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About Me
First and foremost, very warm Welcome and Thanks for stopping by my blog 
I am Dheeraj Sharma, an avid Traveler, a rookie shutterbug, a die hard Leh – Ladakh lover, with a strong passion towards driving whilst exploring new places & sharing those experiences with the fellow Travelers. Lately, I found that using your passion to dive into the unknown and testing your limits of soul and body really boosts your individuality. Since then I never looked back. I love to capture the beauty of nature in cameras or simply say “Nature/Landscape Photography”. Frequently I get on my wheels to hunt this unsatisfied hunger of capturing the endless beauty which nature offers us.
Well, professionally I am a Software Developer, employed with a software company in Gurgaon, India. Besides traveling, I enjoy and love my work (software development) to the core, trying to be ever competitive in challenges offered to me in my professional life.
Personally, I am very fond of Chocolates and Swatch(es). Cricket, Computers and Hollywood Movies always finds a special attention in my day to day life. Before I die, I would love to summit at least 5 peaks starting from 5000-7500 Meters or may be more if god, luck and physical fitness allow me to do so . Just as everything starts with a cause, so do this whole chapter of Traveling in my life. If you are interested to know more please read the post "Everything has a start…"
One day a thought rippled through my mind for sharing all I learn from Travel with likes of you, hence I choose to start this Blog. This Blog is all simply about Traveling and you can expect experiences, learning, thoughts, tips, guides, routes, maps, suggestions, hotel reviews, travel news etc. You all are most welcome to join in and share your comments, experiences, thoughts, suggestions etc or any stuff related to traveling, driving, dining, riding etc.
The Vision of the blog is to share as much valuable travel information and experiences as possible with other fellow travelers or tourists and help them travel with a difference…
I dedicate this blog and offer my sincere Thanks to my Family (Lovely Mom and Dad and a beautiful wife Deepti), Relatives, Friends, Uncle (Mr. Dev Dutt Sharma) for their never ending love, care, affection and support. May GOD bless each one of them and their families too.
You are most welcome to leave a comment if I missed something, I will get back to you within no time. I hope you will subscribe to read what’s new on this blog with each passing day and keep on visiting again and again to share your Travel (or driving or riding) experiences, comments, thoughts, suggestions etc.
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Recent Comments
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Zazen, For Vento taking on Manali - Leh Highway, I will suggest you rea
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Namit, My 2 cents on the itinerary: You need to carry spare fuel so th
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Anubhav, Yes, you can use that from Ladakh to Manali but inside Ladakh
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Prasad, You will need to carry spare fuel in Jerry Cans which do not le
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Tahzeeb, Though 10 days are very much less for Ladakh trip but still I
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Hardik, Thanks alot buddy. Sorry I do not have contacts of anyone runni
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Rajesh, Though I am not very much into technical details of automotive
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Ranjit, Innova will suffer at few sections of the road, better get Scor
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Zain, Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other directio
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi ajay, When do you want to start, 23rd May is right after 3 days?? Guess
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184 Comments
We 6-7 friends are planning to leave from Kanpur on 31-May-2012 , then via Delhi by road to Kasol, Manali & then Leh / Ladakh etc. returning back to Kanpur on 10-June-2012.
We plan to take a car and 2-3 bikes. Please advice.
Hi Tahzeeb,
Though 10 days are very much less for Ladakh trip but still I will suggest something like below:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali/Solang Valley
– Better stay at Solang Valley and avoid Manali as sleeping at Solang Valley does help in acclimatization
– If going by own car, get the permit made in advance to drive on Manali – Rohtang Pass road through hotel/travel agent in Manali
– Overnight at Manali/Solang Valley
Day 2 | Manali/Solang Valley – Keylong/Jispa
– It is always better to stay either at Keylong/Jispa so that you do not feel sick or hit by AMS.
– Avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost while going to Leh from Manali because your body will not be acclimatized by the time you reach there.
– I prefer staying at Jispa more because Keylong gives the feeling of a town while Jispa is more closer to nature having Bhaga river running just aside the Manali – Leh Highway at Jispa.
– Overnight at Keylong/Jispa
Day 3 | Keylong/Jispa – Leh
– Leave Keylong/Jispa early next morning, say by 4/5 AM types, so that you reach Leh in the evening.
– Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
– Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
– Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu
– Stay overnight at Sarchu
Day 9 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
– On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
– Overnight at Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
– Return home
Day 11 | Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello dhiraj sir,
i want to plan leh in the first week of august by my xylo self drive . is innerline permit for pangong , kahrdung la , nubra and toso moriri in advance from ahmedabad ?
Hi Nilesh,
You need to contact travel agents in Leh or some hotel you might be staying in Leh. They can provide you the Inner Line Permit in advance. You need to mail or fax them the photo Id copies of your group and money they charge for it.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, Dheeraj,
Nice to your advice about travel trip to LEH. Really great, I need you advice over it again.
Travelling by Verna, diesel self-drive with wife and two kids 18 & 15 yrs old(boy and Girl)
My itinerary: Start date June 16th sat.
Day-1 Delhi to Jammu.
Day-2 Jammu to Srinagar.
Day-3 Srinagar
Day-4 Srinagar to Kargil.
Day-5 Kargil to Leh.
Day-6 Leh visit.
Day 7 Leh Visit.( or make it one day)
Day-8 Leh to Sarchu
Day-9 Sarchu to Manali
Day 10 stay near manali( Budget Hotels)
Day 11. Manali to Delhi.
Need your comments and help. Shall I Pre-book hotels at Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Manali or I’ll easily find the accommodations( budget Hotels) after reaching these places.
My Verna, Diesel will be suitable for this trip. I have been to Kedarnath and faced no trouble with the CAR.
Please make My Itinerary from Delhi to Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi. My wife don’t like Gardens, Monuments. She like lakes, shopping and Long drive.
Please advice
Thanks,
Baljeet.
Hi Baljeet,
Itinerary looks decent to me but what I believe is that you are going for the road trip not the Ladakh trip because you are not seeing anything in Ladakh. With little caution you can do it in your Verna. Still, I will suggest you read about section “Private Vehicles i.e. Cars and Bikes | Self Drive or Ride to Ladakh” in the article linked here: How to plan a journey on Manali – Leh Highway to give you an idea what to expect in self drive in hatch back. For a quick read:
The roads may be stabilized by that time but you will need to face few challenges on the route. The hatchback/sedan will increase the level of every challenge even further. My suggestion will be to go via Srinagar route which is opened for light vehicles earlier (most likely) and will be stabilized by then. It will help you feel comfortable with the driving, provide more acclimatization and then once you have done the local Leh Ladakh come back via Manali side. Secondly, since you are in hatch/sedan back then you need to drive with extra care as well. There will be some sections on the Manali – Leh highway in which yo might need to sacrifice some scratches on the underbelly. Just make sure you do not bump the engine sump (know it before where it is placed in your car). You need to protect it all around the trip. Thirdly, whenever in doubt do not rush into the section rather park aside and feel the section with your foot, see how other vehicles are crossing it and make a planned route in your mind to cross that section. At the very least do carry Mseal, quick fix, funnely, jerry cans and towing rope with you all the time.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
You need to pre-book only at Manali as it iwll most likely be full of tourists. Rest if you are not specific of any hotel and do not mind searching a bit here and there then you should not book.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj. we are also planning to stay at tangste, on return from Pangong lake. Do u hv contact no of guesthouses at Tangste…especially Dothuling. heard a lot but dont have the contact no.
Hi Rajnish,
As per itinerary suggested, I do not think you have enough days to stay at Tangste. Better come back to Leh on the same day or increase number of days. I have contacts from Yakmik’s Changla Guest House where we stayed at Tangste.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Well mainatined site/blog with all information well written.Going to be useful tool for travellers Best Wishes. Could You also suggest me if I need to settle in HP for 2-3 years which place should i choose which is away from commericalisation and full of peace
Hello Ashish,
Thanks alot dear. If you really want peace, then I will suggest you try Pabbar Valley or Kinnaur Valley or may be Spiti Valley (but life will be tough there). Pabbar is very much off-beat and about 90 KMs from Shimla, so easily approachable too.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello dhiraj sir ,
i want to plan my trip in the mounth of july end from srinagar to leh and return from leh to manali via toso moriri and toso kar . i have xylo car and i want to plan that at leh we dont drive and we take a driver form leh for pangong . khardung so all driver u suggest is aggry to drive my xylo . and what they charge for one day .
Hi Nilesh,
I am not sure what will be the charges for drivers in Ladakh for a day. You can contact Ladakh taxi union or the drivers mentioned in the article here to get the rates.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Plz dheeraj kindly help me out for following itinerary. We are the group of 4 people. We want make our trip very cheap. Kindly also suggest if we can get any shared taxis/bus for following route. Plz also give me some of the no. of taxi drivers that u know I would be really thankful to you.
Day 01. 18-08-2012
Mumbai-delhi train.
Day 02 Overnight at Delhi
Day 03. 20-08-2012 ( Monday) Delhi to Leh by flight. Rest and acclimatization at leh. Booked shanty guest house for 1200/- for 4 persons.
Day 04: 21-08-2012 (Tuesday) Local sightseeing of leh and arrangements for permits.
Day 05: 22-08-2012 (Wednesday) Leh- Pangong Tso lake via chang la. Return to leh on same day.
Day 6: 23-08-2012 (Thursday)
Leh-Kardungla-Diskit-Hunder via local bus which runs on Thursday.
– Visit Diskit old and new monastery including the tallest Buddha statue
– In the evening you can go for double humped camel ride at Hunder
– Overnight stay at Hundar
Day 7: 24-08-2012 (Friday)
Hunder – Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Visit Sumur and Panamik and finally return to Leh.
– Panamik has hot water springs and Sumur has a nice monastery.
– Overnight at Leh.
Do I have bus facility on Friday from diskit to leh?
Day 8: 25-08-2012 (Saturday)
Leh- kargil-drass. Overnight at drass.
If I want to reach drass at night for stay can I complete lamayuru, alchi, likir, lunar landscape and kargil memorial?
Day 9: 26-08-2012 (Sunday)
Drass to Srinagar via zojila pass.
Hi Rikhil,
You can get shared taxis to almost everywhere. Just stroll in Leh mainmarket and you will see many flyers or white boards where people put names to share taxis and even in hotels you can ask people to join in. As for itinerary I will suggest:
Day 3 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
– Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
– Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
– Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
– After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
– If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
– Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
– Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here:
– Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
– Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
– Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
– Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
– Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
– If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
– Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
– Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Sham Valley – Lamayuru – Kargil
– Leave early in the day to see all the places and reach Kargil by night
– Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, Gurudwara Pather Sahib
Day 9 | Kargil – Drass – Zozi La – Sonamarg – Srinagar
– Return home
Good Drivers in Leh – Ladakh:
1. Rigzin – 09622954779
2. Naseer – 09906229203 and 09469293183
3. Dorjey – 09419372742
4. Tashi – 09906994647, 09419342238
5. Tsewang – 09622993372
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thx a lot dheeraj sir.
Hi Dheeraj,
In the last days, I have been following some of your articles, pictures and suggestions in this blog and your facebook. The ladalakh tourist bureau better be grateful to you, for your tremendous help to hapless travellers.
Its wonderful what you do, really.
Well, here is my traveller question. We are a couple from travelling from Germany in mid of August to Delhi and eventually to Leh for 2.5 weeks.
1. I believe you suggest not to fly to Manali and then drive to Leh up on the Leh-Manali highway. Better to do it on the way down. Correct?
2. Is August really okay for Leh? Will there be low clouds impairing visibility in the mountains?
3. Is August really okay to explore the Himachal region – interested in Manali, Khajjiar, and Dharamsala? Or will the rains spoil it all for us?
Thank you so much in advance!
Hi Devyani,
Thanks alot and I am glad that you like the pictures and articles present on the blog. I am just back this week from the heaven called Ladakh after spending about 11-12 days there
… It was some serious fun and hence, more info. coming up to be shared with fellow travelers.
1. Yes, I suggest mostly that one shall travel by Srinagar side and come back via Manali side from Leh. It is always easy on the body as you ascend gradually and hence acclimatize to the high altitude of Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway when you reach there. You can read more reasons at the link here. You can check the a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here.
2. Well, generally August is fine within Ladakh but no one can predict weather conditions. It really rains very less within Ladakh, as it is a rain shadow region. But, now a days rain does reach Ladakh as well though not much. The problem will be lower hills in Jammu and Himachal.
3. Sadly, Rains i.e. August, generally is not a good time to explore Himachal
… Most rivers flow above/close to danger water levels, rains do not allow you to go out and enjoy. Landslides pretty common, so frequent breaks.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Glad to hear you had a great trip!
But also, we will be flying from Frankfurt. So FRA-DEL flying; DEL-SRI flying; and SRI-LEH by road would be a lot, isnt it?
1. DEL-SRI So on the way up, should we just fly upto Leh? 2 road trips take too much time, right? I realise that we will miss the Tso Morriri lake.
2. Ok, I get it that the rain Gods are on our side. But what about clouds covering the views? Do you think that one cant see any mountains becos of fog or clouds, or can we more or more or less expect sunshine.
3. Hmmm…
We will be driving down to Manali on 26th August or so… Time for rains to go away, right? We can spend a couple of days in Manali and then couple of days in Del, and then fly back.
4… Did I mention its awfully nice of you to respond to every query?
Hello Devyani,
1. On the way to Leh try the road trip from Srinagar – Leh as it will help you acclimatize better and hence, your body will feel light. You can fly out of Leh once you are done with sightseeing. Once, you fly from Delhi to Srinagar, you will have to take the rest for the whole day. Next day you can start the journey towards Leh. First you will have a night halt at Kargil, second day if you are interested in local culture then you should night halt at Alchi and finally you will reach Leh after exploring Alchi-Likir-Basgo and other parts of Sham Valley. This will ensure your body is well acclimatized to the high altitude of Leh. I guess doing it at easy pace will not be much of an issue for you guys.
2. Again, chances are you might see clear sky on some days with beautiful blue color which Ladakh is famous for and on the other had at some days you might get cloud cover which will block the views to an extend for sure. If you are not into photography then I guess you shall not worry much because with clouds the vistas are much more dramatic and equally beautiful
3. Moderate probability will be “yes clouds will go away”, but now a days we get extended monsoons which last by first week of September. I will wish and pary that the year is back to normal for you
… Yes, you can surely spend couple of days in Manali if you do it by road otherwise skip Manali rather enjoy two days within Ladakh as it will be much more beautiful than Manali in August. Probably fit Tso Moriri (personally I find it much beautiful than Pangong Tso but only personally 
) …
4. Thanks again, just my passion keeps me running and patience of my readers who still read the late replied comments
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I also like travelling extensively specially on my own with my family .
(I have already covered upto Keylong and also Upto Chitkul (Sangla Valley).
This time I wish to go to Laddakh tentatively between 10th of June and 30th of June,2012. The Total Time I would have would be around 14 days.
Please advise wether it would be possible to go via Srinagar and come back via Manali in this time period and also enjoy without much of driving stress , important places.
Can you suggest an itenary where some not so important places can be overlooked.
Also would the Manlali Leh route expected to be open by 20th of June for return from Leh to Manali.
I stay in NOIDA.
Hello Anupam,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You will be able to do it within this time period and yes by then Manali – Leh route is expected to be open by 20th June
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Me and my friends planned to visit leh on july 20th…we have started the booking process also..but the problem is we heard that the road between leh-nubra valley remains close on every monday for maintenance purpose in every week..can u plz confirm the information as we have already booked one hotel in nubra valley on 23rd july and it’s monday.
Hello Suniket,
Yes, the road to Khardung La is closed for maintenance on Monday. However, I guess these restrictions are for winters only AFAIK and in season time it is not a restriction when snow is less. Of course, if you go early in season then due to presence of snow this rule might be in applicable like in early June or May types but by July the snow from the roads would have resided and you would be allowed to go past Khardung La pass.
Also, sometimes the traffic is allowed even on Monday when rule is applicable from Leh side towards Nubra Valley but only after 4 PM types.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hi Dheeraj
Thanks for you support we completed our tour to Manali and gulaba Snow points,and we stayed at Adventure HOME Stay BANALA PANARSA Mandi and we had done all water sports like WATER RAfting at HOme stay ,they are providing all facility ,and rate are also very less,it’s really amazing HIMACHAL.
hello dhiraj sir
I want Ladakh Taxi Union Rates List 2012-13 if possble. u promise me that u give me after your ladakh trip .
Hello Nilesh,
You can refer the Leh Ladakh Taxi Union rate list for the year 2012 – 13 at the link here.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> Sorry for the delayed reply. I was traveling Ladakh for past two weeks
…
Hi Dheeraj,
I also like travelling extensively specially on my own with my family .I have an Innova. Please advise
if I can go on my own car upto laddakh.
(I have already covered upto Keylong and also Upto Chitkul (Sangla Valley).
This time I wish to go to Laddakh tentatively between 10th of June and 30th of June,2012. The Total Time I would have would be around 14 days.
Please advise wether it would be possible to go via Srinagar and come back via Manali in this time period and also enjoy without much of driving stress , important places.
Can you suggest an itenary where some not so important places can be overlooked.
Also would the Manlali Leh route be open by 20th of June for return from Leh to Manali.
I stay in NOIDA.
Hey Dhiraj
Could u suggest any taxi fellow in Delhi, who can provide his MUV with private passing….been leh twice with private passing vehicles….but seems their numbers have changed…Neither the route nor the unexpected things on this route are new for me…don’t wanna take my brand new car on this route…… Have tried searching on Indiamike & BCM touring as well, but couldn’t trace the private passing taxi fellows…any inputs…i wanna do it in May
Hi Dheeraj Sir,
I am planning my honey moon trip to Shimla and manali in 2nd week of June12. It will be of 6 days trip and i am from bangalore.i am planning 2 days for shimla and 4 days for kullu and manali. Please suggest me a best itinery covering all the places and also give some infor on unexplored spots inmanali where tourist people crowd is not ther. Below is my travel plan.
08Jun12 – 7.20PM – Karnataka Exp
09Jun12 – Travelling
10Jun12 – Reach Delhi by 11AM
10Jun12 – 9PM – To Kalka by DLI-HWRH_KLK Mail.
11Jun12 – 4.30 AM – Reach Kalka station
11Jun12 – 5.30AM – Kalka to Shimla by Shivalik Dlx Exp.
11Jun12 – 10.30AM – Reach Shimla
12,13,14,15,16
16Jun12 – 4 PM – Manali to DLI – by Volvo. This is my travel plan. From 11Jun12 – 10.30AM to 16Jun12 – 4 PM Please give me a good itinery,places to visit,travelling mode in shimla and manali etc . Covering Shimla and Manali. I need to spend more time in snows. How is the snow in rohtang pass in this season. Entry upto snow point is allowed in June month ? Since this is my first trip to North India every suggestions will be very useful to me.
can you suggest taxi operator in leh for 12 days sightseeing in jun 2012.
Hi Bhaskar,
I will email you the contact numbers of the drivers I know in Leh – Ladakh in the evening. I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> Sorry for the delayed reply. I was traveling Ladakh for past two weeks
…
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning for Bike Trip to Leh with a group of 6-7 members.
We have got a quote of around 60K along with Bike, Petrol, Food, Accomdation & Mechnic for route of Manali –> Leh –> Jammu.
I would like to know whether the cost is HIGH or decent enough.
Also, if we have to plan on our own, along with renting Bike from Manali and dropping at Jammu. How much will be cost? which includes Bike, Petrol, Food, Accomdation & Mechnic.
Please suggest.
Thanks
Kedar
Hi Kedar,
If this 60K is to be shared by 6-7 members then it is quite a deal man!!! If it is for one member only then I will prefer you read my article for estimating the cost for Ladakh trip at the link here: How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip.
Refer section “Self-Drive But Rented Vehicle” and see the budget comes around 30-35K only per person and that too when you are two in number. If you include the in-roads traveling to Leh as well, you will not increase by 40-42K anyhow. I see you have a mechanic as well, so this might be charging higher quote. But, 16-18K for mechanic
does not sound good. Prepare your self, and you will save good amount of money. You can ask any types of question you like, explore the ladakh section of the blog and I am sure you will be able to plan it very easily.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase of any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> I am traveling to Ladakh on Saturday for 10 days, so might not be able to reply instant.
Thank you Dhreeraj for your response..
Can I get Ph numbers of Bike Renters .. who can provide good bikes on rent .. from Jammu or Manali… I enquired with one of the Bike renter from Manali he is charging Rs.1300 per day without Petrol for Royal Enfield 350cc. He also said he can provide Mechanic with Rs.1000 per day accomodation & Food has to be beared by us…
Please sugggest
Hi Kedar,
For renting the bikes in Manali and their contacts, I will suggest you go through this article: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali. Carrying a mechanic has become really costly now a days. I will suggest you can opt for taxi to Leh via Manali Leh Highway and then hire bikes in Leh town. That will be much more cheaper and more convenient. You will be in less need of mechanic riding within Ladakh and if at all required the cost will not be much high when compared to Manali – Leh Highway.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS -> I am traveling to Ladakh on today for 10 days, so might not be able to reply instantly.
Dear Dheeraj,
I have enjoyed reading you blog, which is good to read.Keep it up man… I am basically from south india, chennai. I planning for Leh trip by two wheeler ( Royal Enfield)- Need you suggestion and advice, which the suitable route.
thanks & rgds
siva
Hi Siva,
Thanks alot. Let me know how many days you have in hand. You can go via Srinagar – Leh Highway and come back via Manali – Leh Highway. Please check out the Most Common Itinerary many of the traveler follow for Leh – Ladakh at the link here. It is quite balanced and relaxed plus you can add any relaxing days in between as you like. The itinerary takes care of the acclimatization part as well. Hence, you can go with it any day.
Please share more details and we can discuss your plan.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase of any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey ..It was lovely reading about you and your background. I was curious to know about you, a gentleman who is helping me so much these days for my tour. You are a STAR !! (*)(*)(*)(*)
Thankyou so much Sonal, such warm words of appreciation keeps the momentum going all time
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi Dheeraj
i and my wife reaching kullu on 26th April and returning back on 28th April evening kindly guide us for tour plan.
thanks
Hi Prashant,
You can follow a plan like below:
Day 1 | Reach Manali, Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 2 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 3 | Enjoy local Manali sightseeing and take rest till evening. Or you can do day trip to Naggar Castle and come back by evening to take overnight Volvo in he evening.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
kindly give me information about paragliding etc. and we are reaching there on 26th evening.
Hi Prashant,
You can do paragliding at Solang Valley.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj
Thanks for gr8 help…..
what is charge for paragliding
Hi Prashant,
I guess it is 600 for shorter version and about 1200 for longer version, though I am not 100% sure about current rates.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
HELLO DHIRAJ SIR,
I want Ladakh Taxi Union Rates List 2012-13 & Important Telephone Numbers if possible.
Hello Nilesh,
Sorry brother I do not have it right now but I am going to Ladakh next week and will surely get one and share with you guys. IMportant telephone number are mentioned on last year Taxi Union rates I shared here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hello dhiraj sir,
i send my itinerary of leh so pls gide me. i want full detail of leh to toso moriri lake with km and route and from there toso kar then sarchu
24-jul- day-1 :- ahmedabad to rewari { 868 km – night at rewari }
25-jul- day-2 :- rewari to patnitop via mansar lake { 725 km –night at patnitop }
26-jul- day-3 :- patnitop to sonamarg { 270 km – night at sonmarg }
27-jul- day-4 :- sonamarg to kargil { 124 km – night at kargil }
28-jul- day-5 :- kargil to lamayuru via mulbekh { 110 km –night at lamayuru }
29-jul- day-6 :- lamayuru to leh { 125 km – night at leh }
30-jul- day-7 ;- leh local sighseeing and inner line permits , shanti stupa , leh
palace { night at leh }
31-jul- day-8 :- leh to hall of fame , pathar sahib gurdwara , sangam , magnetic
hill , spituk gompa and kali mata temple , thiksey , sindhu ghat ,
{ night at leh }
1-aug- day-9 :- leh to pangong lake return at leh { night at leh }
2-aug- day-10 :- leh to khardung la , leh bazar { night at leh }
3-aug- day-11 :- leh to toso moriri { 240 km – night at toso moriri }
4-aug- day-12 :- toso moriri to sarchu via toso kar { 217 km- night at sarchu }
5-aug day-13 :- sarchu to manali { 219 km – night at manali }
6-aug- day-14 :- manali to rewari { 595 km- night at jaipur }
7-aug- day-15 :- rewari to ahmedabad { 868 km }
Hello Nilesh,
I have the following suggestion on your itinerary:
28-jul- day-5 :- kargil to Leh via mulbekh and lamayuru (leave early from KArgil and you will be able to cover lamayuru and mulbek on the route as well). You will also be able to do pathar sahib gurdwara , sangam , magnetic hill while going to Leh this day.,
29-jul- day-6 :- leh local sighseeing and inner line permits , shanti stupa , leh palace, hall of fame , spituk gompa and kali mata temple { night at leh }
30-jul- day-7 ;- Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
31-jul- day-8 :- Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
1-aug- day-9 :- Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
2-aug- day-10 :- Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
– Overnight at Leh
For complete travel guide on Tso Moriri lake in ladakh check the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dhiraj sir,
sir i want to plan my trip in the mounth of july end from srinagar to leh and return from leh to manali via toso moriri and toso kar. so pls gide me that from leh to toso moriri and then toso kar to sarchu–manali route with full detail . i want to know that zing zinf bar nallaha create too much problems on the way.
Hello Nilesh,
Do not worry about nalla, if you are traveling in a taxi. If you are on a self drive mission then leave Sarchu by 5 AM types and you will find less trouble at the zing zing bar nalla. The late you make it, the tougher it gets and by the evening almost impossible to cross. As per the itinerary and the route details, check the most common itinerary of complete circuit followed by many travelers including me for Leh – Ladakh at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
We (myself, my wife and 15year old son) decided to go to Leh from Srinagar. Will it be the right time to travel the 1st week of July to Leh via Sonmarg, Kargil etc? We already have booked the flight and hotels in those areas. A bit concerned about the rainy season and and the hazards of land slide etc. Pleas advise how safe will be the travel. Booked thru a travel agent.
Hello Raghuraj,
It is good that you have booked the hotels in-around Kashmir because at that time Amarnath Yatra will be at full swing. Hence, taking that route means you should definitely have some booking done. Now, first week of July, I feel shall be OK to Travel as rains generally hit the region around mid-July now a days. However, nothing is certain. Once you reach Kargil from Srinagar, you need not worry much about rains because the that region beyond Kargil falls under rain shadow region including whole Leh Ladakh. Yes, rains does reach Leh now but most general cases you will experience a slight drizzle here and there and overcast skies. But, again nothing is certain when it comes to weather but this is general trend which I have suggested above
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hii,dheeraj.hru.hw can i cnt u personally.
Hi Ruhail,
You can get in touch over email address which you will get as reply to this comment.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj! I found your articles very intersting and as I am planning to visit Uttarakhand in May very usefull too. So,may I ask you for some advice?
Hello Bojan,
Thanks a lot dear for liking the articles present on the blog. Please let me know for any kind of queries you have and I will be happy to answer what all knowledge I have about traveling to the place you are interested.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hii Dheeraj.
Thanks for all the useful informations in your blog. I am planning to visit Leh hopefully in last week of May or first week of June depending upon status of road. My ride will start from Manali to Leh & return via same route. I have 2 days to reach Leh from Manali then 2 days stay at Leh & then again 2 days ride back to Manali. Is this schedule appropriate or I need to add a day in my plan.
Hello Tarun,
I guess just 2 days in Ladakh is not justice to the place. Rather you are running/hopping over the Manali – Leh Highway. If that is the intention then plan seems OK, otherwise fly to Leh directly and explore Ladakh in these 8-9 days you have with you. Since, road conditions may not be stabilized by then so keep a day or two as buffer while you return.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey dheeraj,
this is the itinerary i have planned for my trip to ladakh this year.
please let me know if you think this is fine and whether the roads will be open or not.
also, if you could suggest a couple of nice cheap accommodations in places like pangong, nubra and tso moriri.
i also want to add a night in kaza on the way back from leh to manali, do you think that could be possible if we add another day to the itinerary?
30/05 -:
• reach jammu tawi railway station at 08:05
• leave for srinagar as soon as possible and reach by evening
• spend the evening and night in srinagar
31/05 -:
• spend the day in srinagar
• we could visit gulmarg
• overnight in srinagar
01/06 -:
• leave for kargil early and reach by evening
• overnight in kargil
02/06 -:
• leave kargil early and head to leh
• along the way we can do some sightseeing – alchi & lamayuru
• reach leh by night, overnight in leh
03/06 -:
• buffer day – relax in leh, get our inner line permits
• sightseeing around leh town
• overnight in leh
04/06 -:
• visit nubra valley
• overnight in diskit or hunder
05/06 -:
• drive back to leh
• sightseeing along the way
• overnight in leh
06/06 -:
• visit pangong tso
• overnight at pangong or spangmik or lukung
07/06 -:
• drive back to leh
• sightseeing along the way
• overnight in leh
08/06 -:
• drive to tso moriri
• overnight at tso moriri or korzok
09/06 -:
• leave tso moriri and head to manali
• reach sarchu by night
• overnight in sarchu
10/06 -:
• leave sarchu for manali
• halt at keylong
• reach manali by evening
• overnight in manali
Hi Sahir,
Your itinerary is just perfect I should say, hats off for drafting such nice one. Just one day for Kaza may not make any sense I will say rather keep that day as buffer day for Manali – Leh Highway. Roads may or may not be open or if they would have been opened then conditions might not be stabilized. So, it is better to keep a buffer day or two in case you require it. If you still wanna go with Kaza, you will have to go through a long journey from Keylong to Kaza and then again in the morning start from Kaza and traverse the same back again upto Gramphu and then turn towards Rohtang Pass to reach Manali. If you can add couple of days then instead of traversing back you can travel from Kaza to Kalpa next day and then Kalpa to Narkanda/Shimla and finally Delhi. If you have more days in between, let me know I will suggest an itinerary to explore Spiti Valley as well.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj,
Thanks a ton for your help, your website has really been helpful. I’m not sure if I will be able to add more days as we have a train to catch from Delhi on the 12th. But if you could just give me a rough itinerary for Spiti, I could try and re-work some dates. Also, I spoke to a Taxi Driver Union fellow in Leh and he has given me a rate of 56,000 for a car which can seat 7 (we are a group of 6) plus the driver for pick up from Srinagar until drop to Manali. The car and driver will be with us throughout all the days in the middle and will take us to all the places we want to visit as per the itinerary. This sum includes all the drivers expenses and petrol etc. Do you think this is a good deal? And if you have any better references, could you help me out with them?
Regards,
Sahir
Hi Sahir,
As I said, I will not recommend to alter with the plan and just for one day will not recommend Spiti Valley. Do Spiti Valley sometime later buddy. Spiti Valley needs some dedicated time, to thoroughly enjoy its real beauty.
Best you can do is but you may not give it real justice
Sarchu – Keylong/Khoksar
Keylong/Khoksar – Kaza
Kaza – Ki Kibber, Koumik, Langza, Hikkim – Kaza
Kaza – Kalpa
Kalpa – Shimla/Narkanda
Shimla/Narkanda – Delhi
Yes, I guess it is a fair deal considering you have booked it over phone. Over in Leh you may get 3-4K more discount but I guess you should take this deal as he will be with you as soon as you get down
… I have few contacts and may be you can check with them too for the same itinerary. Not sure if all of them will be ready to pick you from Srinagar.
1. Rigzin – 09622954779
2. Naseer – 09906229203 and 09469293183
3. Dorjey – 09419372742
4. Tashi – 09906994647, 09419342238
5. Tsewang – 09622993372
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj,
I guess it does make more sense to leave Spiti for another time, as you said one day would not do real justice to it. Thanks for the contacts for the taxi and thanks for all your help regarding my trip. I am confident that after consulting you it should go off quite smoothly. And i hope i can refer back to you if i have any more doubts.
Regards,
Sahir
Hey Sahir,
Yups, leave it for some other time. Too beautiful place to be missed, check my album for Spiti or Travelogues for Spiti and you will see why I really wanted you to plan it exclusively
Let me know whenever you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I need your help to plan itinerary for my trip to Leh. Me n my wife is planning to go in July for 7 days.
I am planning to take a train from Mumbai to Delhi than flight Delhi to Leh.
I came across some festivals in July month Shachukul Gustor, Zanskar Karsha Gustor, Ph-Yang Tsedup (Phyang), Korzok Gustor (Tsomoriri Lake), Dak-Thok Tse-Chu.
Following are queries:
• Which all place should I visit?
• Which festival should I attend since my tour is of 7 days?
• Should I got with a package tour or do it myself?
• I was thinking of a one overnight stay at Nubra valley and Pangong Lake. Is it a good idea?
Regards,
Ashish
Hello Ashish,
I am not sure about the festivals preferences but attend those falling on the dates you are traveling to Ladakh in July. Let us know for any queries and you can do it your self without the need of any tour operator. Everything is available in ladakh section of the blog right from accommodation to taxis to places to see. For seven days you can do something like below itinerary -
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
– Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
– Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
– Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
– After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
– If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
– Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
– Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here: http://devilonwheels.com/index.php/inner-line-permits-for-leh-ladakh/
– Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
– Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
– Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
– Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
– Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
– If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
– Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
– Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping or you can do tour to Sham Valley
– Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib
– Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 7 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Delhi by flight
– Return Home.
Now incase, you feel better on Day 3 then skip Day 3 and head to Nubra Valley for night stay. You can plan to travel Day 3 on Day 7 in that case as it will give you a buffer day so as to ensure you do not miss flight due to any road closure in worst case. But, make sure you are feeling well on Day 3 before heading to Nubra Valley. Otherwise, you also have the option for a Day trip to Pangong Tso on Day 6 and spend Day 7 in Leh itself either attending some festival or going for Monastery tour.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
There is a change in the plan. I am not getting flight tickets for Leh for July.
Do you think July is a good month to visit Spiti valley?
If yes then, I am coming to Delhi via train after that I need your guidance how I should plan my tour.
My tour will be of 8 nights from Delhi, so on Day 1 I will reach Delhi at around 10AM.
I am looking for a road trip so let me know how I should go about it.
Regards,
Ashish
Hello Ashish,
Yups, equally good but there will be rains all around if Monsoon comes early. Try going before monsoons and you are good to explore Spiti Valley. How are you commuting? If in a private taxi then I will suggest something like below -
Day 1 | Delhi – Shimla
Day 2 | Shimla – Sangla
Day 3 | Sangla – Chitkul – Sangla – Kalpa
Day 4 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Geyu Mummy – Tabo
Day 5 | Tabo – Dhankar – Dhankar Lake – Pin Valley (stay at Mud village)
Day 6 | Pin Valley – Kaza and then explore Ki, Kibber, Gette, Tashigang, Hikkim, Kaumik, Langza depending upon the time you have in hand
Day 7 | Kaza – Losar – Manali
Day 8 | Manali – Delhi
Day 9 | Buffer Day (extremely important)
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any doubts or queries you have.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Last year with your guidance me and my 2 frineds made a successful round trip Jammu-srinagar-Leh-Manali with our Swift. Once again we need your guidance to visit Kaza this year
(a) We have 1 week time and tentatively will start on 1st July 2012 from Chandigarh and this time Tata Manza will be our ride
(b) My wish is to make it a round trip Manali-Kaza-Shimla
Please guide
Hi Rakesh,
Glad to know that. For doing Spiti Valley, I will advice you go via Shimla side and return via Manali side. Again, it helps in acclimatization alot. For an itinerary, you can do something like below:
Day 1 | Chandigarh – Sarahan
Day 2 | Sarahan – Kalpa
Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Guey Mummy – Tabo
Day 4 | Tabo – Dhankar – Pin Valley (Drive uptu Mud Village) – Kaza
Day 5 | Kaza – Ki – Kibber – Gette (First half) and Hikkim – Koumik – Langza – Kaza/Losar (Second half)
Day 6 | Kaza/Losar – Manali (leave a bit early from Kaza to reach Manali in time)
Day 7 | Manali – Chandigarh
Day 8 — Buffer day in case required.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any further info or details or have any doubts/queries
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
hi dheeraj…we are on our way to jammu for a friends marriage from belgaum with a lotta stopovers…
Depart from belgaum- 16.04.12
Depart from Delhi- 22.04.12
we have to be in jammu on 28.04.12 for the functions..
dont mind skipping jammu onroute…
pls advise on—
the best route??
is leh possible in these months??
are roads open??
places to see???
your best advise to our itenary??
and all your expertise…wishing for a wonderful trip with your knowledge…pls help…
thank you so much.
Hi Zainul,
What I understand is that you will reach Delhi on 21st and will leave by 22nd and then in between you have 6 days and you will have to reach Jammu back by 28th. In these 6 days between, you need to explore some places. Right? Please correct me if I am mistaken.
Well, I will suggest that you explore Kashmir Valley in these 6 days because highly likely roads to Leh will not be open by then. So, you are left either to explore Himachal Pradesh on the way or to explore Kashmir. If you want to explore Kashmir then you can try following itinerary -
Day 1 – Reach Srinagar by Flight from Delhi and take rest for the day. May be enjoy Shikara ride or stay in house boat itself.
Day 2 – Srinagar to Gulmarg
– Enjoy vistas enroute, especially between Tangmarg to Gulmarg
– Enjoy in snow at ski slopes snow points and may be check out Golf course, if you feel like
Day 3 – Gulmarg – Pahalgam
– Explore ruins of Awantipura
– Enjoy vistas en-route
Day 4 – Pahalgam (Rest day)
– Just relax for the day and spend sometime around
– May be a visit to Chandanwari
Day 5 – Pahalgam – Srinagar and rest for the day.
Day 6 – Leave from Srinagar and reach Jammu by evening by road.
Let me know in case you need to explore Himachal Pradesh on the way to Jammu in these 6 days. I will suggest accordingly
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Zainul,
If you are driving all the way then in such a case, you can explore Himachal Pradesh as below on the way to Jammu from Delhi
Day 1 – Delhi – Dharamshala Mcleod Ganj
– Leave early to reach by daylight
Day 2 – Mcleod Ganj Rest Day
– Visit Local monastery, Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple and waterfall
Day 3 – Mcleod Ganj – Triund Trek – Mcleod Ganj
– trek is a bit long leave by 7 AM to reach back before sunset
– awesome views
Day 4 – Mcleod Ganj – Khajjiar
– In the evening you can vist Kalatop, checkout the sunset and come back to Khajiiar
Day 5 – Khajjiar – Chamba – Khajjiar/Dalhousie
Day 6 – Khajjiar/Dalhousie – Pathankot – Jammu
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Today is my first visit to this wonderful site and after going through to your site i believe that it’s place for diehard mountain lovers…
Surely i want to join you and will follow your opinion while visiting Ley & Ladakh ,Lahul & Spity region.
Can you plan a trip for me with budget—Delhi/Chandigarh — Manali –Surajtaal — Chandrataal — Dankhar lake —Manali — Delhi/Chandigarh.
Total duration of Chandigarh to Chandigarh is maximum 6days.I want to hire car from Manali- Manali(someone told me that the entire conveyence will cost Rs 14000 if i take car from Chandigarh.Is it true?) only(is it possible to go without personal hired car?).
Please provide stay option on that or nearby places.Feel free to modify it.
With regards
Debanjan
Hi Dheeraj its really amazing to visit your website it really makes me feel to visit the places present in your blog.
I am planning to visit uttarakhand in the month of may or so with a group of 4-5. Can you suggest some good places where we can go with days of maximum 4. We got to know about auli and badrinath can u explore more on these places as well as any good place where we can visit.
Thanks
Hi Lavish,
If you have 4 days, then I will suggest better head to Chopta – Tunganath – Deoria Tal. Extremely beautiful place and less known to the tourists. Hence, you will mind less rush plus some breathtaking views and loads/loads of snow
… You can check more details in the travel guides on the blog at the link here and here
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
Ok. So in getting this trip together I am attempting to do 10 days India and then fly to Bhutan for 5 days. Can you tailor your recommended LEH trip for 10 days? I will land in Delhi and presumably take off from there as well unless you know of an airport closer to Leh that goes to Bhutan. Thanks so much,
Meyer
Hi Meyer,
You told me about flying out of Leh to Delhi and then to Bhutan. But, how about reach Leh? Do you plan to fly-in to Leh or Srinagar as well or are you planning to go all the way to Leh via Srinagar from Delhi by road? Since, you are flyin out, are you planning to skip Manali – Leh Highway, guess yes?
Please let me know and I will suggest a curtailed version of the Leh – Ladakh common itinerary for 10 days to you.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj its really amazing to visit your website it really makes me feel to visit the places present in your blog.
I am planning to visit uttarakhand in the month of may or so with a group of 4-5. Can you suggest some good places where we can go with days of maximum 4. We got to know about auli and badrinath can u explore more on these places as well as any good place where we can visit.
Thanks
Hi Dheeeraj,
I am planning to visit Leh via manali – Keylaong-Leh route by hired vehicle like TATA SUMO/BOLERo or by HPTDC BUS between 25 may to 05 in group consisting of 11 person ( Six ( three Couple ) and 5 childre ( 3 age group of 9-12 and 2 age group of 3-4 year )
I need your guidence is it advisable ? kindly provide neccesary guidence via email and will great help if you can provide your mobile no
Kirit
Hi Kirit,
Well, 25th May it might be possible that Rohtang Pass might not be open. In case, it is opened 9 days are very less and plus you are carrying children with you I will not recommend doing Manali – Leh Highway and that too when road conditions are pretty unstable if at all opened. I will provide you the contact number over email and you can call me anytime in the evening.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase of any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
You are an awsome traveller.
What do you suggest about the following route. Please refer to the link: http://www.travelblog.org/Asia/Pakistan/Quetta/blog-296426.html
Thanks buddy. Looks or reads awesome, wish I could do it some day, if possible at all
..
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
What a wonderful find – You’ve made my day ! Hope to meet up next time am in your area ! God Bless and wish you many more exciting journeys.
Thanks a lot Zahl
Hi Dheeraj,
Thank you again for this informative blog . In Dec you helped me with trip to Nanital, Thank a lot for that.
I need your help, this year I am planning to travel to Leh( dates not yet decided as it depends on the best time to visit and to avoid monsoon) as I am planning to travel by bike. I would be reaching with my friend from Delhi to Manali by bus , from there I am planning to hire a bike to leh. I require following information:
1) How many days would it take from Manali-leh-Manali including the buffer day?
2) Should I stay at manali for day or two to get acclimatize with height before starting my ascend to Leh?
3) As my friend would be travelling pillion so there is no possibility of talking mechanic, is it safe to travel without mechanic?
4) What is the approx per day rent of a good conditioned enfield in Manali?
5) Do we require special permit to visit pangong lake ? if yes, is it available easily?
Please help me with this. Would surely disturb you in future with more queries..lol ;-p.
My Dates of travelling depend on your response.
Thanking you,
Jaideep
Hi Deepak,
Thank you for your your informative blog. In Dec you helped me with Nanital trip thanks a lot for that.
I am planning to go to Leh this year ( not yet decided that dates as it depends upon the best time to visit leh).I would be going to Manali from Delhi by bus and planning to hire bike from manali to leh I request you to please help me with the following information:
1) what is the best time to visit leh to avoid monsoon as I planning travel by bike?
2) How much is the per day rent of enfield ?
3) How many days would it take from manali to leh and back to manali including a buffer day?
4) Should I stay at manali for day or two to acclimatize?
5) As my friend would be travelling pillion so there would be no possibility of talking mechanic. So do you think it is necessary to travel with bike mechanic?
I will plan my trip according to your response.
Thank you,
Jaideep.
Hi Jaideeep,
Please find my queries below in respective order of your queries-
1. Best time will be either mid June to mid July before the Monsoons hits the lower Himalayan region, though Ladakh is rain shadow region and is not affected by the monsoons. Or you can try in September last week types when monsoon resides and colors are most beautiful plus roads are better in comparison.
2. For all the information on hiring the bike from Manali or within Leh, check the article linked here. If you are good rider and have experience of driving in the hills, then only plan the bike ride to Leh from Manali Leh Highway.
3. You will need around 12-13 days to complete the entire trip to Ladakh.
4. If you talk in terms of acclimatization, Manali do not help in it and secondly, traveling via Manali – Leh Highway while going to Ladakh is NOT recommended at all as per acclimatization. It is always better to go via Srinagar Leh Highway and come back via Manali – Leh Highway for best acclimatization. Going via Manali – Leh will definitely have marks of AMS for sure.
5. Doing it on Pillion is again not suggested at all again on Manli – Leh Highway however, since I am not a rider cannot comment much on pros and cons of it. Best bet will be to travel using HPTDC semi deluxe service on Manali – Leh Highway and shared taxis on Srinagar – Leh Highway and hire bikes within Leh for Ladakh sightseeing purposes. Do not know, but while hiring this options always make more sense to me but again it is my perception only because the tough ride on Manali – Leh Highway has its own charm after all.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj,
Plan posted by you seems great….cause it covers most of the locations of our interest & still can be completed in 10 days. You have mentioned it will be monsoons & we can have problem in Leh to manali highway.
My doubts are:
1. How likely can we get trapped in leh manali highway by landslide or other problem?
2. What time of year shall we plan to avoid these problems?
3. If we keep one buffer day at manali will it be sufficient to overcome this problem?
4. and finally is there any training method we can follow prior to our journey to minimize the effect of altitude sickness?
Hi Suniket,
Please find my answers below in respective order of your queries -
1. It all depends on your luck and weather the very day you travel. Can never be predicted.
2. as I said, this is uncertain and can happen any time of the year. Still, the best bet is to plan it after monsoon resides like after mid-September but then also it will never be certain though probability decrease a bit. Also, keep in mind that in September winter starts to set in and at few places like Pangong Tso and Sarchu, the tents starts to packup. So, it will be another concern though not too big now a days when tourist rush lasts about second week of October as well.
3. You should always keep a track of weather updates before venturing into Manali – Leh Highway and if you see too much bad weather, try not to venture on it especially when you have a flight to catch. These things can never be certain, so it is better that you keep at least one buffer day for sure.
4. Since, you are flying in so you need to take ample of rest for the first two days at the very least. Keep your body hydrated with ORS etc. but do not over hydrate at any cost. For more tips on better acclimatization, read the tips mentioned here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any details or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
We are planning to Visit Leh in mid July…..here is our tentative plan…
14-07-2012= Early morning flight to Leh at 6:30…..Reaching Leh….. Local site seeing + Inner lines permit, night stay at Leh
15-07-2012= Leave at early morning.. Khardung La.. Panamik Villag….Diskit, night stay at Diskit
16-07-2012= Leave at morning…….Hundar.. Diskit…satti……agham…..Shyok…Darbuk……Spangmik….Merak…..spangmik, Night stay at Spangmik 175
17-07-2012= Leave at morning…..Darbuk….karu….. Reach Leh, Night stay at Leh
18-07-2012= Rest day at Leh
19-07-2012= Leave at 6am.. Upshi…mahe…Sumdo…Kyagar Tso….…..Reach Karzok (Tso Moriri), night stay at Karzok(Tso moriri)
20-07-2012= Leave at 6am.. Kyagar Tso…..puga…..Tso kar….Pongunagu..pang…..Reach Sarchu, night stay at sarchu
21-07-2012= Leave at 6am…. Sarchu….keylon…..Reach Manali by evening, night stay at Manali
22-07-2012= Rest at manali…..Take bus to delhi Please clarify whether it is possible to cover such distances at a streach (without gas station)?
Give any additional suggestion if u have…
……We are waiting for your kind approval to confirm our plan… …:)
Hi Suniket,
Well the plan above might not be feasible in such short span of time, first due to no acclimatization and second too many places in 8 days. Finally, it will be monsoons, so Rohtang Pass might be in total mess and so may be other parts of Manali – Leh Highway. You will need at the very lest 2 nights without any exertion spend in Leh only to acclimatize you body properly otherwise you will be down with Acute Mountain Sickness. I generally, prefer 3 nights in Leh when flying in, so if you feel OK on third day then only leave for Nubra Valley otherwise spend one more day in Leh. AMS is something that shall not be taken lightly. I will suggest you thing like below -
Day 1 | Delhi – Leh (By Flight)
– Checkin at Hotel. Many hotels provide free pick and drop from Airport. Ask while you book them.
– Take ample of rest as well as water or anything that keep your body hydrated enough. DO NOT OVER HYDRATE. Take ORS Soluted water or ORS – L tetra packs from home.
– Do not over exert your body at any cost. Avoid too much up-down on stairs or avoid it in entirety, if possible.
– After 5-6 Hrs of rest you can visit Leh Palace, Local Leh market, Shankar Gompa .
– If you feel exerted go back to Hotel, have dinner at Hotel and take rest. Avoid any exertion. Else continue and,
– Follow the sunset by stroll at Changspa road and have a nice dinner on varied cuisines offered in-around Changspa road.
– Go back to hotel for overnight stay at Leh.
Day 2 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here: http://devilonwheels.com/index.php/inner-line-permits-for-leh-ladakh/
– Hire a taxi from Leh taxi stand or Hotel whichever suits you.
– Bargain hard with taxi driver. Book that single taxi for entire trip after explaining the complete plan.
– Take his inputs if you feel reasonable and if required modify the plan accordingly but should suits you best.
– Ask him to be with you guys starting first day itself, if required and charged reasonable else do it at your own.
– Again DO NOT over exert and take little steps and slow walks only.
– If feeling OK then do Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
– Do not use stairs at any of these places just to see them as it will exert your body much more.
– Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 4 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Day trip to Pangong Tso will help you sleep properly at Tso Moriri
– Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
– Cover Karzok Monastery
– Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 7 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu
– Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang
– Overnight at Sarchu or Pang
Day 8 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
– On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
– Overnight at Manali
Day 9 | Manali – Delhi
– Return
Day 10 – Buffer day to be kept incase of road closure due to landslides or snowfall or perhaps you want to enjoy more.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi pal
I am Mechanical Engineer,working with motorcycles manufacturers.I am bit doubtful before writing this that you are still active here as all the previous comments are about 2 years old or so but what ever be it,it is a great work done by you.
No doubts that you are petrol head & love to travel far & wide,the details given up here by you are very helpful & precise,i guess you can challenge a GPS
I too love driving and have traveled quiet a lot places,whose natural beauties left me mesmerized(specially in UTTARANCHAL)
Nice work,keep it up ………..!!!!
Hi Nakul,
Thanks alot Nakul, for such warm words of appreciation. But I guess, perhaps, you checked up some wrong post. The blog is regularly updated almost every sixth day of the month with new article
and you will find lots of recent comments all over the blog articles too 
.. So I am very much active. I just make notes whenever I travel and then share all little things I jot down with fellow travelers.
Nice to know your love for Travel too and would definitely love to see the pics, if you can share with us on the Facebook wall of the blog.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi ,
me n my frnds are planning to visit Manali from March 25th to 29th,total we will stay for 4 days,
please suggest us,the best ideal plan,which we can cover in 4 days,we don wanna mess it up by wrong planning,would be really great,if u can jst tel us,which al places which we can cover n our preference would be places where we can find snow,We will be coming from bangalore, so we need ur advice to rock the trip !!!
awaiting for ur reply n thnx in advance
Hello Athif,
You can follow the below plan for your 5 day trip -
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the x-mas in the evening including Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi (Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volov will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus)
If you strictly have 4 days then, make a day trip to Naggar Castle on Day 4 and come back in the evening to take overnight volvo.
For more information related to Manali including, accommodation options, food joints etc. check the Manali – Travel Guide at the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
i want to visit in summer for honeymoon. please tell me which time will be suitable for it.
and i want to either J&K or Shimla- manali
please suggest me best location for enjoyment.
Hi Devendra,
how many days you have in hand?
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hello Dheeraj,
I saw some video footage of the Manali – Leh Highway and it looks quite dangerous. Is this something to be concerned about? I will be going there at the middle to end of June.
Thanks,
Meyer
Hi Meyer,
Oops, just replied you on other forum as well. I was a bit bogged in office work so couldn’t reply to your query
… I will re-write it here too.
Well, yes perhaps it is one of the most adventurous roads in India, head to head competing with Hindustan – Tibet Highway
… So, there are bound to be some extremely adventurous moments. For the last few years, the only major point of concern is Rothang Pass to Manali road which is in tatters near Rohtang Pass (about 10-11 KMs)… otherwise nothing much to worry about too much as thousands of people ply on that road every year in this short span. Avoid shared taxis that does cannon ball run from Leh -Manali in single days. Not only it is hectic but again such arduous journey can cause fatigue for any driver.
Since, the local drivers are well accustomed to such roads, knowing how to tackle tricky sections including water crossing and plus being local they have an extra advantage of getting a bit more and promt help than an outstation driver in their land. Since, you are not self driving so the concern is a bit less in comparison
…
In the end, if you are faint-heart then kindly avoid it untill September otherwise if you are little adventurous then you will enjoy and remember this journey for the rest of your life…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to visit J & K (including Leh)during the month of June 2012 and have about 7 days for this. I am based out of Bangalore, can you please me with the detailed itinerary, I plan to take a flight from Blore to Leh directly and from Leh to Sringar by road…..please suggest.
Thanks
Ashwini
Hi Ashwini,
7 days will be too short considering you are flying and so will need atleast 2-3 days for acclimatization. I will suggest that you fly to Srinagar and then go to Leh by road. This will help in acclimatization as well and will save you atleast a day. You can follow something like below -
Day 1 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
– Reach Srinagar by flight and leave for Kargil that very day. Take early morning flight.
– Enjoy the vistas enroute
– Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
– Overnight at Kargil
Day 2 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Alchi
– Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
– Stay at Alchi will help in acclimatization
– Overnight at Leh
Day 3 | Alchi – Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
– On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Zanskar
– Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
– Overnight at Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
– Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
– On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
– Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 5 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
– Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
– Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 7 | Pangong Tso Lake – Thicksey Monastery – Shey Palace – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
– Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Fly back by early morning flight.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have more queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj of the detailed itenerary. But I might be able to spend all 7 days in Leh – Ladakh.
My plan of travel is,
Day 1 : Blore to Sringar
Day 2 : Srinagar to Gulmarg
Day 3 : Srinagar to Pahalgam
Day 4 : Sringar to Sonamarg & halt at Kargil
Day 5 : Kargil to Leh
Day 6 : Leh
Day 7 : Leh
Day 8 : Leh to Blore
Please let me know your views on this plan.
Regards,
Ashwini
Hello Ashwini,
The plan looks OK to me if you want to cover all these places.
But, there are too many places to be covered in such short time. I will suggest either explore the Kashmir region or Leh region ideally to get something out of the trip other than running through the places every day. Please avoid. If you happen to be one of those who prefer to be more on roads hopping from one place to another (like me because I travel to drive) than enjoying travel, in such a case I will say go ahead with such an itinerary. Also, reaching Leh you will be just exploring the local places of Leh not the serious beauty of Ladakh region like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri etc.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, need your guidance on whether there are more places of tourist interest near or on the way to Vaishnodevi and back ex Kolkata.
Thanks
Hi Dipti,
I guess, I replied you over email. IN any case, you can try something like -
Day 1 – Reach Amritsar – Rest visit Golden Temple
Day 2 –Wagah Border and rest for the day.
Day 3 – Amritsar to Katra, start climbing towards bhawan in the evening
Day 4 – Darshan + come back to Katra
Day 5 – Katra – Patnitop
Day 6 – Patnitop rest day
Day 7+8 – reach back home
I hope this helps. Please feel free to let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi, Dheeraj good to see you here and the work you’ve done is amazing, i like to enjoy my life and i have planed to go leh-ladhakh on month of may is this right time to visit leh and ladakh, please help me and revert on my mail id, ia am planed to go with my 3 friens we are 4 member we are going with WogenR car, please tell me any importtant things carry with us.
Thsnks…..
Sanjay.
MOD EDIT: Removed email from public forum
From delhi
Hi Sanjay,
Thanks buddy. In May, it may be possible that roads are not open especially Manali – Leh Highway. Generally, it opens by end of May or June. Then, it takes sometime to stabilize after initial snow sliding.
Then weather in June is always unpredictable and chances of rain are also bright. This leads to the closure of certain sections on Manali – Leh Highway due to landslides triggered by rains. However, you may be lucky in June as well to cruise this Highway in bright sunshine. June is not exactly the ideal time when one wants to be in Manali due to mad tourist influx. As the July – August comes, the Monsoon comes as well in the Northern parts of India. However, the regions on the Northern side of Rohtang Pass that is Keylong and beyond mostly remains untouched by these monsoon rains (except year 2010 which was an exception). So in July-August, though you may need to cross the Southern side of Rohtang Pass in Monsoon rains that is Manali and lower hills but after that, especially Keylong, you are almost good to go without much trouble with these rains.
June – July is also the time window when the snow melts on high passes creating almost tiny rivers or water crossings (nallas) on roads in the early stages. This is quite a challenge to dodge, especially with the vehicles having low ground clearance. Post afternoon, when the sun is burning at its best, some of these water crossings or nallas becomes so violent that they are almost impossible to cross. This may force you to halt the journey of the day in the middle of nowhere or return back to some civilized place for a night halt. The best way to overcome these water crossings or nallas, is to know the specific nallas on Manali – Leh Highway and plan to cross them as early in the morning as possible. In year 2010, one of the major hurdle was water crossing or nalla just after Zingzing Bar and before Baralacha La. Another major one was between Rohtang Pass and Sissu. In early stages (June), even crossing Baralacha La is a big challenge due to melting snow which creates some deep water streams on the road itself. Slush is also bound to be present on Baralcha La in the early stages of the season and is also quite a challenge to negotiate without proper skills even on SUV/MUV. This slush is generally created by the constant moving traffic which beats the snow present on the road or aside. Hence, try to cover these sections of Manali – Leh Highway in the early part of the day, when snow melts very slowly and traffic is less.
I suggest you read the article linked here for more details.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I had somehow passed through ur blog and those pic’s of ur ladakh–manali trip vheww!!! just amazing n awesome. I hav 2 kids 7 and 10 and i don’t think i can make such a trip vth them. As u are a vivid traveller can u suggest a good place (natural beauty)for us to travel during the summer..say during may, june.
Hello Mohini,
Thanks alot for all the appreciation and liking the information present on the blog. It really helps living this passion and getting good feedback around it
…
Anyways, coming back to your query, I am not sure about the number of days you have in hand but some of the places you can explore during summers are –
1. Shimla + Kinnaur + Spiti Valley (if you have about 9-10 days ex. Delhi)
2. Shimla + Kinnaur Valley (if you have about 6-7 days)
3. Shimla + Jalori Pass + Tirthan Valley + Manali (if you have about 7-8 days) — too much rush at that time
4. Shimla + Pabbar Valley (if you have about 6-7 days)
These are some of the options I will suggest for Himachal in the same order of preference. If you are interested in Uttarakhand then let me know, I will suggest places accordingly.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
my name is prashanth, I have planned to travel to Delhi-Shimla-Manali-Chandigarh-Delhi by Ac Indigo car between march 24th to 30th, Kindly let me know the travel itinerary, which i can cover best places between these days.This is my honeymoon trip and my first trip to north India. please suggest the good place.
Hi Prashanth,
Sorry for delayed reply, as I was away for the last few days. You may like to follow the below plan -
Day 1 | Reach Shimla. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
)
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic
Day 4 | Shimla – Manali
Day 5 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 6 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 7 | Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Musueum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top)
Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi. Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon and leave for Delhi.
** if you have time then try, Manali Sanctuary can also be covered as it is just about 2-3 KMs from Manali town and there is trail which starts from Manali Log Huts or Dhungri temple that leads you into the woods.
** If you are short on number of days then skip Day 7 and return to Chandigarh at night from Manali on Day 7.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have more doubts or queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for your reply.
Is it possible visit to Rohtang pass in march and time we need to start from manali to there?
Nopes Prashanth. Rohtang Pass will be closed in March. You will be able to reach either Gulaba (32 KMs before Rohtang Pass) or may be Marhi (about 19 KMs though not likely). I know you have sent some itinerary on my email, I will provide you my suggestions on the same wen I reach home
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
My husband and I are planning a short trip to Leh at the end of March. We wish to travel to the Nubra Valley to visit a school that we sponsor. Is it possible to the Nubra Valley from Leh at this time of year?
Hello Sherri,
Generally, the connectivity is maintained throughout leaving only few days when it heavily snows on Khardung La pass and time required to clear the snow. So, it is highly likely that you will be able to go over Khardung La to Nubra Valley. But, if it has snowed in near time then it all depends on the luck.
Do not know how short on time you guys are but if you are flying you will need to acclimatize for atleast 2-3 days if not 4. Temperatures will start to rise in march but still in minus and cold conditions makes body difficult to acclimatize. So, do try to acclimtize first before climbing over Khardung La to go over to Nubra Valley.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
i want to go to leh. i have read your itenary and various thing like innerline permit,budget etc.i wanted to talk with you in more detail so can you provide me your contact number.
thanks .
Hi Tejas,
I will email you my contact number.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj, how are you doing i hope u remember be you help me a lot for Leh trip. Now m planing to go Kerala do u have any Travel Itineraries for Kerala for 20 days.
Hi Amol,
Yes, buddy I remember you and I am doing great and hope same for you as well. Nice, to know that you have been traveling good but this time I will be sorry for any help as I have never been to Kerala. So, I will not be the right person to comment on the plan or anything related to it
… I wish to do it some day but my mountain love will keep that day far away 
…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
First off al for such a informative blog.
I am going to Nanital on 23rd dec with my GF and some friends from Delhi for 3 days. We are planning to stay at Nanital. Please suggest me some hill station near Nanital, where v can chill out , enjoy nature peacefully away from all this traffic and crowd.
I went to Manali 3 -4 months back. I stayed at old manali really enjoyed there. And personally i think old manali is economical then New Manali and much peaceful and better then new Manali.So I am looking for a place i.e withing 20 km of nanital where we can stay just like Old Manali. And please suggest me some good hotels if u know. And is there any chance to see snow near Nanital
Hi Jaideep,
Just try to go to Sattal instead Nainitaal. If at all that will be much at peace then Nainital at this time of the year. There is a GOVT. owned KMVN there which you can book to ensure bookings as it is economic too. There is a “Van Nivas” or ‘Madhuban’ ashram as well near Nainital which will also be peaceful in comparison if they allow bookings/accommodation there. I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
Is there any chance to see snow near nanital?
Jaideep, I guess NO
… It rarely snow around Nainitaal.. in fact I can’t remember if I heard of snow around Nainital.
Hi dheeraj,
I was going through your blog and i found it very helpful for planning the trip. I am planning to go to manali at 30th dec. so i wanna know bout the possibility of snow fall and for the new yr party as well…;)
Hi Shiv,
Thanks alot. I am glad that you found the travel info. present here useful enough.
First and foremost, please keep in mind that first you will be traveling in the costliest week of the year, second there will be hefty tourist rush around both Shimla and Manali and third that you will need pre-booking at either of the places to avoid sleeping in taxi/bus itself (I am not joking but around X-mas and new year, have known people who slept in car
)
It is always hard to predict snowfall as it depends on the luck and the weather on the day you plan to visit
… Well, yes at that time you will be able to see ample of snow stock around the snow points of Gulaba/Marhi or Solang Valley. So, if snow is the priority then there are no issues but for snowfall best bet is that, you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit. The links here: Rohtang Pass, Kothi and Manali regions respectively can be helpful for you in tracking the weather updates of Manali and around. If it says raining in Manali, or rains/snow at Kothi or snows at Rohtang Pass then expect snowfall at nearby snow points of Solang and Marhi/Gulaba etc. As far as snow is concerned, you will find plenty of snow out there.
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc, Snow Points are at either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass and do check out Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place if possible).
There will be plenty of hotels arranging the parties and you can check in at Johnson’s, Jimmy Johnson’s, Piccadily, Manali Heights, Snow Valley Resorts, Club House Discotheque etc.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
we have booked the hotel in advance for 3 dayz…and thanx a lot man for your reply…if any more info is required i’ll ask u..:)
Hi Shiv,
Manali has already had the seasons first snow 9-12-11. Its very cold up here and looks like we are heading towards a white Christmas. Marrhi is closed but you’ll be able to go Solang. Bring lots of warm clothes and appropriate foot wear. And yes I do agree with Dheeraj, book your hotel in Advance as Manali gets packed for Christmas and New Year’s. Have fun.
Disha
Disha, Thanks for providing the first hand inputs here
…
thanx disha for providing first hand info…:)
Dear Dheeraj,
How are you, first thanks a lot for givnig all of us a regular update on weather condition in & around shimla & Manali.
I am planning a trip (24th to 26th) to Shimla or Manali to see snow but concerns are road conditions & incase we get stuck due to heavy snow…i am a bit confused. Pls guide me accordingly should we plan for Manali or Shimla & should we take our own cars or volvo (ex-DELHI).
Also, pls share some homestays or guesthouses details in Shimla & Manali.
Thanks for a quick feedback.
Regards
Bhuwnesh Puri
Hi Bhuwnesh,
Thanks a lot dear. There shouldn’t be any concerns at all because both these places are well connected all round the year. In case you plan to go ahead from Kufri or Narkanda and there happens to be heavy snowfall then the road might close for a day or two but not more than that. In case of Manali, if there is heavy snowfall then road might close for at max again a day but usually the highway gets cleared within hours. So, nothing much to worry in either region.
Now, if you have 3 days then both options will be fine with Manali being much better than Shimla and around because of nice views. Commercialization wise, both places are equally bad. I guess taking your own car would prove much more cheaper than hiring local taxis and going in bus but of course if you plan to go by Volvo you will arrive both in Manali / Shimla and back Delhi with complete rest plus you have the advantage of saving yourself from a night self drive, which I feel will be must incase of just three days.
If you are looking to go to Manali side then for economic hotels and guest houses try to look at Manali – Naggar road or Vashisth or old manali. I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have doubts or queries. I never stayed in Shimla so cannot give any first hand experience hotel names.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
bhai i also want to join u pllzz do something for mee . im from chandigarh
bhai it is kinda of personal blog and I am working on to develop something in the website in which we all can join and contribute something or the other related to travel as a community… but guess will take some time… but yes, I have decided to put the Traveling events publicly on the Facebook Page, so if anyone of us there at FB page is interested to join the ride/drive then they are most welcome…
Hello..
Was browsing the net for some info to travek to Himachal and got directed here.
You seem to know so much abt travelling. Can u help me plan a trip to himachal?
Main objective is to visit Rewalsar lake and places of Bhuddist interest around. Probably ex Delhi.
Advise me the budget travelling mode, the hotels and help me prepare an itenary.
No of ppl =3
No of days =2 or 3 max.( depend on the places of interest actually)
Hoping u ll help me with this info..
Thanks
Hello Yagman,
Thanks alot. Well, if you have 2-3 days then I will suggest that you only go with Rewalsar and enjoy a relaxing time there. May be if you wish you can visit Buddhist monasteries at Mandi or Kullu too. But, in any case it may not be worth the travel I feel, but you have the option on other day for them to explore. Best way to go about it is to either travel by Volvo (may be Delhi-Manali) if you are comfortable with the pricing or take HRTC bus running between Delhi – Kullu/Mandi/Manali. Then for accommodation I feel best will be to stay at HPTDC – TOURIST INN, Rewalsar You will get the off season discount too.
I hope it helps!!
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
thanks for the prompt response.
And for the suggestion. i was wondering if i can make kalka- shimla-mandi-rewalsar-kalka.. or better with delhi-manali-rewalsa-delhi.
Rewalsar lying on way delhi-shimla or delhi-manali way?
and also i cant travel in buses long for problem with toileting.so was thinking of Kalka( train till Kalka). and how much would it take to hire a taxi from kalka and do the trip?
Indebted
Thanks
Hello Yagman,
It is my pleasure. But, it will be better that you do it with Manali because Rewalsar lies much near on the way to Manali and is much far far away from Shimla in comparison. So, clubbing it with Manali will help you greatly. Now, going by bus it will be better because there are Volvo buses which also have toilets, so you can always check with HPTDC or HRTC guys if they have such Volvos running. That will solve the purpose I guess. It is not advisable to go from Shimla side as it lies on the route to Manali.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Bro…Wil remain grateful…will get back to you if any more info required.. helped me alot
Dear Dheeraj,
I am planning a family (4 adult members) trip on 6th Jan 12 (Friday) night leave for Narkanda and 6th Jan 12 (sunday) evening back to Ghaziabad. Ghaziabad ->Narkanda->Ghaziabad. I will be driving my ZEN (1998) to Narkanda.
I would appreciate if you can guide me with this trip
1) Best Route map
2) Budget stay options with contact nos. if possible
3) Other important information’s which we should take care for this trip.
It would be really nice if you could extend little help.
God bless
Hello BDM,
Well, considering January I guess you may find fog on the highways, so going at night may not be possible. Also, Narkanda may get hectic a bit in 2 days, 2 nights only so I will suggest that you either visit Shimla and Kufri only and drop Narkanda or add one or two more days to your plan. Also, it may be possible that there is fresh snowfall at that time around Kufri so there is no guarantee that road to Narkanda will be open or not.
I will suggest that for two days just stick to Shimla+Kufri or Chali-Kufri. I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have more doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanx Dheeraj for your valued advice.
We can not extend days. So we will prefer to stick to Chali-Kufri
Thanx once again
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit manali for honeymoon around 20th feb 2012.
I would appreciate if you can guide me with respect to following things:
1) Is the specified time good for visiting manali.
2) What are the places to visit in manali and respective traveling distance.
3) descent 3 star hotels with required facilities according to season.
Also can you please share your email id?
Thanks in advance
Hi Rakesh,
Firstly congratulations for your marriage
… Please find my answers to your queries below –
1. Yes, the time is good and devoid of any tourist rush apart from honeymoon couples. You will get handsome discounts too at that time, about 30% at HPTDC hotels and 40-50% at private hotels. So, do bargain hard with them. Many hotels does provide honeymoon packages, so check with them and bargain for off season discounts.
2. Well, it depends on the number of days you want to stay there. Generally, for 4-5 days Snow Points at Marhi/Gulaba, Solang Valley, local sightseeing at Manali (local monastery, manu temple, Hadimba temple, mall road etc), Naggar Castle, may be Manikaran as well. I guess if you have 5 days then you should restrict yourself to these places only to avoid least amount of travel and spending time in a relaxing manner.
3. If you ask me then I will suggest that may be you should also check Johnson’s. There are two Johnson’s in Manali one by the name Johnson’s Lodge other I guess Jimmy Johnson’s Hotel and Cafe. Both as adjacent to each other and great options of stay, I must say. One of them also have raison cottages as well which looks decent but I do not have any personal experience with them. We have also stayed at Hotel Picaddily (3 star) as well but that was in off-season, may be at that time prices will be high. We had decent time there as well.
Apart from that I will surely suggest that you stay a day or two at Naggar Castle (click link for a review) as it is one of the most romantic places to be in Himachal. (atleast for me) Though it gets some tourists in day time but you can always spend that time exploring other places in Naggar such as Roerich Art Gallery and Museum, plus there is a Krishna Temple at the hilltop but you need to hike a bit to reach there or need a good taxi driver to take you there. I never forget the feeling of having lunch and sipping cups of tea/coffee with my wife on my honeymoon trip, at the balcony of the Naggar Castle restaurant
…
If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have more doubts or queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
P.S.-> I will email you and there you can get my email Id.
Hi Dheeraj, yours is the most detailed blog i have found on Leh travel. I am a amateur photographer from Mumbai and planning a trip next year to Leh. I am convinced that there is no point travelling to leh by air.. atleast one side has to be a road trip. Havent decided much as of now but know that your blog is all that i need to make a choice. I am also getting tempted to do Manali Leh and Leh Srinagar road (or the other way round). I was initially thinking of june but from what I read you seem to suggest otherwise. What do you suggest? One last word .. awesome blog man. Keep it up.
Hey Mayank,
Very nice to see you here, Welcome
… First and foremost some stunning pictures available at your blog, great work buddy!!! Now, thanks alot that you liked my blog so much, I just try my best to share all the information I hold up with me with my fellow travelers and lovers of nature. Coming back to your point, well yes there is only point traveling to Leh by air if you are not interested in the beauty of Manali – Leh Highway. To be very frank Ladakh itself does offer ample of natural beauty but it is the thrill and adventure that Manali – Leh Highway offers to the traveler. So, I will suggest if you want that adrenaline pumping rush, clubbed with some extreme adventure and naturally beauty then take the road trip otherwise if you are short on time then fly directly to Ladakh and explore more of Leh -Ladakh for few more days you get by flying directly. You can shoot lots of culture, people and region while you acclimatize for the initial few days by flying directly to Leh. But, yes you will miss Manali – Leh Highway. So, fly or not to fly is a bit trade-off between what you are actually looking forward from Ladakh.
Now, if you are looking towards blue skies and beautiful colors then September used to be the great time for capturing those shots. But now a days due to delayed monsoon, it is like September second half after the rains. However, you hardly get to see any snow in near by places in September. Though, June offers mix of it (snow as well as clear skies) depending upon your luck you may face some bottlenecks due to sudden road closures owing to early season.
In any case, if you plan to do it through road trip then I will advise you to fly directly to Srinagar (if not self riding or self driving) and then first do Srinagar – Leh Highway, then cover Ladakh and then finally come back from Manali – Leh Highway. Since, you are a photographer you will certainly need time on Manali – Leh Highway to click pictures. For that your body should be properly acclimatized and you should give ample amount of time for stoppages. If you go from Manali side then to prevent getting stuck with AMS you will need to cover Keylong – Leh stretch in single day as you should not stay at Sarchu due to AMS vulnerability and that will mean very least stoppages if you plan to make it Leh with day light left. Hence, you loose some considerable shots while still suffering from some mild headaches if not major issues. On the other hand if you plan to come back from Leh – Manali Highway then you get a chance to break your journey even at Sarchu for two days and may be spend one more day at Jispa for further slow progress if you have time. So, you get ample of time for photography and least botheration of AMS.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have more queries or doubts. Check more details/information on Srinagar – Leh Highway here and for Manali – Leh Highway here.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Great to see your website and the level of details which you have put in your blogs. The visit of 2010 in which you have detailed the cloudbursts and Leh tragedy is very touching. One’s perspective changes entirely when you are faced with such a situation.
All the best!
Regards,
Sameer
Hey Sameer, thanks a lot for such warm words. Yes, indeed it had been a life turning trip and now I see and live lot lot better than what I used to do. Things are very much the same but due to perspective or paradigm shift life has changed altogether to become much more beautiful than ever. Of course, the horrors and sorrows of the tragic experience will always be with me but it has raised the level of love and respect for the people of Ladakh to greater heights
…
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I had gone to Leh on a bike trip last month, and your blog helped a great deal in preparing for the same.
Also, I wanted to talk to you/ meet you to discuss something. Can you please provide your email id/ cell number on my email id nipunsharma1@gmail.com?
Thanks alot and I am glad that info. on this blog really helped in your Ladakh trip. I will email you my contact Nipun. Also, I will remove your email from public site as this so that you get less spam. I already have your email via comment
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
My first time here & I am quite impressed by the info available on this site.
Keep it up.
Hi Nisha,
Thanks alot, I am glad that you like the content of my blog. It feels really good to know that the information we share is fruitful for a fellow traveler as well. I am just going through your blog too and really appreciate the efforts and your spirit to travel. The backpackers and that too women in India are seriously hard to find
…
Thanks again!!
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Deeraj
thanks for your reply on my post on Indiamike.. its quite useful.. I am in Dubai and had planned for a trip to Leh for a long time but unfortunately my group members backed out, we were planning for trip by 18th or 20th Aug but due to heavy rain and landslides this time a lot of them have backed out.. i want to club myself with 1-2 more people with any gang going by road via chandigarh on bikes or cars, i myself prefer a bike ride till Leh, but other members want it to be by car/taxi.. is there anyway i can find a group thru your help..
Look forward for your help..
regards
Abhijit
Hello Abhijit,
Unfortunately, I do not have any dedicated section on the blog for Travel Partners requests, so it will be difficult for you to find anything here and neither I have come across anyone looking forward for travel partners on my blog recently. However, I found few threads looking for travel partners in 18-20 Aug date range and you can check those threads or post new queries on the following link:
http://www.bcmtouring.com/forum/india-travel-partners-f59/
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have more queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are planning to start the Leh-Ladakh trip on bikes at around end of september’11, can you please suggest whether is it the right time to commence our journey or not??
Also if you can share or email your contact number that would be highly helpful for us and appreciated as well.
Hello Mayur,
Now, in September end Rohtang Pass will not be closed but be ready for some cold climatic conditions as it is the beginning of winter season in higher Himalayas. Generally, I advise people to go via Srinagar – Leh route as it provides your body much more acclimatization then Manali – Leh route but since you are going in September end it is better to start from Manali side and come back from Srinagar side. This will ensure that you cover the Manali Leh journey without any road blockages that starts in October due to snowfall on the mountain passes. The Srinagar – Leh route is much more stable and have only few mountain passes, mainly Zozi La, so while coming back you won’t face much delays in October as BRO keeps it running till mid November.
Having said that, please keep in mind that if you do have 2-3 days of buffer time and you are OK with some cold conditions then do consider going via Srinagar – Leh highway and coming back via Manali – Leh Highway. This way you will better enjoy the journey and won’t feel any kind of acute mountain sickness which may prove to be extremely important for you.
I hope this helps. I will share my contact details over email.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Thank You
Regards
Nishtha
Your are most welcome…. Not sure about the snowfall but current weather predictions shows a clear sky in the next week. But, things can change in Himalayas pretty soon. So, I wish you luck for your journey and yes, the snowfall too…
Will there be snowfall also in Rohtang Pass?
Thank You Dheeraj Sir
Hello Nishtha,
You will need to carry woolens as over at Manali, in the shades it will be cold and in sunshine it will be mildly cold only. Take inner thermals both upper and lower (atleast one or two pairs), one or two sweaters or pullowers, a light jacket, full sleeves T-shirts etc. Since, the weather looks clear by the time you plan to go to Manali and Rohtang Pass, I guess you won’t need any heavy woolen jacket but it depends upon how you guys feel cold. If you live in Delhi then consider the weather in Manali like that of November’s weather in Delhi and that of Rohtang Pass as about early January’s cold weather of Delhi.
When you will go to Rohtang Pass from Manali, then you can rent overcoats or snow dress and gum boots from the road side vendors while going towards Rohtang. These overcoats or snow dress will help you fight the cold at Rohtang Pass where you will find plenty of snow. It will also help your own clothes remain dry and keep them away from getting dirty.
You will be able to find plenty of snow at Rohtang Pass. For more information on Manali check the below travel guide –
Delhi to Manali, Travel Guide
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj Sir,
We are planning to go to manali on 20June with my family. I’m very confused what type of clothes should I take along with me. Will there be hot or cold? Will i be able to see snow anywhere? Please guide me.
Thank You
Hi Amit,
Thanks for such warm appreciation. These words of appreciation keep me going and keep my adrenaline pumping to put those nitty gritty details
… I am highly glad that you like the information available.
1. For acclimmatization you need to check hotels in Solang Valley and considering peak tourist rush the prices will be rocket high. Otherwise its preferred to stay at Vashishth few KMs away from Manali towards Rohtang. You will get the budget hotel over there else check Hotel River View, Hotel Review at the link below. It was decent and econmic too but being in Manali not help in acclimatization. Link below -
The River View, Manali, Himachal Pradesh | Hotel Review
2. You need to leave Manali/Solang at max by 5.30 AM although try to leave by 5.00 to beat the traffic Jam and tourist rush mess at Rohtang else it might be possible that due to Jam you may need to return back.
3. Stay at Jispa not Keylong, you will love it. At Jispa check Jispa Journeys Hotel Review at the link below
Jispa Journeys, Jispa, Himachal Pradesh | Hotel Review
4. For complete details of accommodation or stay options on Manali – Leh Highway including Jispa, Sarchu check the below link
List of Accommodation Options on Manali – Leh Highway
5. 21st June, you need to get the inner line permits as well. Check the link below for more information in Leh – Ldakh Inner Line Permits and how to download the form and process them faster. Link below -
All you want to know about Inner Line Permits for Leh – Ladakh
6. Yes, stay at Diskit but cover Hunder Sand Dunes (7 KMs ahead) and camel safari in the evening after check-in to Hotel at noon. You can explore the Diskit town monasteries and Lord Buddha statue in the noon as well. Hotel Sten Del is a great place to stay at Diskit town. Rest spot hunting advised. Review below
Hotel Sten Del, Diskit, Nubra Valley, Ladakh | Hotel Review
7. On the way back from Nubra Valey, do Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh. Sumur is famous for monasteries and Panamik for hote water springs.
8. Instead of doing Pangong as day trip include the other day and stay over night at Pangong Tso Lake. On the way to Leh – Pangong – Leh you can cover Shey, Hemis and Thiksey Gompas easily with overnight stay at Pangong Tso. It will be worth feeling of completeness
…
9. If you have one day more then try to do Leh – Tso Moriri, Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Pang – Sarchu, Sarchu – Manali.
10. Whether in June is unpredictable always and good time or not only weather gods can say. You will find bad or very roads though at some places.
11. I hope the table in the link will help you get the pointers on info you need about the places… There are ample of places enroute which will give you completeness. Do refer the self drive section.
How to plan a journey on Manali – Leh Highway
12. For list of things to carry on travel to Ladakh check the link below -
List of things to carry when you go on Ladakh Trip
Along with things in above link you must take the Basic toolkit, screw driver set, small hammer, puncture repair kit, iron rod, two or three “2 ltr” empty bottles of pepsi / coke / limca etc to carry extra petrol or diesel (jerry cans will leak, cold drink bottles do not leak), funnel, towing rope, spare tube (must for bikes), elfy or fevi quick (2-3 sachets), jump start cables/wires, M-seal to prevent leakage etc. were among the few things which I carried along on my trip to Ladakh. Also, do not forget to get your vehicle (car/bike) serviced about 2-3 weeks before the start of the Ladakh journey. This will ensure that you have proper time in advance to test your serviced vehicle and get fixed any hitches that may have been introduced in that service.
13. Any 4×4 would be great but actually its the man behind the wheel that counts in such terrain.
I hope it helps. Let me know if you have any queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj
Hey Dheeraj….
First of all i would like to commend you on your absolutely fantabulous blog…reading it made me get so much “exact information” i needed which might not be available at the regular “it” travel sites …surely put the traveler’s perspective oh so well with all those smallest of small nitty gritties covered …so much so i have been preaching to others about my know how of the place without actually going there lol lol..
Dheeraj i need a last minute advise on few things relating to my prospective trip to Leh/Ladhak :
1) My prospective itinerary is as follows :-
17th june – Reach Manali from Chandigarh ( though finding it hard to get an accommodation in manali…i know bit too last minute)..any options as far as resorts are concerned for acclimatization ??
18th june – early morning (wht time ??) Start from manali/sallong and overnight at Jispa/keylong.
Any recommendations as far the best possible accommodations in jispa???
!9th june – start morning ( time ??) from jispa/keylong and overnight stay at sarchu . Recommendation of place to stay in Sarchu ???
20th june – sarchu to leh ( organized for a place in leh )
21st june – rest and see places in and around leh
22nd june – go to nubra valley and stay overnight at diskit ?? References of decent place at diskit ??
23rd june – nubra valley to leh …(what all to see in between on the way back ???)
24th june – go to pangong lake and return back to leh for night stay at leh …(places to see in between or around pangong??)
25th june – leh and around ( not certain of wht to do ?? any suggestions ???)
26th june – leh to keylong ..
27th june – keylong to manali .
Some added questions …
a) Whts ur take on this itinerary …any changes u feel are necessary or is it good enof ..i maybe able to adjust a day or two here and there but have to leave on 17th ..
b) is this a good time as far as weather is concerned to go …
c) which are the must see places to get a feeling of completeness..
d) Imp ..EXHAUSTIVE LIST of things in various categories …(car accessories/ health/emmergencyemmergency stay/travel etc ) to be taken along to overcome any adversity …
e) which so called indian SUV would be the best bet …??
Dheeraj waiting for ur response …
God bless ..
Hi Rohit,
I have accpeted your request. Kindly let me know your queries, I would be more than happy to help in all terms I can
…
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hey Dheeraj,
I am planning a trip to Ladakh and have figured out that you know quite a lot about the place. I have sent you a request on FB, please accept it. It would be really nice if you could extend a little help.
Cheers!
Parmeshwar, I am sorry but I do not have idea about GOECHA LA or GOECHA PASS because I have never been to Sikkim. I suggest you to visit BCMT Forum website and open a thread in the itinerary section to get the useful information you are seeking.
I would like to visit GOCHALA PASS this month on 12th May 2011. Kindly share your views please.
Hello Tarun,
Thanks alot. I try my best to provide information on travel by living this passion of mine and I am glad that it helps some people to plan their travel too. I hope all the stuff available on the site including Hotel Review, Sample Itineraries, Travel Guides and my Travel Logs helps people visiting my blog to visit the places as travellers not as tourists
… Even I am trying to improve on the pictures by learning little things of photography too but there is a long way to go I feel. Anyways glad that you liked the site, too.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Nice site | Nice diaries
Hello Aman,
Thanks a million for such warm compliments, these words made my day today
… I am glad it helped you satisfy the hunger of traveling but believe me it is a never satisfying hunger 
… Let me know if you need any inputs in planning / finalizing any trip, I will try my best to provide you with what all info. I have for the place. I try my best to keep this Passion rolling more and more with each passing day and comments like yours, from fellow travellers do wonders for it…
Thanks!
Dheeraj Sharma
Simple surfing leads you to nicest of sites, here I found one such…
This is an awesome blog to let people like me help satisfy their craving for traveling. I was reading into the chandratal lake tips and find it really helpful. Next time I ‘ll definitely read up here to plan my trip.
Nice work besides ‘work’… Let the passion roll
Hi Dheeraj good to see you here and the work you’ve done is amazing. I also share the same passion however have not implemented even 10% of what you’ve done.
Great work!
Hey Ashish!! Thanks alot bro for the warm appreciation… I just thought to keep it going so that the passion never dies in me… The devilonwheels keeps me going and planning the trips again and again… This helps generate alot of enthusiasm into life and maintains a balance with everything else. I hope this little effort provide atleast tiny help to others in planning their trips!!! Please do share your travel stories or pictures too.. I will definitely look forward for the same…
Bhai..awesome site hai..today for the 1st time I explored every aspect of this blog..it has more than what I can expect from a travel site..good stuff..good luck for all your upcoming tours!!
Thanks Swapnil for all the wishes. Its just an attempt to collate the information under one roof so that it could be a help to someone wanting to explore more from the his/her trip…I am sure you will definitely join us on one of the upcoming tours…I am looking forward to it….
Hey Dheeraj, i was going through your post of Chandrataal on Bmctouring. I will most prolly be heading that way in a couple of weeks and it will be my first time riding solo in the hills. Since you seem to know the place to well, i thought if you could share some knowledge with me.
I am available at:bsenroy@gmail.com…
Please do leave me a test mail so that i can write back
Thanks a lot
@Bodhisattv, I have sent my contact number as well as test mail for info on Chandratal to you. You may contact me anytime you like.
Ek to pic poore Einstein style ki hai
and doora your writing….fultoo feelings ke saath like you are giving words to your thoughts…like Stephenie Meyer……
Bahut Bhaut Shukriya Dost!!! All praises from likes of you dear friend. Thanks for being such a lovely and supporting friend always.
omg…ekdum killer look hai…lol..:)..
mast site hai yaar…really…aur teri snap bhi fadu hai..:)..