Delhi to Ladakh Circuit: The Ultimate 15-Day Road Trip via Srinagar, Khardung La, Pangong, Hanle & Manali

15-Day Delhi to Ladakh Road Trip via Srinagar, Nubra, Pangong, Hanle & Manali – The Complete Itinerary

What if the road wasn’t just a route, but a journey through altitude, history, and soul?

The Delhi to Ladakh road trip is more than a Himalayan drive—it's an odyssey through India’s most breathtaking, remote, and culturally rich terrains. This 15-day full circuit itinerary covers it all: majestic valleys, desert plateaus, borderland villages, sacred monasteries, and some of the highest motorable passes on Earth.

This isn’t just a route—it’s an experience. You’ll start from Delhi and head through Patnitop, Srinagar, Kargil, Leh, and then onto Khardung La, Nubra Valley, Turtuk, Pangong, Chushul, Hanle, Umling La, and descend via Tso Kar, Sarchu, Keylong, Manali, before returning to Delhi.

You’ll cruise across:

• Nine high-altitude Himalayan passes, including Zoji La, Fotu La, Namika La, Khardung La, Chang La, Umling La, Lachung La, Nakee La, and Baralacha La

• Glacial rivers like the Indus, Zanskar, Shyok, Nubra, and Chenab flowing beside your wheels

• The surreal cold desert of Nubra, the magnetic blue of Pangong Lake, and the star-splashed skies of Hanle

• Forgotten war memorials, ancient gompas, and villages closer to borders than cities

From sipping Kashmiri kahwa under a walnut tree in Srinagar to breathing thin air at 19,000 ft in Umling La, this is the ultimate Ladakh driving guide—packed with road conditions, fuel stop alerts, local food experiences, stay options, dhaba hacks, and travel safety tips for cars, SUVs, and bikes.

Whether you’re a biker seeking thrill, a couple chasing peace, or a family discovering India’s edge—this is the blog you’ve been searching for.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s begin: Day 1 – Delhi to Patnitop awaits.

🛣️ Day 1: Delhi to Patnitop – Kickstart Your Ladakh Road Trip with the Perfect Himalayan Warm-Up

Distance: ~660 km | Drive Time: 13–15 hours | Route: NH44 via Sonipat, Karnal, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur

The journey begins! As you roll out from Delhi at the crack of dawn, your 15-day Ladakh road trip comes alive. Day 1 is all about escaping the plains, getting into road trip rhythm, and reaching Patnitop, a peaceful hill station in Jammu & Kashmir that offers the perfect altitude to start acclimatising before the big Himalayan ascents.

🛣️ Route Highlights:

Your drive follows NH44, India’s longest highway, weaving through North India’s rich farmlands, industrial cities, and finally, mountain curves. Major cities and stopovers on this route include:

• Delhi → Sonipat → Panipat → Karnal → Ambala (quick expressway stretches)

• Ludhiana → Jalandhar → Pathankot (Punjab highway belt with food stops)

• Lakhanpur → Samba → Udhampur → Patnitop (J&K entry and uphill ascent)

Expect wide expressways until Pathankot, and then winding mountain roads till Patnitop.

🚘 Pro Tip: Start between 4–5 AM from Delhi to beat traffic and cover major ground by mid-day. Target Pathankot for lunch and Patnitop by sunset.

⛽ Fuel Stops & Essentials:

• Delhi, Karnal, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Udhampur – reliable petrol/diesel stations

• First aid & meds – stock up in Karnal or Jalandhar

• Vehicle check – Tyre pressure, coolant, and brake fluid should be checked before the Delhi exit.

🥘 Where to Eat – Best Food Stops on the Way:

• Murthal (near Sonipat) – buttery parathas, dahi, and hot chai

• Ambala Cantt – quick restrooms and snacks

• Jalandhar Bypass – highway dhabas serving Punjabi thali, lassi, pakoras

• Pathankot – great for kulcha-chole, rajma rice, and rest before the mountain section

🏞️ Scenic & Cultural Points En Route:

• Karna Lake (Karnal): Linked to the Mahabharata warrior Karna

• Ghaggar and Beas Rivers: Flow parallel to your route in Punjab

• Ravi River Crossing: Near Madhopur/Pathankot, marking entry into J&K

• Lakhanpur Toll Plaza: Gateway to Jammu & Kashmir – stop for a photo!

🏔️ Arrival in Patnitop – Breathe in the Himalayas

Nestled at 2,024 meters, Patnitop is the first real mountain town of your journey. Surrounded by Deodar forests and distant snow peaks (in spring/winter), it’s cooler, calmer, and a great first-night acclimatisation stop.

• Take a walk to Nag Temple, and enjoy sunset views from Pine Top Point.

• Relax with pahadi rajma-chawal or kaladi cheese kulcha, a local speciality

• Patnitop gives you the first taste of mountain driving, with hairpin bends and scenic drop-offs.

📍 Rivers Crossed Today:

• Yamuna (Delhi exit via Karnal bypass)

• Ghaggar (near Ambala)

• Beas (Jalandhar)

• Ravi (Pathankot)

• Tawi (as you near Udhampur)

These mighty rivers define the changing terrain – from dusty plains to misty pine hills.

⚠️ Road Conditions & Caution:

• Excellent highway till Pathankot

• Moderate to steep curves from Udhampur to Patnitop (watch for trucks)

• Avoid night driving on mountain roads after 7 PM.

• Monsoon can cause landslides near Udhampur – check the weather before travel.

  
  

If you’re planning a Delhi to Ladakh road trip by car or bike, Patnitop makes for a strategic and scenic first stop. This route lets you cover long distances on Day 1 while ensuring you’re rested before tackling the thrilling Jammu–Srinagar highway on Day 2.

🌲 Day 2: Patnitop to Srinagar – Entering the Kashmir Valley

Distance: ~190 km | Drive Time: 6–7 hours (without long halts)Route: Patnitop – Chenani – Nashri Tunnel – Ramban – Banihal – Qazigund – Anantnag – Srinagar

You wake up in the crisp mountain air of Patnitop, well-rested and excited for the most magical transition of your journey – from pine-clad slopes to the dreamy meadows of Kashmir. Today’s route carves its way through riverside gorges, tunnels cutting through Himalayan rock, and terraced apple orchards, finally delivering you into the legendary Srinagar Valley.

🛣️ Road Highlights:

This leg of the trip is a marvel of engineering and nature combined:

• Chenani–Nashri Tunnel (Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel) – India’s longest road tunnel (9.2 km), drastically reducing travel time and avoiding treacherous mountain hairpins.

• Ramban–Banihal Stretch – A challenging zone with active landslide zones, gushing waterfalls, and surreal mountain walls.

• Jawahar Tunnel (Old Route – Now Closed for Civilians) – Previously used before the Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel, now replaced.

• Qazigund to Srinagar via Anantnag – Rolling meadows, river crossings, and long highway straights lined with poplars.

⛽ Fuel & Essentials on Day 2:

• Fuel Pumps: Ramban, Banihal, Qazigund, Anantnag

• Rest Stops: Near Ramban Bridge and after Qazigund Tunnel

• Medical Aid: District Hospital Ramban, Anantnag City

• Vehicle Tip: Ensure brakes and coolant system are working properly; steep descents + long tunnels can overheat engines

🏞️ Rivers Crossed:

• Chenab River – Near Ramban (glacial, turquoise and dramatic)

• Jhelum River – After Qazigund, it flows. Gently into Anantnag and Srinagar

🥘 Where to Eat En Route:

• Ramban Bypass – Great spot for early lunch: Rajma-chawal, Maggi, chai with views

• Banihal to Qazigund Stretch – Small dhabas with Kashmiri kulchas, salted tea

• Anantnag – Look for Kashmiri wazwan specials like seekh kebabs, rogan josh, and modur pulao

🧭 Srinagar Arrival:

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll descend into the heavenly Srinagar Valley. The road opens into wide views of Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and houseboats floating gently on the water. Day 2’s drive may be short on distance, but it’s high on drama, elevation change, and beauty.

📌 Local Experiences in Srinagar:

• Stroll around Dal Lake and Boulevard Road

• Visit Hazratbal Shrine for peace and perspective.

• Try Kashmiri kahwa and fresh bakarkhani bread.

• Optional: Take a short shikara ride before sunset

• Night stay options range from homestays to government guesthouses — choose based on parking availability and security.

⚠️ Travel Tip:

Always check the official traffic advisory from the J&K Traffic Police Twitter handle before leaving Patnitop:🔗 https://x.com/Traffic_hqrs

It’ll inform you of:

• One-way movements on NH-44

• Landslide-prone stretches

• Tunnel delays or diversions when travelling in peak summer, the Banihal–Qazigund stretch may witness flash jams due to ongoing road widening.

🧘🏼‍♂️ Health & Acclimatization:

While Srinagar is still under 1,600 meters, this break is crucial for your body to adjust before the climb to Kargil and beyond. Hydrate, avoid alcohol, eat light, and relax.

⛺ Suggested Stay Areas:

• Near Dal Lake Boulevard Road for peaceful views and parking

• In Rajbagh or Sonwar , for an easy exit the next day toward Sonamarg

🌸 Day 3: Srinagar – Slow Travel, Shikara Rides & Cultural Gems

Purpose: Rest, Local Sightseeing & Acclimatisation

You’ve now officially entered one of the most romanticised valleys of the subcontinent — Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir. Known for its mirror-like lakes, floating vegetable gardens, Mughal-era gardens, Sufi shrines, and timeless wooden architecture, Srinagar deserves a pause. Today is about resting your body, tuning into local rhythms, and preparing for the altitude leaps ahead.

☀️ Morning – Wake Up by the Lake

If you’re staying near Dal Lake, start the day early with a walk along Boulevard Road, where morning light hits the lake with golden serenity. Locals paddle by with baskets of lotus stems, vegetables, and fresh flowers.

🛶 Optional: A Shikara ride through the floating gardens and houseboats is a slow-travel gem. Ask your rower for stories — many have been navigating these waters for generations.

🌿 Mid-Morning: Mughal Gardens Trail

Srinagar's gardens are not just visual treats — they are architectural blueprints of paradise.

• Shalimar Bagh – Built by Emperor Jahangir for Noor Jahan, aligned along Persian water channels.

• Nishat Bagh – The ‘Garden of Bliss’, terraced with the backdrop of the Zabarwan Hills.

• Chashme Shahi – Smaller but famous for its mineral spring, believed to have healing properties.

⛲ Trivia: These gardens are examples of Charbagh layout, representing Islamic garden design with spiritual symbolism — four rivers flowing from paradise.

🕌 Afternoon – Cultural & Historical Dive

Pick a few of these depending on energy levels:

• Hazratbal Shrine (by Dal Lake) – Houses a relic of the Prophet Muhammad and attracts pilgrims of all faiths.

• Jamia Masjid, Nowhatta – A 14th-century marvel made of deodar wood, with 378 wooden columns.

• Khanqah-e-Moula – A Sufi shrine on the banks of the Jhelum, with intricate papier-mâché and cedar architecture.

Don’t forget to walk the old city lanes (downtown Srinagar) for a view of lattice windows, spice shops, and wooden homes leaning into each other like old friends.

🍛 Lunch Ideas – Dive into Kashmiri Cuisine

Take it easy on your stomach, but try local delicacies like:

• Kashmiri Dum Aloo, Nadru Yakhni (lotus stem curry), and Haak Saag (collard greens)

• If you’re non-vegetarian: sample Rogan Josh, Goshtaba, and Yakhni pulao

• Wash it down with Kahwa (saffron almond tea) or Noon Chai (salted pink tea)

📸 Fun Tip: Use your lunch stop as a photo opportunity — many traditional cafes have Kashmiri woodwork, tandoors, and kangris (traditional heaters) on display.

🧣 Souvenir Ideas

• Pashmina shawls (verify authenticity)

• Papier-mâché crafts

• Walnuts, saffron, and dried apricots

• Carved walnut wood furniture and trays

🧘🏽‍♂️ Evening – Rest & Hydration

You're still at a moderate altitude (~1,585m), but stay well hydrated, skip alcohol, and get good sleep. Tomorrow, you’ll climb to Sonamarg and Zojila Pass, which marks the first big altitude jump of the trip.

🗺️ Travel Tip:

Double-check road updates for Sonamarg and Zojila on the official J&K Traffic Police handle here:🔗 https://x.com/Traffic_hqrs

Keep an eye out for:

• Zojila gate timings (convoy-based crossings)

• Fresh snowfall or avalanche alerts

• One-way updates (essential during peak season)

🛌 Where to Stay:

Choose family-run guesthouses near Rajbagh, Nishat, or Boulevard Road. Focus on parking space, hot water availability, and reviews mentioning quiet nights for solid rest.

🏔️ Day 4: Srinagar to Kargil – Zojila Pass, War Memorials & the Road into Ladakh

Route: Srinagar → Sonamarg → Zojila Pass → Drass → KargilDistance: ~200 km | Drive Time: 6–8 hours

Altitude Range: 5,200 ft (Srinagar) to 11,575 ft (Zojila) to 8,782 ft (Kargil)

Day 4 is where your Ladakh road trip takes a dramatic turn — both visually and spiritually. Leaving the idyllic valley of Srinagar, you climb towards the Zojila Pass, the first high-altitude pass on your journey. From lush meadows to rugged Himalayan terrain, this day introduces you to Ladakh's stark beauty and its deep military and cultural significance.

🚘 Key Stops & Experiences

🌄 Sonamarg (9,186 ft) – The Meadow of Gold

Your first stop, Sonamarg, welcomes you with alpine views, pine-lined valleys, and the gushing Sindh River. It’s a good place to stretch your legs, grab breakfast, and fill up on fuel.

📝 Fun Fact: Sonamarg is the base for the Amarnath Yatra and offers horse rides to Thajiwas Glacier in summer.

🍴 Cuisine Tip: Try Girda bread, Kashmiri noon chai, and butter-laden harissa from small roadside dhabas.

🌀 Zojila Pass (11,575 ft) – The First Test of Terrain

The iconic Zojila is often the first true test of nerves and your vehicle’s climb ability. Carved into a mountain wall, this pass is prone to landslides and weather changes, but the views are unmatched.

📸 Must-Click: Prayer flags fluttering atop the pass, with distant snow-covered peaks.

🚦 Pro Tip: Check real-time convoy timing and road clearance updates from @Traffic_hqrs before starting. Delays are common due to landslides or army movement.

