Srinagar to Leh Road Trip – A Detailed Travel Planner

The Srinagar to Leh road trip is one of the most scenic, comfortable, and culturally rich journeys in the Indian Himalayas. Stretching over 420 km, this route is known for its smooth roads, gradual ascent, and breathtaking mountain vistas. It is often preferred by first-time Ladakh travelers because the climb in altitude is more manageable compared to the Manali route, significantly reducing the chances of altitude sickness.

Whether you are planning to drive your car, ride a motorcycle, or join a group tour, this comprehensive travel planner will give you a complete understanding of the route—road conditions, itinerary, attractions, fuel stations, accommodation options, weather, safety tips, and more.

? Why Choose the Srinagar–Leh Route?

Travelers often choose this route because:

  • Better acclimatization due to gradual altitude gain

  • Relatively smooth roads maintained by BRO

  • Less risky compared to the Manali–Leh route

  • More landscapes to explore including lush valleys and snow peaks

  • Cultural diversity from Kashmir to Ladakh

  • More fuel stations, hotels, and food options

This makes it a beginner-friendly and family-friendly route.

? Route Overview

Total Distance: 420–440 km

Travel Time: 2 days (recommended)

Best Time to Travel: May to October

The highway remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall at Zoji La Pass.

? Ideal Itinerary for Srinagar ? Leh Road Trip

Most travelers complete the journey over 2 days, but you can stretch it to 3 days for comfort and extra sightseeing.

? Day 1: Srinagar ? Sonamarg ? Zoji La ? Drass ? Kargil (204 km / 6–7 hours)

Key Highlights:

1. Srinagar

Start your journey from the beautiful Kashmir Valley.

2. Sonamarg

A lush valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, perfect for breakfast or a photo stop.

3. Zoji La Pass (11,575 ft)

This high-altitude pass marks the gateway from Kashmir to Ladakh. It offers breathtaking views but can be narrow and challenging.

4. Drass – The Second Coldest Inhabited Place

Known as the “Gateway to Ladakh,” Drass is famous for:

  • Drass War Memorial

  • Kargil War stories

  • Panoramic mountain views

5. Kargil

Your ideal night halt. Enjoy a relaxing evening in this historic town.

? Day 2: Kargil ? Mulbek ? Lamayuru ? Magnetic Hill ? Leh (220 km / 5–6 hours)

Key Highlights:

1. Mulbekh Monastery

See the ancient rock-cut statue of Maitreya Buddha.

2. Namika La & Fotu La Passes

Two beautiful passes offering sweeping views.

3. Lamayuru Monastery

One of Ladakh’s oldest and most beautiful monasteries.

4. Moonland

A unique landscape that resembles the surface of the moon.

5. Magnetic Hill

The gravity-defying hill where vehicles appear to move uphill.

6. Sangam Point

Confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers—perfect for photography.

7. Gurudwara Pathar Sahib

A sacred site dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

8. Leh Arrival

Complete your journey in Leh and begin your Ladakh adventure.

? Road Conditions on the Srinagar–Leh Highway

The route is well-maintained, but conditions vary:

Srinagar ? Sonamarg

Excellent roads with smooth tarmac.

Sonamarg ? Zoji La

Narrow, steep, and sometimes slippery due to melting snow.

Zoji La ? Drass

Good roads with beautiful landscapes.

Drass ? Kargil ? Leh

Mostly smooth highways with moderate curves.

BRO ensures the route remains one of the best for long-distance Himalayan road travel.

? Best Time to Travel

The highway is open only between May and October.

? May–June: Snow along the route; best for snow lovers

? July–August: Peak tourist season with the best road conditions

? September: Clear skies and perfect weather

? October: Early snowfall possible; travel with caution

? Popular Stops for Food & Refreshments

  • Sonamarg dhabas

  • Drass tea points

  • Kargil restaurants & bakeries

  • Mulbek small eateries

  • Lamayuru cafe & guesthouse

Carrying quick snacks and warm drinks is also recommended.

? Fuel Stations on the Route

You will find plenty of fuel pumps:

  • Srinagar

  • Ganderbal

  • Sonamarg

  • Kargil

  • Mulbekh

  • Leh

This route is far better stocked than the Manali–Leh highway.

? Accommodation Options

Hotels

Available in Srinagar, Sonamarg, Kargil, and Leh.

Guesthouses

Drass, Lamayuru, and Mulbek.

Homestays

Budget-friendly options with local hospitality.

Luxury Stays

Available in Srinagar and Leh.

Kargil offers the widest variety of stays for the night halt.

? Essential Packing Checklist

  • Warm jackets (even in summer)

  • Thermals (for night)

  • Rain gear

  • Power banks & chargers

  • Sunglasses & sunscreen

  • Gloves & sturdy shoes

  • Light snacks

  • AMS medicine (consult doctor)

Even in peak summer, cold winds can surprise you at high passes.

? Permits Required

Good news—no permits are required for the Srinagar to Leh road journey itself.

However, once you reach Leh, you need Inner Line Permits to visit:

  • Nubra Valley

  • Pangong Lake

  • Turtuk

  • Tso Moriri

  • Hanle

These can be obtained online or through local agents.

? Safety & AMS Tips

  • Ascend gradually to avoid altitude sickness

  • Avoid heavy meals and alcohol

  • Stay hydrated

  • Do not over-exert yourself

  • Take breaks frequently

  • Keep an eye on weather updates

  • Avoid driving after sunset

The ascent through this route helps reduce AMS risk, but precautions are still necessary.

? Final Thoughts

The Srinagar to Leh road trip is not just a journey—it’s an immersive experience that blends the natural beauty of Kashmir with the rugged charm of Ladakh. With smoother roads, more facilities, and captivating landscapes, this route is ideal for first-time travelers, families, bikers, and road trip lovers. Every turn brings a new horizon, every valley tells a story, and the road itself becomes the highlight of your adventure.