The Ultimate Ladakh Road Trip Guide: Routes, Costs & Pro Tips
If there is one road trip in India that defines the adrenaline rush along with breathtaking picturesque views, it has to be the Leh Ladakh road trip. It does not matter if you are a biker looking for an adrenaline kick along the Manali to Ladakh highway, or a family wanting an unforgettable experience on a road trip from Delhi to Leh, or just an adventure seeker wanting to travel to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Khardung La Pass, this guide will help you out. From choosing the best route and vehicle to understanding the Ladakh trip cost, permits, and essential travel tips, we’ve packed everything you need to make your Ladakh bike trip or Ladakh self-drive expedition a seamless and memorable experience. So, buckle up, and get ready to embark on the most exhilarating journey of your life.
In this Blog
The Best Routes for Your Delhi to Ladakh Road Trip
Most adventure enthusiasts dream of going on a Ladakh trip from Delhi, and choosing the right path can mean all the difference. There are two main paths available when traveling to Ladakh from Delhi – the first is via Srinagar, the latter is via Manali. If you are planning a Leh Ladakh round trip, then the ideal way is to experience both – one route while going and the other while returning. Each has its own charm when it comes to scenic beauty and the drive is equally exciting. So, let’s find out about these routes so you can make an informed decision regarding your itinerary.
Route 1: Delhi to Ladakh via Srinagar
- Distance: 1035 km
- Estimated Time: 22-24 hours (spread over 2-3 days)
- Route: Delhi → Jammu → Srinagar → Sonmarg → Drass → Kargil → Leh
- The Srinagar to Leh road trip is your best bet if you want a scenic and smooth journey with gradual altitude gain.
With the smooth transition, you appreciate the dramatic beauty of Kashmir alongside the dense valleys of Sonmarg and the historical Kargil. This is a spectacular route, providing beautiful views of the Himalayas along with helping you adjust to the high altitudes of ladakh.
Why Choose This Route?
- Better Acclimatization – The danger of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is reduced primarily because of the slow increase in altitude
- Frequent Stopovers – There are multiple of rest areas, fuel stations and food stops on this route, making it much easier for you.
- Scenic Beauty – You pass by a large number of famous landmarks such as Zoji La Pass, Kargil War Memorial, and many snow-covered mountains.
What to Expect?
- Weather Conditions – Srinagar’s weather can be unpredictable, always double check forecasts before travelling to the region.
- Permit Requirements – No Inner Line Permit (ILP) is needed for Indian nationals on this route, although foreign nationals are required to apply for one.
- Challenges – The road infrastructure tends to be relatively difficult at times, especially in and around Zoji La Pass.
Route 2: Delhi to Ladakh via Manali
- Distance: 770 km
- Estimated Time: 20-22 hours (spread over 2-3 days)
- Route: Delhi → Chandigarh → Manali → Keylong → Sarchu → Leh
This is the perfect road trip in India for those who thirst for adrenaline and awe-inspiring high altitude passes. The Manali to Ladakh road trip is the ultimate thrill ride as this route is tougher and more isolated, but it also offers some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the world. You will drive through high-altitude passes like Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La, making this an adrenaline-packed journey.
Why Choose This Route?
- More Adventurous – If you are someone that enjoys respite with a side of challenge, then this route is perfectly suited for you. It includes climbing up steep heights, sharp turns, and rugged wildness that makes this ride poised for adventure.
- Shorter Distance – Driving under difficult circumstances means it’s still going to take roughly the same time even if there is a shorter route.
- Atal Tunnel Advantage – Almost 3.5 hours of driving time is saved with the new Atal Tunnel, which has cut down travel time enormously by avoiding the Rohtang Pass.
What to Expect?
- Rapid Altitude Gain – Proper acclimatization is key as AMS may be induced due to the sudden rise in altitude.
- Limited Facilities – Petrol pumps, food stalls, and medical facilities are sparse after Keylong, so carry essentials.
- Weather & Road Conditions – Prepare for extreme weather conditions coupled with bad roads after Sarchu.
Which Route Should You Take?
- If you want to enjoy the scenic view while riding with better acclimatization, make sure to opt for the Srinagar route while going to Ladakh.
- Choose the Manali route instead if you want to enjoy the return drive in a more challenging and adventurous manner.
- Planning on a round trip to Leh Ladakh? Then you can enjoy the best of both worlds from these two routes!
Ladakh Road Trip Cost Breakdown
Planning for a Leh ladakh trip? Here is a rough estimate for a road trip lasting ten to twelve days:
- Fuel: Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 12,000 (depends on the route & mileage)
- Accommodation: Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 6,000 per night (budget stays to boutique hotels)
- Food: Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,500 per day
- Inner Line Permit: Rs. 400 per person
- Bike/Car Rentals (if applicable): Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 3,000 per day for bikes; Rs. 3,500 to Rs. 5,000 per day for SUVs
Total estimated Ladakh trip cost: Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000 per person (excluding shopping and extras)
Documents & Permits Required For Ladakh Road Trip
Although part of India, there are certain territories that require inner line permits especially for foreigners.
Must-Carry Documents: Driving License & Vehicle Registration, PUC Certificate, Insurance Papers, Government ID (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID), Inner Line Permit (for Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri, etc.) – Can be obtained online or from the Leh DC office.
Pro Tip: Make multiple photocopies of these documents as you’ll need them at different checkpoints.
Essential Road Trip Tips
- Acclimatization is key: Resting for a day in Leh helps prepare the necessary energy to visit higher altitudes, drink lots of water, refrain from alcohol, and carry altitudes related medications just in case.
- Pack Smart: Layered clothing, gloves, balaclavas, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes are a must!
- Carry Cash: ATMs are scarce beyond Leh, and many places only accept cash.
- Offline Maps: Network coverage is weak, so download offline maps of Ladakh.
- Emergency Contacts: Note down local police and BRO helpline numbers in case of emergencies.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Due to harsh weather conditions, off-roading vehicles are recommended for the more unforgivable terrain of Ladakh.
Best Cars for a Ladakh Trip:
- SUV with 4×4 – Scorpio, Thar, Fortuner, Isuzu D-Max, Jeep Compass. If you want to cross deep water streams and rocky paths, a 4WD is necessary.
- Compact SUVs – If you are not driving an SUV with 4×4, Creta or Seltos are high-ground-clearance soft roaders that can do the job.
Best Bikes for a Ladakh Trip:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan or Classic 350/500 – These beasts and are capable of riding throughout Ladakh.
- KTM Duke 390/250 or Bajaj Dominar 400 – These bikes are powered and agile, however extra fuel tanks are needed.
- Hero Xpulse 200 – This lightweight adventure bike is perfect for off-roading.
Pro Tip: Ensure your vehicle is well-serviced before embarking on your trip!
A Ladakh trip by road is not just another vacation, it’s an expedition of a lifetime. Manali to Leh bike trip, self-driving an SUV on the most dangerous of roads, or even taking one of the numerous Leh Ladakh tour packages, you are guaranteed to return with their heart full of memories and a camera full of stunning images. So, fuel up, gear up, and get ready to chase the horizon in Ladakh!
Are you ready for the adventure?
Image credits: Avinash Patel via Pexels
