatization with the climate happens gradually. The best time to go for a Manali Leh road trip is certainly from June to September as the snow on high-altitude passes like Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La melts, making the roads accessible and safer for travel. Popular stops on your journey like Sarchu and Jispa are perfect for camping under the stars during this time, and the relatively mild climate makes these activities more enjoyable.

You can also read about Leh Ladakh Bike Trip 2024

Day 1: Manali to Keylong

Route: Manali - Solang Valley - Rohtang Pass - Khoksar - Sissu - Tandi - Keylong

Total Distance: 118 km

Total Driving Time: 5-6 hours

Take a deep breath and start your expedition from Manali, where you must savor a hearty breakfast before hitting the road. The first leg of your trip takes you from Manali to Solang Valley, a 13 km drive that takes about 30 minutes roughly. Nestled between Solang village and Beas Kund, Solang Valley offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and clear blue skies.

After a quick stop here, you continue to Rohtang Pass, covering a distance of 38 km in 2-3 hours. The road is challenging with sharp turns and steep climbs, and you can expect heavy traffic during peak seasons. The spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range and the snow activities at Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft) make this stretch truly memorable.

Descending from Rohtang Pass to Khoksar towards the Manali to Leh route, a 19 km journey that takes about an hour, involves winding roads, absolutely mesmerising beauty and some rough patches as well. Khoksar is the first settlement after Rohtang Pass and has become a popular tourist spot due to its Chandra River.

From Khoksar, you drive 14 km to Sissu, also known as Khwaling. One of the main attractions of Sissu is its magnificent waterfall, locally known as Palden Lhamo Dhara. It also serves as the gateway to the Lahaul Valley. Its strategic location on the Manali-Leh highway makes it an ideal stop for travelers heading towards Leh.

The next leg, an 8 km drive to Tandi, takes about 15 minutes on good roads. Tandi is known for the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers and is the last petrol pump before Leh, so it’s a crucial refueling stop. Stock up as much fuel as you would require for the journey and back. However, you will get fuel on local shops on roadside at a higher rate later in this journey.

Finally, you drive 25 km from Tandi to Keylong in about an hour on mostly good roads with a few rough patches. Keylong, the administrative center of Lahaul and Spiti, offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Here, you can visit the Kardang Monastery and settle in for an overnight stay, enjoying a comfortable rest and dinner at one of the local hotels or guesthouses. This ends the first day of the Leh Ladakh road trip from Manali.

Day 2: Keylong to Sarchu

Route: Keylong - Jispa - Darcha - Zing Zing Bar - Baralacha La - Bharatpur - Sarchu

Total Distance: 140 km

Total Driving Time: 6-7 hours

After apppreciating the view of the morning Himalayas, your next day's journey for the epic Manali Leh road trip starts from Keylong.

The drive from Keylong to Jispa, covering 22 km in about an hour, takes you along good roads with stunning views of the Bhaga River. Jispa, a picturesque village with options for camping by the river, is a perfect spot for a brief stop. More to that, Jispa also gifts you a glimpse into the local culture and way of life of the people of Lahaul.

From here, you head to Darcha, a 7 km drive that takes about 15 minutes on good roads. Darcha is the gateway to the remote and stunning Zanskar Valley, a major stop for travelers, offering basic amenities and a chance to rest.

The journey from Darcha to Zing Zing Bar in another 31 km is all about mostly good roads with some rough patches as you climb upwards. After a quick break at Zing Zing Bar to acclimatize and enjoy the landscape, you ascend to Baralacha La Pass (16,040 ft) in 1-2 hours. The steep climbs and rough patches are worth it for the stunning views and the sight of Suraj Tal Lake. Located at an altitude of about 4,883 meters (16,020 feet) above sea level, it is a popular trekking destination, with treks starting from Keylong or Baralacha La Pass.

Next on your map is Bharatpur in another 2 hours, where you can stop for lunch and some rest. The final destination of the day is 29 km drive away from Bharatpur to Sarchu accross the Leh Manali route, taking 1-2 hours on mixed road conditions. Sarchu, a major halt with tented accommodations, marks the border between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Here, you enjoy an overnight stay, camping under the stars and having dinner at the campsite and rest up for the day.

Day 3: Sarchu to Leh

Route: Sarchu - Gata Loops - Nakee La - Lachulung La - Pang - More Plains - Tanglang La - Upshi - Leh

Total Distance: 252 km

Total Driving Time: 8-10 hours

Starting early from Sarchu, have your pahadi breakfast at the campsite and prepare for a long but thrilling journey to Leh, your ultimate destination. The first stretch from Sarchu to the Gata Loops, 25 km covered in 1-2 hours, involves steep climbs and sharp bends. The 21 hairpin bends of the Gata Loops are located at an altitude of over 15,000 feet, making them a natural acclimatization point for travelers heading to Leh. It is also said that Gata Loops were constructed during World War II as part of the old trade route between India and Tibet.

