Tourism in Ladakh has risen in the last few years, and many people prefer to self-drive to Leh – Ladakh for satisfying their hunger for adventure. This rise in tourist footfall means that you must know about petrol or fuel availability in Leh Ladakh.
You should also learn how to carry spare fuel for your Ladakh trip, important places where petrol pumps exist in Ladakh and other tips.
This article talks in detail about the topic of petrol availability in Ladakh.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Should I care about it?
Ladakh is a remote place with a lot of desolate routes in Ladakh. There are many tourist places in Leh – Ladakh like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, Sham Valley, etc and most of them are connected via Leh town except the adventurous connecting routes which exist between them.
However, it is always a good idea to plan your Ladakh journey well enough so that you do not come with a nightmare experience from heaven, which I found many people had this time when I was present in Ladakh.
And, one of the key areas or things is to know about road conditions that you might expect along with the fuel stations or petrol pumps or availability of fuel/petrol/diesel within Ladakh or inroads to Ladakh like Manali – Leh Highway and Srinagar – Leh Highway, once you reach Ladakh and drive on your own.
Hence, it is important to know about the diesel or petrol availability in Leh Ladakh, so that you are not stranded in the middle of anywhere in a desolate place in Ladakh without any fuel in your car or bike.
Petrol/Diesel Pumps or Fuel Availability in Ladakh
In the first article of this series “Ladakh Self Drive Tips“, I talked about the important tips for a self-drive road trip to Ladakh. In this article, I will talk about petrol/diesel or fuel availability within Leh – Ladakh. Knowing about the petrol pump in Ladakh will help you in your Ladakh drive.
Without fuel (petrol or diesel), one cannot drive or ride, and we all have a limited capacity fuel tank in our vehicles. The mileage of the vehicles also decreases in harsh terrain like Ladakh, where hills are not the only thing that results in low fuel efficiency but rough or non-existent roads, rarefied oxygen (just guessing on this one) also joins the party. Most of the time you drive or ride in low gears. Hence, overall vehicle mileage reduces on a Ladakh trip.
You must account for about 70% mileage that you are used to getting in normal conditions back home. Hence, one thing that you should always keep in mind when self-riding or driving within Leh – Ladakh is that petrol or diesel is available in Leh town (2 petrol pumps are in/around Leh) and one petrol pump is present in Karu town which is about 34 km from Leh on Manali – Leh Highway.
There is one petrol pump in Diskit, Nubra Valley town as well. As of 2016, the Diskit petrol pump is fully functional now and also works in winter.
Now, in 2023, there is one more petrol pump that has opened up at Tangtse Village which is about 34 km from Pangong Lake. As of 2023, the Tangtse petrol pump is fully functional now and also works in winter.
Petrol availability in Ladakh is tremendously improved as well now for the last few years.
Pro Tip: If you are doing a self drive to Umling Las Pass and Leh – Ladakh, then make sure to read my article on 40 Must Have Things to Carry on a Self Drive Trip to the Himalayas
So what is this problem with fuel in Ladakh?
The biggest problem is that most of the tourist destinations within Ladakh are not near Leh rather about ~150+ km away from Leh, and a return journey will make them about ~300 km.
You will be able to quickly get away with it if you are coming back to Leh every time you go to one or other destinations because you can get your vehicle refuelled, and ~300 km trips can be managed in most bikes and cars very easily.
The problem starts when some of us do not want to come back to Leh but rather do circuits like Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Leh or Leh – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Leh or Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Leh, etc. by taking the direct route in such places.
You cannot travel on such routes without carrying spare fuel (petrol/diesel) along with a tankful of petrol/diesel in the vehicle or relying upon the black fuel availability in remote villages.
Routes to Carry Spare Fuel in Ladakh
Listed below are some of the common long routes in Ladakh along with the approximate distances that you will be covering on them without any fuel (petrol/diesel) pumps:
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Leh via Wari La = 180 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Leh via Shyok Village = 119 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Leh = 421 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Keylong = 570 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Leh = 526 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Keylong = 675 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Umling La – Tso Moriri – Leh = 675-700 km
- Leh – Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Umling La – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Keylong = 825-850 km
- Leh – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Leh = 443 km
- Leh – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Keylong = 571 km
- Leh – Pangong Tso – Hanle – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Sarchu – Keylong = 675 km
- Leh – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Sarchu – Keylong = 503 km
- Leh – Karu – Rumtse – Taglang La – Sarchu – Keylong = 323 km
Hence, you can keep these routes in mind and plan to carry spare petrol with you based on the distance you will be travelling if required. In case you may run out of fuel on any of these routes, you can also try villages on these routes (especially Tangste, Chumathang, Khalsar, Chusul, Nyoma, Hanle, Pang, etc.) where you may find the black diesel/petrol sold by the villagers, (of course, highly likely, with quality compromised) which can be handy in such odd circumstances.
An example of how to manage spare fuel in Ladakh?
As an example, from Leh to Hanle to Umling La to Tso Moriri to Leh, you are looking for about 800 KMs. Now considering 13 litres of the fuel capacity of a Royal Enfield 500cc bike, on the mileage of 25 KMPL in mountains, it will do 325 KMs but you need about 32 Ltrs.
So, you will need to carry an extra 20 ltr at least. You can do the math depending on how you got the mileage in the initial days of the trip while doing circuits from Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, etc..
I have just taken a tentative number, which I believe should be but please tweak the math accordingly. You can carry it in a spare backup vehicle/car or use two ten ltr jerry cans, travel light and have the carrier on the bike
Petrol Pumps in Leh Ladakh
Let us look at the availability of petrol pumps in the Ladakh region and on which routes they exist. This information will help you plan your self-drive trip to Ladakh with some peace of mind and do the math about where and when you need to carry spare fuel on these routes in Ladakh.
Petrol Pumps on Manali Leh Highway
The journey on Manali Leh Highway is 430 km long from Manali to Leh. After Manali, once you cross Rohtang Pass, there is one petrol pump in Tandi village which is about 10 km before Keylong and now there is another petrol pump just opened before entering Keylong. Tandi and Keylong petrol pumps are the only places where you will get fuel on Manali Leh Highway. The next petrol pump will be 323 km away at Karu just before Leh town.
You will get fuel in black at dhabha tents of Zingzing Bar, Sarchu, and Pang. So, in the worst case, you can always get petrol at these places though at a higher price and compromised quality.
Petrol Pumps on Srinagar Leh Highway
Unlike Manali Leh Highway, the other road to Ladakh from Srinagar to Leh has few petrol pumps and there is no need to carry any spare fuel on this route.
Once you start from Srinagar, you will get fuel pumps at Ganderbal, Kangan, Sonamarg, Kargil, and Khalsi. After Kargil, Khalsi petrol pump is just 95 km from Leh. So, you can see no shortage of petrol pumps on Srinagar Leh Highway. About every 100 odd km< there is a petrol pump on Srinagar Leh Highway. Hence, no need to carry fuel with you or buy fuel in the black when travelling from Srinagar to Leh.
Petrol Pump in Leh & Karu
When you reach Leh from Srinagar or Manali side, you can always get petrol at the fuel pump in Leh and Karu. There are a couple of petrol pumps in Leh, and one petrol pump is in Karu, about 35 km away. Leh petrol pump remains functional throughout the year. So, you can get petrol even in winter in Leh, but unfortunately, you cannot drive to Ladakh in winter.
Petrol Pump in Nubra Valley
There is one petrol pump in Nubra Valley at Diskit village. As of 2018, the Diskit petrol pump remains fully functional even in the winter season. So, a trip to Nubra Valley including the visit to Turtuk will not require any spare fuel to be carried.
You can always top up at Leh and then at the petrol pump in Diskit for making a trip to Nubra Valley, including Turtuk. Hence, no need to buy any petrol in black for a higher price and compromised quality on your trip to Nubra Valley.
Petrol Pump near Pangong Lake
As of 2023, there is a new petrol pump at Tangtse village, about 34 km before Spangmik, Pangong Tso Lake. Then about, 130 km away towards Leh, Karu petrol pump is the other petrol pump near Pangong Tso. However, you may get black fuel at Chusul village in case needed.
Petrol Pump near Tso Moriri
There is no petrol pump at Tso Moriri or any villages nearby. Tangtse petrol pump is around 252 km from Tso Moriri via Nyoma route and about 180 km away towards Leh, the Karu petrol pump is the closest petrol pump near Tso Moriri. However, you may get black fuel at Nyoma or Chumthang villages.
Petrol Pump on Pangong Tso – Chusul Route
As you read above, there is one petrol pump at Tangtse village near Pangong Tso. You may need to carry spare fuel with you from there in case you are planning a trip on the direct route of Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri or Pangong Tso to Hanle via Chusul.
If the need arise and you did not carry spare fuel with you on this route, you may get petrol available at Tangtse, Spangmik, Chusul, Nyoma, Chumathang villages, of course in black only.
Petrol Pump in Hanle
Hanle is about 270 km from Leh and the nearest petrol pump to Hanle is Tangtse which is about 200 km away and then there is Karu petrol pump which is about 220 Km away from it. So, for a round trip from Leh to Hanle to Leh, you mat need to carry spare fuel or rely on petrol available in villages in black. You may get petrol in the villages of Chumathang, Nyoma, and Hanle itself.
If you are planning to travel to Hanle from Chusul route from Pangong Tso, you may get the fuel in black at villages of Tangtse, Chusul as well.
Important Tips for Carrying spare fuel for Leh Ladakh Trip
- The best way to carry spare fuel is to take them in sturdy metal jerry cans, which are leak proof. Those used in the army are the best ones.
- If you cannot get hold of the Jerry cans, carry two ltr cola bottles with you as they are leak-proof plus they are easy to stock up.
- Avoid carrying spare fuel in Ladakh in plastic containers or plastic jerry cans as they might burst. In a car, 20 ltr water containers are much better and sturdy than any other cans.
- Always use plastic to seal the opening and prevent spillage.
- No matter what type of container you take to carry spare fuel, always leave space and fill about 90% of the capacity to avoid spillage.
- When carrying spare petrol on a bike in Ladakh, I highly recommend protecting the plastic containers you are using from stones or pebbles that might cause a crack or leak in it. So, use a protective layer below or around it, tarpaulin could be used too.
- Make sure you always carry a thin cloth to filter in the impurities in case you need to buy fuel in black.
- If you rent a bike in Leh or Manali; those bikes do not have good mileage due to wear and tear and rough usage. Hence, do not take the words of the bike rental guys and take the bike for a local Leh ride to see how much mileage you are getting from it. Using that as a baseline, take its 80% mileage to do the calculations as in remote routes, it will further decrease.
FAQs on Petrol Availability in Ladakh
In the end, let us look at some frequently asked questions about fuel or petrol availability in Leh Ladakh.
How to manage fuel availability in Leh Ladakh?
Most places in Ladakh have fuel or petrol availability. Some remote routes do not have any petrol pump, but you can get petrol in black in the villages en route, of course at some compromised quality and higher price.
Where do you need spare fuel for Ladakh Trip?
You do not need spare fuel on Manali Leh Highway, Srinagar Leh Highway and most parts of Ladakh. However, if you plan to take direct routes within tourist destinations of Ladakh, then you need to carry spare petrol on such routes.
Do I need to carry extra fuel or petrol on Srinagar Leh Highway?
You do not need to carry any extra fuel or petrol on Srinagar Leh Highway. There are quite a few petrol pump available on the 434 KM long Srinagar Leh Highway and even if you top up your tank at Kargil, you will easily reach Leh which is about 240 KMs from Kargil.
Do I need to carry extra fuel or petrol on Manali Leh Highway?
You do not need to carry any extra fuel on Manali Leh Highway. Once you start from Manali, you will get the fuel at the Tandi petrol pump. After that, you have to travel 365 KMs before you reach the Karu petrol pump near Leh. Most cars should be able to cover this distance without the need of carrying spare fuel or spare petrol.
Sometimes, Sarchu and Pang tea shacks / dhabhas on Manali Leh Highway have fuel available in black. In case of an emergency, you can buy some fuel from them. DO NOT forget a carry a thin cloth that can be used with a funnel to filter any impurities while using such black fuel.How to carry spare fuel to Ladakh?
The best way to carry is to have sturdy metal jerry cans that do not leak. The ones that the army uses are the best. The second best option is to carry petrol in 2 ltr cola bottles in Ladakh as they are leak proof.
How many petrol pumps fall on Manali – Leh Highway?
Tandi petrol pump is the only petrol pump on Manali Leh Highway. Hence, there is only one petrol station between Manali to Leh at Tandi.
What are the available fuel stations between the Srinagar-Leh-Manali route?
You can get fuel at Ganderbal, Kangan, Sonamarg, Kargil and Khaltsi on Srinagar Leh Highway.
Should I Carry Fuel For my Ladakh Road Trip?
Most places in Ladakh have fuel or petrol availability. Some remote routes do not have any petrol pump, but you can get petrol in black in the villages en route, of course at some compromised quality and higher price.
Conclusion
I hope the above article will be useful in planning your trip to Leh – Ladakh by giving you a better idea of when you might need to carry spare fuel (petrol/diesel) and how much based on the mileage your vehicle offers.
If you have ever self-driven to Leh – Ladakh and have some valuable tips to share, please share it with me too, so that they could be helpful to other self-drive enthusiasts and fellow travelers planning their upcoming trip to Leh – Ladakh 🙂 …
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LAST UPDATED: May 2023
This article has been updated with the latest information about fuel availability in Leh – Ladakh and is kept up to date every season to reflect the current status. Feel free to suggest any further updates you deem fit.
126 Comments
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Hy Dheeraj, I am Planning to go Leh Ladakh on my friends bike or by using a bike of any bike rental company from Delhi. So, I wanted to ask if there is any problem in doing so ??. Please help me out in this
Thnanks in advance 🙂
Nikhil, you cannot do local sightseeing in Ladakh on a bike rented outside Leh. So, you need to park outside Leh rental bike in Leh and do the sightseeing with a bike rented within Leh.
If you are taking a friend’s bike, then you need a NOC document from him stating that the bike is for private use only, he is the owner of the bike with RC number and then he authorizes you with your DL number to ride the bike personally for this Ladakh trip. It will be helpful in case someone stops you and objects.
Thanks Dheeraj for your reply. Now I will plan accordingly.
Great, let me know if you need any further help
Hi Dheeraj , what is the procedure to apply for the NOC and what is the format ?
NOC format is nothing formal but you can just mention your name with DL number and the person to whom vehicle belong should certify that it will be used for personal use only.
Thanks a lot Dheeraj, one more thing since you said its nothing formal so do I need to get it stamped from RTO or any other Govt. organisation ?
Not really, it just states that the vehicle is being used for personal use and is not rented. If you want to make it official looking, you can get it notary stamped.
Sir, we are planning to start our journey from 8th june to 17th .Following are the iternery
1. Chandigarh to solang Valley. will stay one night. 8th jun
2. Solang to Jispa.will stay for one night
3. Jispa to Upsi. we r avoiding sarchu due to ams.but What about accomodation?
4. Upsi to leh.
Actually we have 10 days only.so we have doubt should we go to Ladhak or not?
Can u tell us best possible iternery. we r only 2 on a single bike.Actually we r more concerned abt Ams.
Also I have migraine prblm. Should I worry reaching leh?
No need to stay at Upshi,continue to drive to Leh it is just about an hour or more from Upshi to Leh with good roads. Jispa to Leh is easily doable now a days with good roads on Manali – Leh Highwau. Do you fly out of Leh or will come back to Manali?
We have bike avenger 220.we are 2 .
I asked this question in ur other group too which has some extra question as following
1. How And when to carry fuel.after leh or before?
2. Please tell good iternary after leh
Thanx in advance. U r great writer
It depends on the circumstances and our health .On reaching leh, we will either move to Ladhak or back to manali. Please tell us whether we need to carry fuel before reaching leh or after it?
You may not need fuel if you tank up at Tandi.
M planning for a trip to Leh this July,
need some help from your side.
below is my itenary
Day 1 & 2
Leh
Market, Hall Of Fame Museum, Leh Palace
ALCHI MONASTERY
Lamayuru monastery, Spituk Gompa
Zanskar River Rafting
Day 3, 4 & 5
Leh to Khardong la Pass – Nubra valley
Afternoon visit Hundar village
Visit Disket monastery, Panamik Hot Spring & Yarab Tso
Stays amidst mountain in Nubra Desert
Day 6 & 7
Leh to Pangong Lake
overnight stay at Pangong
Pangong to Leh via Hemis Monastery,
Day 8
Leh stay and Return
1. Pls suggest any modification required in Itenary.
2. Delhi Leh Delhi will be through flight, from Day 1 to Day 8, as per plan we will hire an RE 350CC, what will be mileage expected for RE 350 CC ??
3. For above itenary what are the ILP Permits required ? Are they available online ?
Below are hte inputs:
1. Do visit Turtuk when you are in Nubra Valley
2. Mileage should be around 22-25 KMPL
3. You will need Inner Line Permits for Nubra Valley and Pangong tso. You can apply them online but fee need to be paid in person. Check: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online
I think Zanskar River Rafting during Day 1 & 2 will be difficult so making below changes :
Day 1 & 2
Leh
Market, Hall Of Fame Museum, Leh Palace
ALCHI MONASTERY
Lamayuru monastery, Spituk Gompa
Zanskar River Rafting (remove it from Day 1&2)
Day 3, 4 & 5 (reduce it to Day 3 & 4)
Leh to Khardong la Pass – Nubra valley
Afternoon visit Hundar village
Visit Disket monastery, Panamik Hot Spring & Yarab Tso
Stays amidst mountain in Nubra Desert
Day 5 (new addition)
Zanskar River Rafting
Well, I will not suggest skipping Turtuk against river rafting. You can still do river rafting on Day 5 by going directly from Hunder or Diskit in Nubra Valley to Leh and Phey/Nimmu rafting point.
Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to do Leh – Hanle (overnight stay) – Tso Moriri (Overnight Stay) – Manali in one go. I will have my 43L Scross tank full at Karu. Roughly average would be 15KMPL. Is it possible without having to carry extra fuel?..
Best is to carry extra fuel because you will need for doing about 850 KMs. Also, is the average 15KMPL in cities? If yes, consider about 65% of the average only in higher hills of what you usually get at home.
Thanks Dheeraj! City avg is 20. So i guess i should stick with 13kmpl. Apart from 43l tank, i have a jerry can of 20l. I believe there is a gas station at Tandi. Will this be ok buffer to sail through..
That should be sufficient enough Sandeep. Just for a backup try to see where you stand at Pang with fuel and may be take spare about 10 Ltrs if the need arise. Best will be to get it at Hanle itself.
Hello Dheeraj,
We are planning a journey on 2nd June i have doubt regarding petrol issues.
Day 1 – Manali to Lispa
Day 2 – Jispa to Leh
Day 3 – Leh rest day
The doubt is here we will be having two bullets.
Day 4 – Leh to Nubra Valley
Day 5 – Nubra to Pangong via Shyok valley
Day 6 – Pangong to Tso Moriri
Day 7 – Tso Moriri to Sarchu
Day 8 – Sarchu to Manali
So are there any option for petrol refilling Except karu as it a circuit of around 1000 km till we reach tandi 110 km from manali.
or please help me in the details that whether we can get petrol there or not or adjust my plan accordingly.
With regards
Vaibhav Singh
Hey Vaibhav,
You will get fuel pump at Deskit now in Nubra Valley but you still have to manage the petrol for about 800 odd KMs without fuel for above circuit. You will get fuel in black at some villages but not all, so always preferable to carry some extra with you
Hi dheeraj,
Thanks for the update can you when manali leh highway is opening we are leaving on 2nd june from delhi. Thanks for your quick response.
Manali – Leh is expected to open by 25th May subject to weather conditions. I am more optimistic by end of May.
Hi Dheeraj,
Need your help on a serious matter.
I am going to leh on 4th june i am taking my uncle’s(fufa ji’s) bike there i have no id proof which proves our relation.
I read somewhere your blog of this issue please help me.
1. So what should i do???
2. What documents i can carry there id or something???
Thankyou for your help.
Vaibhav, all I can say is the surname are matching on ID, it should be easy to prove. Else, take whatever possible document you possibly can with you and in case of confrontation, try to resolve the matter amicably by assuring it is a private bike. Leave early for the trips from Leh and avoid joining large groups which tend to be the target of checking.
Dear Vaibhav
Can you please share your experience. I hope to take the same circuit on august. I’m sure your comments will be valuable
With Regards
Arun
Sir I’m planning to go leh ladkha on bike my plan were according to mi as follows chandigadh – manali-jispa-serchu-tsomoriri lake via tsokar lake-hanle-pangong-nubra valley-leh city via khardula pass-leh kargil-sonmarg…
Pls suggest mi about my plan n route
1) pls suggest mi petrol pumps on my routs
2) any changes in plan according to u…
3) were I hire bike n leave
4) where I staying????
Hi Mangesh,
PLEASE DO NOT make a trip to Tso Moriri while going to Leh from Manali and also avoid overnight stay at Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized to sleep at these places.
1. For petrol pumps, you may read article above.
2. Suggested above
3. Hire in Leh unless you want to pay twice.
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here
Hi dheeraj… we are leaving frm leh on 30th June… leh – pangong – tso kar – jispa – manali… can u pls provide info abt the fuel stations on this route… plus how much fuel do u think we shud carry… (mileage is 30 approx)
Hi Dheeraj
I am seeing many posts saying permits are not required for self driven cars. We are thinking to travel from delhi-jammu-srinagar-sonmarg-kargil-leh, leh-nubra via khardung la top, nubra-leh via dikshit excursion,leh-pangong and back to leh via hemis, leh-jispa-manali-delhi
Can you please confirm if we need to take any extra permits. We will be travelling by swift dezire, it w any could also be helpful if you can suggest any changes based on that
No permits are required on above route which yo mentioned.
Dear Tejas
Permit from Manali to Rohtand route is required. No permit is required to travel upto Leh. But to kardungla, nubravelly, pan gong, tsomorni are required. Single permit with photocopies for each route. To make permit photo and identity proof required.
No permit is required to travel to Khardung La, Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri and Panogng Tso if you are Indian citizen.
Heyy Dheeraj!! I live in Pune and i’m planning to go to leh next week, solo. I’ll be staying at Air Force Station Leh as my dad’s in the Air force. I wanted to travel to Pangong Lake and from the many possible options, i found renting the bike to be the best. I wanted to know, is the trip feasible alone? Also, should i carry spare petrol? If so, approx how much should i carry? Should i make it a 2 day trip? I’m not interested to travel any further than the lake!
Your advice will be much appreciated!!
Thanks 🙂
Dheeraj brother, I want ur advise on our upcoming bike trip to Leh regarding the “Permits” required (as ppl say that its NOT req for INDIANS). Is it TRUE.??
n next as to the amount of fuel required as per our circuit as follows:
Day 1 – Day 3 : Delhi to Srinagar
Day 4: Srinagar to Kargil
Day 5: Kargil to Leh
Day 6: Leh to PanGong
Day 7: Pangong to Nubra
Day 8: Back to Leh and stay Over for a Day ( Contingent Day )
Day 10: To Tso Moriri
Day 11: To Sarchu
Day 12: TO Keylong
Day 13: To Manali and stay over for a Day ( Contingent Day )
Day 15: To Delhi.
Yes, since 2014 May, no permits required for Indians in Ladakh. Your plan does not look good to me. It has to be like below:
Day 6: Leh rest and acclimatization
Day 7: Leh to Nubra
Day 8: Back to Leh and stay Over for a Day
Day 10: Leh to Panogng Tso
Day 11: Pangong Tso To Leh
Day 12: Leh to Sarchu
Day 13: Sarchu To Manali and stay over for a Day
HI Dheeraj.
Thanks for the advise.
It wud b very helpful if u can guide out with the petrol pumps for the trip..
Moreover Leh to Sarchu (Day 12) and Sarchu to Manali (Day 13) as per ur advise is back to back 230-240 kms so we can break that into 3 days.
Veeresh, it is mentioned in the article above. If you have time, you can break the journey at Jispa or Keylong
Hi dheeraj,
What is ur views about this???
We hd 2 bullet classic 350 nd we r 4 frnds???
Nw tell how much litre cans should be carry by us for spare fuel???
4 july jalandhar to patnitop 290 km
5 july patnitop to srinagar 185 km
6 july srinagar to kargil 202 km
7 july kargil to leh 211 km
8 july leh rest
9 july leh to hunder 116 km
10 july hunder to leh 116 km
11 july leh to pangong 158 km
12 july pangong to hanle via maan,merak 160 km
13 july hanle to tso moriri 131 km
14 july tso moriri to sarchu 230 km
15 july sarchu to sissu 137 km
16july sissu to kaza 157 km + 19 km
17 july kaza to reckong peo 211
18 july reckong peo to shimla 226 km
19 july shimla to jalandhar 220 km
Looks good to go but a bit hectic. You will need permits to travel to Hanle from Pangong Tso and can be possible that you are turned from Chusul post itself.
hey Dheeraj, how R U doing ???
We had planned a road trip from Delhi-Manali-Leh-Srinagar-Jammu-Delhi commencing on the 11th of September 2014.
Considering the floods, what is the current situation of the roads and is it advisable to disembark on 11 Sep 14 ???
Check the updates in Community Thread: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions-f32/srinagar-leh-highway-status-2014-t805-60.html#p14909
Dear mr shah, we 12 people are also planning to start from delhi to manali on 14-9-14. Previously our plan was to take jammu to leh via srinagar, but due to flood we have changed our route. Kindly keep in touch with me. My email id mahmoodfarogh@yahoo.com. You will be ahead of us. Kindly inform me about the highway and weather condition
Farog, traffic on Jammu – Srinagar might be resumed one way in couple of days.
Thanks a lot dheeraj, for the prompt reply, lets keep our fingers crossed and pray. Kindly keep updating about the highway condition. Thanks again
Farog, please stay tuned in the community thread: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions-f32/srinagar-leh-highway-status-2014-t805-100.html
Hey Farogh, Inbox me your Number on mfshah1889@hotmail.com.
Any other recent feedback on the road condition post floods ???
please stay tuned in the community thread: Updated Srinagar – Leh Highway Status
hey bro, actually m having a intruder 1800. and m thinking of whole India road tour on it from jan first week. I wanna know that what could be the most distance between two petrol pumps in Jammu and leh area? my bike average is 8kmpl tank capacity 19.5 litres. as in my journey of 18000 kms m gonna pass through main cities only so in other states it will b not such big trouble. pls guide me how can I cover leh and Jammu.
Hi Sharry,
Please check the article above which enlists the distance between the fuel pumps in Ladakh and which route will have which coverage. On Srinagar – Leh Highway, there wont be much of an issue. But, in Ladakh since the petrol pump is only in Leh there you need to carry extra fuel with you. Even for a trip to Nubra Valley which is 130 odd KMs one side, you will need fuel. In Ladakh there will be decrease in mileage of the bike too by about 30-35% as well. On Manali – Leh Highway, the difference between two petrol pumps of Karu and Tandi is 365 KMs.
Regards
dheeraj
Dear dheeraj,
1. Can we go by innova self drive?
2. How can we know that the road is open?
Hi Sourabh,
1. Yes, you can take private Innova to Ladakh as self drive. But, it cannot be a taxi.
2. For road updates: you can stay tuned on our forum at the link: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/road-status-conditions-f32/
Regards
dheeraj
Dear Dheeraj Ji,
Further to your above post, would like to know why the Innova or any vehicle should not be Taxi, if self driving.
Being a Tour Operator I have all the vehicles with T permit and myself planning a 12-15 day road trip to J & K + Kullu – Manali – Shimla, Entering via srinagar and Exit by Shimla Manali – Chandigarh Route.
Awaiting Your answer.
Karan, Self drive rented cars and taxis outside Ladakh are not allowed to do any sightseeing within Leh – Ladakh. You can use them for getting to Leh and getting out from Leh but not sightseeing. So, the self drive cars you are taking must have private number plate, mostly should be under your name, your wife name or your father name otherwise you will have to again hire a taxi within Ladakh and pay for your local taxi without using it. You can read: Rented Self Drive Cars in Leh – Ladakh Banned “FORCIBLY”
Hi Dheeraj Bhai,
I am planning
Leh -Karu – Pangong(35+115km): Stay
Pangong-Chusul-Chumathang(150km): Stay
Chumathang- Tso Kar- Sarchu(250km): Stay
Sarchu-Tandi(115km): Refuel and go ahead to Spiti.
Tandi- Spiti valley(180km): Stay
1. What do you think about 650 km journey(Leh-Tandi) w/o petrol pumps?
2. or there are any on the way?
Map Link:
https://maps.google.co.in/maps?saddr=Manali,+Himachal+Pradesh&daddr=Jispa,+Himachal+Pradesh+to:Leh+to:Mulbekh+to:Kargil+to:Lamayuru+to:Leh+to:Khardungla+pass+to:Deskit+to:nubra+valley+to:Leh+to:Karu+to:Lake+Pangong,+Pangong+Tso,+Ngari,+Xizang+(Tibet)+to:chusul+to:Chumathang+Gompa,+Chumathang+to:Kyagar+Tso+to:Tso+Kar+to:Upshi+to:sarchu+to:Tandi,+Himachal+Pradesh+to:Spiti+Valley,+Lahaul+and+Spiti,+Himachal+Pradesh+to:Kaza,+Himachal+Pradesh+to:Manali,+Himachal+Pradesh&hl=en&ll=33.45436,77.393188&spn=2.786361,6.28418&sll=32.967195,77.563477&sspn=2.801908,6.28418&geocode=FRDw6wEdas6ZBCk_0D8WCIcEOTHNdlC-DqgpgQ%3BFSgI8gEdncCZBCk9YfO103cDOTHev4PdnGTrOQ%3BFYogCQIdXbufBCmF7V9EIev9ODEQ94ZQlwm70Q%3BFbWQDAIdxkiNBCnvrsXaGdTiODENhRcPNXdRUw%3BFUoNDwIdyseJBCm73lLAsSPjODGuzE_rIyA_pw%3BFR0fCwIdzneTBCnr6SQc7zz9ODGYl41rNhAnwQ%3BFYogCQIdXbufBCmF7V9EIev9ODEQ94ZQlwm70Q%3BFSIOCwIdpyagBClLwbnz_sD9ODHx2XZX1V3sNw%3BFZc0DwIdwF6fBCm5c34RZrX9ODGe2ueZZ38jVQ%3BFX4bEQIdHa2fBCGVCYSYrwMUhilD5i_nr8v9ODGVCYSYrwMUhg%3BFYogCQIdXbufBCmF7V9EIev9ODEQ94ZQlwm70Q%3BFbmTBQIdRzCiBCl5uZMMjPf9ODHQbeh6LDum4w%3BFQRKBgId7I-sBCFJ6tE5GpC9-ykhLr6xZCf-ODFJ6tE5GpC9-w%3BFVS9AAIdVjKwBCnFiHQzMrUBOTHNucAjbXpihA%3BFccW_QEdbWerBCEFPGWjhmFb3imV4IWcs6MBOTEFPGWjhmFb3g%3BFTEs-QEdDsqqBCnxMYv3Fw0BOTECwXdEHaEVnQ%3BFXNG_AEdH5KmBClx8HFxx4YBOTHLT4WT3b1whw%3BFdg1BAIdxVmjBCkdIDcCvgYCOTHp7igZaYrD4A%3BFQgf9gEd5cufBCEo1-cX2l4NLik7DTQUS8cDOTEo1-cX2l4NLg%3BFe3D8AEdA4yWBCnLl5GvcmUDOTHjRTyplxQtbQ%3BFeJp7AEdG5CmBClnrqcVJqQGOTHMR1VIVFgPwA%3BFQ_B6wEdzkSnBCmLn6-gdKMGOTFHXRehBVDIbg%3BFRDw6wEdas6ZBCk_0D8WCIcEOTHNdlC-DqgpgQ&oq=Upshi&t=h&mra=ls&z=8
Satej Prabhu
Satej, personally I feel it should be more than 650 KMs though I have not done the exact maths. You will get fuel in black at Chumathang, may be at Sarcu/Pang too but no guarantee. but, any how you need to carry extra fuel with you. Why missing on Tso Moriri?
Point taken Bhai. I’ll be doing 520 km Loop with extra fuel as “Karu-PangongTso-Chusul-Chumathang- Tso Moriri-Tso Kar-Upshi” with refill at Karu and Upshi.
1. Is Road via Chusul open?
2. We two guys are carrying our own tent. Can we camp at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri? Any precautions and suggestion.
Satej, I think now the fuel pump at Upshi is no longer functional/present. It is at Karu only. So, you may need to refuel at Karu.
1. Road to Chusul is open but depends upon if you get the permits. Now a days people were getting permits but it all depends upon your luck that day 🙂
2. Read the posts: FAQ | Can I pitch my own tents or camps anywhere in Ladakh?
Dear Dheeraj
Below is your prepared itinerary for some one. I would like a bit of changes in it. I would be grateful if we can exchange emails for my better understanding and approx cost.
Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop
– Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop
Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar
– Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well
– If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden.
– Overnight at Srinagar
Day 3 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
– Enjoy the vistas enroute
– Have late brunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
– Overnight at Kargil
Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
– Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes
– On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu
– Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
– To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh
– For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link here
– Overnight at Leh
Day 6 | 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 7 | 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 8 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
– Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik or Lukung)
Day 9 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
– Cover Karzok Monastery
– Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri
Day 10 | 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 11 | 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 12 | Manali – Delhi
I know you would be busy & yet have graciously agreed to reply to a lot of people. Yet I wish to pick ur brains for this trip I wish to plan. Kindly advise.
Kind Regards
Rishi
Rishi, you are good to go with this one. It is very much the common itinerary on the blog without extra day and overnight at PAngong Tso. Perfectly doable.
we also planned the same itenary but we are missing hanle. can you fit hanle please
On Day 9 you can go to Hanle from Leh. Then on next day can come to Tso Moriri from Hanle and follow the itinerary as above. Please keep in mind to do this stretch you need to have about 750+ KMs of fuel as backup.
thanks dheeraj.
we will be 12 person in xuv500 and ecosport. will ecosport cover the itenary as above?
will have to take 20-20 lts diesel extra after getting tank fulled at leh
Yeah ecosport will manage the above Ladakh itinerary with careful driving. There is a fuel pump at Karu, 36 KMs from Leh towards Tso Moriri – Hanle route, tank up there and carry extra fuel from there only. Then take a shot. If you feel you can make it to Manali then refuel at Manali only because the fuel at Tandi might be not good with quality as people suggested sometimes. So, rely on Tandi after crossing Keylong if you think you will not be able to reach Manali or to short on fuel. Else, use your spare fuel from Karu only.
one more thing. in ladakh i want to paste DOW sticker on my vehicles. from where can i get it
Farogh, we will be launching DoW Store over coming weekend and you can get you Sticker Pack from the DoW Store itself. Please watch the Main Menu or Facebook Page for the updates for a link to DoW Store.
dear dheeraj.
can i take my family along on this trip to ladakh in my beat diesel having GC of 175mm and 57.6 bhp power.
Farogh, for hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway and Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.
sir can u gave me use full things to get with us in trip of delhi-manali-leh-sringar-delhi.
we are 5 person on self drive bolero
Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip including basic medical kit, clothing, must haves etc. at the link here: List of Things to Carry for Leh – Ladakh trip.
sir can u tell the good shop where we can hire bike on rent for leh.
Yes, you can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 800 to Rs 1300. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions.
Hi Dhiraj,
I am planning a Leh trip on May’13 with my wife.
Below is the itinerary planned.
Delhi – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Kullu – Delhi
On road – 7d, total km – 3000 km
Places covered:
New Delhi, Srinagar, Sonmarg, Drass, Kargil, Lamayuru, Leh, Likir, Alchi, Uleytokpo, Khardungla pass, Nubra valley (Valley of flower), Diskit, Pangong Tso Lake (Zanskar), Manali, Kullu, New Delhi
Route
New Delhi – Srinagar (838km) – 1d
1d rest
Srinagar – Sonmarg (80km) – Drass (63km)- Kargil (62km)- Lamayaru (106km)- Leh (109km) – 1d
Leh – Likir (48km )- Alchi (19km)- Uleytokpo (62km) – Leh(2km) – 1d
leh – khardungla pass (40km) – nubra valley (84 km) – diskit (40km) – 1d
leh – pangong tso (185km) -1d (Zanskar)
Pangong Tso – Manali (501km) -1d
Manali – Kullu (40km) – New Delhi (513km) -1d
Is this itinerary is feasible and what would be the cost we should look for this itinerary, my options are:
1. Self driven car from Delhi
2. Private taxi for entire tour.
Judhajit, brother this is one heck of a ride!! Delhi to Srinagar and Srinagar to Leh both are done in 2 days and you are doing them in one day?? Very difficult. Then Pangong Tso to Manali again not possible to be done. Over all a road trip will need atleast 9-10 days if you are looking for a hectic trip to Ladakh.
hi there..
i am actually thankful to “Mr. Dheeraj Sharma” for his blogs and post on site..
inspired from it and got a boost & way for my desire to explore leh ladakh..
I am planning for a road trip from MUMBAI in my new SWIFT DZIRE..
We are 4 of them with age group of 25 – 28..
will like to get guidance for the follwing queries..
1. when can we start our trip (when r d roads open)..?
2. wats the best tym to explore leh ladakh..?
3. we wanna make it as soon as possible..as we dont wanna get whole snow melted..
4. suggest an itinerary with most of the places are covered and with less no. days and all the main spots and highlights are involved.
Thanks in advance..
Simit – Mumbai
Thanks alot Simit. Please find below my inputs for your queries:
1. Best time to start the trip will be third week of June upto third week of July before the monsoon starts, when both roads are likely to be open and stabilized too.
2 + 3. 15th June to 20th July would be ideal for road trip if you like snow, else make it later half of September for great vivid colors.
4. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 14-15 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Your articles have been very useful, We are a group of 9 people planning trip between 26th Sept to 6th Oct, From Chandigarh to manali Keylong to Leh – Kargil – Srinagar. Following is rough itenary we have come up with, kindly comments:
Day 1: Chd to Solang Valley
Day 2: Solang to Keylong – (Via Rohtang Pass
Day 3: Keylong to Sarchu –
Day 4: Sarchu to Tsomoriri
Day 5: Tsomoriri to Leh
Day 6: Leh – Pangong lake – Leh
Day 7: Leh to Nubra Valley
Day 8: Nubra Valley to Turtuk
Day 9: Nubra to Lamayuru
Day 10:Lamayuru to Kargil
Day 11:Kargil to Srinagar
Hi Roopa
Please Avoid Sarchu Stay Because off Oxygen Problem.
Hello Roopa,
Doing it in the other direction would have made much more sense but it is fine towards the late season due to the risk of closing of Manali – Leh Highway for a day or two.
The above itinerary is a killer one!! Please do not attempt it. First, I totally avoid going via Manali – Leh (rather prefer coming back), then avoid sleeping at Sarchu at any cost if at all going via Manali – Leh, finally you have gone a step ahead to sleep at Tso Moriri which would make it further more dangerous even if you can manage the permits in advance for Tso MOriri… Your body cannot acclimatize to sleep at such places so fast. Better do it like:
Day 1: Chd to Solang Valley
Day 2: Solang to Keylong – (Via Rohtang Pass)
Day 3: Keylong/Jispa to Leh
Day 4: Leh Local Sightseeing and Permits
Day 5: Leh – Khardung La – Nubra Valley
Day 6: Nubra Valley – Leh
Day 7: Leh – Pangong lake – Leh
Day 8: Leh – Tso Moriri
Day 9: Tso Moriri – Leh
Day 10: Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
Day 11: Kargil – Srinagar
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
kya mai current week (5 to 10 september 2012) ke beech mai leh ja sakta hu from delhi way manali
(persently i am in manali )
PLEASE Help me for plan to this trip
Hi Sikander,
Sirf 5 din mein possible nhn ho payega, you need more than 5 days. 2 din jaane mein lagenege and 2 din aane mein.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for Suggestion/Information.
Dheeraj mai 6/09/12 ko start ( From Manali)to 11/09/12 ko Return pahuchne ka program banau to kesa rahe ?
And i have royal enfield Classic 350 mai Batal to Baralacha La Jana Chahta hui way Chandra Tall ( parallel to Chandra river Route ) PLEASE SUGGEST/ADVISE.
Sikander bhai, pehle aapko Manali se Chandratal jana hoga Battal hote hue and then uske baad wapise aana hoga Leh – Manali highway par Baralacha La jane k liye. Manali – Chandratal Camps – 1 Day, Chandratal Camps – Chandratal – Keylong – Day 2, Keylong – Baralacha La – Keylong – Day 3, Keylong – Manali – Day 4. One day left can be used at Chandratal.
Regards
Dheeraj
I am planning to visit Leh with my Wife in May’13.
Pls help me plan the trip:-
1)First,is it actually a good time to visit the place.
2)Hotel costs seems to be above Rs 1500 min. ,,how is the tenting accomodation arrangement there…is that worth counting on and what shall be their charges(approx)
3)how much the taxi will charge for 7 days for all sight seeing etc…
Can i consider Rs 40K for the total trip inclusive of all…
Hello Amit,
1. It is fine time to go there, make it late in May so that all lakes are frozen by that time.
2. It is usually the start of season time ad you will get good hotels even in Rs 1000 and guest houses even below. 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
3. For the current leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2012-13 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here. You can get about 10-15% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
going to leh end of july. how is the weather usually . i hope its ok to take children 10/11 years. have searched over the net and found that families do take children of this age. similarly what kind of basic medical kit is required or better to carry , to deal with weather or AMS.
too much research is also harmful ! isnt it ? at times i am getting nervous b'coz of reading too much about altitude, road conditions, weather and blah blah. i have overnight stay at nubra and then overnight stay at pangong. its not a circuit but after coming back to leh. your words of courage plzzz 🙂
Hello Wally,
It is fine to take the children of such age group because AMS do not matter with respect to age. It can happen to anyone of any age. The only issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With 5+ year child, I think he/she would be able to convey the uneasiness with little efforts. If you notice any such feeling or he/she tells you about such a felling then please do not ascend anywhere, either descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated!!
I will suggest you read some tips mentioned in the article here for better acclimatization and reducing chances of AMS.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Any information about the mobile networks on the route to Leh from Manali…???
Hello Mahidhar,
Mobile networks on Manali – Leh Highway works upto Keylong or Jispa only and then you are at your own upto Upshi/Karu near Leh, where you get them back.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj
one more help and suggestion needed, need some contact number to book bikes
and will bajaj avenger comfortable to take on this roadtrip??
Regards
Mahidhar
Not sure, about the comfort with avenger since I do not ride much. For contacts, do you want them for Leh or Manali? You can rent bikes in Leh and Fort Road in Leh is full of such shops that rent bikes. Depending upon the condition, model, make and tourist rush you can get bikes starting from Rs 600 to Rs 1200. Rather than booking over phone, it is much better to visit the Fort road, check 4-5 shops over there and get a good deal after checking the bike conditions.
For renting bikes in Manali check: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali
Regards
Dheeraj
Only post paid connections work in Leh. Am in Leh right with a prepaid sim :-{
धीरज भाई, आप को लाख लाख धन्यवाद,
thanks alot 🙂
What about the visiting on July 1st and 2nd week? Is it the good time to visit?
Hi Nitin,
Yes, July first two weeks is a good time to visit before the onset of monsoons. Once, monsoons start things become ugly especially on the in-roads to Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thanx its very much informative n helpful
Have a great trip Vikas, I am glad the information was useful to you.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
i read your posts and found them very helpful.
can i seek more help from you.
me and few of my friends are planning for this trip from Manali – Leh – Manali on bikes.
here are few question i would be glad if you can answer them for me…
1) Can we make the trip in 7-9 days on Bikes from Manali to Leh and back to Manali?
2) How much could it cost for the whole trip renting bikes, hotel, and site seeing which come in the way?
3) can we ride on avenger on this route smoothly?
4) we are planning in the in month of August – will it be fine?
Thanks & Regards
Mahidhar
Hello Mahidhar,
1. In 9 days ex. Delhi, yes but difficult with days mostly on roads. Do you have 9 days ex. Delhi or ex. Manali?
2. Please check the link: How to calculate cost or budget for Leh – Ladakh trip
3. Technically cannot say being not a rider. But, I have seen even splendors/discovers doing it.
4. Well, in August you need to keep buffer days. Mostly you will be running with monsoons in these 9 days because it is only Ladakh where you do not find monsoons much otherwise most parts of Manali – Leh Highway will be affected by monsoons only.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
HI Dheeraj,
thnx for your response.
and yes the trip is excluding delhi, 9days is from manali-leh-manali..
and if in August its raining there than which month would be better?
Thanks & Regards
Mahidhar
Hi Mahidar,
I guess then it should work fine for you because you can atleast keep 1 day as buffer. The only issue is with blockades which might happen on Manali – Leh Highway due to rains. Once you cross Baralacha La the other side is a rain shadow region and hence not much issues there 🙂 … If yo can then plan after mid-September when resides and you have less tourists plus better road conditions.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi again Dheeraj, Is it feasible for us to return via Panglong – Tso Moriri to Manali as mentioned by you above. Our plan earlier was as below:
Day 1- Reach Delhi. Delhi to Manali
Day2 – reach manali and spend a day there
Day 3- Manali to Keylong/Sarchu
Day4- Keylong/Sarchu to Leh
Day5- visit Alchi, Lamayuru, Spituk and other monasteries and get permits required-monday
Day 6- Chang la and Pangong lake in shared taxi. come back to Leh
Day 7- Khardungla, Nubra Valley return to Leh
Day 8 – Leave from Ladakh. overnite at keylong/sarchu
Day 9- Keylong- Manali
Day 10- Manali to Delhi
Day 11- Fly back to Pune
Kindly let me know if we can go by this route or as mentioned by you above.. Also if we go via the route from Leh – Pangong Tso – Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Sarchu – Keylong – Tandi – Manali.. Can we spend a nite at Pangong LAke..We are planning to hire a shared taxi. Kindly suggest
Hi Parini,
Please do not stay at Sarchu, you guys will not be acclimatized for the altitude of Sarchu and might get hit with AMS. On the way back, you can stay at Sarchu.
Since, I see you will be doing it in shared taxi, so you will not find partners easily to do this customized journey. In private taxi, you can do the above route in 4 days but mind you that after Pangong Tso upto Manali all three days will hectic and tiring.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks so much Dheeraj..So you mean while going from Manali to Leh we should halt for a night stay in Keylong and stick to the previous plan. Day 6 should be Khardungla and Nubra Valley and Day 7- Changla and Pangong Lake.. And i think if its two of us only we can hire a 2 wheeler also. The modified plan is as below:
DAY 5- SPITUK GOMPA,ALCHI, Lamayuru and get the required permits
DAY 6- Khardungla, Nubra Valley
DAY 7- Pangong lake..back
DAY 8- Leave from Ladakh. overnite at sarchu
DAY 9 – Keylong- Manali-
Day 10- Manali- Delhi
Day 11- Fly back.. I thik keylong-Manali- Delhi can be done in a day.. But do not want to take risk.. otherwise we could stay one night in Pangong :(.. Kindly let me know if any changes are required in the above plan :).. Thanks again 🙂
Hello Parini,
Yes, you got it right. Yes, you can hire bike as well. Go to fort road at Leh and you will find plenty of bike rental shops there. Fo good quality ones but a bit high in prices check with Apex Bike Tours. Instead of Keylong – Manali – Delhi, do it like Sarchu – Manali (doable) and then Manali – Delhi. This way you will be able to have that much needed buffer day that can be used in case of any disruptions.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Also, I forgot to mention that it will be much better if you do Pangong Tso Day trip after day trip to Nubra Valley. It will help you enjoy more and your body will feel light on going to Pangong Tso which is at higher altitude than Nubra Valley
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks so much Dheeraj.. This really helped a lot.. 🙂
My pleasure, have a great trip ahead!! 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Sorry my mistake Keylong- Manali and DElhi not in a day.. I hope we can reach Delhi the next day by taking an evening bus on Day 9 itself..??
Vikas, We plan to do a similar itinerary.
1. Delhi to Patni top
2. Patni top to Srinagar to Sonamarg
3. Sonamarg
4. Sonamarg to Kargil to Leh
5. Enjoy Leh
6. Leh to Nubra Valley
7. Nubra to Pangong Tso
8. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri (Kyagar Tso)
9. Tso Moriri to Sarchu
10. Sarchu to Kaza
11. Kaza to Delhi
Hi Namit,
My 2 cents on the itinerary:
You need to carry spare fuel so that you can do this 950+ KMs without any fuel pump. Nubra to Pangong via Shyok is real bad, via Wari La depends upon if it is open or not. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri is again very long and very bad road, mostly. Sarchu to Kaza again is too long for one day. Kiagar Tso comes on the way to Tso Moriri after Sumdo.
6. Leh to Nubra Valley
7. Nubra to Pangong Tso
8. Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri (Kyagar Tso)
9. Tso Moriri to Sarchu
10. Sarchu to Kaza
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
dheeraj bhai pangong to tso moriri -tsokar -pang kitna distence hai? Is it doable in bolero 2 wd with ladies also???
Hi Vikas,
The approximate distance are as follows:
Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri Lake via Chumathang = 339 KMs
Pangong Tso Lake to Tso Moriri Lake via Changthang (Merak – Chusul – Nyoma) = 235 KMs
Tso Moriri Lake to Pang via Tso Kar Lake = 155 KMs
Doable but the roads via Changthang (Merak – Chusul – Nyoma) are not really roads rather dirt tracks that does create some sough of discomfort. If that is OK, the beauty is totally unmatched.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
You have the most vital information abt Ladak. Thanks for sharing. Really appreciate.
thanks Namit, glad you loved reading the information present on the blog 🙂
very informative post
Thanks a lot Samaresh 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
सच में तेल वाली बात वहाँ याद रहनी ही है, मैंने ऐसे लोगो को देखा था जो अपनी गाडी बीच में छोड़ तेल लेने वापिस दुसरे के वाहन से आये थे
Ek dum sahi Sandeep bhai. If one do not plan the ride carefully to Ladakh, many people go running and coming back saying, I will never go to Ladakh due to such ill planned journey that causes nightmares on their trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma