The journey from Manali to Ladakh is more than just a road trip—it’s a rite of passage for adventure lovers, bikers, photographers, and spiritual seekers. Traversing one of the highest highways in the world, it’s a path that tests your spirit and rewards you with awe-inspiring views, star-filled skies, and life-changing moments.
In this guide, we’ll explore the distance from Manali to Ladakh, best routes, elevation changes, permit requirements, health precautions, and all the information you need to plan a safe and memorable adventure through the Himalayas.
What is the Distance from Manali to Ladakh?
The road distance from Manali to Ladakh (Leh) is approximately 1,106.3 kilometers, and it takes around 25 hours of non-stop driving via National Highway 1 (NH 1). However, due to the challenging mountain terrain, it is usually completed over 2–4 days.
- Total Distance: 1,106.3 km
- Estimated Drive Time: 25 hours (excluding overnight stays)
- Route: Manali → Rohtang → Keylong → Jispa → Sarchu → Pang → Upshi → Leh
This route includes numerous high-altitude passes and unpaved stretches, so planning for rest, fuel, and acclimatization is critical.
Detailed Route with Key Stopovers in Manali to Ladakh
➤ Day 1: Manali to Keylong/Jispa
- Distance: 120–140 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Major Attractions: Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft), Solang Valley, Lahaul Valley
- Road Type: Asphalt and gravel; winding mountain curves
Note: Rohtang Pass is the first high-altitude gateway. Permits are mandatory to cross.
➤ Day 2: Jispa to Sarchu
- Distance: 107 km
- Time: 5–6 hours
- Altitude: 14,500 ft (Sarchu plateau)
- Attractions: Baralacha La Pass, Suraj Tal (3rd highest lake in India)
- Stay: Tented camps (basic to deluxe)
This is one of the most challenging legs due to thin air and frigid nights.
➤ Day 3: Sarchu toLeh
- Distance: 253 km
- Time: 8–9 hours
- Highest Points: Nakee La (15,547 ft), Lachulung La (16,616 ft), Tanglang La (17,480 ft)
- Attractions: More Plains (a 40-km long flat stretch at 15,500 ft)
Altitude and Acclimatization: Don’t Underestimate It
The Manali–Leh route ascends quickly from 2,000 m (6,500 ft) in Manali to over 5,300 m (17,500 ft) at Tanglang La. This makes it one of the most altitude-intense routes in the world.
Tips for Acclimatization:
- Spend 1 night in Manali and 1–2 nights in Keylong/Jispa before ascending to Sarchu.
- Drink lots of water; avoid alcohol.
- Take Diamox (only after doctor consultation) for altitude sickness prevention.
- Know the symptoms of AMS: nausea, breathlessness, headache, dizziness
Alternative Route: Manali → Atal Tunnel → Leh
Since the Atal Tunnel (Rohtang Tunnel) opened in 2020, travelers can bypass Rohtang Pass.
- Distance Saved: ~45 km
- Time Saved: 2–3 hours
- Tunnel Length: 9.02 km
- Entry Point: Just 24 km from Manali
This route leads directly into Lahaul Valley, reducing weather-related closures at Rohtang and providing faster access to Keylong and Jispa.
Cultural & Scenic Stopovers Along in Manali to Ladakh
The road is not just about landscapes—it also introduces you to the ancient cultures of the Himalayas.
Key Highlights:
- Keylong: Capital of Lahaul; Buddhist monasteries, apple orchards
- Jispa: Charming village on the Bhaga River; riverside camps
- Sarchu: Nomadic camps, rugged terrain, stargazing paradise
- Pang: Highest army transit camp in the world
- Upshi: First significant village as you descend into Ladakh
Every stop lets you interact with warm mountain people, try local food, and understand the unique Indo-Tibetan way of life.
