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How to plan a journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
The 434 KM long Srinagar – Leh Highway is almost like a lifeline in the form of road connectivity between Leh – Ladakh and rest of India via Kashmir Valley. Srinagar – Leh Highway also known as National Highway – 1D (NH – 1D) is the most reliable and one of the only two ways to reach Leh – Ladakh by road, the other one being Manali – Leh Highway (Check: Travel Guide for Manali – Leh Highway here). Generally, travelers or adventure lovers from all over world loves or dreams to undertake this road trip of their life time by covering both routes connecting Leh – Ladakh to rest of India i.e. a lifetime experience road trip traversing Srinagar – Leh – Manali Highways. Apart from being famous for its enchanting views, this highway holds a strategic importance for India and being close to LOC, you see the heavy army presence on it when you travel through Srinagar – Leh Highway.
The highway runs along side the Indus River and through some extremely harsh and barren terrain including the three high mountain passes named Zozi La (3528 Mtrs), Namki La (3815 Mtrs) and Fotu La (4108 Mtrs). In any case, Srinagar – Leh highway offers some breathtaking landscapes ornamented by various historical and cultural constructions which are just like a dream treat for any traveler driving/riding through Srinagar – Leh Highway.
Generally, people traveling or flying directly to Leh – Ladakh suffers from acute mountain sickness as Leh (3500 Mtrs) due to sudden disturbance of altitude with which the body is adapted. However, Srinagar – Leh highway provides a gradual ascent to travelers thus helps them fight any chances of acute mountain sickness (AMS) caused due to high altitudes and let them enjoy the beautiful vistas in relaxed manner.
Season to Travel on Srinagar – Leh Highway
The 434 KM long Srinagar Highway generally remains closed for about 6 months in an year starting from November to May due to heavy snowfall on the mountain passes mainly Zozi La pass. Zozi La pass starts receiving snowfall in the month of November and then any day of November (generally 15th November officially) the highway ceases to close officially as it becomes extremely difficult for BRO to clear the snow. Then, again as the winter months resides, the BRO guys begins the snow clearance process in spring season that is in March and repair the damaged roads, bridges and other parts of the highway. Finally, after completing this rigorous job of snow clearance and fixing the roads, bridges etc BRO announces the opening of Srinagar – Leh Highway generally around mid – May or by June first week.
Hence, the best season to travel Srinagar – Leh Highway is between June to October. In May, if the highway gets open then generally the roads are in really bad shape and only improves as the season progress with constant repair work conducted by BRO. By end of June as the road condition stabilizes the monsoon comes to the party in July and creates havoc in lower hills connecting Srinagar to Jammu and further to other parts of India. The landslides are almost inevitable in monsoon season which causes road blockages ever now and then. The Amarnath Yatra being in full flow in July – August, do expect heavy traffic and rush from Jammu – Srinagar – Kargil parts of highway. Even the dominance of armed forces also increase in July – August owing to the security of pilgrims of Amarnath Yatra.
It is almost a nightmare to drive through Zozi La Pass in July – August especially when its raining or has rained previous days but at any day better than Rohtang Pass on Manali – Leh Highway which becomes more than hell during monsoon season. One should always avoid Srinagar – Leh Highway during days alongside Independence Day in India i.e. 15th August which is when the bandhs and strikes gets more active. As the end of August approach, the Amarnath Yatra is over and monsoon starts to reside from Northern India, the conditions improve much more to travel on Srinagar – Leh Highway and in September it could be called as best time to travel but you will not find any snow of course. Even in August and late July snow will be hard to touch except few patches on Zozi La pass.
Since, the other side of Zozila Pass mainly Kargil onwards comes under rain shadow area where only the dry winds of monsoon reach. So, in July – August you need to tackle the monsoon rains and their havoc in lower hills only including Jammu, Srinagar, Zozi La pass i.e. till you reach Kargil where there is very little rain during these months.
Throughout the season, you need to let pass large convoys of army trucks as army also stock up required materials in Leh – Ladakh through Srinagar – Leh road majorly. This may cause delay of few hours every now and then in your entire journey on Srinagar – Leh highway.
Modes of Travel on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Private Vehicles i.e. Cars and Bikes | Self Drive or Ride to Ladakh
Most people prefer to self drive or self ride to Ladakh by their own car or own bike and some also prefer to self drive or self ride to Ladakh by hiring a bike or car. In any case, hired car/bike or personal car/bike, idea is to live the passion of driving or riding through one of the toughest and adventurous terrains accessible in India. You can take your own or rented, car or bike to Ladakh but one must be careful while driving or riding through slushy roads, snow and water crossing or nallas. Also, it is always handy to learn little maintenance tasks of your vehicle prior to the start of this comparatively less arduous journey than Manali – Leh Highway.
For cars, although an SUV/MUV is good to have and a 4WD SUV will definitely help but I have seen hatchbacks (including Altos and Nano) and sedans doing good enough job on Srinagar – Leh Highway than on Manali – Leh Highway. If you want to try your sedan or hatch back drive to Ladakh then Srinagar – Leh Highway is better bet when compared to taking a sedan or hatch from Manali – Leh Highway. However like on Manali – Leh Highway, with sedans / hatchbacks one must drive with extra care and caution even at Srinagar – Leh Highway and especially around Zozila pass (ascend and descend both).
You get less number of challenges on Srinagar – Leh Highway as compared to Manali – Leh Highway with only major hurdle being Zozila Pass. However even then, whenever you are in doubt, always step out of your car, walk down the path, inspect with your foot and plan the path of exit before crossing a dangerous landslide or water crossing on your vehicle. You can also park aside and see how others are crossing the risky section to plan your route of escape. In deep water crossings try to maintain the momentum without any half clutch measures and complete the entire stretch in one go only. Similarly, in slush stretches do not force the issue rather keep the smooth momentum with required speed to pass you through, without half clutch measures. Do keep an eye on the direction of the vehicle too. If you get stuck in slush then try to back and forth your vehicles to get out of the stuck position. It is always handy to ask your fellow co-travelers to get out of the car and push the vehicle from behind incase the car is struggling to pass through the slush or water crossing stretch.
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
Hiring a Private Taxi | Taxi Number or Private Number
All taxis (except Ladakh registration number) having taxi number or tourist permits number plates are only allowed for a drop in Leh – Ladakh. As per the taxi union rules only taxis with Ladakh number are only allowed to roam in the Ladakh region for sightseeing purposes. If you want to travel within Leh – Ladakh in your private taxi hired from a place other than Ladakh then in that case you need to hire a taxi with private number plate only. However, in the latter case be ready for some queries by the local taxi drivers in Ladakh or police constables on your route. You need to ensure everyone interrogating with you that the vehicles is not hired.
