Delhi to Leh–Ladakh Road Trip – The Ultimate Road Journey Guide

A road trip from Delhi to Leh–Ladakh is one of India’s most thrilling and scenic long-distance journeys. Taking you from the bustling plains of North India to the breathtaking heights of the Himalayas, this adventure spans approximately 1,000–1,100 km, depending on the route chosen. The journey offers a perfect blend of landscapes—lush fields, deep valleys, riverside roads, high-altitude passes, snow-covered mountains, and eventually, the dramatic desert terrain of Ladakh.

Whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or planning a group expedition, this ultimate road trip guide will help you plan everything: routes, stops, fuel stations, permits, safety tips, weather insights, and detailed road conditions.

? Why Choose a Road Trip from Delhi to Ladakh?

Traveling by road gives you:

  • Full control of your journey

  • Opportunities to explore multiple destinations

  • Gradual altitude gain (less AMS risk)

  • Adventurous driving experiences

  • The freedom to stop for photography, food, and exploration

A flight gets you there faster, but the road trip gives you a story you’ll never forget.

? Two Main Routes from Delhi to Leh

You can choose between:

1. Srinagar Route (Delhi ? Jammu ? Srinagar ? Kargil ? Leh)

Distance: ~1,050 km
Ideal For: Smooth roads, easy ascent, scenic beauty
Season: May to October

Why Choose This Route?

  • More gradual altitude gain

  • Better road conditions

  • Perfect for first-time Ladakh travelers

  • Amazing stops like Sonamarg, Drass, and Kargil

2. Manali Route (Delhi ? Chandigarh ? Manali ? Jispa ? Sarchu ? Leh)

Distance: ~1,020 km
Ideal For: Adventure lovers, bikers
Season: June to September

Why Choose This Route?

  • More thrilling landscapes

  • High-altitude passes

  • Camping opportunities at Jispa and Sarchu

  • Unique stops like Gata Loops and Suraj Tal

? Detailed Route Breakdown

? Delhi to Leh via Srinagar: Ideal for Beginners

Day 1: Delhi ? Jammu (590 km / 11–12 hours)

A long highway journey on NH44 with smooth roads and food stops.

Day 2: Jammu ? Srinagar (260 km / 6–7 hours)

Scenic drive through Udhampur and the famous Chenani-Nashri Tunnel.

Day 3: Srinagar ? Kargil (204 km / 6–7 hours)

Highlights:

  • Sonamarg

  • Zoji La Pass

  • Drass War Memorial

  • Kargil town

Day 4: Kargil ? Leh (220 km / 5–6 hours)

Highlights:

  • Lamayuru Monastery

  • Magnetic Hill

  • Sangam Point

  • Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

The Srinagar route is smoother, safer, and more comfortable.

? Delhi to Leh via Manali: Perfect for Adventure Seekers

Day 1: Delhi ? Manali (540 km / 12–13 hours)

Drive through Chandigarh and Kullu Valley.

Day 2: Manali ? Jispa (95 km / 3–4 hours)

Highlights:

  • Solang Valley

  • Atal Tunnel

  • Lahaul valley landscapes

Day 3: Jispa ? Sarchu ? Leh (335 km / 8–10 hours)

Highlights:

  • Deepak Tal

  • Suraj Tal

  • Baralacha La

  • Zingzing Bar

  • Nakee La

  • Lachulung La

  • Gata Loops

  • More Plains

  • Tanglang La

This is one of the most dramatic road experiences in the Himalayas.

? Best Time for the Delhi to Ladakh Road Trip

  • Srinagar Route: May to October

  • Manali Route: June to September

Avoid winter because heavy snowfall closes the highways.

? Permits Required for the Trip

1. Rohtang Pass Permit (for Manali Route)

Required if crossing from Manali side.

2. Inner Line Permit (in Leh)

Needed for:

  • Nubra Valley

  • Pangong Lake

  • Turtuk

  • Khardung La

  • Tso Moriri

3. COVID/Emergency passes (if applicable)

Check local guidelines.

? Road Conditions and What to Expect

Delhi ? Jammu

Smooth 4-lane highways.

Jammu ? Srinagar

Mostly good roads; occasional landslides.

Srinagar ? Kargil ? Leh

Excellent BRO-maintained roads.

Delhi ? Manali

Great roads up to Kullu Valley.

Manali ? Sarchu

Rough patches, water crossings.

Sarchu ? Leh

Mixed roads; scenic and mostly drivable.

? Fuel Stations Along the Route

Srinagar Route (Plenty of Pumps)

  • Jammu

  • Srinagar

  • Ganderbal

  • Kargil

  • Mulbek

  • Leh

Manali Route (Limited Pumps)

  • Manali

  • Tandi (last reliable pump)

  • Upshi

  • Leh

Carry extra fuel if riding a bike.

? Network & Connectivity

Good Connectivity

  • Delhi

  • Chandigarh

  • Manali

  • Srinagar

  • Kargil

  • Leh

Poor/No Connectivity

  • Sarchu

  • More Plains

  • High-altitude passes

BSNL / Jio postpaid works best in Ladakh.

? Accommodation Options

You’ll find various stays including:

Hotels & Resorts

Available in Manali, Srinagar, and Kargil.

Campsites

Jispa, Sarchu, Sonamarg.

Homestays

In Lahaul, Nubra Valley, Turtuk.

Guesthouses

Budget-friendly options throughout the region.

Book in advance during peak season.

? Safety Tips for the Delhi–Leh Road Trip

  • Avoid driving after sunset

  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol

  • Take halts for acclimatization

  • Carry medicines for AMS

  • Keep warm clothing & rain gear

  • Check weather/road status updates

  • Drive slowly on curves and water crossings

The journey is thrilling but should be taken seriously due to high altitude.

? Essential Packing for the Road Trip

  • Warm jackets & thermals

  • Riding gloves

  • Helmet & knee guards

  • Sunglasses & sunscreen

  • Power banks, chargers

  • First-aid kit

  • Light snacks

  • Water bottles

  • Extra fuel (for bikes)

Pack smart and travel light.

? Final Thoughts

The Delhi to Leh–Ladakh road trip is not just a journey—it’s an adventure of a lifetime. With mesmerizing views, diverse terrains, and unforgettable experiences, this trip promises stories you’ll cherish forever. Whether you choose the smoother Srinagar route or the adventure-heavy Manali route, proper planning is the key to a safe and memorable journey.

Prepare well, drive responsibly, and get ready to experience one of the most iconic road trips on Earth.