The Manali to Leh road trip is one of the most thrilling and scenic journeys in India. Stretching over approximately 480 kilometers, this route takes you through the heart of the Indian Himalayas, offering a mix of adventure, beauty, and cultural experiences. It’s a dream route for bikers, nature lovers, photographers, and road trip enthusiasts alike. The road opens only during the summer months—from June to October—when the snow is cleared and the terrain becomes accessible. For the rest of the year, it remains buried under thick snow and is completely closed to travelers.

Starting from the lush green valleys of Manali, the journey gradually leads you into the rugged terrains of Lahaul, the barren high-altitude plains of Sarchu, and finally into the stark, breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the world’s highest motorable mountain passes such as Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Nakee La, and Tanglang La. These passes not only test the skills of drivers and bikers but also leave you in awe of nature’s raw and untamed beauty.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this journey is how quickly the scenery changes. The dense pine forests and flowing rivers near Manali slowly give way to rocky cliffs, glacier-fed streams, cold desert landscapes, and towering snow-covered peaks. Places like Keylong, Jispa, and Sarchu offer peaceful halts along the way. These small villages and campsites are perfect for overnight stays and help travelers acclimatize to the increasing altitude.

The ideal time to undertake this road trip is between mid-June and early October. During this period, the roads are generally in good condition, although weather can still be unpredictable. It’s important to be prepared for sudden changes, from sunny skies to snow flurries or even rainfall within a few hours. Monsoon season (especially in July and August) can bring landslides in certain sections near Manali, so planning and checking weather forecasts is essential.

Traveling from Manali to Leh also requires a few permits. To cross Rohtang Pass from the Manali side, travelers must obtain a Rohtang Pass Permit from the local authorities or online. Once in Leh, if you plan to visit places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, or Tso Moriri, you’ll need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be acquired easily in Leh town.

Because of the remote terrain, travelers must plan their fuel and food stops in advance. After Manali, the last reliable fuel station is in Tandi. From there, the next petrol pump is only in Leh. That’s why carrying extra fuel in jerry cans is highly recommended. As for food, dhabas (local roadside eateries) are available at various points along the route, offering simple but hearty meals like dal, rice, noodles, and tea.

Acclimatization is one of the most important aspects of this trip. The road takes you to altitudes over 17,000 feet, where oxygen levels are lower. It’s common for travelers to experience mild symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, or breathlessness. To avoid this, it’s advisable to ascend slowly and spend a night at lower altitudes like Jispa or Keylong before moving further. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol. Consult your doctor before the trip and consider carrying preventive medicines like Diamox.

There are several highlights along the Manali to Leh route. Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks. Keylong is a serene town surrounded by mountains. Jispa, located by the Bhaga River, is an ideal stop for rest and photography. Sarchu, which lies at the Himachal–Ladakh border, is known for its high-altitude tented camps. Then there are the Gata Loops, a series of 21 zigzag bends at a dizzying height that challenge drivers with their sharp turns and steep climbs. Finally, Tanglang La, standing at over 17,000 feet, is among the world’s highest roads.

Staying options along the route vary from basic guest houses and homestays to tented accommodations in places like Sarchu and Pang. These provide warm bedding, food, and a place to relax before the next leg of the journey. In Leh, you'll find everything from budget lodges to luxury hotels.

To make your journey smooth, keep a few essentials in mind. Always carry extra photocopies of your ID, permits, and vehicle documents. Download offline maps and music, as mobile networks are weak or completely absent in many parts of the route. Pack warm clothes, rain gear, snacks, a torch, power banks, and a first-aid kit. Most importantly, drive slowly and responsibly—safety comes first.

This road trip is not just a vacation—it’s a soul-stirring adventure. It teaches patience, appreciation for nature, and respect for the mountains. Whether you’re riding solo, with friends, or in a convoy, the memories you create on this journey will stay with you forever. The route from Manali to Leh is not just about reaching a destination—it’s about embracing the journey, one mile at a time.

• Day 1: Manali to Jispa – 140 km, 6–7 hrs, Altitude: 2,050 m to 3,200 m, Stay: Jispa (camp/guesthouse)
• Day 2: Jispa to Sarchu – 90 km, 4–5 hrs, Altitude: 3,200 m to 4,290 m, Stay: Sarchu (tented camp)
• Day 3: Sarchu to Leh – 250 km, 8–10 hrs, Altitude: 4,290 m to 3,500 m, Stay: Leh (hotel/guesthouse)
• Day 4: Rest in Leh – Local sightseeing & acclimatization, Stay: Leh
• Day 5: Day trip to Nubra Valley or Pangong Lake (optional), Stay: Leh or overnight at destination
• Day 6: Departure from Leh – Fly back or return via road