If you can get hold of some taxi driver in Ladakh then hire that taxi only else go to Kargil first and change taxi from there. From Kargil, the Ladakh taxi driver can pick you and you will have the advantage to cover the sightseeing places en-route Leh on Srinagar – Leh Highway like Alchi, Basgo, Likir etc before you reach Leh. If that is not your plan then hire a direct taxi from Srinagar to Leh but with taxi hired with Srinagar number plate you will not be able to do sightseeing en-route especially Sham Valley, as far as I know.
To hire a taxi, go directly to Srinagar taxi stand and bargain hard with the local drivers only, for a drop to Leh. Do not involve any tour operator or hotel staff at any stage. The local taxi drivers will charge about Rs 1200-1500 extra for a planned night halt on the way to Leh. The charges are close to Rs 9000 to Rs 12000 for a drop to Leh from Srinagar with one night halt, depending on your bargaining power, tourist rush and the time of the year you are visiting.
Srinagar – Leh Bus Service, JK SRTC and Others | Economical mode of travel
JK SRTC ply buses on Srinagar – Leh Highway which are available at Srinagar Bus Stand near Lal Chowk and near Polo Ground in Leh. I guess JK SRTC have both standard as well as semi-deluxe buses which run Srinagar – Leh Highway with cost of about Rs 500 – Rs 600 for Standard bus and Rs 600 – Rs 700 for semi-deluxe types. There are also few private bus operators running semi-deluxe buses between Srinagar – Leh who charge about Rs 800 – Rs 900 per seat.
These buses generally stop at Kargil for the night and Sonamarg for tea and snacks. The JK SRTC buses may not be as comfortable though but comfort comes with the price. The buses leaves Srinagar around 5 AM and Leh around 6 AM, I guess.
Shared Taxi | A Cannon ball run
You can also buy yourself a seat in a shared taxi which runs every mid-night from Srinagar and reaches Leh on next evening without any night halt. In the same way, shared taxis are run from Leh to Srinagar as well.
You need to pay about Rs 1200 to Rs 1500 per person for a drop to Leh from Srinagar or a drop to Srinagar from Leh. Of course, since it is shared with 7-8 other people plus the driver and completes the back braking cannon ball run of Srinagar – Leh in 16-18 hours, you can imagine the level of comfort yourself. This one is the second cheapest mode of travel on Srinagar – Leh Highway but mind you, it could be the toughest on the body too 
Also, not staying at Kargil will mean less acclimatization which may make you feel a bit sick in the first few days when you reach Leh.
Other travel modes
You can also get in touch with some travel agent or taxi union in Srinagar who also runs their private buses or Tempo Travelers on Srinagar – Leh Highway.
Planning Night Stay or Accommodation on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Based on my experience, you can opt to plan a journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway in one of the following ways –
Two Day Journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
The options of stay or accommodation are very limited on Manali – Leh Highway due to the limited civilization but on the Srinagar – Leh Highway you get the respite as there are plenty of civilized places enroute and you get to find accommodation either one or the other place. You will find accommodation option ever 70-80 odd KMs on an average. But still, a two day journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway is the most common among all travelers as you tend to see the beauty in relaxing manner as well as you help your body to accilimatize to the altitude of Leh. Private Taxis and buses run by JK SRTC also cover the Srinagar – Leh Highway in two days with night halt at Kargil. Mostly, people break up the journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway in the following ways over a span of two days -
Srinagar – Kargil / Drass (Day 1) and Kargil / Drass – Leh (Day 2)
This option is mostly preferred by people as it evenly distributes the travel time of the entire journey in two days. However, on the second day, you need to leave early in the morning if you are interested to stop at every other point to take pictures and still reach Leh in time .
Personally, out of Kargil or Drass you shall prefer to stay at Kargil due to varied options of accommodation available at Kargil. But, many a times finding vegetarian food becomes difficult in Kargil in the late evening and hence, you can opt to stay at Drass which does offer a few accommodation options. The distance between Drass – Kargil is about 60 KMs only which means about 2 hours of more travel time on next day.
If you are a vegetarian then most likely, what you can do is that if you are reaching Drass by about evening then its good to take your dinner there and reach Kargil by the late evening or early night time. May be a tea or coffee with some biscuits will make you feel good for rest of the night. It will surely help rather than sleeping without vegetarian food due its unavailability in Kargil
One Day Journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Srinagar – Leh (Day 1)
This option of completing the journey of Srinagar – Leh in single day is mostly common among local people or people who are in high rush and is least recommended if you want to enjoy your travel. Shared taxis are the preferred way to avail this option. Although, it could be the cheapest or time saving for you but this back braking, cannon ball run of 15-16 Hrs with least stoppages does put a heavy toll on the body as well as the mind of an average traveler. This long journey is extremely tiring and by traversing through the varied amount of altitudes in a single day, you are definitely running a risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) or some severe headaches and for initial days spent in Leh. Of course, this is true incase you have not stayed overnight in Gulmarg or Pahalgam or Sonamarg on previous nights of your tour. Doing in a single day, may certainly kill the joy of the journey.
Three Day Journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Srinagar – Kargil/Drass (Day 1) and Kargil/Drass – Lamayuru/Alchi (Day 2) and Lamayuru/Alchi – Leh (Day 3)
Well, by extending the journey of Srinagar – Leh Highway in three days, you give yourself a chance to explore the sightseeing places en-route thoroughly. There are many tourist destinations in Ladakh region which are situated on Srinagar – Leh Highway and requires time if you really wish to explore them. Hence, by extending the journey with one day you give your self ample of time to explore these tourist places before you reach Leh. For more details on sightseeing refer section: Sightseeing on Srinagar – Leh Highway, below in the article.
Very few people follow this option due to lack of time and to save money. If these two things have no place for consideration at your grounds then I will say just go with it and you will make your journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway much more than a memorable experience . I guess the comparison of night halts (Drass/Kargil) is already done in first option, so opt as per your taste.
This option will mostly be available, if you are traveling by your own vehicle. To be very frank, this option is not even available if you are hiring a private Srinagar registered taxi as well because Srinagar registered taxi are not allowed for local sightseeing in Ladakh region especially Sham Valley where all these tourist places are present. In such a case you need to book a taxi to Kargil first from Srinagar and then hire yourself a taxi from Kargil to Leh or you need to hire a Ladakh registered number taxi. Confirm in advance from the driver if he will do sightseeing for Sham Valley before booking it. Then, in next two days after covering all tourist destinations including Mulbekh, Lamayuru, Redzong, Alchi, Likir, Sham Valley etc on the route you can reach Leh.
