7D / 6N8 days
7 nights
Manali
start point
N/A
best season
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Overview
Tour overview
Manali to Leh is an invigorating road journey for those who dare to scale unprecedented heights and experience an intense adrenaline rush. Starting at the stunning hill station of Manali in Beas River Valley, Manali to Leh tour follows a serpentine mountain cruise revealing unbelievable vistas at every footstep. Mesmerizing cascades, snow-capped Himalayas and colossal glaciers dot the Manali to Leh expedition. It turns even more rewarding when you get to explore Ladakh’s diverse landscapes ranging from white sand deserts to lush green valleys and magnetic hills to crowd-free high altitude lakes as well as the captivating Buddhist monasteries and Tibet-style architectural wonders. The idea of camping right in the middle of such amazing attractions further makes Manali to Leh a must-have experience.
Manali to Leh Tour
Manali to Leh tour follows a serpentine mountain cruise revealing unbelievable vistas at every footstep.
Tour highlights
Visit Sarchu
Visit Nubra Valley
Visit Pangong Lake
Visit Sham Valley
Destinations covered
Best Time
N/A
Ideal For
N/A
Day by day
Day-by-day itinerary
A carefully paced plan, day by day. Tap any day for the stay, meals and altitude detail.
Manali to Leh tour by road begins as you arrive in Manali and reach the decided point (prefer to start early morning to avoid huge traffic congestions on Manali to Leh road). Manali to Leh bike trip and jeep tour are among the most popular travel and holiday options in India. Apart from daredevils with an inclination for adventure, nature lovers, leisure seekers, honeymoon couples and family holidaymakers too crave for this memorable road sojourn.
Watch in awe as the altitude continues to escalate (make sure you carry carbonated drinks and prescribed medications if you are prone to altitude sickness) and we come across beautiful waterfalls and pleasant mountain sceneries. The first main attraction would be Rohtang Pass (elevation around 13,050 ft.) which connects the valleys of Kullu and Lahaul-Spiti and also offers a switch from Hindu culture to Buddhism. Please note that the pass shuts down during winter months (November-March) due to heavy snowfall. Stop at the pass and savour the beauty of snow-laden mountain slopes all around.
Continue the trip to reach Keylong (elevation 10,100 ft.), located close to the intersection of the river valleys of Chandra, Bhaga, and Chenab. You may visit (depending on time available) one or more of the many Buddhist gompas offering remarkable views of valleys. Resume the journey to driving through the Baralacha Pass (elevation 16,040 ft.) which connects Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir. A part of an ancient trade route, it promises stupendous views of Zanskar Range and has hotspots like Suraj Tal Lake in the close proximity.
Later, begin the journey to reach Sarchu campsite where you would stay overnight. Located just at the boundary between Himachal and J&K, it provides tented accommodations staying in which is extremely thrilling.
Leave Sarchu early in the morning to cover the second half of Manali to Leh distance. Get ready to traverse through 21 hairpin bends, called Gata Loops as you reach the third mountain pass called Nakeela (elevation 15,647 ft.). The experience is indeed adrenaline-spiking, but you must be patient to deal with poor road conditions caused by frequent landslides and avalanches. An interesting story narrates how a tourist’s ghost haunts the region and is pacified by offering water and cigarettes.
Continue the drive and reach Lachungla Pass (elevation 16,600 ft.) while driving on a road flanked on both sides by water. It is important that you acclimatize to high altitude by now. Admire the natural splendour all around and reach Pang, a small hamlet offering lunch and accommodations. Have lunch and continue the drive to navigate over Skyangchu Thang (one of the highest plateaus in the world and among the largest in India) and reach the fifth pass of Manali to Leh trip, called Tanglangla (elevation 17,480 ft.), claimed as the world’s second highest mountain pass. Air gets thinner and you might feel the lack of oxygen, but the paradisiacal beauty and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags offer visual respite. From there, you enter the Indus Valley and reach the town of Leh. On arrival, check in at the booked hotel and stay overnight.
After spending miles of distance from Manali to Leh Ladakh, you wake up to the incredible sunrise at Leh, the capital of Ladakh. Dominated by the resplendent Leh Palace from a hilltop, the town enjoys the striking backdrops of Zanskar and Ladakh Ranges and witnesses the meandering course of River Indus like a silent spectator. Dotted with Buddhist gompas and Tibetan buildings, it is a stress-busting asylum away from the chaotic world.
