Manali to Leh Road Trip Guide 2025

Day 1: Manali to Jispa (Approx. 140 km / 6–8 hours)

The journey begins from Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh. The road ascends quickly towards Rohtang Pass, one of the first major highlights of the route. Travelers should aim for an early start to avoid heavy tourist traffic at Rohtang.

Key Stops:

• Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft): The gateway to Lahaul and Ladakh. Known for unpredictable weather, snowfields, and panoramic views.
• Gramphu: Junction point for Spiti Valley.
• Tandi: Important fuel station. Beyond Tandi, the next petrol pump is only at Karu near Leh.
• Keylong: Administrative hub of Lahaul, offering lodging and dining facilities.
• Jispa: A riverside village and the preferred stop for the first night. It is quieter than Keylong and offers excellent views.

Stay Options in Jispa:

• Jispa Journeys (luxury tents)
• Padma Lodge (budget-friendly)
• Ibex Hotel (basic yet clean accommodation)

Day 2: Jispa to Sarchu (Approx. 85 km / 4–5 hours)

This section introduces travelers to the real high-altitude terrain of the Himalayas. With sparse habitation and rapidly changing landscapes, it is vital to stay hydrated and avoid rushing.

Key Stops:

• Darcha: Last significant village before entering desolate terrain. Check for supplies and snacks here.
• Zingzing Bar: A famous roadside stop for tea and simple meals. Located at approximately 14,000 ft.
• Baralacha La (16,500 ft): A challenging mountain pass, often snowbound, but breathtaking with its frozen lakes and high-altitude meadows.
• Sarchu: Located at 14,000 ft, Sarchu acts as the border point between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Campsites here provide shelter, though altitude sickness is common.

Stay Options in Sarchu:

• Goldrop Camps
• Planet Himalaya Camps
• Self-camping (for experienced travelers with proper gear)

Day 3: Sarchu to Leh (Approx. 250 km / 9–10 hours)

The third day is the longest and most dramatic stretch of the Manali to Leh journey. The route passes through some of the most iconic landscapes of Ladakh.

Key Highlights:

• Gata Loops: A series of 21 hairpin bends climbing steeply to Nakee La.

• Nakee La (15,547 ft) & Lachung La (16,616 ft): Two high passes with minimal traffic but significant altitude challenges.

• Pang: Known for its army transit camp and as a resting stop.

• More Plains: A unique high-altitude plateau, stretching for over 40 kilometers at 15,000 ft, resembling a Martian landscape.

• Tanglang La (17,480 ft): The second-highest motorable pass in India. Weather is harsh, so prolonged stops are not advisable.

• Upshi & Karu: Towns with fuel, food, and mobile connectivity.

• Leh: The endpoint of the journey, situated at 11,500 ft. Travelers should acclimatize properly before engaging in strenuous activities.

Alternate 4-Day Itinerary

For travelers who prefer a slower pace:

• Day 1: Manali to Keylong
• Day 2: Keylong to Sarchu
• Day 3: Sarchu to Tso Kar Lake and onward to Leh
• Day 4: Acclimatization day in Leh

This extended plan reduces risks of altitude sickness and allows more time to appreciate the landscapes.

Rohtang Pass Permit

• Mandatory for all vehicles traveling from Manali to Rohtang.
• Can be obtained online through the Himachal government website.
• Fee: ₹500 + ₹50 congestion charge.

Inner Line Permits (ILP)

• Not required for Indian citizens traveling to Leh via Manali.
• Foreign nationals, however, need ILPs for restricted areas in Ladakh.

Vehicle Documentation

• Vehicle RC, driving license, insurance papers, and PUC are mandatory.
• If using a rented or borrowed vehicle, carry an NOC from the owner.

Road Conditions and Vehicle Tips

The road from Manali to Leh is a mix of smooth tarmac, gravel stretches, slushy patches, and rocky climbs. Conditions vary with the season.

• Best Vehicles: SUVs such as Mahindra Thar, Scorpio, or bikes like Royal Enfield Himalayan.

• Fuel Strategy: Refuel at Tandi and carry extra jerry cans, as there is a 350+ km fuel gap till Karu.

• Driving Tips: Avoid overspeeding, especially on sandy patches in More Plains.

Dealing with Altitude and AMS

Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) is one of the most common issues faced by travelers.

Precautions:

• Stay hydrated and eat light meals.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking during the journey.
• Take adequate rest and avoid overexertion on the first two days.
• Carry portable oxygen or consult a doctor for Diamox.
• If severe symptoms occur, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Connectivity, ATMs, and Essentials

• Mobile Networks: BSNL and Jio work intermittently, especially in Keylong and Leh.

• ATMs: Available only in Keylong and Leh. Carry sufficient cash for other stretches.

• Medical Facilities: Limited en route; Leh has proper hospitals. Travelers should carry personal medicines.

Cost Estimation (2025 Rates)

On average, a 5–6 day Manali to Leh trip costs ₹20,000–₹30,000 per traveler, depending on accommodation and transport preferences.

Why This Journey Is Unforgettable

The Manali to Leh road trip is not merely about covering a distance; it is an exploration of India’s raw Himalayan heartland. From the thrill of crossing high passes like Baralacha La and Tanglang La to the serenity of riverside villages such as Jispa, every stretch of road offers a new discovery. Nights spent under the starry skies of Sarchu, encounters with Ladakhi culture, and the sheer resilience required to complete the route make it a journey of transformation as much as adventure.

Final Word

The Manali to Leh road trip is a test of preparation, patience, and endurance. However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. It offers Indian travelers a chance to immerse themselves in landscapes that feel otherworldly while experiencing the warmth of Himalayan culture. For those seeking a road journey that combines thrill, beauty, and introspection, this expedition stands among the finest in the world.