Staying one night at Alchi, which is lower in altitude than Leh, also make sure that your body is much more acclimatized to the altitude of Leh and you enjoy a lot better conditions once you reach Leh after a stay at Kargil and Alchi on previous nights.
Alternate Route to Leh from Kargil via Batalik and Dah
There exist an alternate route to reach Leh once you reach Kargil which is a bit more scenic than the usual route. The usual route goes like Kargil – Mulbekh – Lamayuru – Leh and the alternate, less used route goes like Kargil – Batalik – Dah – Skurbuchan – Leh.
Please make a note that the route via Batalik requires you to get the Inner Line Permits from either DC Office Kargil or DC Office Leh. So, I will advise that you go to Leh from Kargil via Lamayuru following the usual route and then you can come back to Kargil via Batalik after getting the permits from Leh DC office at the time you apply permits for Ladakh sightseeing places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso etc. If you are returning via Manali – Leh Highway then you need to take permits from Kargil DC Office to go via Batalik route and thereby miss the usual route to Leh which goes via Lamayuru.
Sightseeing on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Well, while traversing this beautiful road of Srinagar – Leh Highway you also give yourself a chance to visit the following places either on the route or with little diversions from the route -
Maitrey at Mulbek, Lamayuru Monastery, Lunar Landscape, Redzong Monastery, Alchi Monastery, Likir Monastery, Basgo Palace, Confluence at Nimmu, Magnetic Hills, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Phyang Monastery, Spituk Monastery.
You need to give yourself time to explore these places especially Lamayuru, Alchi and Likir monasteries. Hence, if you plan to cover these sightseeing places either while going towards Leh from Srinagar or towards Srinagar from Leh, then give yourself at least 3 days to cover the entire Srinagar – Leh route.
List of Accommodation or Stay Options on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Srinagar – Leh Highway is much better than Manali – Leh Highway in terms of accommodation options it offers and one can find decent place to stay within 125 odd KMs at max. At some places like Mulbekh, Sonamarg, Drass etc the accommodation options could be very limited and basic guest house / home stay types while places like Kargil, Lamayuru does offer varied amount of accommodation options. So, it always better to break the journey at Kargil or Lamayuru but of course there are not much worries for places of stay on Srinagar – Leh Highway than on Manali – Leh Highway. You can also take diversion to the towns of Alchi / Likir for a stay there as well. Of course you will find basic home stay types of accommodation at both Alchi / Likir but it would be a worthwhile experience in any case. Here is the break up of accommodation options available on Srinagar – Leh Highway with distances -
- Srinagar – Sonamarg (80 KMs) | Decent number of accommodation options available at Sonamarg
- Sonamarg – Drass (65 KMs) | Decent number of accommodation options available at Drass
- Drass – Kargil (55 KMs) | Many accommodation options available at Kargil
- Kargil – Mulbekh (40 KMs) | Few basic / home stay accommodation options available at Mulbekh
- Mulbekh – Lamayuru (70 KMs) | Decent number of accommodation options available at Lamayuru
- Lamayuru – Alchi / Likir (55 – 65 KMs / 65 – 75 KMs) | Few basic / home stay accommodation options available at Alchi / Likir
- Lamayuru – Leh (125 KMs) | Many accommodation options available at Leh
- Alchi / Likir – Leh ( 65 KM / 55 KMs) | Many accommodation options available at Leh
Please keep in mind that Alchi and Likir are not exactly on Srinagar – Leh Highway and you need to take diversions near Sasapol, I guess, for either of them. The distance between Alchi – Likir is about 18 – 20 KMs only.
Acclimatization and its importance on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Unlike Manali – Leh Highway, the journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway goes through gradual increase in altitude thereby helping our body to get acclimatized properly for the altitude of Leh. That is why going through Srinagar – Leh Highway is always preferred for road trip to Ladakh than going via Manali – Leh Highway. By going to Leh – Ladakh from Srinagar – Leh Highway, one gives himself a chance to properly acclimatize to the high altitudes there by decreasing the chances of being hit by AMS. In the return leg, you can go via Leh – Manali Highway so that your body is properly acclimatized by the time you under take the varied high altitudes on that route. This helps you enjoy the Manali – Leh highway in a better way as well.
Having said that even on Srinagar – Leh Highway its always good that you take little precautions to further minimize the effects of high altitude sickness. Here are some tips which will help acclimatizing the body faster
- Try to cover the Srinagar – Leh journey in two days with a night halt at Kargil most preferably.
- Keep your body properly hydrated.
- Avoid sleeping at high altitudes.
- Avoid over exertion.
- Avoid tobacco and smoking and alcohol and other depressant drugs.
- Keep your body warm and eat lots of carbohydrates.
- Avoid sleep during the day.
- Sleep in upright position, if possible.
- Carry preventive medicines for AMS.
- Immediately descend, if symptoms increase.
For more information on Acute Mountain Sickness and all above acclimatization tips, please refer the following link at least once: Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization
Fuel or Petrol Pumps on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Again, unlike Manali – Leh Highway, it is easy to find fuel or petrol on Srinagar – Leh Highway. One can get fuel or petrol on Srinagar Leh Highway at: Srinagar, Mangan, Sonamarg, Kargil, Mulbekh, Wakha, Khaltsi, Leh
ATMs on Srinagar – Leh Highway
As per my knowledge there are ATMS available at Ganderbal, Drass, Kargil, Sasapol apart from Leh and Srinagar ATMs. I guess you should carry enough cash with you in Ladakh because ATMs at these limited places can run out of money or become un-operational at any day or time.