From Gata Loops, you drive 15 km to Nakee La Pass (15,547 ft) in about an hour on steep and winding roads and then to Lachulung La Pass, from Manali to Leh Ladakh route in another 1-2 hours located at an elevation of 16,616 ft. If you are done with the acclimatization of the steepness of this Leh Manali route, then head towards Pang, another 25 Km ride towards Leh. Pang is one of the highest transit points on the Leh-Manali highway and is a midpoint between the high passes of Baralacha La and Lachung La.

The drive from Pang to More Plains will take another 1 hour to cover 40km. After taking in the unique landscape, you ascend 55 km to Tanglang La Pass (17,480 ft) in 2-3 hours. This climb is steep with rough patches, but the views from the second highest motorable pass in the world are breathtaking.

From Tanglang La, you descend 60 km to Upshi in 2-3 hours on mixed road conditions. A quick stop at Upshi for refreshments prepares you for the final 55 km stretch to Leh, which takes 1-2 hours on good roads. Arriving in Leh by evening, you check into your hotel, freshen up, and enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the local market and dining at one of the local restaurants.

Know about the Best Cafés & Restaurants In Leh as per locals from expert Tripoto travelers

High Mountain Passes on the Manali-Leh Road Trip

Traversing these high mountain passes on the Manali-Leh road trip is challenging. Proper preparation and respect for the high-altitude environment are key to enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime journey through the majestic Himalayas.

As you ascend Rohtang Pass, the views transform into a painter’s palette of vibrant greens and pristine whites. The Pir Panjal range unfolds in front of you, offering a dramatic backdrop to your journey. To preserve the delicate ecosystem, a Rohtang Pass Permit is necessary. The road can be challenging with frequent landslides and slippery conditions, especially during and after rains.

This pass is a significant intersection where roads from Lahaul, Spiti, Zanskar, and Ladakh meet, making it a historical trade route and a modern adventure crossroad. Nestled just below the pass is Suraj Tal, one of India's highest lakes. Reflecting the sky, it offers a serene, mirror-like surface amidst rugged mountains. The high altitude can affect even the most seasoned travelers, making acclimatization essential.

Read more about the 12 Highest Motorable Roads In India

Nakee La offers an otherworldly landscape with its barren yet beautiful terrain. The desolation here feels almost sacred, a true escape from the mundane. The steep and winding roads test the skills of even the most experienced drivers, making every turn a new adventure. Symptoms of high-altitude sickness can be common here, so you must be vigilant.

The stark, remote beauty of Lachung La on the Manali to Leh Ladakh route is a testament to nature’s raw power. The rugged landscape is punctuated by the occasional hardy shrub, surviving against all odds. With rough, unpaved sections, the road challenges travelers to navigate its bumpy and winding paths. The cold, windy conditions can be harsh, making warm clothing and preparation crucial.

As one of the highest motorable passes in the world, Tanglang La offers a breathtaking vantage point that makes you feel on top of the world. The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and distant valleys are a photographer’s dream, providing endless opportunities for stunning shots.

Know about the Most Beautiful Himalayan Rivers For Camping Around

Permits and Documents Required for Manali-Leh Road Trip

1. General Documents

- Photo ID Proof & Driving License

- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC), Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate & Vehicle Insurance

2. Rohtang Pass Permit

Required for crossing Rohtang Pass is the Rohtang Pass Permit, issued by Himachal Pradesh government.

Types of Permits:

- Tourist Permit: For visiting Rohtang Pass.

- Transit Permit: For traveling beyond Rohtang Pass towards Leh.

How to Obtain:

- Online: Through the official website of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC).

- Offline: At SDM office in Manali.

Documents Required: Valid photo ID, Vehicle registration certificate, Pollution under control certificate

3. Inner Line Permit (ILP)

Required for Indian citizens to visit certain protected areas in Ladakh.

Areas Covered: Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah-Hanu, etc.

How to Obtain:

- Online: Through the official website of Leh administration.

- Offline: At the DC office in Leh, Tourist Information Centre, or other designated counters.

Documents Required: Valid photo ID, Passport-size photographs (usually 4)

4. Protected Area Permit (PAP)

Required for foreign nationals to visit restricted areas in Ladakh.

Areas Covered: Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Dah-Hanu, etc.

How to Obtain:

- Through a Registered Travel Agent: In Leh or through an online travel agency.

Documents Required: Valid passport and visa, Passport-size photographs (usually 4)

5. Additional Considerations

Self-Drive Rental Vehicles: Ensure all rental agreements and necessary permits for the vehicle are in place.

Group Travel: If traveling in a group, each member must carry individual permits and documents.

Checkpoints: Keep all permits and documents easily accessible as they will be checked at multiple checkpoints along the route.

6. Health and Safety Documents

Medical Certificate: Advisable for high-altitude travel, especially for individuals with known medical conditions.

