Manali to Leh Road Status & Opening Dates – Updated 2025 Travel Guide

The Manali to Leh Highway is one of the most legendary road-trip routes in the world. Stretching across 480 km of rugged Himalayan terrain, snow-covered passes, and breathtaking landscapes, this route connects Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh.
For bikers, road travelers, and adventure seekers, the opening of the Manali–Leh Highway marks the beginning of the Ladakh travel season.

This detailed 2025 guide covers the road status, opening dates, weather expectations, safety tips, permits, fuel availability, and everything you need for a smooth and safe journey.

When Does the Manali to Leh Highway Open in 2025?

The highway generally opens once BRO (Border Roads Organisation) clears the snow from the high mountain passes like Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La.

Expected Opening Date for 2025:

Late May to Early June

However, exact dates depend on snowfall, avalanches, and weather conditions.

Month-by-Month Road Status for 2025

February–March 2025:

  • Heavy snowfall across Rohtang, Zingzing Bar, and Sarchu

  • Roads fully closed

  • Only snow-clearing work begins in late March

April 2025:

  • BRO starts clearing Rohtang Pass

  • Frequent avalanches and roadblocks

  • Route remains closed for tourists

May 2025:

  • Snow clearance intensifies

  • Limited access for army convoys

  • Route partially open up to Keylong

  • No access to tourists beyond Atal Tunnel

June 2025 (Opening Month):

  • Highway expected to open fully for tourists

  • Best month for bikers

  • Water crossings are manageable

  • Camps in Sarchu reopen

July 2025:

  • Route in prime condition

  • Stable weather

  • Best views of greenery and snow walls

August 2025:

  • Weather becomes unpredictable

  • Occasional landslides near Zingzing Bar and Sarchu

  • Still fully operational

September 2025:

  • Perfect for scenic drives

  • Clear skies and fewer tourists

  • Cold nights in Sarchu and Pang

October 2025:

  • Early snowfall begins

  • Road gradually becomes risky

  • BRO may close highway anytime

November 2025–January 2026:

  • Highway fully closed

  • High passes become extremely dangerous

Major Passes on Manali–Leh Route

The route crosses several high-altitude passes:

Rohtang Pass – 13,050 ft

First major pass; snow remains till early June.

Baralacha La – 16,040 ft

Most challenging; heavy snowfall zone.

Nakee La – 15,547 ft

Known for unpredictable weather.

Lachung La – 16,616 ft

Mostly dry terrain with cold winds.

Tanglang La – 17,480 ft

One of the highest motorable passes in India.

Each pass influences road conditions significantly.

Manali to Leh Route Map (2025)

Manali ? Atal Tunnel ? Sissu ? Keylong ? Jispa ? Zingzing Bar ? Baralacha La ? Bharatpur ? Sarchu ? Nakee La ? Lachung La ? Pang ? More Plains ? Tanglang La ? Upshi ? Leh

Total Distance: 480 km
Recommended Travel Duration: 2 days

Road Conditions in 2025

Manali to Keylong:

Excellent roads via Atal Tunnel.

Keylong to Zingzing Bar:

Mix of good and average patches.

Baralacha La Region:

Snow and slush even in June; caution required.

Sarchu to Pang:

Rugged dirt tracks; scenic but bumpy.

Pang to Leh:

Fantastic road conditions across More Plains and Tanglang La.

Is Manali to Leh Safe in 2025?

Yes, but with precautions.

Safe Months:

June to September

Risks:

  • Black ice in early June

  • Heavy water crossings in July–August

  • Landslides during unpredictable rain

  • Cold waves in September–October

Travel only during daylight hours.

Accommodation on Manali to Leh Highway

Keylong & Jispa:

Hotels, camps, homestays

Sarchu & Pang:

Tent camps (June–September)

Upshi:

Guest houses, food stalls

Book in advance during peak season.

Fuel Availability in 2025

Fuel pumps are available at:

  • Manali

  • Tandi (last petrol pump before Leh)

  • Upshi

  • Leh

Carry extra fuel or jerry cans, especially for bikes.

Permits Required for Manali to Leh in 2025

1. Rohtang Pass Permit

Required if traveling from Manali side (not via Atal Tunnel).
Available on Himachal e-permit portals.

2. Inner Line Permit (ILP)

Needed only once you reach Leh for:

  • Nubra

  • Pangong

  • Tso Moriri

  • Hanle

  • Turtuk

No permit needed for entering Leh via Manali.

Best Time for Biking on Manali to Leh Route

Best Months:

  • June

  • July

  • September

July and August offer beautiful landscapes but expect strong water crossings.

Travel Tips for Manali to Leh in 2025

1. Start early from Manali or Jispa

Avoid driving after sunset due to wildlife and freezing roads.

2. Stay one night in Jispa/Keylong

Helps with altitude acclimatization.

3. Check road updates from BRO

Road closures happen without warning.

4. Carry winter gear

Even in summer, temperatures drop near passes.

5. Pack essentials

  • Oxygen cylinder

  • Power banks

  • Woolen gloves

  • Extra socks

  • Waterproof clothing

6. Keep documents handy

ID proof, vehicle RC, license, hotel bookings.

Suggested 2-Day Travel Plan

Day 1:

Manali ? Atal Tunnel ? Keylong ? Jispa
Stay in Jispa

Day 2:

Jispa ? Baralacha La ? Sarchu ? Pang ? Tanglang La ? Leh

Final Thoughts

The Manali to Leh Highway remains one of India’s most thrilling and scenic road trip routes. With improved infrastructure, the Atal Tunnel, and regular BRO maintenance, the 2025 travel season promises smoother travel and safer conditions.
Understanding road conditions, weather patterns, opening dates, and safety measures will ensure a rewarding and exhilarating journey across the Himalayas.