Places on Srinagar – Leh Highway with their Distances and Altitudes
Generally, the places of on Srinagar – Leh Highway majorly goes like Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil – Mulbekh – Namika La – Fotu La – Lamayuru – Khaltsi – Sasapol – Nimmu – Leh and the approximate distances between these places is shown below briefly -
- Srinagar – Sonamarg (80 KMs)
- Sonamarg – Drass (65 KMs)
- Drass – Kargil (55 KMs)
- Kargil – Mulbekh (40 KMs)
- Mulbekh – Lamayuru (70 KMs)
- Lamayuru – Leh (125 KMs)
Summarized View of Facilities or Amenities on Srinagar – Leh Highway
|
Facility |
Places |
|
Accommodations / Stay Options |
Sonamarg, Drass, Kargil (Many options), Mulbekh, Lamayuru, Alchi |
| Food / Beverages | Sonamarg, Drass, Kargil (Many options), Mulbekh, Lamayuru, Alchi |
| Diesel / Petrol Pumps | Mangan, Sonamarg, Kargil, Mulbekh, Wakha, Khaltsi |
| Mobile Connectivity |
|
| Fixed Phones | Ganderbal, Sonamarg, Drass, Kargil, Mulbekh, Lamayuru, Alchi, Nimmu and in between these places as well |
| Electricity | Almost all the towns en-route have electricity and I wonder if there is any town which lacks it. |
| Medical Facilities | Sonamarg, Drass (limited), Kargil, Lamayuru (limited) |
| ATMs | Ganderbal, Drass, Kargil, Sasapol |
| Mechanic / Puncture Shops | Ganderbal, Sonamarg, Kargil, Lamayuru (Puncture), Mulbekh (Puncture), Nimmu (Puncture) |
| Liquor Shops | Sonamarg, Drass, Kargil |
Conclusion
Have you ever been to Srinagar – Leh Highway? If yes, please share your view points, suggestions or inputs as comments below, it will help other fellow travelers to plan their own journey on one of the beautiful highways of India. Are you planning to go to Ladakh via Srinagar – Leh Highway? If yes, please feel free to ask any queries or doubts you have regarding the same as comments below. I will be happy to reply and discuss them with you. Looking forward for your responses
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Recent Comments
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Dheeraj Sharma:-thanks Sahil for updating it :).. @Anil, bhai Sahil is the one who runs it
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Sadananda:-how much should I have pay for a vegetarian breakfast, Lunch and dinner on
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Sahil:-Hi, Anil! The Nomad's Cottage is located on the PWD Road , next to the Scho
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MEHUL:-hi dheeraj...... Very useful information provided by you on your site. we
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Cdr R Dutta:-Lovely experiences Moksha, You are a role model for today's youth...Keep on
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Vipul:-Really an amazing and extraordinary feat.
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Ravish:-We are going to rishikesh by train and then hire a cab(innova) from there t
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Ravish:-Hi Dheeraj, A great post i must say..we are planning a trekking trip to
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Dheeraj Sharma:-Hi Ravi, I understand Ravi and that terrain is not the one to be riden/dri
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shobhita:-hey kaki read ur blog , beautifully written, the most courageous woman in m
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60 Comments
how much should I have pay for a vegetarian breakfast, Lunch and dinner on way to Ladak from srinagar.how much a tea cost? do these dhaba have different rates for regulars and tourist?
very very useful info………
n in gr8 detail….
thanks a lot Mehul. Feel free to ask any queries if you have for planning your trip
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj……
Very useful information provided by you on your site. we r planning from 3rd june to 10th…….or 22nd june to 29th june…..just wanted to know which would be the better period? considering weather & road traffic….
Hi Dheeraj,
Very useful information provided by you on your site. I got to know lot of details from your site for Ladakh trip. We are planning for 10 days trip n first week of July mostly from 1st to 10th.
Can you please let me know how is weather at that time in Ladakh?
Thanks and Regards,
Atima
Hi Atima,
Thanks alot, I am glad that you loved the information available on the blog. Are you planning the road journey from Delhi in 10 days? I guess you will need to add atleast 2 more days for the same to cover atleast major tourist destinations of Leh – Ladakh. Else, you will be hoping from one place to another only, leaving some of the places which demand worth a stay. Let me know the starting place and mode of transport, I will suggest a suitable itinerary for you and also number of days in hand.
Weather is generally pleasant in Leh – Ladakh. 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.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks dheeraj for this usefull information
I have planned for leh by road with taxi
on 8th may 2012.what do u say should I
get road opened on this day frm Srinagar
to kargil to leh.
hi Alpesh,
Well, it is difficult to predict if the road will be open by that time. Best bet will be to track the road conditions as the clearance process starts in March. If weather remains clear there might be chances that Srinagar – Leh Highway gets open in May, however nothing is certain. So, keep track of road conditions. I try to provide all the updates I get for the Manali – Leh Highway and Srinagar – Leh Highway, so stay tuned to the blog
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
[...] Srinagar – Leh Guide [...]
Thanks for all your guidance for my Leh trip!
It was indeed very helpful.
Further my answer to your query: “Have you ever been to Srinagar – Leh Highway?” is Yes & No both!!!
No, but I have been on Have you ever been to Leh – Srinagar Highway!
The shared taxi starts at 4:30 PM in the evening and reaches Srinagar at around 5:30 in the morning! So forget viewing the beauty en-route!
Further, the road is in very poor condition and whole route (except hardly 20 kilometers) is very dusty!
I would avoid this route in future!!
Hello PraKaant,
Well, regarding shared taxis this info is quite new, I am not sure when it started or it may be possible that they run in evening too which frankly I never heard or aware off. You can get shared taxis which start in the morning too, many of my friends have used them. One of the drivers I know run his taxi in day time only and that too shared many a time from Srinagar to Leh. There are tourist shared taxis also available which are different from normal ones as they put a night halt at Kargil and of course they run in the day. So, there may be taxis available in night as well which I was not aware off and then this is something new I heard. Thanks for sharing the info here.
Regarding road conditions, dust usually depends at the time when you travel and road conditions are more or like that or even bad infact if you visit them early in the season. If you go via Manali – Leh road you will actually realize what bad road means. Rohtang Pass this year gave nightmares to many whom I adore and praise as great drivers of trans-Himalayan range. The Srinagar Leh Highway apart from near Zozi La pass is used to be quite nice when compared to Manali – Leh Highway.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
p.s. -> I have never been to Srinagar – Leh highway that is why you do not see any pictures
… The info. is a part of my research and what all info. I collected on my trip to Ladakh but unfortunately couldn’t come back on road as we got stuck in Leh flashfloods and had to fly back leaving our car at Manali only 
… This year all this is waiting again and I will be on my way.
Sorry, Dheeraj Sir,
I could not get back to you for a long time due to some personal reason!
Regarding the evening shared taxis, as we were eager to travel during day-time, we had inquired at the taxi stand at Leh and were informed that there is no taxi which starts in the morning. There were in total eight taxis which started in the evening together. We had also inquired about the bus and were informed that there is no bus coming from Srinagar so no bus would be going back; but there was a chance of a bus next day coming from Kargil which would have left Leh at 2 PM next day. Hence did book the taxi for next day.
Further in stead of complaining, I was stating the condition of road hence sorry if sounded offensive. Main regret was to miss the beayuty of mountain view en-route.
Altogether, the whole trip was memorable.
Would love to go back with longer duration in hand! So expect me to coming back for more information.
Once again thank you for all the help provided by you!