Modes of Travel from Manali to Ladakh
| Mode | Details |
| Bike (Self-Ride) | Popular among bikers; rent in Manali for ₹1,000–₹2,000/day |
| Car (Self-Drive) | SUV/MUV preferred; roads rough and narrow in parts |
| Shared Taxi | ₹2,500–₹3,500/person; safe and cost-effective |
| Private Jeep Tour | Fully guided; best for families and luxury travelers |
Permits Required in Manali to Ladakh
| Permit | Required For | Where to Get |
| Rohtang Pass Permit | Vehicles crossing Rohtang from Manali side | https://rohtangpermits.nic.in |
| Vehicle Registration | DL + RC of the vehicle (or rental agreement) | Local traffic checks en route |
| ILP (Inner Line Permit) | Not needed for Indian citizens on this route | Required only for Nubra, Pangong, etc. |
Always carry multiple photocopies of ID, driving license, and hotel bookings.
Fuel Stations and ATMs in Manali to Ladakh
Fuel Stops
- Manali
- Tandi (Last pump before Leh – 365 km gap)
- Upshi (before Leh)
Tip: Carry extra fuel in cans for bikes and cars—essential on this stretch.
ATMs:
- Manali and Leh only. Withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Manali.
Where to Stay En Route in Manali to Ladakh
| Place | Stay Type | Price Range (INR) |
| Manali | Budget hotels, hostels | ₹800–₹2,500/night |
| Jispa/Keylong | Guesthouses, homestays | ₹1,000–₹2,500/night |
| Sarchu | Tent camps | ₹1,200–₹3,000/night |
| Leh | Hotels, boutique stays | ₹1,200–₹4,000/night |
Packing Checklist for the Jourey
- Warm clothes (thermal layers, down jacket, gloves)
- Sunglasses + sunscreen (UV rays are harsh)
- Water bottles and energy snacks
- Personal medicines + AMS treatment
- Offline Google Maps
- Power bank, torch, and lighter
- Spare fuel cans and tire repair kit
Suggested Itinerary: Manali to Ladakh (6 Days)
| Day | Route | Stay |
| Day 1 | Delhi → Manali | Manali |
| Day 2 | Manali → Jispa/Keylong | Jispa |
| Day 3 | Jispa → Sarchu | Sarchu Camps |
| Day 4 | Sarchu → Leh | Leh Hotel |
| Day 5 | Leh Sightseeing (Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame) | Leh |
| Day 6 | Rest / Optional Nubra or Pangong trip | Optional |
Manali to Ladakh 6 days Tour Book Now
Conclusion
The distance from Manali to Ladakh—25 hours (1,106.3 km) via NH 1—is more than a physical stretch of road. It’s a journey of the soul. From winding passes and Himalayan peaks to remote villages and vast valleys, it reveals the raw beauty of India’s crown.
Whether you’re an adventurer, spiritual seeker, biker, or photographer, this journey promises transformation. At ekashmir tour package, we help travelers like you turn this dream trip into a well-planned reality with expert guidance, customizable packages, and local insight.
FAQs of the Distance from Manali to Ladakh
- Is the Manali to Ladakh road open all year?
No. It is open only from mid-June to October depending on weather and BRO updates. - How dangerous is the route?
It’s safe during the open season but includes high altitudes and rough patches. Always drive cautiously. - Can I take a sedan or hatchback?
Not recommended. Use an SUV or MUV due to uneven roads and steep climbs. - What happens in case of a medical emergency en route?
Army camps (Pang, Sarchu) offer basic first aid. Always carry essential medicines. - Are toilets and food stops available?
Yes, but basic. Carry snacks and tissues. Guesthouses and dhabas are found at intervals. - Can foreigners travel on this route?
Yes, but they’ll need Inner Line Permits beyond Leh (e.g., Nubra, Pangong). - What is the altitude of Leh?
Leh sits at around 11,500 ft (3,500 meters) above sea level. - Can I do a round trip Manali–Leh–Srinagar?
Yes. Many travelers prefer this loop for diverse landscapes. - Is mobile network available?
No signal between Keylong and Leh. Jio/BSNL postpaid works in Leh. - How to book a Manali to Ladakh tour?
You can book your fully customized road trip with ekashmirtourpackage.com—offering group tours, bike rentals, driver support, and more.