Emergency Contact Information: List of emergency contacts and relevant health information.

Read more about Road Trip From Manali To Leh written by expert team of Tripoto

Accomation along Manali Leh Route

1. The Himalayan, Manali:

Nestled amidst apple orchards and deodar groves, this resort offers a serene escape with panoramic views of the Kullu Valley and the snow-capped Himalayas.

2. Hotel Dekyid, Keylong: Hotel Dekyid is one of the best accommodations in Keylong, ;located conviniently on the Leh Manali route. Offering comfortable rooms, a cozy restaurant, and stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains.

It serves as an excellent base for exploring the region’s monasteries and natural beauty, making it an ideal stopover on your way to Leh.

3. Jispa Journey Camps, Jispa: Jispa Journey Camps offers luxury tented accommodations by the Bhaga River, featuring attached bathrooms and all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The serene location along the river provides a peaceful setting amidst nature.

4. Darcha Camps, Darcha: Darcha Camps provide basic yet comfortable tented accommodations in a picturesque setting, making it a convenient and restful stopover.

As a key trekking hub and a starting point for various high-altitude treks, staying here allows adventurers to rest and acclimatize. The scenic beauty and tranquil environment make it an attractive overnight halt.

5. Goldrop Camps, Sarchu: Goldrop Camps at Sarchu offers Swiss tents with attached bathrooms and essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay in the rugged landscape.

Positioned between Manali and Leh, Sarchu is a crucial acclimatization stop.

6. The Grand Dragon Ladakh, Leh: The Grand Dragon Ladakh is a luxury hotel offering spacious rooms, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

For those who prefer luxury and comfort after a long journey, this hotel provides top-notch services, including gourmet dining, a fitness center, and a spa. Its prime location makes it easy to explore Leh’s attractions.

7. Ladakh Sarai Resort, Leh: This resort offers a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience the authentic Ladakhi lifestyle.

Its serene environment and stunning views enhance the overall travel experience.

Budget Approximation for the Manali-Leh Road Trip

1. Solo Travelers

- Accommodation for 5 nights: ₹6,000 - ₹10,000

- Food for 6 days: ₹3,000 - ₹4,800

- Fuel (Bike) Average fuel cost: ₹2,000 - ₹3,000

- Permits: Inner Line Permit - ₹400 - ₹600, Miscellaneous - ₹1,000 - ₹2,000

- Total Approximation: ₹12,400 - ₹20,400

2. Couples

- Accommodation for 5 nights: ₹10,000 - ₹15,000

- Food for 6 days: ₹4,800 - ₹7,200

- Fuel (Car) Average fuel cost: ₹5,000 - ₹7,000

- Permits: Inner Line Permit - ₹800 - ₹1,200 (for two), Miscellaneous - ₹2,000 - ₹3,000

- Total Approximation: ₹22,600 - ₹33,400

3. Group Travelers (4 people)

- Accommodation for 5 nights: ₹28,000 - ₹40,000

- Food for 6 days: ₹7,200 - ₹12,000

- Fuel (SUV) Average fuel cost: ₹7,000 - ₹10,000

- Permits: Inner Line Permit - ₹1,600 - ₹2,400 (for four), Miscellaneous - ₹4,000 - ₹5,000

- Total Approximation: ₹47,800 - ₹69,400

While the Leh Manali road trip is an absolute adventure, you must also explore these Leh-Manali Road Trip Alternatives to satiate your raod trip hunger

Best Time to Visit the Leh-Manali Road Trip

The optimal season to visit is from June to September. In June, the snow starts melting and roads open up, though some areas may still have snow.

From July to August, expect warm days and cool nights with minimal chances of roadblocks, while September offers clear skies, post-monsoon freshness, and vibrant landscapes. Road conditions improve over this period, with freshly opened roads in June, generally clear and accessible roads in July and August, and well-maintained, less crowded roads in September.

If you are planning to stay in Manali, check out this 5 Day trip itinerary of Manali

Tips for Leh-Manali Road Trip

- Apply in Advance for Permits: For permits that can be obtained online, apply well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

- Carry Multiple Copies of Permits: Carry multiple photocopies of all permits and documents on your from Manali to Leh Ladakh trip as they might be needed at various checkpoints.

- Acclimatize Properly: Take at least a day or two to acclimatize in Manali or Keylong before heading to higher altitudes.

- Drive Carefully: The road conditions can be challenging, so drive cautiously and be prepared for unexpected obstacles. Avoid driving at night, as visibility can be poor and the roads are not well-lit.

- Carry Sufficient Supplies: Stock up on food, water, and fuel at key points, as there are limited facilities along the route.

Be Prepared for Altitude Sickness: Know the symptoms of altitude sickness and be prepared to descend if necessary. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and heavy meals.

Now that you are ready for this Leh Manali road trip, do not delay any longer and embark on this Himalayan journey towards exploration of self!