Regards, PraKaant
Hey Prakaant,
Thanks buddy again for the update here and sharing the info. with us. Please call me Dheeraj only, sir makes me years old
… May be it happens at the end of the season time, that evening shared taxi part or may be there are other tourist shared taxis which are run by various tour operators which might run in day time. I will surely update your info in the original article anyways, so thanks again dost. I didn’t take it as offensive as perhaps you just shared the info with fellow travelers here, so that they can inquire well in advance if the taxi runs in the morning or evening. My sincere thanks for the same. Also, yes I can understand that going that far and then not seeing the actual beauty of the region is quite disappointing as I have also felt same way many a times 
… It will also help clearing the expectations of Srinagar – Leh Highway as compared to Manali – Leh Highway as the latter one sweeps it completely away in terms of adventure as well as beauty.
Glad to know that your trip was memorable and you really enjoyed it. Feel free to contact me anytime you like to Travel and I will be happy to reply with all the little knowledge I have with me.
Cheers!!!
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi dheeraj,
See what i have planned and guide me buddy:-
I will come to srinagar on 25th may 2012, then will come to leh after two days then i had got 8 days to stay and visit various points and leh. So guide me that what should i see in those 8 days. And after 8days i will be comin back to manali by leh manali road and see the rohtang pass while coming on road… And after that se manikaran , mandi and simla.. And will come to kalka by shimla kalka mini train… And if possible i will see delhi also…
*if the leh – manali road will not get open till what i hav planned then im ready to pospone the dates also*
i think that pongong is one night halt trip, and from their leh manali road will near and easier. so if it true what i think then kindly reply me buddy. plzz plan my trip day wise, that what should be then plan after reaching srinagar.. with cost also. plz reply dheeraj. Now my full trip depends on how much beautifully plan it. so plz guide me.
-Omkar.
Hello Omkar,
That is quite a number of days you have, ideal for Ladakh trip. Frankly, I or nobody can guarantee whether the Manali – Leh Highway will be open or not by first week of June when you plan to return. I guess by postponing the trip by a week and ideally by two weeks, you give yourself a very fair chance that Manali – Leh highway will be open on your return. In first week of June chances I will say are 50:50, may be it will be open or may be not, it all depends. I will suggest the following plan based on the number of days you have in hand along with the taxi union rates for 2011 (you can bargain as per your needs and skills with drivers directly):
Day 1 | Srinagar – Kargil
Day 2 | Kargil – Lamayuru
– Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Monastery
Day 3 | Lamayuru – Leh
– Cover Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Confluence at Nimmu, Magnetic Hills, Pathar Sahib, and if possible Phyang and Spituk
Taxi Union Rate = 10264 (Srinagar – Leh) + 1425 (Extra Day Charges) + 350 (Night Halt for extra day) + 1958 (Alchi – Likir – Basgo)
Day 4 | Leh Local Sightseeing
– Cover Leh Palace, Main Market, Shanti Stupa, Hall of Fame, Sankar Gompa and Namgyal Tsemo Gompa and if possible Phyang and Spituk
Taxi Union Rate = 1425 (Whole day taxi)
Day 5 | Leh – Diskit – Hunder/Diskit
– Cover Khardung La, Diskit Monasteries and Hunder Sand dunes with Camel Safari
Day 6 | Hunder/Diskit – Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Leh
– Cover Sumur Monastery and Panamik Hot Water Springs
Taxi Union Rate = 6931 (Diskit,Sumur,Panamik,Hunder)
Day 7 | Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso/Spangmik
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso
Day 8 | Pangong Tso – Thicksey – Shey – Leh
– Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on return to Leh
Taxi Union Rate = 6757 (Pangong Tso + Shey) + 600 (Hemis, Thicksey)
Day 9 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
– Cover Karzok Monastery
Day 10 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu (Manali – Leh Highway)
– Cover Tso Kar, Moore Plains , Taglang La
Day 11 + 12 | Buffer Days
Day 13 | Sarchu – Keylong – Rohtang Pass Manali
– Cover Baralacha La, Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal, Rohtang Pass
Taxi Union Rate = 20964 (excluding buffer days)
Day 14 | Manali Local Sightseeing includes local monastery, mall road, hadimba temple, manu temple etc
– No taxi required
Day 15 | Manali – Naggar Castle – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol
– Taxi Union Rate = Rate for Manali – Manikaran with Kasol is Rs 1100 and for Manali – Naggar is Rs 400 along with sightseeing enroute for both of them.
Day 16 | Kasol – Shimla
– Taxi Union Rate = Rs 3000 – 3500
Day 17 | Shimla Local sight seeing including Kufri, Jakho Temple, Mall road etc
– Taxi Union Rate = Rs 500 – 1000
Day 18 | Shimla – Kalka by toy train.
– No taxi required
Please keep in mind these prices are for single taxi and will give you only a approximate idea.
For complete information on Manali including accommodation options, food joints, must see places etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
For information on Manali – Leh Highway including accommodation options, food joints, must see places etc you can go through the Manali – Leh Highway travel guide at the link here
I hope this helps. Let me know for any further queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hey what is there on Day 11 and Day 12??? and i want to reach leh on Day 2 is it possible???? i dont want Day 6… i want to do whole trip as u said in 13 to 14 Days… so just compress some points naa…. coz i want 3 day for delhi also….plzzz reply
where is nubra valley???>?? and as i said i want the trip in 13 to 14 day and in that trip i want to reach leh on Day 2 i will take a halt at kargil and on next day i will do lamayaru and get to leh is it possible??? and dont want Day 6… what is on that area means lake or anything else on Day 6..??? plzz reply …. thanxxx… i will be there on 25TH MAY at airport… from then i have 17 to 18 days to see leh , manali and delhi… so kindly reply me buddy..
Well, Day 11 and Day 12 are kept for buffer days incase you get stuck due to landslides or snowfall somewhere. Now, the overall trip is 16 days only and if you want to skip places of interest on the way to Leh from Srinagar then remove Day 3. So, just do Srinagar – Kargil on Day 1 and then Kargil – Lamayuru Monastery – Leh on the Day 2. This was you save one day and your Day 4 becomes day 3 where you need to arrange Inner Line Permits to visit all these places in Ladakh. The buffer days can be used in place of sightseeing like Manikaran or Shimla. If they are left unused and you have smooth run then utilize those two days to visit these places in lower hills such as Manikaran and Shimla. I will strongly advice to visit Nubra Valley (Day 5 and Day 6 below) as it is one of the most beautiful in entire Ladakh. You can skip Manikaran in that case or sightseeing in Manali to accommodate Nubra Valley.