Get ready to drive to Nubra Valley (foreigners and NRIs in the group of two or more must obtain Protected Area Permit or PAP from DC Office, Leh by paying fees of INR 20 as processing fee and INR 300 as environment protection fee per person. PAP is valid for 7 days; Indians must carry valid ID proofs for accessing the valley), which is fondly called the Valley of Flowers. On this road trip, you would drive through Khardungla Pass (elevation 17,582 ft.), disputably claimed as the world’s highest mountain pass and located on the ancient caravan route connecting the region with Central Asia. Stop at the pass to admire the enthralling sights of snow-covered peaks and deep valleys (stopping at high mountain passes for long is not advised).
On arrival in the Nubra Valley region (entry fee INR 20 per vehicle), you would check in at the booked hotel or camp at the charming village of Hunder. Located close to Siachen Glacier (world’s highest battleground), the valley discloses surprising greenery with agricultural fields of barley, mustard, wheat and numerous fruit orchards. Famous for its dual-hump Bactrian camels, white sand dunes and some very enchanting Buddhist monasteries, the valley sits close to the confluence of rivers Nubra and Shyok. Take some rest and explore the region on foot. You may visit the local villages and admire the peaceful lifestyle of the local residents. Stay overnight at Hunder.
On the fourth day of Manali to Leh tour, you would visit Hunder and explore the unusual white sand landscapes. Ride a Bactrian camel (costs around INR 180 for about 15 min.) and click some photos. Begin the journey back to Leh and stop at Diskit, the capital of Nubra Valley, on the way. Visit the 14th century Diskit Monastery (entry fee INR 20 per person) which boasts of attractions like colorful frescos and murals and a huge drum. Another highlight is the 32 m. high statue of Maitreya Buddha facing the river. Enjoy the spectacular views of Nubra Valley from the terrace and interact with the friendly monks. If time allows, visit the nearby Lachung Temple and explore the local bazaars. Continue the drive to Leh and relax at the hotel on arrival. Stay overnight at Leh.
Post breakfast, we begin with another wondrous instalment of Manali to Leh tour package by driving to Pangong Tso Lake (a copy of PAP is required). Located at a height of about 14,270 ft., the 134 km.-long lake has 40% of its area in India and remaining in China. Featured in a number of Bollywood movies, the lake with its azure water enjoys the sights of rocky mountain slopes and blue skies and has extremely tranquil environment. If visiting in the season of migratory birds, you would find birds like brahmin ducks and bar-headed goose. One may also come across animals like marmot and kiang.
It is advised to start for the lake early in the morning to cross Pagal Nala (the crazy stream) before noon as it swells up post-noon and is thus difficult to navigate. You would be visiting the 17th century Shey Palace and Monastery at Shey (entry fee INR 20 per person), the erstwhile capital of Ladakh. Developed as a summer retreat by the local rulers, the palace has an imposing architecture with attractions like beautiful balconies and chortens with tops made of pure gold while the monastery boasts of a 12 m. high Shakyamuni Buddha Statue and incredible wall paintings.
Later, stop at Thiksey Monastery (entry fee INR 20) in the village named Thiksey. Perched on a hilltop, the monastery flaunts the typical Tibetan architecture style imitating the world-famous Potala Palace of Tibet. The huge 20-storey structure boasts of stupas, thangkas, murals and other forms of Buddhist arts apart from the 49 ft. high Maitreya Buddha statue (highest in Ladakh). Resume the road trip and now you would drive through Changla Pass (elevation 17,590 ft.), thrilled by the steep ascent and descent of roads. We would stop at the pass only for about 15-20 min. as lack of oxygen may cause extreme discomfort. Enjoy the spellbinding views of snow-capped mountains and get excited by the snow sheet all around. Drive through the villages of Sekti and Tangtse and stop for a refreshing cup of tea. Next, you pass through the Changthang Plateau dotted with small hamlets and home to Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary and continue the drive to the lake.
On arrival, you would immediately surrender to the overwhelming beauty of the place. Check in at the booked tent accommodation and watch the lake showcasing different shades of blue till the stunning sunset. Stay overnight inside the camp, listening to the melodic splashing of lake water and getting hypnotized by the moonlit surroundings.
Get up to enjoy marvelous sunrise views with sky switching its colours. Bid adieu to the lake after breakfast and start the drive back to Leh. If you have planned this tour all the way from Delhi to Leh via Manali by road, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the exceptionally striking Hemis Monastery (entry fee INR 50, wallets and mobiles not allowed) on the way from Pangong to Leh. Though it existed for centuries, the present-day structure (largest monastery complex in Ladakh) was founded in the 17th century. It is a disputed tale that Jesus Christ travelled to India and spent few days at the monastery. Explore the fascinating mural paintings and great collections of Buddhist relics and artefacts. Hemis Festival (celebrated in June/July) hosts the acclaimed mask dances and many other events worth attending. Resume the drive to Leh and stay overnight at the hotel.
Have breakfast before we start the drive to Sham Valley which is full of natural and man-made attractions. You would be travelling on the famous Leh-Kargil Highway parallel to the cheerful Indus River. The first attraction would be the Hall of Fame Museum (entry fee INR 10/50 for Indians/foreigners; camera fee INR 50; closed on Tuesday) that honors the sacrifice of brave Indian soldiers in the India-Pakistan wars. Explore war weapons and other interesting collections and attend the 30 min. documentary about Kargil War. You may also shop for authentic Kashmiri kesar (saffron) which may cost around INR 300 per g and other items at the souvenir shop.
Drive to Patthar Sahib Gurudwara, a Sikh shrine famous for housing a sacred Patthar (stone) with body imprint of the first Sikh Guru Shri Nanak Dev Ji. Pray at the shrine and resume the road trip to reach the miraculous Magnetic Hill. Throughout the Manali to Leh route, you must have not come across something as astounding as the hill which has the power to pull vehicles uphill even when the ignition is off. Experience the phenomenon by parking the car at a point marked on the road. Later, reach the confluence of rivers Indus and Zanskar near Nimmu Village and savour the amazing sight amidst beautiful sceneries. Those who prefer Manali to Leh cycling or biking adventures love to visit this place on two wheels, while rafting is another popular adventure here.
Start the drive back to Leh and stop at Spituk Monastery (entry fee INR 20). Located on a hilltop with majestic mountain peaks and River Indus in the background, this 11th-century monastery accommodates more than 100 monks and boasts of antique arms, masks, Buddha statues and other collections. Get back to leh and take some rest. In the evening, visit the local bazaars to shop for items like pashmina woollens and shawls, Buddhist prayer wheels, paintings and masks and varieties of hand-woven rugs and carpets. Alluring designs of traditional silver and turquoise jewelry and books are other popular items. Stay overnight at Leh.
The dream tour of Manali to Leh ends as we drop you at Leh Airport after breakfast. Board the scheduled flight to begin your journey back to home.
UNESCO World Heritage
World Heritage Sites on this journey
This tour takes you close to 1 UNESCO World Heritage Site of India. These are places the world has recognised as our shared treasure. Below you can see each one and how far it is from where you stay, so you can plan your darshan and sightseeing with time to spare.
A short drive from your stay
Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area
Natural · Inscribed 2014 · Himachal Pradesh
Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area is a short drive from your stay at Manali (about 33 km). You can see it as a half-day trip.
Want to plan your trip around India’s World Heritage Sites? See all UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India.
Travel tips
Travel Tips
Travel Tips For This Tour
Travel Tips For Manali to Leh Tour
Travel Tips for Manali Leh Tour Package
- Road tour from Manali to Leh is not for the faint-hearted people. Therefore, you need to build your stamina to endure a long road journey by undergoing regular exercise and workout sessions before embarking on the tour.
- There are chances of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) during the tour due to less amount of oxygen and altitude of the place. Guarding yourself with proper medication for headaches, nose bleeding, breathlessness and nausea would be a good idea.
- It is better to take a day off at Manali to acclimatise yourself before embarking on the high altitude Manali to Leh tour. In this way, you can avoid Acute Mountain Sickness to a large extent.
- Do not forget to pack your jacket, gloves, extra thermal liners to endure the bone-chilling cold at certain areas in Leh.
- Since Leh is in the sensitive zone of India, always keep your essential ID proofs like PAN card, Driving License handy. You may have to show them at certain checkpoints during the Manali to Leh tour.
- Always carry a spare pair of batteries for your cell phone and camera, as you may not get utility store to buy them at regular intervals.
- Carrying some dry food like cakes, biscuits or cup noodles is recommended during the tour, as you may not easily find refreshment shops during the journey.
- Ask your driver to fill the diesel to full tank before you embark upon the tour, as the hilly terrain is not equipped with gas stations at regular intervals.
- Do not forget to bring home some exclusive souvenirs from the Ladakh Art Palace, Tibetan Handicraft Emporium from the Main Bazaar Road.
What travellers say
What travellers say
4.7
Way to India · rated 4.7★ on Google across 46 reviews
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Yashvind Kumar Poteeram★★★★★
“A big thanks to Way To India for organising such a truly memorable and spiritually fulfilling experience during our 12 Jyotirlinga Darshan pilgrimage from 1st May to 18th May. They organized the entire journey exceptionally well, ensuring that every aspect of the trip was smooth, comfortable, and hassle-free. From transportation and hotel arrangements to darshan planning and coordination, everything was managed professionally. Despite the extensive travel across multiple destinations, the itinerary was well-structured, allowing us to complete all the Jyotirlinga darshans comfortably. Thanks to staff of Way To India, especially, Ms Neha, who was supportive, responsive, and attentive throughout the journey, always ready to assist whenever needed. Her dedication and careful planning made this sacred pilgrimage stress-free and enjoyable. I sincerely appreciate their excellent service, commitment, and hospitality. Highly recommend Way To India to anyone planning a spiritual tour, especially for the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra. Thank you for making this divine journey so special and memorable.”3 weeks ago · Google
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Aruna Persand★★★★★
“We have successfully completed the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra, with Waytoindia and it was a truly blessed and unforgettable journey. Every aspect of the tour was well planned and professionally organized, from transportation and accommodations to temple visits and sightseeing. Visiting all twelve sacred Jyotirlingas was a deeply spiritual experience. The itinerary was designed efficiently, allowing us to have darshan at each shrine comfortably while enjoying the cultural and religious significance of every destination. We sincerely appreciate the excellent support and coordination throughout the trip. The team was always available to assist, ensuring a smooth and stress-free pilgrimage. Thank you Waytoindia for making our dream of completing the 12 Jyotirlinga Yatra a reality. We highly recommend this tour to anyone seeking a well-organized and spiritually enriching pilgrimage experience. Har Har Mahadev! 🙏🕉️”a month ago · Google
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Yash Bhargava★★★★★
“We recently entrusted our honeymoon planning to 'Way to India', and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. From itinerary finalization to on-ground execution, everything was handled with remarkable professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail. Every aspect of our trip — flights, hotels, transfers, experiences, and even the small thoughtful touches — was perfectly curated. The itinerary was balanced, well-planned, and tailored exactly to what we wanted. We never had to worry about a single thing; all arrangements were seamless and absolutely hassle-free. What truly stood out was their responsiveness and genuine care. They were always available, always patient, and consistently went the extra mile to ensure our journey was special. Special thanks to Neha Ma'am for planning everything. We are incredibly grateful and wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone looking for a stress-free, personalised, and delightful travel experience. Thank you for making our honeymoon truly magical!”4 months ago · Google
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
For the Manali to Leh tour, you will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain areas in Ladakh, especially if you plan to go to Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. You can obtain this permit online or through local authorities in Leh. It's advisable to arrange this in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
To prepare for high altitude sickness, it's crucial to acclimatize properly. Spend a day in Manali before starting your journey to Leh. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities initially, and consider carrying medication for symptoms like headaches and nausea. Gradually ascend to higher altitudes to help your body adjust.
The best time for the Manali to Leh tour is from late May to early October. During these months, the roads are generally clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable for travel. Avoid the monsoon season as landslides can occur, making the journey hazardous.
Pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, jackets, gloves, and hats, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a first-aid kit. Also, carry spare batteries for your devices, as charging facilities may be limited.
Yes, traveling from Manali to Leh is generally safe, but caution is advised due to the challenging terrain and altitude. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, follow local guidelines, and avoid traveling alone. Always stay informed about weather conditions and road status.
The road conditions on the Manali to Leh route can vary significantly. While parts of the road are well-maintained, you may encounter rough patches, especially after heavy rainfall or during the early season when snow is melting. Be prepared for bumpy rides and occasional roadblocks.
Yes, when traveling in Ladakh, it's important to respect local customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting monasteries. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites. Additionally, be mindful of local traditions and practices to ensure a respectful interaction.
Mobile connectivity can be limited in remote areas of Ladakh. BSNL and Airtel networks generally have better coverage. Consider carrying a portable charger and extra batteries, as power sources may not be readily available. Wi-Fi is often available in hotels but can be unreliable.
Accommodation options during the Manali to Leh tour range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury camps. In Leh, you can find various hotels, while in Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake, options may be limited to camps or homestays. It's advisable to book in advance during peak season.
The distance from Manali to Leh is approximately 474 kilometers, and the journey typically takes around 12 to 15 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. It's advisable to start early in the morning to make the most of daylight.
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