Road Trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh 2025 – Complete Travel Guide, Routes & Tips
There’s something about open roads and high-altitude landscapes that awakens the adventurer in us. If you’ve ever dreamed of a journey that challenges your spirit and rewards your soul, then the road trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh is exactly what you’re looking for.
This epic journey takes you through some of the most dramatic and scenic terrains in India. From the lush greenery of Himachal to the barren beauty of Ladakh, every mile is a new postcard.
This detailed guide covers everything you need for the journey—routes, road conditions, food stops, permits, budgeting, and safety tips. And yes, you’ll also get to witness one of nature’s true marvels: Pangong Lake in Ladakh, where the water changes color throughout the day and the skies look like painted canvases.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or planning your first ever trip to Ladakh, this guide will help you hit the road with confidence and clarity.
Why Choose a Road Trip to Ladakh?
Flying might get you there quicker, but you’ll miss the essence of the landscape that transforms as you climb towards the Himalayas. A road trip offers:
Gradual acclimatization to high altitude
Access to remote villages and hidden valleys
A flexible, stop-when-you-want adventure
Priceless bonding time if traveling with friends or family
The sense of achievement upon reaching Leh by road is simply unmatched.
Best Routes for Road Trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh
There are two popular routes you can take. Both have their pros and cons:
1. Delhi – Manali – Leh Route (Via Rohtang & Sarchu)
Total Distance: ~1,020 km
Travel Time: 2–3 days (depending on breaks)
Highlights: Rohtang Pass, Keylong, Jispa, Baralacha La, Sarchu, Tanglang La
Best Time: June to September (when Rohtang is open)
This is the more adventurous route and passes through multiple high-altitude passes. It’s scenic but requires good driving skills and stamina.
2. Delhi – Srinagar – Leh Route (Via Zoji La)
Total Distance: ~1,250 km
Travel Time: 3–4 days
Highlights: Jammu, Patnitop, Sonamarg, Zoji La Pass, Kargil
Best Time: May to October
This route is more gradual in terms of altitude gain and is better for first-timers.
Recommended Itinerary (10-Day Plan)
Day 1: Delhi to Manali (12–14 hrs)
Day 2: Manali rest day + local sightseeing
Day 3: Manali to Jispa via Rohtang Pass
Day 4: Jispa to Leh via Sarchu
Day 5: Rest in Leh + permits
Day 6: Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La
Day 7: Nubra to Pangong Lake via Shyok route
Day 8: Pangong to Leh
Day 9: Leh to Kargil
Day 10: Kargil to Srinagar (end road trip or fly out)
Essential Documents & Permits
Driving License (Original & Copies)
Vehicle RC + Insurance + PUC
Inner Line Permit (ILP): For Nubra, Pangong, Tso Moriri (Available online at leh.nic.in)
ID Proof: Aadhaar/Passport
Must-Visit Stops
Besides the thrill of driving through high-altitude passes, make time to explore:
Pangong Lake in Ladakh – Iconic and serene; ideal for an overnight stay
Khardung La – One of the highest motorable roads in the world
Lamayuru Monastery – One of the oldest in Ladakh
Magnetic Hill – Experience the optical illusion of uphill movement
Sangam Point – Confluence of Zanskar and Indus rivers
Hall of Fame Museum – A tribute to Indian soldiers
Packing Essentials
Warm jackets, thermals, gloves
Rain gear (especially for Manali-Leh route)
Power banks, extra batteries
Medical kit: Diamox, ORS, Band-aids
Torch, sunglasses, sunscreen
Extra fuel (especially for Pangong-Tso Moriri stretch)
Budget Breakdown (Per Person Approx.)
| Expense | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Fuel | ₹6,000–₹10,000 |
| Accommodation (10 days) | ₹5,000–₹12,000 |
| Food | ₹3,000–₹5,000 |
| Permits | ₹600–₹800 |
| Misc/Buffer | ₹2,000–₹4,000 |
| Total | ₹16,600–₹31,800 |
Road Trip Safety Tips
Don’t drive at night in the hills
Acclimatize in Leh before hitting Nubra or Pangong
Avoid alcohol at high altitudes
Check vehicle brakes, clutch, and tires before departure
Keep emergency contacts handy
Stay updated with weather and road status on local apps or Google alerts
Best Time for Road Trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh
The roads to Ladakh are accessible mainly from May to October. Snowfall during winter shuts down both routes:
Best Months: June to September (roads fully open, most attractions accessible)
Avoid: Early May (unpredictable weather), late October (early snow risk)
Where to Stay
Leh: The Grand Dragon, The Zen Ladakh, homestays
Nubra: Hunder Eco Stay, Organic Retreat
Pangong: Pangong Inn, campsites near Spangmik
Manali: Johnson Lodge, Zostel Manali
Srinagar: Houseboats, Zostel Srinagar, Radisson
Final Thoughts
A road trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh is not just about the destination—it’s about the moments in between. The stopovers for tea with strangers, the breathtaking photo stops, the quiet stargazing nights, and the occasional snowball fight—it all adds up to an unforgettable adventure.
And when you finally reach that shimmering blue expanse of Pangong Lake in Ladakh, you’ll realize the road was just as beautiful as the destination.
Whether it’s your first trip to Ladakh or a return to the mountains, this journey will transform you. So tune your playlists, load up the car, and let the Himalayas write your next great story.
Comments
Post a Comment