Day 1 | Srinagar – Kargil
Day 2 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh
Day 3 | Leh Local sightseeing + Inner Line Permits
Day 4 | Leh – Diskit – Hunder/Diskit
Day 5 | Hunder/Diskit – Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso/Spangmik
Day 7 | Pangong Tso – Thicksey – Shey – Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang
Day 9 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Moore Plains – Pang – Sarchu (Manali – Leh Highway)
Day 10 | Sarchu – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
Day 11 | Manali – Naggar Castle – Kasol – Manikaran – Kasol
Day 12 | Kasol – Shimla
Day 13 | Shimla Local sight seeing including Kufri, Jakho Temple, Mall road etc
Day 14 | Shimla – Kalka by toy train and then to Delhi
Please keep in mind that you do not have any buffer days. In case buffer days are required then skip Day 11 for one day and Day 13 for another if further required. Please visit Ladakh completely as, there is nothing much to see in lower hills apart from commercialization and buildings stocked up like anything into hills. I hope this helps now as a plan. If your taxi driver agrees then you can also Tso Moriri directly on Day 7 from Pangong Tso itself which will save you another day. But, that will mean that you will be just rushing and rushing and rushing through the places. Make an ease out journey concentrating on just Ladakh and skip lower hills for some other time
…
Regards
Dheeraj
Means where on which route NUBRA VALLEY comes on Day5 OR Day6>>???(Day 5 | Hunder/Diskit – Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Leh
Day 6 | Leh – Hemis – Pangong Tso/Spangmik) Are this places near to Nubra valley or it will take mee to nubra valley and do we have to take a halt at nubra valley??? and from nubra valley will he directly take us to pongong??? this plan which u have gave is the perfect.thanxx… and what about permit from where should i get it for how much cost????
and just give me the total amount that will be required for the whole trip for 10 peoples… we dont want deluxe or high standard.. we just want stardard class and pretty good…
plzz just tally the whole amount and reply me… And the plan which u have given is awesome…. u r d best….
Hello Omkar,
Thanks alot for the appreciation.
Following is the Nubra Valley tour in your new plan -
Day 4 | Leh – Diskit – Hunder/Diskit
Day 5 | Hunder/Diskit – Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Leh
Hunder, Diskit, Sumur, Panamik all comes under Nubra Valley which lies on the Northern side of Khardung La pass (highest motorable road in the world)… Yes, you will be halting at Diskit or Hunder on Day 4 in Nubra Valley and it is required to enjoy the beauty. You can go to Pangong Tso directly from Nubra Valley but again it depends upon if your taxi driver agrees to take that much spare fuel with him. Also, it is long way away and will mean a tiring day. Instead when you have time then better enjoy the places rather than rushing through them. come back to Leh on Day 5 from Nubra Valley and then start for Pangong Tso on Day 6 after a much needed rest. It will help you enjoy buddy. I guess the cost for below plan will approximately come out to be Rs 51000 for one taxi that makes it about Rs 102,000 for two taxis, if you can get Tempo Traveler then it may be less even as you all can accommodate in it easily. These are just the amount of taxi and you may add about Rs 400-600 per person per day for average food and decent accommodation for these places. It may be lower or higher than this range and depends on your taste and preferences for food and stay options.
For complete details on Inner Line Permits (ILPs), how to apply them, how to process them faster go through the detailed article on ILPs present at the link here.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
as you said i will nt rush. ok. and what about tempo traveller where could get it? how much people can come in a tempo traveller? does it look like a huge truck tempo or it looks like a car? can u link me a photo of that plzzz. And as u planned the trip its best, so can a
can u tell the person who can arrange the whole trip as we have planned from Srinagar to Shimla-Kalka? Ok. if tempo traveller look like a Crusier car? Crusier car is 12 to 14 seater. is any car available there like crusier? can u send me the number of the arranger or u will arrange.?
Hello Omkar,
Check the picture of Tempo Travaler at the link here. You all an easily accommodate in it as about 12 persons can be easily seated. Omkar, the whole trip cannot be planned by single tour operator. I do not prefer tour operators and prefer directly bargaining with drivers at respective taxi stands. You should get in touch with local taxi stand at Srinagar (who will be responsible for Srinagar to Leh drop), Ladakh (who will cater Ladakh sightseeing and finally drop to Manali) and then once you reach Manali you need to hire a tempo traveler from Manali to continue with rest of your plan in Himachal. Taxis outside Leh – Ladakh region are not allowed to roam around in Ladakh and same rule applies to Himachal as well that Ladakh taxis are not allowed to roam in Himachal. Hence, for your Ladakh sightseeing and drop from Leh to Manali, you need to hire taxi/tempo traveler that belongs to Led taxi stand, then for Srinagar-Leh route you need to hire taxi/tempo traveler from Srinagar taxi stand and for rest of the tour in Himachal, a Himachal taxi/tempo traveler should be hired from Manali taxi stand.
I will advise not to involve any of the tour operators in between so that you can save some money as they tend to be higher. You have the plan with you, although it is good to have spot hunting for hotel but still if you need I can provide you some references of hotels for each stay and you can check them out once you reach the place. The only doubt I have if you can manage tempo traveler from Srinagar to Leh as I am not sure if they are available there. But, you can always check or hire two taxis in that case for a drop from Srinagar to Leh and then hire tempo travelers in Leh and Manali.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you need more details.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
p.s -> I do not arrange tours/taxis but just help my fellow travelers to plan them and enjoy the tour to the best in whatever limited time they have in hand by providing all the little knowledge I have of the respective place.
for leh seightseing including nubra valley, pongong tso, and etc points of leh which we have planned can be done by tempo traveller or we have to hire two sumos??? how much the tempo traveller would cost to us???…
means from srinagar to leh i will get one tempo traveller and after getting to leh i will search a new tempo traveller their at taxi stand for further leh trip including nubra valley, pongong tso, tso moriri, etc… okkk… and while coming from leh to manali i will hire a new tempo traveller… okkkk
Hello Omkar,
You need to hire tempo traveler or taxi three times for:
1) Srinagar to Leh at Srinagar taxi stand
2) Leh – Ladakh Sight seeing and Leh to Manali drop at Leh Taxi stand
3) Manali – Kasol – Manikaran – Shimla from Manali taxi stand
Regarding the cost of tempo traveler, I am sorry I am not sure as I never hired it. But, there is still time and I will try to search if any of my friends have hired it or have any contacts of drivers from where you can hire them at all these taxi stands. You can hire tempo traveler for Ladakh sightseeing including nubra valley, pangong tso, tso moriri etc and other places of leh – ladakh
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
if possible then plzz tell me the cost of tempo traveller… ok.. when i get to srinagar taxi stand i’ll get a tempo traveller their naa u have gurantee na.. that there will be a tempo traveller at srinagar to leh taxi stand.. and when i’ll be in leh then i would get a tempo traveller their naa for seightseing an nubra valleyy, etc… it is alloweded na to visit nubra valley, pongong tso, tso moriri, etc. by tempo traveller??? plzzz reply
Omkar, that is what I have written earlier that I am not sure if you will be able to get Tempo Traveler from Srinagar as I have not been to that highway. But, I have seen Tempo Travelers in Ladakh as well as Manali, so feel it will be accessible in Ladakh and Manali. I cannot guarantee if they will be available or not for you. It is just a suggestion as two taxis might be costly than hiring a single tempo traveller. I will check with my friends else you might need to contact respective taxi stands at Srinagar, Leh and Manali for their availability. Yes you can roam or visit any places in Leh – Ladakh as long as your vehicle is either private vehicle or if it is a tourist/taxi vehicle then it must be hired from Leh taxi stand only.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
bt buddy plzz ask someone who ,might know about the tempo traveller and about its cost…. and else thing are good and best planned….