🛣️ Road Type: Narrow, gravel-laden with sharp hairpin bends — drive slow and steady.

❄️ Drass (10,827 ft) – India’s Coldest Inhabited Town

As you descend Zojila, the valley opens into Drass, a town forever etched in India’s military history. Winters here plummet below -30°C, making it the second coldest inhabited place on earth.

🇮🇳 Kargil War Memorial (Vijaypath)A deeply moving stop — walk the Victory Path, view captured weapons and enemy bunkers, and read the names of martyrs from the 1999 war. The view of Tololing and Tiger Hill from the memorial will give you goosebumps.

🎥 Bollywood Note: Several scenes from the movie LOC Kargil were inspired by real battles fought here.

🏞️ Kargil (8,782 ft) – Where Kashmir Meets Central Asia

The road smooths out as you approach Kargil, located along the Suru River, with hints of Tibetan, Dardic, and Balti influences. The town is both a rest point and a cultural shift zone — Ladakhi Buddhism begins to appear more prominently from here on.

🍲 Local Delights:

• Khambir (fermented bread) with yak butter

• Apricot chutney and sun-dried fruits

• Steamed momos and Balti-style lentil soup

🛏️ Night Stay: Opt for simple guesthouses with good insulation and parking. Avoid camping here unless acclimatised.

🛢️ Fuel Stops

• Srinagar – multiple pumps

• Sonamarg – a small pump (confirm operational status)

• Drass – limited, but available

• Kargil – full-service petrol stations available

🧭 Rivers Crossed Today

• Sindh River (till Sonamarg)

• Drass River

• Suru River (at Kargil)

🧠 Historical Trivia

• Zojila was the site of India’s daring 1948 tank operation at 11,000+ ft, the first of its kind in snow.

• Drass–Drass-Kargil sector has witnessed repeated conflict, shaping India's border defence narrative.

• The Baltic culture prevalent in Kargil links to ancient Central Asian Silk Route roots.

📦 Essentials to Carry Today

• Downloaded Google Maps & offline playlist (network blackouts common)

• Rain jacket, gloves (Zojila can get snowy even in June)

• ID proofs for permits ahead

• Dry snacks, chocolates, ORS sachets

• Full tank of fuel from Srinagar

🚙 Day 5: Kargil to Leh – A Journey Through Moonland and Monasteries

Route: Kargil → Mulbekh → Namik La → Fotu La → Lamayuru → Alchi → Magnetic Hill → Gurudwara Pathar Sahib → LehDistance: ~220 km | Drive Time: 6–8 hours

Altitude Range: 8,780 ft (Kargil) to 13,478 ft (Fotu La) to 11,500 ft (Leh)Primary K

This stretch is one of the most underrated gems of the Srinagar to Leh road trip — a perfect blend of Buddhist monasteries, ancient rock carvings, dramatic Himalayan passes, and surreal moonscapes. Every curve feels like a postcard, and every halt has a story to tell.

📍 Key Stops & Scenic Points

🪨 Mulbekh Monastery & Chamba Statue (10,827 ft)

Just 45 minutes from Kargil, Mulbekh is famous for its 9-meter-tall rock-carved Maitreya Buddha, believed to date back to the 8th century. The road here skirts cliffs and boulders in classic Ladakhi style.

🧘🏻 Cultural Note: This is the spiritual transition point — you’re officially entering Buddhist Ladakh from Muslim-majority Kargil.

🧗 Namik La (12,139 ft) – The Lesser Known Sibling

This is the first high-altitude pass you’ll cross today. Windy and wild, it offers panoramic views of the rugged Zanskar ridgelines.

📷 Photography Tip: The signboard at Namik La with fluttering prayer flags makes for a striking Instagram shot.

🏔️ Fotu La (13,478 ft) – Highest Point on Srinagar–Leh Highway

The highest motorable pass on NH1, Fotu La, is a thrilling climb, especially during the early hours with the sun casting golden hues on the ochre cliffs. It marks your descent toward Ladakh's surreal landscapes.

🌑 Lamayuru Moonland (11,500 ft) – Like Driving on Another Planet

As you descend from Fotu La, the landscape changes dramatically into crater-like brown formations, resembling the moon’s surface. The Lamayuru Monastery, perched atop a cliff, is one of Ladakh’s oldest gompas (dating back to the 11th century).

📝 Fun Fact: Lamayuru was once a lake — local legends say the sage Naropa dried it using tantric powers to establish the monastery.

📷 Must-Click: The ‘Moonland’ backdrop at Lamayuru is a natural wonder.

🍲 Try This: Thukpa, buttered tsampa, and Ladakhi churpe (dried cheese) in a monastery-side cafe.

🏞️ Alchi Monastery (10,200 ft) – Art from the 11th Century

A slight detour takes you to Alchi, known for its preserved Kadam style Buddhist murals, wooden sculptures, and Sanskrit scriptures. It’s not just a monastery but a time capsule.

🧲 Magnetic Hill – Defying Gravity

Back on the main route, stop at the famous Magnetic Hill, where your vehicle appears to roll uphill. It’s an optical illusion caused by the surrounding landscape, but fun to try!

🛕 Gurudwara Pathar Sahib – A Spiritual Pause

Built by the Indian Army, this shrine commemorates Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s spiritual journey through Ladakh. The sacred rock here is believed to have taken the shape of the Guru’s back when a demon hurled it at him.

📖 Trivia: Maintained by the Indian Army and free for all visitors, it’s a serene place to rest before entering Leh.

🏙️ Arrival at Leh (11,500 ft)

You’ll arrive in Leh by evening, the high-altitude capital of Ladakh. Remember: rest well and hydrate — you’ll stay here for two nights to acclimatise.

📢 Important: No intense physical activity or alcohol intake on arrival. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) risk is real.

⛽ Fuel Stops on Day 5

• Kargil – Full-service

• Lamayuru – Not reliable, carry extra if needed

• Leh – Large capacity pumps available

🥘 Local Food Tips

• At Lamayuru or Alchi: Try Ladakhi thentuk (hand-pulled noodle soup) and buckwheat pancakes with apricot jam.

• Leh eateries begin showcasing pan-Himalayan fusion (Tibetan, Ladakhi, Israeli, Indian)

🛏️ Stay in Leh

Choose hotels or guesthouses with good insulation and hot water. Look for places offering oxygen support, if needed. Ensure vehicle parking and proximity to the market or Changspa Road.

🧭 Rivers Crossed Today

• Suru River (in Kargil)

• Indus River (after Magnetic Hill, flowing through Leh)

🧠 Historical & Cultural Trivia

• The Srinagar-Leh highway (NH1D) was a vital trade route connecting Kashmir with Central Asia.

• Mulbekh’s Chamba Statue is one of the few remaining standing Buddhas carved in open rock in India.

• The Moonland formations are a result of ancient lake bed erosion in the Lamayuru basin.

🏙️ Day 6: Exploring Leh – Acclimatisation, Culture & Views at 11,500 ft

Theme: Rest, Slow Exploration, Local CultureAltitude: 11,500 ft (3,505 m)Primary

After a high-altitude climb through Kargil, Lamayuru, and Fotu La, Day 6 is your buffer day in Leh — meant for acclimatization, recovery, and gentle discovery. This is crucial before heading higher towards Khardung La and Nubra Valley.

“In Ladakh, slow is not lazy — it’s wise.”

😌 Morning: Rest & Hydrate

Start your day with ample fluids, a light breakfast, and complete mental and physical rest till noon. If you’re feeling fine (no AMS symptoms like headache or nausea), begin light sightseeing by vehicle after lunch.

📢 Acclimatization Tips:

• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and intense walking.

• Eat smaller, high-carb meals.

• Stay warm — evenings in Leh are chilly year-round.

📍 Light Sightseeing: Where to Go in Leh

🌄 Shanti Stupa

Perched on a hilltop, this Japanese Peace Pagoda offers panoramic sunset views over Leh city and the Indus valley. The white-domed stupa is stunning against the golden hour hues.

📸 Must-Click Spot: Stand with prayer wheels in the foreground and the Stok Kangri range in the distance.

🏯 Leh Palace

A 17th-century Tibetan-style royal palace built by King Sengge Namgyal, this 9-storey mud structure is a window into Ladakh’s royal heritage.

📖 Trivia: The palace resembles Lhasa’s Potala Palace and was abandoned after Dogra invasions in the 19th century.

🇮🇳 Hall of Fame Museum (Run by the Indian Army)

A moving tribute to soldiers who served in Kargil War and Siachen, showcasing war memorabilia, stories of valor, weapons, and gear.

🧠 Not to Miss: The gallery dedicated to Siachen Glacier operations, and the flag-retreat ceremony if you’re visiting in the evening.

🛍️ Leh Main Bazaar Walk (Optional, Light Stroll)

If you’re not too fatigued, stroll through the Main Bazaar, known for:

• Traditional pashmina shawls

• Apricot jams and local dry fruits

• Thangka paintings and silver jewelry

🥘 What to Eat in Leh

Local Ladakhi cuisine is simple, warming, and perfect for altitude:

• Thukpa: Clear noodle soup with veggies/meat

• Momos: Steamed dumplings

• Skyu: Pasta stew with barley flour dumplings

• Butter tea (Gur Gur Chai): Salty, pink, and energizing

• Tingmo & Chutagi: Tibetan-style bread and pasta with gravy

💡 Eat small portions. Digestion slows down at high altitude.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Choose a centrally located guesthouse or hotel with heating, Wi-Fi, and oxygen availability. Make sure your accommodation allows easy vehicle access and parking.

📢 Tip: Book for two nights — you’ll return here after visiting Nubra, Pangong, and Hanle before exiting via Manali.

⛽ Fuel & Essentials

• Leh Fuel Station: Full-service pumps with premium petrol/diesel

• Essentials to Buy: Oxygen cans, dry snacks, sanitary items, sunscreen, lip balm, electrolyte packets, etc.

🧠 Historical & Cultural Trivia

• Leh Palace was the royal seat of Ladakh until the 1800s

• Shanti Stupa was built in 1991 by Japanese monks as a symbol of world peace

• The Hall of Fame is built and maintained entirely by the Indian Army as a memorial

🚗 Day 7: Leh to Diskit via Khardung La – Into the Cold Desert

Route: Leh → Khardung La → North Pullu → Khalsar → DiskitDistance: ~120 km

Estimated Drive Time: 5–6 hours (including stops)

Highest Altitude Point: Khardung La – 18,380 ft (5,602 m)

🏔️ Conquer One of the Highest Motorable Roads on Earth

Today’s journey is a dream for every mountain lover. You leave Leh early — ideally by 6:30 AM — to cross Khardung La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. This pass is more than just a feat of engineering — it's a rite of passage.

Expect snow walls, thin air, fluttering prayer flags, and surreal views of Stok Kangri and the Zanskar range.

📌 Permit Check: Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for Khardung La and Nubra Valley. Keep printed copies ready for checkpoints at South and North Pullu.

🌬️ Key Stops on the Route

🏔️ Khardung La Pass – 18,380 ft

A high mountain pass that links Leh to the Nubra and Shyok valleys. Short stops only — do not stay more than 15–20 mins due to low oxygen.

🧠 Trivia: Historically, this was part of the ancient Silk Route that connected Leh to Kashgar in China.

🛣️ North Pullu Checkpoint

Descend into the Nubra region; roads improve here. This is the first flat stretch after the climb, where your vehicle will thank you. Good place to rest briefly.

🏞️ Khalsar Village – Along the Shyok River

A remote village nestled along the Shyok riverbanks. From here, the road forks:

• Left towards Diskit and Hunder

• Right towards Agham and Shyok (en route to Pangong via off-road)

🏯 Destination: Diskit – Gateway to Nubra Valley

Diskit is the administrative headquarters of Nubra and known for its famous monastery and massive Maitreya Buddha statue, overlooking the valley.

🏵️ Diskit Monastery

• Oldest and largest in Nubra, belonging to the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

• Home to ancient murals, scriptures, and a giant 106-ft statue of Buddha facing Pakistan, symbolizing peace.

📖 Trivia: The monastery dates back to the 14th century and has a fascinating legend about a demon who once terrorized the valley.

🏜️ Terrain Shift – Welcome to the Cold Desert

By the time you descend into Diskit, you'll notice the dramatic shift in landscape — from cold rocky cliffs to a desert-like terrain with sand dunes and poplar trees.

You’ve now entered one of the few high-altitude cold deserts in the world.

🥘 What to Eat in Diskit

Try these local Ladakhi and Tibetan-inspired dishes at your stay or local homestays:

• Chhutagi: Hand-cut wheat pasta in vegetable stew

• Butter tea: Salty, smoky, and warming

• Ladakhi thali with barley bread, dal, rice, and local veggies

• Sea buckthorn juice – rich in vitamin C and locally grown

📝 Note: Food is simple and filling. Avoid oily or spicy meals to stay altitude-safe.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Choose accommodations with:

• Attached bathrooms and running hot water (essential in Nubra)

• Access to electricity and limited Wi-Fi

• Parking for vehicles and 4G network access (only Jio and BSNL work)

⛽ Fuel & Mobile Network

• Last full-service fuel station: Leh

• Next fuel pump: Diskit (limited; expect queues)

• Carry spare fuel if planning offbeat detours

• Mobile signal: Jio works best, patchy in Diskit and Hunder

🌊 Rivers & Terrain Crossed

• Shyok River – “River of Death,” flows alongside Diskit

• Drive through: high-altitude passes, rocky cliffs, snow zones, and sandy valleys — all in a single day

🐫 Day 8: Explore Diskit, Hunder & Turtuk – From Sand Dunes to Borderlands

Route: Diskit → Hunder → Turtuk → Back to DiskitDistance: ~180 km round tripDrive Time: 6–8 hours including sightseeing

Elevation Range: ~10,000 ft (3,048 m)

🌄 From Monastery Bells to Camel Bells

Wake up to the crisp morning air in Diskit and head deeper into the Nubra Valley, visiting two unforgettable gems — Hunder, with its surreal desert landscape and Bactrian camels, and Turtuk, a village once part of Pakistan and now India’s last civilian settlement before the border.

🏜️ Stop 1: Hunder – Sand Dunes & Camels in the Himalayas

Just 10 km from Diskit, Hunder offers the most unexpected sight on a high-altitude road trip — sand dunes set against snow-covered peaks.

Highlights:

• Double-humped Bactrian camels (imported centuries ago via the Silk Route)

• Hunder river delta with icy streams flowing across the desert

• Perfect for sunset walks, slow drives, and landscape photography

🧠 Trivia: These camels were once used for trade caravans between India and Central Asia. Today, they symbolize the valley’s ancient ties to the Silk Route.

🏞️ Scenic Drive to Turtuk – A Journey to a Different World

From Hunder, continue northwest along the Shyok River, passing small Ladakhi hamlets like Thoise, Bogdang, and Chalunka. The road narrows, flanks rocky cliffs, and twists along deep ravines.

Terrain Notes:

• Narrow single-lane patches

• Landslide zones in monsoon

• River crossings depending on weather (check in Diskit before heading out)

🌿 Stop 2: Turtuk – A Balti Village With a Pakistani Past

Turtuk was part of Pakistan till 1971, when it was captured by the Indian Army during the Indo-Pak war. The people here are Baltis — an ethnic group with Tibetan ancestry and unique culture.

Things to See & Do:

• Turtuk Monastery and Jama Masjid side by side — a rare sight

• Visit the Balti Heritage Museum

• Stroll through apricot orchards and barley fields

• Observe distinct Balti architecture — stone homes with wooden balconies

🧠 Historical Insight: Turtuk was once part of the Baltistan province and has family links across the border. Many elders speak fluent Urdu and Ladakhi, along with Balti.

🥘 What to Eat – Authentic Balti & Ladakhi Flavors

Turtuk’s home-cooked meals are unforgettable. If visiting with permission, some families offer Balti platters with:

• Phating: Roasted barley flour bread

• Skyu: Ladakhi-style dumpling stew

• Apricot chutney and dried fruits

• Fresh cow milk and home-churned butter

💡 Avoid wasting food — local communities value sharing and simplicity.

🕓 Return to Diskit by Sunset

The return journey to Diskit offers a different perspective — golden light on rocky walls, prayer stones beside the river, and locals herding yaks or sheep.

📝 Tip: Refuel your car at Diskit (one of the few petrol pumps in the valley).

🛏️ Where to Stay – Diskit Again

Stay back in Diskit for the night, where basic but comfortable options are available. Check for:

• Backup power supply

• Early breakfast service for next day’s long drive

🛰️ Mobile Network & Fuel

• Network: Jio and BSNL only

• Fuel: One petrol pump in Diskit — limited supply, so refuel today

🏞️ Day 9: Diskit to Pangong Lake via Shyok River – A Wild Himalayan Traverse

Route: Diskit → Khalsar → Agham → Shyok → Durbuk → Tangtse → Pangong Tso

Distance: ~160 km

Driving Time: 7–9 hours (depending on water crossings and road conditions)

Elevation Gain: ~10,000 ft (Diskit) to ~13,940 ft (Pangong Lake)

🧭 A Raw and Riveting Drive from Nubra to Pangong

This is one of the most adventurous legs of your Ladakh circuit. The Shyok route connects Nubra Valley directly to Pangong Lake, bypassing Leh and saving a day. But it’s not for the faint-hearted — narrow roads, river fords, and landslide-prone zones make it a test of both machine and mind.

🛣️ Morning Start from Diskit

Leave early by 6:30–7:00 AM to make the most of the daylight. The route unfolds with surreal landscapes as you:

• Descend from Diskit to Khalsar, where the Shyok and Nubra rivers meet

• Cross Agham village (altitude ~10,800 ft), a fork point: Left to Wari La, right to Shyok

💡 Important: The Shyok River route is open only during good weather. Always check with locals, army convoys, or tourist info counters in Diskit before departure.

🌊 Alongside the Shyok – The River of Death

“Shyok” translates to “River of Death”, due to its unpredictable flow and flash floods. The drive between Agham and Shyok village is:

• Remote and stunning

• Occasionally broken by stream crossings

• Surrounded by towering cliffs and sandy plains

📸 Look out for wild yaks, blue sheep, and rare Himalayan marmots sunbathing on the rocks.

🛑 Key Checkpoints En Route

• Shyok village: Mid-point of the route. Remote, no fuel, basic homestays if stranded

• Durbuk: Army post, rest point, and permit validation

• Tangtse: Last major halt before Pangong Lake

⛽ Refuel Note – Tangtse

📌 Refuel here if available.Tangtse sometimes has fuel available via army supplies or local vendors in black. However, it is not a guaranteed source, so ensure:

• You refueled at Diskit the previous evening

• You carry extra fuel in jerry cans for the Pangong–Hanle–Tso Kar–Tandi stretch (next fuel pump is at Nyoma or Tandi)

🏔️ High Altitude & Terrain Advisory

You’ll gradually ascend beyond 13,000 ft — drink plenty of water, eat light, and avoid alcohol.Road conditions vary from:

• Smooth army-maintained tarmac

• Sandy patches and water crossings

• Rockfall-prone turns near the river bends

🚗 Only high-ground clearance SUVs, 4x4s or bikes with experience should take this route.

🌅 Arrival at Pangong Tso (~13,940 ft)

A cinematic entrance as you suddenly see the blinding blue waters of Pangong Lake nestled between brown mountains. Spanning over 130 km (only 40% lies in India), this glacial lake is among the highest saltwater lakes in the world.

Activities:

• Walk along the shore and soak in the silence

• Visit famed shooting spots of 3 Idiots, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and more

• Stargazing is extraordinary — clear skies with zero light pollution

🥘 Local Eats Around Pangong

Food options are basic but warming:

• Thukpa (noodle soup)

• Maggi and butter tea

• Tingmo with spicy chutneysAvoid meat here as most food is vegetarian due to altitude and limited supply.

🛏️ Where to Stay at Pangong

Choose from:

• Tented camps (bring your own sleeping bags if possible)

• Homestays in Spangmik or ManNights are cold, windy, and can drop to –5°C even in June–July. Dress in thermal layers.

📶 Network Alert:

• No network for Airtel or VI

• Only BSNL may work near Tangtse

• Carry offline maps and keep contacts informed before leaving Nubra

🗓️ Day 10 – Pangong Lake to Chushul, Rezang La Memorial & Hanle

Distance: ~175 km | Drive Time: 6–8 hours (depending on road and permit clearance)

Route: Pangong (Spangmik/Merak) → Chushul → Rezang La → Loma → Hanle

Altitude Gain:

• Pangong Tso: 13,940 ft

• Chushul: ~14,000 ft

• Rezang La War Memorial: ~16,000 ft

• Hanle: 14,764 ft

🌊 Morning at Pangong: Shades of Serenity

Start early from your campsite at Spangmik or Merak to catch the changing hues of Pangong Lake in the morning — from turquoise to inky blue. Take a slow walk by the lakeside, skip stones into the glacier-fed water, and soak in one of the most surreal landscapes in India.

🔁 Optional: Visit Merak village en route, a peaceful settlement with a view of the lake and yaks grazing nearby.

🛣️ Offbeat Frontier Route: Merak → Chushul

The road here is rough and largely unpaved, running close to the LAC (Line of Actual Control). It’s military-sensitive, so keep all documents ready for multiple army checks.

📍 Chushul is a high-altitude hamlet remembered for the Battle of Rezang La (1962) — where 120 Indian soldiers stood against an entire battalion of the Chinese army.

🎖️ Stop at Rezang La War Memorial

One of the most emotional stops on this trip, this memorial is India’s Stalingrad moment — a tale of bravery, sacrifice, and honour.

🕯️ Don’t rush this visit. Read the stone tablets, observe the terrain where our soldiers fought, and spend a moment of silence.

📍 Elevation: ~16,000 ft💬 Trivia: Major Shaitan Singh was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra here.

📌 Permit & Identity Check at Loma

After crossing Chushul and Rezang La, you’ll reach Loma checkpost, the gateway to Hanle. Hand over:

• Inner Line Permit (with Chushul and Hanle included)

• Valid photo ID (preferably Aadhar or DL)

• Vehicle RC and insurance papers

🧠 Permit Tip: Carry 3–4 printouts. Army officers retain one copy.

🏞️ Arrival in Hanle – Stargazing Capital of India

Hanle lies in the remote Changthang plateau, close to the Indo-China border, and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory.

📷 Must-visit in Hanle:

• Hanle Monastery: Perched on a hilltop, overseeing the village

• IAO Campus (view from outside): Asia’s second-highest optical observatory

• Starry skies: Perfect for astrophotography – zero light pollution

📍 Trivia: Hanle’s skies have some of the highest atmospheric clarity in the world.

⛽ Fuel Advisory: Critical for Survival

There are no petrol pumps at:

• Pangong

• Chushul

• Hanle

✔️ If you need fuel, go back to Tangtse before starting this leg.Otherwise:

• Carry 20+ litres of spare fuel from Leh/Nubra

• Refuel next at Nyoma (if open) or Tandi (Keylong) — that’s over 500 km away

🍲 Local Cuisine

• Changthang-style Thukpa: A simple soup with noodles and veggies/meat

• Gur-gur Chai (Butter Tea): Thick, salty, and perfect to beat the cold

• Yak cheese & roti: If you can find it — a truly rustic Ladakhi combo

Expect limited food options — this is survival terrain.

💤 Night Stay in Hanle

Expect basic home-stays or camp-style setups with blankets and solar heating.📶 No mobile network except BSNL satellite⚡ Limited electricity — carry power banks🥶 Temperature can drop below -5°C at night, even in summer

✅ Essentials for the Day

• 3 printed ILPs

• Extra fuel in jerry cans

• Dry snacks, hydration salts

• Acclimatization meds (Hanle is remote & high)

• Full phone charge + GPS offline maps

🗓️ Day 11 – Hanle to Umling La (19,024 ft) and Back to Hanle

Distance (round-trip): ~140 kmDrive Time: 6–8 hours (depending on road condition, vehicle capability, and weather)

Route: Hanle → Photi La → Ukdungle → Umling La Top → Return to Hanle

Altitude Profile:

• Hanle: 14,764 ft

• Photi La: 18,124 ft

• Umling La: 19,024 ft (5,798 m) – World’s Highest Motorable Road

🛣️ Welcome to the Roof of the World

This is the wildest, rawest, and most extreme road drive in India — and quite possibly the world. Today, you’ll conquer the legendary Umling La Pass, officially the highest motorable road globally, surpassing even Khardung La and Siachen Base Track.

📌 Warning: This day is not for the faint-hearted. It’s harsh, oxygen-deprived terrain. Drive with caution, rest often, and never attempt this leg unless you're fully acclimatized.

🏁 The Route: How to Reach Umling La from Hanle

1. Start Early: Leave Hanle by 5:30–6:00 AM after a warm breakfast.

2. Hanle to Photi La (45 km) – First big climb, rough roads

   • Photi La Pass: Elevation ~18,124 ft

   • Trivia: Was once considered for the title of highest motorable pass before Umling La was certified

3. Photi La to Ukdungle (Army Post) – ID checks again

4. Ukdungle to Umling La Top (20+ km) – Brutal climb, breathtaking views

🗻 Umling La Top – Feel the Altitude

At 19,024 ft (5,798 m), Umling La is not just high — it’s Martian-level high. The landscape is surreal:

• Bare mountains with patches of snow even in June

• Wind so cold and fierce it feels unreal

• Oxygen levels at 40–50% of sea level

📸 Capture the iconic BRO Signboard declaring “World’s Highest Motorable Road” with fluttering prayer flags around.🚫 DO NOT STAY LONG – 10–15 minutes max. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) hits hard here.

📜 Permit & Access

🚧 No civilian is allowed to go beyond Umling La into Demchok. Respect all military instructions.🪪 ILP must mention Hanle. While Umling La is not always listed, permits are checked at Photi La and Ukdungle.📶 No mobile signal, no fuel, no food after Hanle. You’re on your own.

⛽ Fuel Tips

• No fuel stations after Tangste / Diskit / Leh

• Nyoma pump (if open) is still after Hanle – not on this route

• Carry 20–25 litres of backup fuel in jerry cans

• Refuel at Tandi (Keylong) after Manali leg

🍲 No Food Stops – Carry Supplies

Pack:

• High-calorie snacks (dry fruits, chocolate, biscuits)

• Thermos with warm water or black tea

• Energy drinks or ORS sachets

• No shops at all – Ukdungle is military-only

🧠 Trivia & Geographical Nuggets

• Umling La lies in Changthang Plateau, known for being the coldest inhabited region after Siberia

• Wind chill can drop temps below -10°C even in summer afternoons

• This region sees more Tibetan Wild Asses (Kiangs) than people

🛏️ Return to Hanle

After the summit, return the exact same route to Hanle. Do not attempt detours or unknown tracks – terrain is unmarked and military monitored.

🔁 Evening rest at your Hanle homestay. Warm food, quiet skies, and a well-earned rest.

🧳 Essentials to Carry

• Spare fuel

• Oxygen cans or pulse oximeter (optional but helpful)

• 2 litres water per person

• Dry food

• Winter gloves, layered clothing

• Fully charged camera/phone

• Offline Google Maps with Umling La route downloaded

🗓️ Day 12 – Hanle to Tso Kar via Nyoma, Mahe, and Puga

Distance: ~165 kmDrive Time: 6–7 hoursRoute: Hanle → Nyoma → Mahe Bridge → Puga → Tso KarHighest Altitude Point: Polokongka La – approx. 15,748 ft (4,800 m)Night Halt Altitude: Tso Kar – approx. 15,075 ft (4,595 m)

🌌 A Journey Through Mars-like Valleys and Sulphur Springs

From the calm skies of Hanle, today’s journey takes you through the raw wilderness of Changthang Plateau, past hot springs, shimmering lakes, rare wildlife, and alien-like valleys that smell faintly of sulphur.

You’re heading into one of the most remote regions of Ladakh — the high-altitude Rupshu Valley and the surreal Tso Kar basin, a saline lake known for its ghost villages, migratory birds, and eerie white shores.

🛣️ The Route Breakdown

1. Hanle to Nyoma (75 km)

• A mix of gravel and dirt roads.

• The route hugs the edge of the Indus River, with panoramic views of the cold desert.

• 📸 Look out for herds of Kiangs (Tibetan Wild Ass) and nomadic Changpa tents.

2. Nyoma to Mahe Bridge (30 km)

• Road improves after Nyoma.

• Checkpoint at Mahe – ILP required. Show permits stamped for Nyoma and onward areas.

3. Mahe to Puga (20 km)

• One of Ladakh’s geothermal wonders

• The Puga Valley is dotted with boiling mud pools and sulphuric steam vents

• Terrain is bizarre and beautiful — and smells like rotten eggs

4. Puga to Tso Kar via Polokongka La (40 km)

• Cross the high-altitude Polokongka La (15,748 ft)

• Desolate stretches of powdery white terrain – the landscape starts changing into a salt lake basin

🧭 Trivia & History

• Tso Kar, meaning “White Lake,” is a saltwater lake and once served as a salt trade route for nomadic tribes

• Located in the Rupshu Plateau, this area is known for its extreme winds and wide temperature swings

• The area is part of India’s designated Ramsar Wetlands and hosts Black-necked Cranes during season

📸 Must-See En Route

• Puga Hot Springs: Bubbling geothermal activity at 14,500 ft

• Nomadic Changpa settlements: Circular yak-hair tents and their herds

• Birdlife at Tso Kar: Keep binoculars ready for bar-headed geese, Brahminy ducks, and cranes

• Ruins of Thukje Village: A half-abandoned hamlet near Tso Kar

⛽ Fuel & Essentials

• ✅ Last confirmed pump: Nyoma (may be non-operational)

• 🔁 Alternative: Carry 15–20L extra fuel from Leh / Tangste

• ❄️ Carry windproof jackets – Tso Kar is known for bone-chilling winds

• 🍲 No dhabas – rely on packed meals/snacks from Hanle or plan homestay food at Tso Kar

🛏️ Where to Stay at Tso Kar

• Simple eco-camps or homestays with limited availability

• Some stays offer warm meals, basic bedding, and unbeatable stargazing

• ⚠️ Arrive before sunset — Tso Kar gets desolate and foggy after dark

🧳 What to Carry Today

• Refilled water bottles

• Sunscreen + sunglasses (extreme UV)

• High-energy snacks

• Fuel + tyre repair kit

• Warm woollens and gloves

• Camera with zoom lens for wildlife

🌌 Local Experience

• Sit outside under the darkest skies in India

• Watch shooting stars and the Milky Way — clearer here than even Hanle on some nights

• Interact with Changpa families if you come across their settlements (respect privacy)

🗓️ Day 13 – Tso Kar to Sarchu to Keylong

Distance: ~250 km

Drive Time: 9–10 hours

Route: Tso Kar → Debring → Pang → Sarchu → Baralacha La → Zingzingbar → Jispa → Keylong

Highest Point: Baralacha La – approx. 16,500 ft (5,029 m)

Night Halt Altitude: Keylong – approx. 10,100 ft (3,078 m)

🏔️ Welcome to the Rugged Heart of the Himalayas

This stretch is among the most dramatic and demanding sections of the trip. You’ll descend from the salt plains of Tso Kar into the craggy gorges of Ladakh’s borderland with Himachal Pradesh, cruising past wind-swept valleys, ancient geological folds, and Mars-like terrain.

By nightfall, you'll reach Keylong, the administrative centre of Lahaul, offering a slight return to civilisation after days of Himalayan remoteness.

🛣️ Route Breakdown & Highlights

1. Tso Kar to Debring (15 km)

• Join back the Manali-Leh Highway (NH3)

• Road is bumpy and exposed — cross early to avoid afternoon winds

2. Debring to Pang (45 km)

• Drive through More Plains – a surreal, flat expanse at 15,500 ft

• Pang is the highest army transit camp in the world

• Quick tea/snack stop; not ideal for long halts due to altitude

3. Pang to Sarchu (80 km)

• Cross the legendary Gata Loops – 21 hairpin bends, each with panoramic views

• Then ascend Nakee La (15,547 ft) and Lachung La (16,616 ft) back-to-back

• Sarchu sits on the border of J&K and Himachal Pradesh

• 📍 Pro Tip: Stop at the Himachal Pradesh gate for photos — a transition point in terrain and temperature

4. Sarchu to Keylong (110 km)

• Climb to Baralacha La (16,500 ft) – one of the highest motorable passes on this circuit

• Descend past Suraj Tal, a sacred glacial lake that feeds the Bhaga River

• Continue via Zingzingbar, a high-altitude army post, to Jispa and then Keylong

🧭 Trivia & Terrain

• More Plains: Once an ancient lake bed, now a haunting flatland over 40 km long

• Gata Loops: Legend says a truck cleaner died here in the 1990s, and his soul still haunts the 21 bends — look for the eerie shrine mid-way

• Baralacha La: The pass connects Lahaul, Ladakh, and Zanskar — a historic trading route

• Suraj Tal: The lake is revered in Hindu mythology and freezes for most of the year

• Keylong: Name derives from "Kyelong," a combination of Buddhist and tribal dialects, meaning "stony valley"

⛽ Fuel, Food & Facilities

• ✅ Refuel at Tandi (just after Keylong – India’s highest fuel pump at 10,499 ft)

• 🔋 Carry jerry cans from Leh, but you’ll finally be back in a fuel-rich zone

• 🍲 Basic dhabas at Pang, Sarchu, Jispa

• 🛠️ Tyre repair at Keylong, limited roadside help at Zingzingbar

🍲 Local Food Tip

• In Keylong, try Siddu (a stuffed wheat bun) and Chha Gosht (spiced lamb curry)

• You’ll also find locally brewed seabuckthorn juice and basic Indian thalis

🛏️ Stay at Keylong

• Homestays and guesthouses with hot water, meals, and even WiFi

• It’s the best night halt before taking on the Atal Tunnel or Rohtang route next

🧳 What to Carry

• Warm woollens, gloves, and windproof jackets

• Refilled fuel cans

• Chocolates, ORS, water

• Power banks (no signal for most of the day)

• Camera for More Plains, Gata Loops, and Suraj Tal

📸 Key Photo Spots

• More Plains – look out for wild horses and yaks

• Gata Loops Summit – shrine + drone shots (if wind allows)

• Baralacha La – snow walls in early summer, prayer flags

• Suraj Tal – glacial blue water in the heart of mountains

🗓️ Day 14 – Keylong to Manali

Distance: ~115 km

Drive Time: 4–6 hours (depending on route)

Altitude Drop: From ~10,100 ft (Keylong) to ~6,730 ft (Manali)

Routes:

• Via Atal Tunnel – fastest, all-weather route (approx. 75 km)

• Via Rohtang Pass – scenic, seasonal route (approx. 115 km) – open from June to October

🏞️ Two Roads, One Destination

After the high passes, desolate valleys, and spiritual silence of Ladakh and Lahaul, Day 14 offers two routes to Manali — one through the world’s longest single-tube highway tunnel, and the other over the legendary Rohtang Pass, where clouds meet cliffs and meadows bloom even at 13,000+ ft.

Take your pick based on weather, road conditions, and your taste for thrill or comfort.

🛣️ Route Breakdown & Highlights

✅ Option 1: Via Atal Tunnel (All-Year, Safer Option)

• India’s longest road tunnel at 9.02 km, located at 10,171 ft (3,100 m)

• Built under the Rohtang Pass to bypass snowfall-related closures

• Exit at Solang Valley, then descend into Manali town

• Quick, smooth route — perfect if weather is dicey or time is short

• Minimal sightseeing, but you save 2+ hours

🏔️ Option 2: Via Rohtang Pass (June–Oct)

• Ascend to Rohtang La – 13,058 ft (3,978 m)

• Panoramic views of Chandra and Beas River valleys

• Famous for snow patches, paragliding, and the “Himalayan viewpoint” at the top

• Ideal for slow travellers and photographers

• Expect congestion and traffic in peak season

🗺️ Major Towns/Villages Crossed (Both Routes)

• Keylong

• Sissu – small but scenic, known for waterfalls & a lake

• Tandi – refill here if not done on Day 13

• Gramphu – split point for Spiti route (to Kaza) and Rohtang

• Solang Valley – only on Atal Tunnel route

• Palchan, Kothi – before entering Manali on Rohtang route

🧭 Trivia & Terrain

• Atal Tunnel is an engineering marvel: reduces 46 km and saves up to 3 hours

• Rohtang La is a Sanskrit name meaning “Pile of Corpses” — referencing how treacherous it was before tunnels

• River transition: from Bhaga River (Lahaul) to Beas River (Manali)

• You shift from cold desert to alpine forest in just a few hours — a rare biome transition in one day

⛽ Fuel, Food & Facilities

• ✅ Fuel: Tandi (last major pump before Manali)

• 🥘 Food:

  • Sissu: basic snacks, Maggi, momos

  • Gramphu/Rohtang: tea stalls, local Rajma Chawal, and Siddu

  • Solang/Palchan: cafes with Himachali and North Indian food

• 🛠️ Mechanics and puncture repair at Sissu, Marhi, and Manali

🍲 Local Flavours to Try in Manali

• Siddu – stuffed wheat buns steamed and served with ghee

• Trout Fish – from local Beas river farms

• Tudkiya Bhat – spiced Himachali rice with curd

• Seabuckthorn and Rhododendron juices (if coming from Sissu)

🛏️ Stay in Manali

After reaching Manali by evening:

• Choose to stay in Old Manali for a laid-back vibe, or Mall Road for better access to shops and eateries

• Rest well — you’ve crossed over 10+ high-altitude passes by now!

• Manali is also the place to do laundry, repair vehicles, or repack for the final drive home

🧳 Must-Do Tasks Today

• Refuel again before leaving for Delhi next day

• If you went via Rohtang, clean your air filter (dusty section)

• Check brakes, coolant, and tyre pressure — Manali to Delhi is long but fast-paced

📸 Photo Spots

• Rohtang Top – snow caps, winding roads

• Sissu Lake – tranquil and photogenic

• Solang Valley (from tunnel exit) – pine-clad vistas

• Atal Tunnel Portal – frame-worthy engineering shot

🗓️ Day 15 – Manali to Delhi: The Final Descent

Distance: ~540 kmDrive Time: 12–15 hoursAltitude Drop: From ~6,730 ft to ~715 ft

After two exhilarating weeks in the high Himalayas, it’s time to head back to where it all began—Delhi. Today’s drive is long but smooth, bringing you from the pine-scented air of Manali back into the bustling plains of North India.

Start early—ideally by 4:30 to 5:00 AM—to avoid morning congestion around Kullu and Mandi. The route flows through lush valleys, river-side towns, and eventually opens up to the flat highways of Punjab and Haryana.

You’ll begin your journey from Manali and descend through the Beas Valley, crossing Kullu and Mandi, where the river accompanies you through charming colonial-era bridges and market towns. As you approach Sundernagar, you’ll spot the Beas–Sutlej Link Canal and rolling hills dotted with terrace farms.

Passing Bilaspur, you’ll drive alongside the shimmering Gobind Sagar Lake. This is a great breakfast halt. From there, the roads widen and smoothen into the plains near Kiratpur Sahib—where you’ll officially exit the hills and join the national highway.

From here, it's all about the drive—speed-friendly roads through Ropar, Ambala, Karnal, Panipat, and Sonipat. The last leg offers dhaba stops and fuel stations in plenty, with Murthal being the iconic last pitstop for travelers.

By now, you’ll be replaying the trip in your mind—snow passes, cold deserts, prayer flags, rivers, and quiet Himalayan nights. This stretch, though fast and familiar, gives you time to absorb it all.

🛠️ Travel Essentials

• Fuel up at Manali or Kullu. After Kiratpur Sahib, there are numerous pumps on NH44.

• Great food stops include Bilaspur (for lassi and parathas), Ambala (Punjabi thalis), and Murthal (for tandoori stuffed naans and kulchas).

• Avoid driving after sunset if possible—fatigue sets in and Delhi NCR traffic picks up in the evening.

💡 Tips for Day 15

• Carry dry snacks and plenty of water to avoid unnecessary halts.

• Make use of restrooms at major fuel stations or food outlets en route.

• Keep your playlist ready—this is the day you’ll want to reflect, smile, and relive every twist and turn.

As the city skyline appears and traffic thickens, you’ll realize—you didn’t just drive through the mountains. You’ve conquered one of India’s most epic road circuits.

🏁 You’ve Done It.

Delhi to Srinagar. Across Zoji La. Past Kargil and Leh. Over Khardung La and into the Nubra. Down Shyok to Pangong. Remote Hanle. Umling La. Tso Kar. Rohtang. Atal Tunnel.

This isn’t just a road trip. It’s a pilgrimage for the soul.

🧰 Must-Carry Essentials: Gear Up Like a Pro

When you're covering extreme terrains like Zoji La, Khardung La, or the desolate stretches between Hanle and Tso Kar, being unprepared is not an option. Here's your Ladakh survival gear checklist:

🚗 Vehicle Rescue & Spares

• Jerry Can (10–20L): A must for Leh–Hanle–Tso Kar–Tandi stretch where fuel stations are sparse or unreliable.

• Puncture Repair Kit: Especially vital for bikers and solo car drivers. Include tyre levers, sealant, portable compressor.

• Tow Rope + Shackles: Essential for slushy crossings or breakdowns — especially around Baralacha La and Changthang.

• Jump Starter or Cables: Batteries often fail in cold mornings or after idle days.

• Basic Tool Kit: Spanners, screwdrivers, pliers, electrical tape, and duct tape.

• Spare Fuses & Bulbs: Sudden electrical failures are common on rough roads.

💊 Personal Safety & First Aid

• Basic Medicines: Paracetamol, anti-diarrheal, painkillers, AMS-preventing meds like Diamox (doctor-advised), anti-allergics, antiemetics.

• ORS & Glucose Packs: For dehydration or exhaustion.

• Altitude Sickness Kit: Oximeter, nasal spray, and portable oxygen cans (optional but helpful).

• Rescue Whistle & Headlamp: Especially handy for solo riders or if stuck after dark.

• Thermal Blankets & Emergency Shelter Sheet: If you're stranded between stops in sub-zero weather.

🏁 Wheels Down, Hearts Full – Wrapping Up the Ultimate Ladakh Circuit

And just like that, you've completed one of India's most legendary road trips — from the bustling plains of Delhi to the dreamlike altitude of Umling La, through river valleys, war-torn legends, desert dunes, and cosmic silence in Hanle. You’ve crossed over 10 high-altitude passes, met the Indus, Zanskar, Shyok, and Chenab rivers, and stood witness to the incredible transformation of terrain, temperature, and time.

Whether you're in a car, SUV, or on a bike, this journey isn’t just about the road — it's about the rhythm of India’s mountain soul.