Hi Omkar,
For Tempo Traveler, you can contact Mehraj – 09419090310, taxi operator/driver at Srinagar for Srinagar Leh tour, for Leh you can contact Leh Taxi Stand: 01982 – 253039 or 01982 – 252723 for Leh – Ladakh tour + Manali drop and for Himachal tour you can contact Manali Taxi stand at: 01902-52450, 01902-52205, 01902-52120. You can get the quotes from them for respective routes and book the tour based on the above suggested itinerary.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey dheeraj thanxxx buddy for guiding me…….. the trip plan is awesome…. u r great…..
Thanks a lot Omkar. Have loads of fun on the trip and do share your experience/pictures with us too on the blog’s facebook page
… Feel free to let me know for any queries/doubts.
Cheers!!
Dheeraj sharma
hey can u mention the main points to see in ladakh if i have 10 days….
hi dheeraj
i have very practival qury that is …how much wil be the expenditure…srinrg to leh trip……..as i m student …..price is pririty for me…..
Hey Rahul,
Well, you should get a seat in a shared taxi in order to reach Leh from Srinagar. It will cost you Rs 1500. You can also get a ticket in JK SRTC bus which costs about Rs 600 – 700. Out of these two you can choose any option you like. I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning to undertake a trip to ladakh during the end of September 2011, by srinagar leh Express Way.. I will be reaching srinagar from Delhi by latest 10:30 AM. I propose to take a individual taxi and move on to leh.. Do u think it is the right time for me to move then ? If I leave Srinagar by 11:00 AM, say, what time can I make it to Kargil? can you please suggest me with the phone nos. of any of the Taxi Guys you know who can help me undertake this travel. Also can u guide on the ladakh number (Registration no.) vehicle which I can get from Srinagar taxi stand. Do you feel travelling by road during the end of September is advisable? Does the cost written Rs. 10K hold good till date?
Hello Anand,
Yes, I guess if you move by 11.00 AM you will be able to reach Kargil or Drass by evening, where you can stay for the night. Contact Naseer at – 09906229203 and 09469293183 and may be he will be able to pick you from Airport if he has any plans to reach Srinagar on the previous day. You can even check with Dorjey 09419372742 in case Naseer do not provide anything. They will be able to give you discounts for about 10-12% but keep in mind once you reach Srinagar and talk directly to the taxi drivers, you may get a bargain for even 15-20% too. Yes, on Srinagar – Leh Highway you will not face much trouble due to weather (but again no one can predict the exact weather now a days) in September end. Yes, the 10K cost is for this season and since it is off season you will be able to get decent discount too.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you need any further info or any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a ton for your timely response.. have noted down all the information provided from your end.. I just plan for a short stay at Leh of 5 days, excluding the travel from Srinagar to leh.. Plan to cover Lamayuru on the way from Srinagar to Leh..
Plan for a day of local sight seeing (Stok, Shey, Hemis, Thikse Monastery), followed by 2 days to Pangong Tso and a day to Khardungla..
Can you suggest me with any other places of visit during the period of late september – early October?
I think Inner Line permits have to be made for places of visit to Pangong Tso & Nubra Valley.. Do we need to be physically present to get these permits worked out.. Can u suggest any good hotels for stay in leh with Vegetarian Food.. Expecting your reply.
Hello Anand,
Well, for 5 days in Leh I will suggest something like below as Hemis, Thicksey, Shey can be covered on the way to/from Pangong Tso and Leh. May be you can do -
Day 1 | Leh + Permits for Pangong/Nubra Valley + Local Sigtseeing in Leh which includes Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Namgyal Gompa.
Day 2 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit (Nubra Valley) – Hunder/Diskit
Day 3 | Hunder/Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
Day 4 | Leh – Shey Palace – Pangong Tso
Day 5 | Pangong Tso – Hemis – Thicksey – Leh
Yes, if you are processing the permits then you need to be present else you can get in advance via some travel agent or hotel owner. But, I will suggest you do yourself as it is fairly simple process. For all required details you can go through the link on Inner Line Permits for Leh Ladakh here and download the permit form + know how to make the permit process much faster.
In Leh, you can go for any of the Shanti Guest House, Oriental Guest House, Asia Guest House, Shia La Guest House with first two my favorites and economic too.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj
Again wonderful article! I am loving it!!
Could you help me in finalizing following program:
(Please note: Tickets are booked, hence would not be able to change the dates OR extend the programme)
14-Oct-11: Start for Leh by 0545 flight. Arrive Leh at 0700, Ticket booking for Srinagar via Kargil for 17-Oct-2011 Shopping includes Pashmina Shawl & Night Stay at LEH
15-Oct-11: Visit to Nubra/ Pangong. Back to Leh for night stay (if possible!)
16-Oct-11: Continue visit to Pangong, Back to Leh. Dinner
17-Oct-11: Bus to Kargil, Dinner. Night stay at Kargil
18-Oct-11: Bus to Srinagar; Local sightseeing; Lal Chowk; in evening enjoy Shikara ride at Dal Lake; Dinner Srinagar (House Boat)/ Hotel
19-Oct-11: Leave Srinagar by 1425 flight. Tour complete
Thanks
Regards
PraKaant
Hello PraKaant,
Though it is extremely tight schedule but I will advise that you rest at Leh for two days to better acclimatize your body out of 3 days you have in Leh. Not sure if you will feel alright if you go directly above 18000 Feet at Khardung la on the second day itself. Same is true for Pangong Tso. Hence I will advise something like below -
14th – Leh + Permits for Pangong/Nubra Valley + Local Sigtseeing in Leh which includes Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Namgyal Gompa.
15th – Leh Sham Valley tour – Leh. Sham Valley includes Magnetic Hils, Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Pather Sahib, Confluence at Nimmu.
16th – Leh – Pangong Tso – Hemis Gompa – Leh
or
16th – Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Khardung La – Leh
17th – Leh – Lamayuru – Kargil
18th – Kargil – Sonamarg – Srinagar.
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have some queries or doubts. Have a great journey ahead.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks Dheeraj for your advice!
Two more queries! We are two traveling to Leh.
1. Would we be requiring permit for Sham Valley tour also.
2. Shall we book local vehicle (as Share taxi)for all these sight seeing and how much they might charge us?
Sorry for troubling you
Regards
PraKaant
No Problems PraKaant, you can let me know any queries you have and you are most welcome for it. As for your queries, you do not need any permits for Sham Valley tour. Secondly, you can book the taxi for a single day individually which costs about 1405 Rs per day as per taxi union rates. You will be able to get 10-20% discount when you bargain directly with the driver at taxi stand of Leh. For one day visit to Pangong Tso it may cost about 6k-7K.
I hope this helps.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj for all your support!
Wish me best of nature’s blessing!
I would be reporting entourage on return!!
Regards
PraKaant
Hey PraKaant, all the very best for your journey. Have a great time and I am sure you will have most memorable journey of all time in your life
Hi Dheeraj,
Needless to say, you are doing an amazing job by sharing all these info with aspiring travelers. Am certain it’s proving helpful to loads of people…
Could you please respond to this query of mine – how is the 3rd week of October (around the 20th) to travel on the Leh-Srinagar highway. For paucity of time, we are unable to do the Leh-Manali trip and intend to fly in to Leh and fly out of Srinagar. Also is there chances of encountering snow (at least in the higher reaches like Khardungla)?
Hello Sharath,
Thanks a lot buddy, I am glad the info present here is useful for fellow travelers. By third week of October be ready to get some real chill and almost sub zero temperatures at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. So, go with heavy woolens for surely. Also, many of the tented accommodation options will be packed up by then at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri but you will be able to find some or the other homestay in near by villages. It is good that you are not doing Leh – Manali as it is not advised at all in that season.
Leh – Srinagar Highway is much safe to travel at that part of time but again go prepared with woolen clothes. You will not have any trouble getting the accommodation and also you will get some decent discounts too owing to off – season. Yes, there will be chances that you might (might) be able to see snowfall/snow at Khardung La and Chang La depending upon your luck. The day time could be lot warmers as compared to nights in Ladakh.
I hope this helps.Please let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks a ton for the prompt response…
I have one more query – would you know of any place or person in Leh, from where we could hire bikes. We plan to ride to pangong tso, Nubra valley… and any help that you can provide regarding hiring of bikes would be of great help…
Regards,
Sharath Chandra
Hi Sharath,
Well, I am sorry I personally do not know any contacts in Leh where you can hire a bike but I saw plenty of options on Changspa road to hire one. I am sure you will be able to find it without much trouble. I will try to search if I can find some reliable contacts and then share with them you and you may check them
Regards
Dheeraj
Mate,
The info was very helpful.
I am travelling Srinagar-Leh highways in first week of Sept.
Can you tell me if we can rent a bike from Srinagar? and how much will it cost?
Cheers
Sorry Ankur, but I guess I have not come across anyone who has rented a bike in Srinagar. So won’t be able to help you much on this
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
very useful information given by you dheeraj. I am planning to do Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Manali-Delhi next year in June. The information provided by you will definitely help me.
Thanks alot Anil. Do go through manali – leh highway guide as well (link above) which will be also useful in planning manali – leh highway journey as well. I am glad that the information was useful for you. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
thnks dheeraj for very usful article. we r 6 ppl leaving srinagar 13sep mrng. can we find a taxi from kargil 2 leh WITOUT PRIOR BOOKING. since we r planning to visit alchi likir BASGO lAMAYURU MULBEKH SANGAM ON D WAY. AND IS IT POSSIBLE TO COVER ALL THINGS IN A DAY?what could be the estimate cost for a taxi from kargil to leh with all sightseeing
Hello Parag,
I am glad that the information was useful for you. Yes, you can get the taxi from Kargil without prior booking mate. As per taxi union rates 2011, total cost to book taxi from Srinagar to Leh is 10264 with one night stop at Kargil and from Leh to Kargil is 5216 which leaves you with 5084 for Kargil to Srinagar. Now, if you land directly there at taxi stands and bargain you may get about 10-15% discount or may be more while if you talk to them over phone the bargain is limited. If you can get hold of Ladakh number taxi at Srinagar taxi stand then that will great because it gives you time to leave Kargil early in the morning and cover places enroute as you mention above. If you leave Kargil early morning and then spend not too much time on these places you can cover them. Otherwise on the go you can either cover Lamayuru, Lunar LAndscapes, Mulbekh Maitrey, Redzong Monastery and either stay at Alchi to cover rest of the places on the next day or move to Leh and come back to visit Alchi, Likir, Basgo, Magentic Hills, Pather Sahib, Spituk, Phyang and confluence at Nimmu on the preceding days. These places are not too far from the Leh and can be covered by hiring the taxi for the one day and it may cost you about 2000 – bargain you will get.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thank you dheeraj. 1 more thing. whn it is refered taxi how many people can seat in it?6 or 8?
Hello Parag,
Taxis easily accommodates 6 people viz. 3 in the mid row + 1 at the front seat + 2 at the back. Of course 1 driver along as well. While this is generally the case with privately hired taxi. If you will go with shared taxis then they take 7-8 people usually which makes the person sitting at the back a bit cramped for such long journeys as they have to accommodate 1 or 2 more with them. I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
A remarkably informative write up. Thanks.
Thanks alot Ranjan. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
gr8 job! pls let me know if 24 aug is ok to plan srinagar to leh journey.with a halt at kargil.
Hello Ashwin,
Thanks alot. Glad you like the information about Srinagar – Leh Highway here.
Coming back, I guess Srinagar route is doing good apart from few landslides around Jammu. Amarnath yatra is over for this year so that is one relief and by the time you are rains may start residing the valley too, so you may not face any issues at all. In any case if the weather is still not favourable then you may face road blockages on Jammu – Srinagar highway. Once, you cross Zozila Pass after Sonamarg you enter rain shadow region, so again no worries of rains after that as well. So, keep the fingers crossed, pray to weather gods and you are in for a dream journey to heaven called Ladakh
I hope this helps. Let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Very useful writeup.
Hi Chandra,
Thanks alot, I am glad Chandra that you like the article. I have tried to compile all the relevant information on Srinagar Leh Highway that I can. Now, looking forward for queries and hope that this text will help everyone plan their trip on Srinagar – Leh highway and Manali – Leh Highway in apt manner.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma