Are you planning a trip to Manali Leh Highway in October and confused about the status of it? Is it open or closed in October? Is it risky to travel on Manali Leh Highway in October? Or How are the road conditions on Manali Leh Highway in October?
These are some of the common questions I get on this blog about Manali Leh Highway as soon as the Ladakh seasons starts to come to an end in October. I am going to address these questions in the article and help you plan a trip to Manali Leh Highway in October.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Planning a trip to Manali Leh Highway in October?
Everyone loves traveling on Manali Leh Highway and why not, it offers you the most mesmerizing views. It is the shortest path to travel to Ladakh by road and, of course, offers the adventure of its extreme adventure.
However, as the Ladakh season comes to an end in October, you should think at least once before venturing the journey on Manali Leh Highway in October. It could easily get very risky and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere for a couple of days.
I enlist my thoughts or risks in this article which you must consider before starting any journey on Manali Leh Highway in October.
Download your FREE high-resolution version pdf copy of this infographic guide to avoid Manali Leh Highway in October. If, you liked it and found it helpful, please feel free to share it with your family and friends to help them too.
1. Being Stranded & Likely Snowfall
Firstly, by late September winter season starts to set in Trans Himalayas and all high passes in the Himalayas start receiving snowfall at frequent intervals. The chances of road closure due to the snowfall in October starts increasing.
Although the BRO tries to maintain and keep the Manali Leh road open up to the end of October, you can surely get stuck or delayed for a day or two or maybe more due snowfall. So, it depends upon the weather altogether and if lucky you may get through without any single blockage.
The point is there is a risk of 2-3 days delay which must be kept in mind before planning any journey to Manali Leh Highway in late September or October.
2. Lack of Accommodation or Stay options
Secondly, the tented accommodation options or food joints and
This leaves you with a very limited choice of bargaining as well as the options to stay on Manali Leh Highway in October. These are some strategic places where you may be required to stop in case there is a sudden snowfall on some adjoining mountain passes or other reasons
The point here is that there is a risk of running out of the limited accommodation options on Manali Leh Highway in case you get stuck at some unplanned place.
Hence, it is advisable that you prepare yourself for it and you should better carry your tent and camping kit. Mental preparation will help you in case you are stranded in the middle of nowhere without a place to stay on Manali Leh Highway in October.
You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂
3. Buses on Manali Leh Highway Stops in October
Thirdly, the public transport on Manali Leh Highway in October gets limited to local shared taxis or jeeps only. Both HRTC and HPTDC stops the bus services on Manali Leh Highway by
The HPTDC Manali Leh luxury bus service stops running by 15th September, refer to the Manali Leh bus schedule is published by HPTDC every year. HRTC buses running between Manali to Leh directly and Manali – Keylong, Keylong to Leh also stops as soon as HRTC departments feel that the road conditions are risky due to ice/frost on the roads, especially early morning.
Sometimes HRTC may run or resume the bus services till the roads are open and safe as suggested by Vistet here. But, again although they are definite options for travel but not as comfortable as HPTDC buses which are for tourists and also do sightseeing on the way too. HRTC buses do not stop for sightseeing on Manali Leh Highway.
Even Delhi to Leh HRTC bus running daily is also stopped to travel over Manali Leh Highway in October, in fact along with other bus services.
Hence, if you are looking for public transport then only shared taxis comes as the other option which does the cannonball run from Manali to Leh in one day.
On any day I will avoid going in a shared taxi which does cannonball run of about 16-18 Hrs from Manali to Leh trip.
4. Motor Rallies
Fourthly, October (generally first or second week) is when the Raid De Himalayas Rally is carried out in the Himalayas. Mostly, Manali Leh Highway is one of the sections, due to which you may find various road sections to be closed for their smooth run.
Moreover, finding an accommodation among the limited open options on Manali Leh Highway in October also becomes a challenge at times. Most of the hotels/stay options on Manali Leh are pre-booked for the participants. This further means trouble, hassles, and delays in your travel plans.
5. Cold Conditions
Finally, you will need to bear some icy conditions when traveling on Manali Leh Highway in October. At nights and mornings, the temperatures will be sub-zero temperatures as almost 250+ km (beyond the Darcha) section of Manali Leh Highway runs above 4000 Mtrs in altitude. Rohtang Pass can be tricky.
In the daytime, it could feel a bit warmer than expected but cold winds will always leave you numb especially when biking and if there are overcast conditions.
So, travel to Ladakh with proper clothing and be prepared with proper biking or travel gears to beat the cold conditions when traveling Manali Leh in October.
Manali Leh in October – FAQs
Let’s look at some of the most common questions about planning a trip to Ladakh or Manali Leh Highway in October.
The short answer is, yes, Manali Leh Highway is open in the month of October. However, you must consider the risks or factors defined in this article before planning such a trip to Ladakh in October.
In general, in October, Manali Leh Highway remains open nowadays (2018) but there are certain caveats as discussed in this article before planning your trip to travel.
I will say that there is a risk associated to travel in October on Manali Leh road. There is a reason that HRTC and HPTDC buses stop plying on this route in mid-September. It is better to keep an eye on
The road conditions on Manali Leh Highway are OK with morning having some black ice/frost on the roads that
Conclusion
Finally, I will suggest that you should only consider traveling to Manali Leh Highway in October or late September if:
- You are OK with getting stuck for a day or two in case of snowfall or road closure in on Manali Leh October
- You can manage the cold conditions and carrying proper
clothing/gear on your trip to fight with cold.
Friendly warning
Personally speaking, I will STRONGLY suggest NOT TO attempt any travel on Manali Leh Highway after the mid of October or be ready to either get stuck for a much longer time or sell/leave your vehicle then & there itself to bear a huge loss.
I would like to update: The Safe Date thing as stated by Vistet here
“Weather changes both gradually and suddenly and September can mean real problems as well. In 2009 the road was out two or three times before mid -September and mid-September 2008 meant among other things eight people killed in an avalanche on the road. More examples could be mentioned. The practical approach: keep track of updates on the road conditions, always plan at least a buffer day before
I completely understand it has not happened since 2015, but as I update this in 2020, there are already a couple of snow spells that happened 2019 September (17th). HRTC/HPTDC buses have already stopped plying on Manali Leh due to ice/frost on roads. So, the quote above from Vistet is ten years old. The weather condition has changed a bit now, and hence, I am not warning you to travel in September but changed this article to call out the similar things for October. Sane suggestions are still the same.
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.
I hope you will take these considerations, rather risks, seriously before planning your journey on Manali Leh Highway in October. There is a thin line between Adventure and Insanity, you must always know when not to cross that line.
Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions on traveling to the Himalayas.
In the end…
I will look forward to your questions in the comments section of the article or on my Instagram page direct message. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram. If you or your family, friends are planning a trip to Manali Leh Highway in October, please share this article with them too.
389 Comments
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Hi Dheeraj,
First of all thank you for this blog, you’re doing a amazing job here. I have been reading this from quite a long time now and I have to say it that it is the only blog which provides complete and actual information about traveling to Leh, Ladakh.
I am planning to go to Leh in the coming week (23-25th Sept most probably) all by myself and planning to take the Manali to Leh road.
This is how my itinerary looks like :
Day 1: Delhi to Manali (Overnight bus)
Day 2: Manali to Keylong
Day 3: Keylong to Leh
And then I’ll have 4-5 days more to explore the regions around. I have few friends already staying in Leh from past 20 days for Advance Mountaineering course in JIM, Shey. So they might be joining me after this.
As I am a budget solo traveler these are few questions I would like to ask :
1. Are the HRTC buses still running from Delhi – Manali – Keylong – Leh.
2. If not HRTC buses then what could be the least expensive way to reach Leh via Manali.
3. Are there any specific spots where we can pitch a tent or nothing like that. (First time carrying a tent along)
Please provide your valuable inputs.
Regards,
Ujjwal
Hi Dheeraj,
Greeting to DoW community.
You have explained the Hills so good that there is nothing much to ask 😉 .
After thinking, planning, plotting of 3 years, we are finally ready to go Leh. 😀 😛 , All thanks to you.
We are travelling from Sept 26 to Oct 4 by Swift Vdi.
However, my queries are
1. Is it okay to travel in swift car with 5 people on board.
2. Is this feasible for a person to drive whole Delhi-Leh-Delhi way. (Other 4 don’t know how to drive. 🙁 )
3. We are thinking about renting tents from Delhi or Chandigarh. Is it a good idea to stay in Tents at this time? Adding to it, we have not much experience of Tent accommodation.
If it is okay, then please suggest anyone.
Any advise from your side.
Thanks.
Thank you so much Praveen.
1. It is too much to ask with all the lugage as well. Ensure you do not love your car before taking it especially the condition of Sarchu to Manali road which will take a toll on it
2. All depends upon how much determined and used to the driver is for such long drives.
3. You are going towards end of season, stay in tents will surely give nightmare of cold conditions if you are not used to it.
Hi Dheeraj ,
First of all , I really admire that you are helping travel passionate people in your own way .
I need your suggestion .
I am planning to go to Laddakh from Delhi on 23rd sept to 27th sept . We will be back on Monday 28th sept by taking flight .
I am thinking to go via flight from delhi to manali and then leh via some private taxi as you have mentioned somewhere that if we land to leh , then you can miss so many things .
Also , we are little bit scared of the weather .
Can you please guide me to how to plan for this trip .
Regards,
Mamta
there are nothing problem. and the weather and atmosphere is normally, so u can go and enjoy your trip.
Hello Dheeraj,
Thank you for the suggestion. We will plan our trip accordingly.
Regards.
Hello Dheeraj,
First of all thanks for such valuable blogs, most of my quires are resolved by your blogs.
We are four friends, planning for a road trip (self driven car, Zoom Car) from Delhi to Leh via Manali and Leh to Delhi via Srinagar.
I am aware of the Zoom car problem in Leh, so we will not use the Zoom car in Leh for local Sightseeing.
I have few questions. Firstly, below is our detailed plan, please check it and let us know whether it is okay or not.
Details:-
14th September- Delhi to Manali
15th September- Stay at Manali/Naggar.
16th September- Manali to Sarchu.
17th September- Sarchu to Leh
18th September- Stay at Let and local sightseeing.
19th September- Leh to Nubra Valley (Hunder) via Khardung la to Leh.
20th September- Leh to Pangong tso.
21st September- Pangong Tso to Leh.
22nd September – Leh to Kargil/Dras
23rd September – Dras to Srinagar.
24th September- Stay at Srinagar and local Sightseeing.
25th September- Stay at Srinagar and local Sightseeing.
26th September – Srinagar to Amritsar.
27th September- Stay at Amritsar and local Sightseeing.
28th September- Amritsar to Delhi.
Q1) I have discussed with some of my colleagues who visited the Leh via Manali recently (In August) regarding the route from Manali to leh and most of them suggested me to take a driver and not to self drive in those roads, especially after Rohtang Pass. So, is it safe to drive a car (SUV – Ecosport) on these roads? What would you suggest?
I have driving experience in ghat sections, but never driven in the Himalayas.
Q2) Shall we change our route, and start our trip from Delhi to Srinagar to leh to Manali to Delhi?
Please provide your valuable inputs.
Thanks & Regards,
Ratul
Hello Ratul,
Sarchu is not recommended to sleep that early due to AMS, better go with Jispa and start early next morning for Leh. Rest looks OK apart from Srinagar to Amritsar long drive. In case you are not experience with hill driving and challenging roads, then yes it might be challenging to you. Changing the route does helps a lot in acclimatization and also distribute the journey between Leh and Manali.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello Dheeraj,
Thanks a lot for your inputs. So, we have decided to go with Srinagar route instead of Manali. Below is our detailed modified plan.
Details:-
14th September- Delhi to Amritsar
15th September- Amritsar to Udhampur.
16th September- Udhampur to Srinagar.
17th September- Stay at Srinagar and local Sightseeing.
18th September- Stay at Srinagar and local Sightseeing.
19th September- Srinagar to Dras/Kargil.
20th September- Dras/Kargil to Leh.
21st September- Stay at Leh.
22nd September – Leh to Nubra Valley (Hunder) via Khardung la to Leh.
23rd September – Leh to Pangong tso.
24th September- Pangong Tso to Leh.
25th September- Leh to Sarchu/Jispa.
26th September – Sarchu/Jispa to Manali/Naggar.
27th September- Stay at Manali and local Sightseeing..
28th September- Manali to Delhi.
Thanks & Regards.
Ratul
Ratul, it looks ok to me. You can use Srinagar extra day for two day visit to Nubra which will make more sense.
hi , we are 8 friends planning a road trip on bikes from manali to leh around 18 spet and will be back within 8-10 days…i want to know is it ok to go at that time? will we get bikes on rent easily?
Sahil, September is a very good plan to travel Ladakh
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for ur valuable time.We are planning for a trip shimla-Kullu manali in the last week of September 2015.Can you please help us in knowing the right month to visit these places in Sep or Oct or Nov 2015.
Regards,
Ravi.C
Ravi all three months are good to travel to Manali. Chances of snow will be quite less in September almost nil and more in Novemebr in case it snows up there at Rohtang Pass. So, you will not get wrong with any of the month. But for snow, November is more likely.
hello dheeraj,
we are planning to visit Ladakh this October 2015 . so we will take manali to leh highway oct 12 [manali – sarchu] and oct 13[sarchu – leh] . should we change it ? because our all tickets are booked.. car reserved from manali. please let me know what should we do..
thanks
rajdeep
Rajdeep, please check a similar reply posted for Arin here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/manali-leh-highway-status-2015/comment-page-3/#comment-347538
thanks for your reply.. we are going together.. we canceled that route today, we are taking flight from delhi to leh..
Best wishes for the trip Rajdeep 🙂
hi dheeraj,first of all thanks for such a valuable blog, most of my quires are resolved by your blog
,still there are few doubts pls share your valuable info…on it .I am planning to do the entire circuit of delhi-kalpa-kaza-batal-manali-delhi. in mid sep. from 12-sep to 22/23-sep .is it possible to do by hacthback(ford figo)
how many big water crossing are there from kaza to manali., where to break/stay in between kaza and manali .
Yogesh there will be 3-4 water crossings and at least 2 bigger ones near Dorni and Chota Dhara. Though water is less during that time and early mornign it is much lesser still car will take some beating for sure and need to carefully do it.
Hi Dheeray, can I easily hire a private car or taxi to travel between Shimla and Manali with some sightseeing along the way, in last week of September – first week of October and approximately how much would I pay for this service.
Regards, Terence.
You can get connected directly to some drivers in Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley. These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of pickup as well.
The rates of the taxis are about Rs 3000-3500 per day depending upon the number of days you plan to travel, more the days, less the price.
Otherwise, taxis in general are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands
Hello Sirji,
We are a group of 7-8 members and our travel dates are Sep 23 – Oct 4th. Route being: Srinagar-Leh-Manali. We are also planning to hire a taxi there for the entire trip. So could you please let us know if these dates are ok and how can we go ahead about travelling on taxi there?
Thanks 🙂
Priyanka, the article must tell you all if it is fine to travel or not, in fact the summary tells everything 🙂
hi Manu
we are planning to go manali between 17 september 2015 to 21 september 2015 . is the weather suitable and can we are able to do all the activities there like paragliding and all.
Amit, weather is quite pleasant during these days in Manali.
Hi Dheeraj
Nice to see your comments, I want to visit Leh from Manali on 06.10.2015.Can we face any problem at that time.If you have any hotel person at Manali pls share also share any driver name & number who can drive from Chandigar to Manali.Also Manali to Leh.
Regards
Prakash
den wat is t perfect month shuld i go in this year?
September mid will be good time to travel to Ladakh
I want to start early september with my bicycle the Leh-Manali-Highway.
What are the coldest temperature in september? Could it be more than 10 under zero (in the night?)
Regards
Basti
Basti, early september is quite pleasant. Should be around 2-4 degree C above zero not below zero during that time.
And in the Night? Because of the choice of my sleeping bag. I want to sleep in my tent the most time during the tour.
Regardes
Basti
Basti, yes I am talking about night only, not day. Day will be above 10 degrees.
ah okay. Thank you for the great Information Deeraj
Hey, are you gonna cycle alone? I am starting from manali in the first week of September myself. Tell me if you need company.
Hi Deeraj,
I am planning a leh drive from july 16th to july 30th.. [Five people including my parents]
I am taking an XUV500 from zoom car [booked]. I am taking the below route
Delhi – Udhampur – Srinagar – Kargil- Leh – Nubra valley – Pangong- Leh- tso moriri- surchu-manali-delhi
I have gone through all your articles and decided on this trip..
Do you for see any issues?? related to zoom cars in leh , climate ???
Is it good time to stay in pangong , tsomoriri in tents??
I have already done the same on bullet in 2008 june. [but it was manali – leh – srinagar]
thanks – Praveen
Praveen, 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.
As per the rule, only yellow number plate is banned for sightseeing and both white and black plates are allowed. This is the basic rule, in case Ladakh taxi union has started creating nuisance about black number plate as well recently I am not aware but by the rule book upto last year black number plates were allowed and I did not read any bad instance for such matter though there could be but not in my knowledge.
It is good time to travel Ladakh
Hi Dheeraj,
I am a college student from Delhi. Me and my friends are planning to travel to manali in august 1st week.
I have heard from a lot of people that its not the best time to travel to manali.
What do you say?
We are 5 guys and we have a budget of 6,000_7,000 each.
If not manali, what would be the best place to travel in august first week with this much budget.
All we want is enjoyment, having drinks, roaming and enjoying the weather.
Please let me know what you think?
thanks
Ashutosh
Yes, it is not the best time to travel to Manali. Monsoons mania mostly creates havoc there every year. So, plan to hills only in non-monsoon months.
Hi Dheeraj,
A group of us are planning for a trip by the end of September till 1st week of Oct to Mcleod ganj and go for trekking at Triund. If you have been to this place can you please confirm if its ideal to go trekking during the said period?
and will there be a public transport from Mcleod Ganj to Manali directly?
We have limited time but we are planning to make a good use of the few days. so can you suggest any good spot to visit en-route Mcleod Ganj – Manali?
Thank you.
Asing, yeah, Triund shall be good to go in the month of October. You can extend the trek up to laka snowline in case you have time. Yes, there are buses that run between Manali / Kullu and Dharamshala.
Thank you so much. Btw, how long is the laka snowline from Triund? we have few female companions with us. Just wanted to know if they’ll be able to keep up. 😛
And will you be able to give us info about the average expenditure from delhi to manali (including Triund). I’m talking about basic requirement stuff (basic transport/stay). but good food. 😀 Non-veg.
Thank you in advance.
Asing, laka will take about 1.5 Hrs from Triund at max. In case you exhausted to triund then better avoid it and attempt may be next day.
Hii..I am planing to visit Manali-Leh-Kargil-Srinagar on 1st week of August…. is it OK to travel ?
Yes, rajesh it shall be fine to travel but you will need to face some monsoon hassles upto Baralacha La from Manali side and then up to Kargil from Srinagar side. Also, it is better to do the ladakh cicruit in the opposite direction, coming from Srinagar and exiting from Manali.
Hai Dheeraj,
Your information is very useful. I have a plan to cycling Srinagar-Leh-Manali on second week of September, 8-28 September this year. What do you think about the weather and condition of the road at that time? Do I need to have special permit to enter Srinagar with bicycle on my baggage. I will go to Srinagar by plane from Delhi. What do I need to attent along that way, do you have any practical information?.. Thanks in advance.
Hi Max,
Are you just planning to ride Srinagar – Leh – Manali? If yes, then you do not need any permits. In case you planning to visit Inner Line Areas too in the Ladakh region, then you will need permits in case you are not Indian National.
If you go through the article: How to plan a journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway, you will get all the required info. on the route. A similar article is also present for Manali – Leh Highway: How to plan a journey on Manali Leh Highway
Road conditions and weather in September is one of best t travel to Ladakh.
Regards
Dheeraj
Dheeraj , do you have any suggested time if I want to ride in a good enough weather and get the first snowfall in the Srinagar-Leh-Manali area?
Max, in case you are lucky you might get snowfall on high passes in the month of September towards the end. But, that is something that cannot be predicted 🙂
Hey dheeraj we are planning first week of may from rohtang to leh .how was the road condition .can route will be open . plzz tell me the condition.heartly thanks for ur support
Pradeep, road will be closed. Manali – Leh Highway will open around late may or first week of June.
Hai Dheeraj, I have a plan to cycling Srinagar-Leh-Manali on second week of September this year. What do you think about the weather and condition of the road at that time? Do I need to get special permit to enter Srinagar with bicycle on my baggage? I will go to Srinagar by plane from Delhi. What do I need to attent along that way..Thanks for the info..
Just replied here: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/5-reasons-to-avoid-manali-leh-highway-in-late-september-or-october/comment-page-2/#comment-321084
Helo sir
We, the group of 6 boys planning to go from shimla to reckong peo and then to kaza khas on 03 Mar 2015 by scorpio. Please give ur valuable comments and is it possible to go futher towards leh
Rohit, it will be extreme adventure up there while going to Kaza from Reckong Peo. Also, the road conditions are quite risky and avalanches/landslides are quite common these days. You can read my frozen spiti valley account at the link: A Race with Time on Deathway of Kinnaur Valley
Hi Dheeraj,
Hope you are doing good.. Some really informative articles by DoW and have found it very useful in my pursuit of the Himalayas.
Few questions,
I know in general the answer would be a No but i have been closely acquainted with the mountains so would want your insight on this.
I plan a trip from the 10th of October to the 1st of November.
My plan is to travel to kumzumla and then trek it down to Chandratal. Camp there for a day and then trek it to Surajtal.
I would be prepared with camping and trekking gears, but would like to know if.
1st – Would i be able to get public transport to Kumzum -la at that time.
2nd – Will i be able to get transport from Baralachala to return to Keylong or to Manali at that time.
Your expertise would be helpful.
Thank you Reuben.
It is actually not an ideal time to attempt that trek after second week of October. There are chances of snow up there so before attempting up there, you must be aware of the weather conditions and rely on it before attempting.
1st – Yes, HRTC buses from Manali to Kaza will be running, so you need to get down at the diversion of Chandratal not exactly at Kunzum Pass. Then you can either walk or hitch hike to Chandratal from that diversion point. The diversion point comes about 2-3 KMs after Batal. You can camp at Chandratal and then attempt the Baralacha La trek.
2nd – There is no reliable or fixed time transport that will be available from Baralacha La but trucks / some shared taxis will be running on Manali – Leh towards then third week of October but beyond that place starts to be abandoned. So, beyond third week, things will be dicey.
If you can prepone the trip by a 20 odd days then it will be fantastic for you.
Regards
Dheeraj
Cool.. thanks for the information..
as per your advise i would try to prepone it by 15-20 days.
Sounds fun…
just wanted to know the difficulty levels as well as you would be experienced on it.
Is it similar to Mantalai or would be more challenging.
Thanks in Advance!
Reuben, it is high altitude terrain and hence a bit difficult if you are not acclimatized. But, if you will travel from Leh side or from Shimla side to Spiti, then you will be acclimatized before you hit the Chandratal. Then, it should be fine. The trek will not be more challenging than Mantalai and should be less or may be equal as per my friends who have done both but the only thing is getting acclimatized first which is the key.
Yes, please prepone if by 15-20 days to enjoy it to the fullest than risking the dangers of being stuck under snow over that trek. After October third week, people abandon that place for next 6 months.
hello dheeraj bhai..
We have plans of completing the circuit Manali-Leh-Srinagar-Manali from October 10 to 25 next year. We are a group of 8 bikers travelling on four Bullets with every possible equipment such as tents, rucksacks full of foods and proper clothings, sleeping bag etc. Tool kits, spare parts and fuel cans are always with us. Time and money is no concern for us. We have planned this trip at this time because we want it to be highly adventurous.
Obliged to your responses and guidance to other people, we only seek some advice from your side or some points which we may have missed during our plannings so as to ease our trip.
Piyush, for sure, please put forward any queries you have and I will be more than happy to help on it.
Hii Dheeraj,
we are planning a trip to Manali on 2nd week of December, kindly suggest.. is the planning correct and also if we can travel to Leh from Manali at same time.
Abhijit, Manali – Leh Highway is already closed or abandoned for travel for next 6 months. Rohtang Pass will be closed in a week or so too. However, you can enjoy snow points below Rohtang PAss from Manali during that time of the year.
Bro,
Is it safe to travel to manali on 11 th feb to 16 th feb on bike
Sam, yes, it is in general safe to travel up to Manali during that time of the year. Just ride with caution and care.
Hi dheeraj,
We r planing to go kaza khas from 24 oct by my sedan car. Wats about the road and weather conditions
Vijay, if you are planning to go to Kaza from Kinnaur side and can beat the cold conditions there will be in Kaza and Spiti during this period, it is fine. However, from Manali side it is a big NO and if you cannot bear cold and are not OK with basic facilities, then I will suggest to avoid it.
We want to go from shimla n come back from manali. Is it ok sir?
Vijay, route beyond Kaza towards Kunzum Pass is an abandoned place by now and it is not really safe to travel beyond Kaza at this time of the year. I will not suggest you to travel beyond Kaza. Hence, you should go from Shimla side and come back from Shimla side only.
Hello dheeraj Bro Me & My friend are planning bike riding for manali in the 1st week of december 2014 soo can we able to visit manali from bike & soo how will be the weather & roads in december please guide & inform me thank you…. 🙂
Yoogi, first week of December will be good time to travel to Manali. There will be snow ahead of Manali towards Rohtang Pass on the snow points of Marhi or Gulaba whereever you will be allowed to travel. Weather will be chilly, so go with proper warm riding gear.
dheeraj bro thank you soo much for your suggestion and in december last week it will be same condition na and thank you soo much for guiding me……..:)
Yes, Yogi, similar conditions will be there during that time too.
Thank You Dheeraj…. 🙂 🙂
Hey Dheeraj,
Dude guide me please…
I’m from Hubli,
I & my friend planed for manali & leh & some places nearby, we r Travelling from hubli on 06-10-2014, from bike we planned journey for 15 days (2 weeks). & we r coming from hubli to manali from bike overall 2500 kms trip from bike soo. So how will be the weather & Roads conditions over there at the time of december 05 2014 soo
Its a long trip on bike should doo it & ride manali soo
Please Guide me on this.
Yogi, I guess it is too late for me to reply now. I am not sure your whereabouts now and where exactly you will be posting almost 10 days when you started this trip.
Its ok Dude still its not late i have some time till december….
Can u inform me that in december how the manali climate and roads will we are planning to go manali from bike in december 1st week sooo can u say me how the weather & roads will be in manali
Just replied 🙂
Hi,
I am planning a trip to Leh from Delhi on 9th-16th October. Is there in any possibility that road to Pangong/ Nubra will be closed then?
Souvik, if you are flying to Leh then these should not be much of an issue. Regarding roads within Ladakh, they remain open all round the year barring few days of heavy snowfall. Hence, if it does not snow much around there then the roads will be open on those days.
hi dheeraj
i m planning to go to leh manali circuit in 3rd week of nov. What is ur advice for this. I m going in car.
Abhishek, Manali – Leh Highway as well as Srinagar – Leh Highway are going to close soon and by the time you are planning to visit, road trip to Ladakh is not possible. Please make a road trip to Ladakh next year now.
Hi Dheeraj,
Thanks for this valuable info.
I am planning to visit Leh from 14-20 Sep. I have high Cholestrol and High B.P. problem. would it be safe to go thete?
Dinesh, is it October or September? I will suggest you to read the thread: Queries on Ladakh trip for High BP
hi Mr dheeraj,
first of all thanks for above given information. I m planning to visit Simla n manali in the month of DEC 26 to 4th Jan.to enjoy our first anniversary but we r quite anxious regarding the climate of manali n traveling a long distance in such atmosphere. n suggest me is it advisable to book any package.n I feel nausea n vomitng sometime by traveling long distance so plz help me……….
Pallavi, in that case you can actually plan to visit anyone of the regions, either Manali OR Shimla. This will cut down travel at least once you reach the place. You can consult a doctor for motion sickness medicine.
Hi Dheeraj
I am planning to visit leh starting 26th Sept’14 to 5th Oct’14 on scorpio car from chandigarh ……as per the present conditions of flood in kashmir…..do you suggest return journey via kargil srinagar to chandigarh …..plz advise
Harman, though the highway is open but I will suggest you to give it a pass, personally and make the plan next year.
Hi dheeraj, i am planning to go for a bike trip to leh at end of October 2014, as the roads are opened till Nov. And come back via srinagar. Keeping in mind all the chilly conditions, from where we can get latest weather updates.i had done srinagar-leh highway earlier this year. Should i go again with srinagar-leh or go ahead via manali.i know you will deny for same but still what are the chances of reaching leh alive. Or we should go and be back from srinagar-leh highway.
Can we go to chandartal avoid leh during this period.
Thanks
I do not advice to travel by road to Ladakh in October. Please plan it next year from mid of June to September time window.
we 7-friends are planning for a ladakh trip from delhi via manali in two wheeler. And we are driving down from delhi on 12th oct and we have to be back on 18th oc t anyhow as we have 19th morning flight.
So,please suggest whether we should stick to our plan for this trip,and please let us know the itinerary we should plan…
I will not suggest to travel Manali – Leh Highway in October.
Hi Dheeraj
some my frnds planning for leh in 26th October, 3 days in leh and return to manli by leh manli highway on 29th october,
after reading ur article i came to know that it is very risky to come by road.What good places we can see in this sort period ?Is it safe to go to pangong lake ? Is it a better option to return by flight
Pradosh, after landing in Ladakh by flight you need minimum 2 days of complete rest in Leh for acclimatization before moving around anywhere. It will be very cold up there in Ladakh during that time and Manali – Leh Highway is a BIG NO right from start. Better have more days in plan and come back in next season.
hi dheeraj
v r five ppl from bangalore have planned for ladhak travel via road in bikes starting from 1st oct.. i have read th article of five reasons to avoid manali leh highway.. wat would u suggest us as v already prepared everything n ready to go on these days.. v hardly left with any options but v really wanted to travel in bikes.. kindly suggest..
thanks bro
Tejus, I will stick with the risks mentioned in the article above. If it seems OK to you, you can travel else I do not suggest to travel on Manali – Leh Highway in October.
Hi, Dheeraj,
I was nicely described by you about your trips:-)
We three couples planning to go on 1st Oct night – 5th Oct Sunday night from delhi . Can it be possible to visit Delhi-Manali- RohtangPass-ChardraTall Lake – Delhi.
Can this route be possible in 4days of leave? Please suggest if any better travel plan.
-Amit
Amit, I will suggest minimum of 5 days for Chandratal and spending a night at Chandratal at this time of the year will be quite cold. Also, snow starts falling too during this time and hence, there are some risks associated that late in the season.
I m planning to go there in sept last week or Oct 1 week on motorcycle. I will be going via manali-leh-srinagar. Watcdo u suggest.. Is it good to travel ?
Apart from cold conditions in September last week, it should be OK to travel but DO read the risks mentioned in the article and take a calculative risk. Also, prepare for cold riding conditions.
Hi dheeraj,
We are 4 friends planning a tour to delhi- manali-leh-srinagar-delhi from delhi in audi q3 from 1st october 2014. Is this safe…
Plz advise us your best knowledge
Vijay, should be OK but read the above risks that are defined in the article. Unless you are not OK with them, please do not go over Manali – Leh Highway that late in the season.
Sir,
Plz suggest the best route and time to go srinagar-leh-manali by our private car
Vijay, when are you planning to undertake this trip?
sir, we are planning from 4th october to 15th october from delhi to manali-leh-srinagar and come back from jammu..
plz suggest sir
Vijay, please read the article above. I do not recommend doing Manali – Leh highway in October.
Hey,
I’m planning a trip to keylong late in october. I’ll be travelling to manali via HTDC bus and plan to rent a bike for the remaining journey. Should I put off my plan or use public transport. And is the road till keylong accessible late in october. Thanks in advance:)
Hello Maneesh,
In late October, it is not adviced to travel to Keylong as chances of risk of getting stuck post Rohtang and traveling on slippery roads increase. Hence, you should not try it. After 15th October, snowfall starts and mostly local travel on that route. Though the route will remain upon but will have risks associated while traveling on it. Hence, you should analyze the risk and then take a call.
Regards
Dheeraj
I am planning to fly from Delhi to Leh on 12th Sept and travel by road back to Manali before 18th Sept, is it possible? Is the public transport still available?
Greg, yes the HRTC buses will be available during that time as they close their services in general by end of September. Also, there will be shared taxis available too.
Hi Dheeraj,thanks for reply and advice. Just to clarify, I read from the DoW community (https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/topic1866.html) that buses stop running after 15th Sept. If I were to leave on 17th Sept from Lei to Manali, can I still catch the HRTC buses?
Hmmm… For sure the HPTDC ones will stop running by that time. However, there are chances that HRTC Buses will still be running however they cannot be booked online and they are not direct ones. So, you need to take Leh to Keylong, Keylong to Manali and Manali to Delhi. I will call up the HRTC counter and confirm from them
Thanks so much for your help. My plan is to go from Leh to Manali (an overnight stop at Keylong), then from Manali to Chandratal Lake (stay over-night at Nomad) and back to Manali before heading to Dharamsala… is it ok to visit Chandratal on 3rd week of September?
Greg, the real beauty of Chandratal is the reflections that you see early in the morning. Hence, if you will miss that by not staying at Chandratal (as you want to stay at Losar) then you will miss the main charm without which it is incomplete.
Also, I do not think it is wise to first go to Manali and then come back the same route to do Chandratal. From Leh, you will reach Keylong. From Keylong there is a direct bus to Kaza as well. You can take that bus and get down to the point of diversion to Chandratal and stay there overnight at camps. You should read couple of links below:
1. Comments by Rimzim who just did it: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/chandratal-lake-cheapest-ways-to-travel-there/#comment-97715
2. Chandratal Lake | Cheapest Ways To Travel There
So, in the second article you will be just taking the bus from Keylong to Kaza not Manali to Kaza. While return, same process can be followed to reach back Manali detailed out in second article.
Hi Dheeraj, you are a knowledge park dude, we are planning for Manali and Rohtang pass from 1-5oct, is it ok to plan as dussehra festival is on 3rd oct and can we enjoy snow activities.
Sagar, apart from rush over there, it should be fine. Book your hotels and also there will not e any snow present during that time at Rohtang Pass.
Hai Dheeraj
Its pleasure to see how nicely you are assisting people. I am amazed wish you all the best too.
My query is that i am planing to travel leh circuit in the last week of October starting from 25th Oct to 1st November but unable to book tickets so far due to conflicting information about whether on net.
Your knowledge about this sector is paramount and i would abide by your suggestions.I am going along with my wife and two teenager sons, all young and perfect health condition.
Please guide me and also suggest best itinerary.
Thanks n Regards
Jay, if you are talking about Srinagar to Leh to Manali circuit, then straight away NO. I am sure you must have read the risks above in the article.
Secondly, if you are just flying in and out of Leh, then in that case if you are OK with basic food and stay as most hotels and restaurant will be closed and can brave the cold temperatures of Ladakh, you can go ahead and make a trip. But, keep in mind Ladakh cold is quite cold with real feel and dryness around. Lack of Oxygen makes things much more worse.
Hello Friends,
We 3 friends are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh between 24 SEPT – 6 OCT on Bullet from Delhi.
So friend plz share best of your knowledge.
We will start on 24 SEPT morning.
Day 1(24 sept) :- We will try to reach Manali on day1.
Day 2-3 (25-26 sept):- we will take 2 days from Manali to Leh which is around 500 Km. Please consult where to stay on Day2 between Manali-leh. Cost effective accommodation will be preferable.
Day4 (27 sept): Permit and local site visit. On Saturday permit office is open or closed.
Day 5-10(28 sept- 3 oct) : Almost 5-6 day.Please let us know the best places which we can visit.
Day 11-13 (4-6 oct) Back to Delhi.
Please suggest best of your knowledge
Approx cost for trip. Our estimate is around 30k including petrol expense.
Hi Ishu,
You must have gone through the risks of traveling late in September or October in the article above. On Manali – Leh Highway, you can stay at Jispa and then next day leave at 6 AM to move to Leh the same day. 5 AM will be very cold during that time, so go prepared with heavy woolens. Being INdians, you do not need any permits for most tourist places in Ladakh through normal routes. So, rest on Day 4. In the remaining 6 days, you can make 2 days each trip to Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso MOriri respectively. Make sure you are carrying heavy woolens and at Tso MOriri you may need to stay at some local home stay as camps will be packed up by then.
Regards
Dheeraj
Thanks Dheeraj.
Thanks for the info.
Hello,
We 3 people are planning Leh-Ladakh trip from 24 SEPT to 6 OCT on bikes from Delhi. Please let us know the road and weather conditions during this period. If anybody suggest the whole Plan will be really helpful.
Ishu, you must have read the article above already, if not do it and take risk accordingly. It is a dicey window and you have to brave the cold too. Plan some buffer days as well.
Hello Ishu,
Even I am planning my trip during the same duration, but I am unable to find some company, and now I am skeptical about my ride since the road conditions are deteriorating. I’d really appreciate some company, if I could get.
Hi, we are planning leh-manali trip on sept 30. pl. let us know whether the roads will be open or not and also the best mode of transport to manali we are group of 6 members
Sudarshan, guess we are discussing this in DwD Community. So, lets keep the discussion under one place.
We are planing for kullu & Manali in first week of Oct. Can u tell us that it is good time to go at rohtang pass ????????
Ajit, if you are looking for snow then there will not be any snow present at Rohtang Pass during that time else you can go over there. Also, it will be dusherra festival in Kullu and that place will be flocked by locals and tourists to core, so do the bookings.
Hi, we are planning for the Manali to Leh trip during first week of September. How will be the conditions for road and terrain during that time? Can I find any snow on my way till Leh during that time? I mean the snow walls on the sides of the road and snow covered mountains. (We have a shoot also planned for our track). Please guide me. I had a similar trip few years ago during the third week of August but it was horrible, as there were many cloudbursts and rolling stones all over. We survived many times on the edge.
Generally by this time, the rains settle and is considered fine time to Travel to Ladakh. You will see very vivid colors of Ladakh during this period. No Snow !!
Hi Dheeraj,
First of all thank you so much for all this great stuff “GREAT Help”.
We are planing to travel during first week of September, Is that OK and least chances of road blockage?
Also, do you mind to share some more details around HPTDC luxury busses from Manali to leh ?
Ankur, september is the best time to visit Trans Himalayan region, as per my knowledge. HPTDC bus halts at Keylong while travel between Manali and Leh. Charges about 2500 which includes stay at Keylong along with dinner + breakfast.
Hii… I m planning to visit leh on 27 th october.. Is it ok to travel ..?
Raj, if you are flying to Leh directly and are OK with cold conditions, then it should be OK to travel to Ladakh at this time of the year. However, road journey to Ladakh can be made only next year especially on Manali – Leh route.
Hellow sir ..is it safe travelling by a bike from manali-lehladakh in october first week??
Vivek, if you OK with above all 5 reasons, maybe you can better judge to ride there or not.
We are planning to go manali in last week of September. Then we will go to rohtang pass. Is there any snowfall or snow at that time.
Jatin, in case snowfall happens and you lucky to be that day there only at Rohtang Pass then you might see it. Else there is no chances of snow on Rohtang Pass in September.
dheeraj,,, we making plan to visit leh in end of may with 5 frnd in own vertigo m.sadan car …from ahmedabad gujarat so pls can u tell us which is best way to enter in leh at that time from manali or jammu? give some guideline we all going first time ..we drive well here and abroad in mountain track like heavy snow road too…driving skill is good all of us..but unknown with road. so pls suggest us
Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
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.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hello Deeraj,
we are group of 9 people,3 couples and 3 stags.We are planning to stay in manali for 4 night(if you suggest)will reach chandigarh on 26th nov 11.30 am and from there we will reach manali by our pvt vehicle, the basic idea behind the travel is snow and some adventure(if you can suggest some place that we should vist). As planned we will leave from manali on 30th morning as we have a flight at 8 pm on the same day.. kindly suggest.. is the planning correct and also if you can suggest some hotel and cottages.
Kindly reply if possible.
Regards,
Ravi Singh.
Hi Dheeraj
Thanks for your information.well i planned to make shimla-manali trip in last week of november after my weeding keeping 6 days in hand. as we dont have enough info regarding the place so we went for packages, can you please help me out regarding the weather (is it manageable or difficult to make over)and places which we can visit at that time.any info or advice appreciated! 😀 to make my trip more memorable.
Thanks in advance.
Manu
Hello Manu,
You really do not need any packages to plan you trip to these place. You have 6 days in hand and can follow something like below:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight Volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little les hectic :))
Day 3 | Shimla – Manali
Day 4 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 5 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass or Rphtang Pass if safe to reach there. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali and on the way do paragliding at Solang Valley, if required.
Day 6 | Manali – Delhi.
I will suggest you skip Shimla and go over to rest at Matiana to make it more peaceful and enjoyable.
Please let me know in case you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot for your valuable info dheeraj..:) we will plan accordingly my doubt is like at the end of nov weather will be chill and snow fall even can we manage the trip ?
Manu, you can very easily manage the trip if you are OK with some cold conditions. Definitely cold will be there but roads will remain open.
Hi Dheeraj,
Can you give me more details on the world famous Chadar Trek. I am planning to be a part of this trek along with a few other travelers. Tentative date of this trip planned is between the last week of December or the 1st week of January.
Thanks,
Avi
Avi bro I have not undertaken it yet so cannot get the apt info. But my firend has done it last year if you want I can get you connected with him.
plz advice… i m planin for leh trip on ma bike wid a pillion in october end ….via srinagar route …..plz advice if its safe to do it at this point
Yogender, first, you should understand that it will be very cold. Secondly, you are going there for a very short period and you need atleast two days to acclimatize. Then you can make a two day trip to Nubra Valley and finally a day trip to Pangong Tso. Most of the restaurants started getting close and even hotels too.
I will suggest that you avoid the rod trip now.
i am planning a trip next week to leh from delhi.. how cani keep track of road and weather conditions so as not to get there
Rahul, check the weather site and keep yourself updated.
Hi Dheeraj,
I am planning for Manali – Leh from 18th Sept 2013 and reach approx on 20th Sept 2013. I am planning in bike, while going to Leh my friend will accompany me but while returning back I will be alone as he has no leaves and he will be taking flight from Leh. Kindly advise the travel route from Leh to Delhi. Also few tips for this travel which will help my travel safe and more memorable.
Thanks,
Teju
Teju, I could not understand, do you need info. or details about Leh to Delhi from Srinagar side? If yes, please check:How to plan a journey on Srinagar – Leh Highway
Also, I hope you have gone through the article and 5 cautions mentioned above in the article.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi theju myself nabeel sr,from the southern state of our country..planning for a trip alone in my bike…i will be there around on 20 sep,i hope as i am alone i wish to have co travellers on the ame route to leh…my no is 09496879774….those who are planning also plz contact my mail nabeelhut@gmail.com.
Hello dheeraj,
First of all thanks for sharing your knowledge in the article, iam sure it must have helped many travellers.
I planning to do delhi Srinagar kargil leh keylong manali starting 20th September 2013 with my wife in Ertiga.
I discussed my plan with a raid de himalaya official who is in my sports club, he suggested not to go via Srinagar as this time it might not be open for public due to past border issues and even they didn’t get permission from the state authority.
I spoke to one of the cab drivers in Srinagar they said private vehicle isn’t allowed our cab driver will take you for the trip, which sounds fishy to me.
Any suggestion from you will be highly appreciated.
Regards.
Hi Dheeraj,
We r planing to go leh via manali haighway in September 2013 our itineraries as follows.
23 Sep:manali to sarchu
24 sep:sarchu to leh
25 sep:leh local sightseeing
26 sep:leh to nubra valley(vai khardung la)
27 sep:nubra to leh
28 sep:leh to pangong lake to leh
29 sep:leh to hemis-shay-thiksy-stok place-leh
30 sep:leh to kargil
1 oct:kargil to srinagar
2 oct to 5 oct (srinagar, sonmarg, phelgam and gulmarg tour)
this is our s plan and we need your kind suggestion.
plz suggest best of your opinion,If any in itineraries.
Arshad, Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
Also, use 28 and 29 to do two day trip to Pangong Tso and you can easily cover all these monasteries on the way to Pangong Tso and while coming back.
Regards
Dheeraj sharma
Hello Arshad,
My wife and I are also planing a similar trip at the same time this year. Some friends advised us to do a motorbike ride in this area. We are quite unsure if it is going to be to cold/ closed roads, etc. How are you planing to travel? (Car, bike, other transport?).
Thanks Dheeraj for all the valuable information.
Hello SIrjee,
A lovely Blog !! I am getting married in Feb’14.. I have booked a couple of Days in Shimla. A three day package in Manali.. I would fly to Chandigarh frm Mum on Day 1, and Return back via same Route.. It is mid Feb that I have planned my Honeymoon for.. Can you please tell me the Do’s and Don’ts over there. What all shopping do i need to do here in Mumbai.. And what all things are really worth buying there..
Will be very happy to Know from an experienced person like you.. Also, kindly lemme know, what will be the Weather conditions there.. Will i get an access at Rohtang Pass?
Thanks and Regards,
Ashish H Naik
Firstly, congrats for getting maried brother!! Well, you must carry heavy woolens with you, especially the jacket, warmers, woolen caps. February will be cold and there will be abundance of snow. Do carry inner warmers for sure. Rohtang Pass will be closed anyhow. Though it is a basic vacation to the places where most thing will be available, still no harm in checking out 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.
hi we r visiting manali and shimla from feb 12 to 17th …so can u plz suggest me how will be the weather condition and plan .
Weather should be fine but conditions would be cold. No on can predict snowfall though and for that you might need to keep a track of weather updates. You have about 6 days and you can follow the below plan to execute your Shimla – Manali trip:
Day 1 | Reach Shimla from by overnight volvo from previous night. Check-in and rest at hotel. In the second half explore local Shimla including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening.
Day 2 | Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge etc. as you like or may be you can visit Chail – Kufri circuit in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.
Day 3 | Shimla – Manali
Day 4 | Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 5 | Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 6 | Manali – Naggar Castle (Leave early to Naggar Castle (or stay at Manali only till evening) and enjoy the place. Very romantic with great views and food. Since, the volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali Or, you can also co-ordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus pick you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi but this will mean you carry your luggage with you in taxi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
hi dheeraj we r plANING TO GO leh ladakh in october 2013 our itineraries are as follows:
21oct:manali to keylong
22oct:keylong to leh
23oct:leh local sightseeing
24oct:leh to nubra valley(vai khardung la)
25oct:nubra to leh
26oct:leh to pangong lake to leh
27oct:leh to hemis-shay-thiksy-stok place-leh
28oct:leh to kargil
29oct:kargil to srinagar
30oct to 2nov (srinagar and gulmarg tour)
this is our final plan nd we want to go on these date.sugest us….plz no make any changes on dates
Imran, plan is very good but I am not sure about the dates you are planning. It is not advisable at all to Travel on Manali – Leh Highway that late in the season and be ready for some very cold conditions. Just as a warning or to take some risks into considerations please go through the article: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October
hi,
dheeraj
according to u in which month v can go to ladakh.
in which month gulmarg has full snow everywhere.pls sugst that date which v can visit ladakh,srinagar & gulmarg.
waiting for ur kind reply. thanks for previous reply..
i was going in last 15oct2012 leh via manali on bike and i am sure there is no trouble in sept and oct dheeraj demotivate pepole about the place or way dnt take any tension if u have guts
It is not about demotivation, it is about making them aware of the risks. Nothing else!! Be prepared for anything if you are trying in October.. Also, FYI, for the last few years we had been having delayed monsoons which have made it possible to Travel so late is season as snowfall generally is delayed. It is better to be wise and less gutsy than to be sorry!!!
hellooooo dheeraj….we r planning to visit leh on byke in nov but our plan canceld as highway are closed …can u plz tell me any place ver we can go on byke in jan end…any place ver we can get snowfall….in about 700 800km….we stay in delhi
Hello Himanshu,
Go for Chopta and Deoria Tal in Uttarakhand, you will not regret the ride. Check some pictures and guide, please check: Delhi to Deoria Tal, Uttarakhand | Travel Guide
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
thanks dheeraj…but v have already visited here dis july but in car….plzzz suggest some oder place?….is going amritsar-vaishno devi-srinagar-gulmarg give us fun on byke in feb????????
Well, in that case if you are OK with cold conditions then try out Kinnaur Valley with Sarahan – Kalpa – Snagla. You will surely enjoy the trip.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Vikash,
I am now at Manali. Too cool. I am with a woolen clothes and jacket. Carry proper woollen clothes. Last day was coolest. Temperature may 5-6°c. Night more cold.
Thanks Rakesh for all the updates 🙂
Hi Dheeraj
hey v r visiting manali on 4-11-12. so, i want to know that how is the weather conditions. will i able to enjoy there in cold m from rajasthan. migrating to cold frm hot.
Hi Vikash,
There is good cold conditions up there at Manali, it is early winters everywhere this season. Also, there is snow at Rohtang Pass and ahead.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj Iam planning a budget trip to manali on 14 nov. Pl suggest some budget hotels. How will be the weather at manali. My daighter (11 years) wants to visit Rohtang and keylong. Is it possible to go to keylong in a bus have a night halt at keylong and come back in a bus? Can you give information of bus timing? The last time I visited manali was seven years ago and i found it difficult to cath a bus for rohtang as they were full before they entered manali bus depot. Most of the busses for keylong come full frpm delhi and it is too expensive for me to travel by private vehicle. Please suggest solution. FROM manali i want to visit golden temple, jalianwala baug and wagah border before returning back to mumbai on 22. Pl suggest bus route to golden temple and wagah border. Thanking you in anticipation,nitesh
Hello Nitesh,
For cheap and economic options you can explore hotels around Manali – Naggar Road, Old Manali and Vashisht. It is quite cold up there so go with woolens for sure. Rohtang Pass might get closed by then because officially it will be closed on 10th of November, even if it is open please do not attempt to go beyond Rohtang pass else you might get stuck.
Well, you can take the volvo if possible which is run by HPTDC and after 15th November I think it is officially the off season in Himachal Pradesh and all HPTDC properties offer good discounts. HPTDC also arrange local sightseeing at quite economic prices and you can check their website. Very convenient and good service. You might also want to check their complete deals/package tour, try for Hotel Manalsu package for family and delay the trip by 1 day to avail 30% discount.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi i would like to know if it is possible to make the manali-leh bike trip in December/January, pls give me some suggestion.
Hi Varun
Think impossible. I’m just returning from Barlach-la, covered with snow, road will close any day. Officially road will close 14th Nov. till May ’13.
Hi Varun,
The road will officially be closed by 10th of November and currently as well it is not advisable to ride/Travel on Manali – Leh Highway.
Regards
Dheeraj
hi dheeraj,
we r planning to go to Leh
via manali on 21st oct 2012 on bike is this the safe time to go there ?
And srinagar route is open or not?
Nopes brother it is not safe to ride at this time of the year especially on Manali – Leh highway. Even Srinagar – Leh Higway was snowed out last week. I will suggest not to attempt it and better plan next year for this journey
Regards
Dheeraj
hi Dheeraj,
This praveen, we r planning to go to Leh via manali on 15th Nov,2012. is this the safe time to go there ?
Praveen, you must have read the reasons for not attempting it in October, so planning in November would out of question and against any advise. Both Baralacha La and Taglang La are snowed out yesterday I think and Manali – Leh Highway is closed. Zozi La Pass also has snow storm as reported by one of the guy in a travel forum yesterday. Please DO NOT attempt any road trips to Leh – Ladakh now.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey sorry dhiraj…but i forgot to tell u month its 23rd of dec..accordingly pls tell me weather situatuon…sorry again its my mistake yaar..
hello dhiraj..
I am coming on 23rd at manali..is this good time to come as per weather conditions..and is Hotel Park residency is good property in manali for honeymooners…pls reply..
Hi Chetan,
Well, the Manali town would be over crowded at that time of the year because I think it is Dusherra near that date and it is celebrated by locals around Manali – Kullu with great fervor with most of the places being booked/crowded. Climate wise, it will be very pleasant and a bit cold during night.
Not sure about that Hotel but yeah, if not booked then go with Johnson’s which is a great property to stay at Manali.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey buddy ..u doin a gr8 job with al d info …
its pretty confusing after goin through al d posts ..whether or whether not to travel to leh from manali in 2nd week of october ..i wil b in manali on 14th and wish for a bike trip to leh 14th onwards …9th to 14th i hv plans for spiti valley …time is not a issue and i hv plenty of time at hand …wud u suggest travelling to leh on 14th ..if yes ..do i need to get permissions ..if yes from where .??
Very informative post, Dheeraj. Don’t want to say more. 🙂
DEAR DHEERAJ,
I m rahul, i m planning to come manali in mid of november with my wife. Since i read ur blog..i thought u can give me a good suggesion abt the good route for travel and stay in manila, My plan for trip is around 7-8 days. Could u tell me wht is the best way to travel by personal car or by traveler bus. I want to do some sports and entertaining things during that trip, so wt u suggest the best place to stay and where.?
i am also thinking abt the rohatang pass , is is open during november month and i m keen to to see snow…is this will be right time to go… please also suggest route for travel and sight-seeing …
please advice me sum idea,so tht i can really get a great and enjoyment trip, waiting for your fruitful advice.
Thanks
rahul sharma
Hello Rahul,
Solang Valley is best suited for adventure activities along with snow points around Manali. Let me know if you need any plan.
Rohtang Pass might not be open by then and there will be mediocre chances of snowfall. Still, it is always hard to predict snowfall as it depends on the luck and the weather on the day you plan to visit :)… Well, yes at that time you will be able to see snow stock around the snow points of Gulaba/Marhi or Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass whichever is open. So, if snow is the priority then there are no issues but for snowfall best bet is that, you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit. The links here: Rohtang Pass, Kothi and Manali regions respectively can be helpful for you in tracking the weather updates of Manali and around. If it says raining in Manali, or rains/snow at Kothi or snows at Rohtang Pass then expect snowfall at nearby snow points of Solang and Marhi/Gulaba etc. As far as snow is concerned, you will find plenty of snow out there.
Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc, Snow Points are at either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass and do check out Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place if possible).
Johnson's, Jimmy Johnson's, Manali Heights are some good options of stay in Manali. For cheap and economic options you can explore hotels around Manali – Naggar Road, Old Manali and Vashisht.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
Dude u r trip GURU,
& as a guru guide me please…
I’m from Bangalore,
I & my friend planed for manali-leh & some other places on bike, we r catching train from Bangalore on 14-09-2012, Our total journey will be of 2 weeks. & we r bringing one bike with us. So how will be the weather & Roads.& link me the page which is having a list of things to carry wit us.& What r Do’s & Don’ts
Please Guide us on this.
Regaurds
WAX
Hello Wax,
Thanks buddy. Well, chances of weather clearing up by that time are quite high but road conditions would start to get better only then, so chances that you will get only slightly improved roads as of today.
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.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
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.
Also, I will strongly suggest that you go through and read my series on Ladakh Self Drive tips at the links below (most things apply to bikes as well especially the first article):
7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh, Routes and Road Conditions In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips, Fuel Availability In Leh – Ladakh | Ladakh Self Drive Tips
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot………. 🙂
this is almost every thing i needed.
Regards
WAX
Hi Dheeraj,
I read all your articles related to Manali-Leh trip as i am planning to start my Manali-Leh trip on 2nd Oct from Mumbai and will be in Manali on 4th October. That same day i will check on bikes and prepare for next day start. 5th Oct i will start at 5 am from Manali to avoid the traffic. This is the plan so far. Can you please help me to chalk out the next part of my trip. My return ticket to Mumbai is on 11th Oct from Delhi hence have to be back to Manali on 10th Oct.
Hi Pragati,
Please keep me posted about how the weather condition is in Manali. I am going in the last week of October. Also please let me know if u found any snow at Rohtang as the Weather Forecast shows that there should be snpw showers
Hi Soumya,
If there happens to be first snowfall at Rohtang Pass of the season, you can check that in Travel News section or generally I keep posting the Travel news on Blog’s FB Page. May be you can check follow that too.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hello Pragati,
ex. Manali you have effectively about 5 days and then Manali to Delhi will be on 10th October. Now, 2 days will be consumed in reach Leh from Manali and 2 days for coming back. Hence, you have just one day in Leh which means you are probably taking the risk of getting stuck twice because by that time Snowfall might happen and it totally depends upon the luck. If you are ready to gamble that then do it like:
Manali – Jispa
Jispa – Leh
Leh Local Sightseeing
Leh – Sarchu
Sarchu – Manali
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are visiting shimla-manali on 4-8 October 2012. So how will be the weather, will it be very cold and will we get snow to play?????
Thanks in advance
Hi Rupali,
There might not be any snow or if it snows on that very day at Rohtang then you may find little otherwise no snow. Definitely there will be a bit cold conditions but not very cold.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
You have been really good in the previous responses. My query is this – I’m planning to drive from Chandigarh to Manali during the 2nd week of Sept. Very much interested in snow at Rohtang Pass, Pl let me know if I can see any snow there at that point of time. Also, my travel is flexible – if we can extend our trip to Leh from there then I’m also OK to hire a Scorpio-ish vehicle to make the trip. Pl let me know the feasibility of self drive to Manali, Snow at Rohtang Pass and Good time to extend the trip to Leh by an SUV. Thanks in advance,
Shyam
Hello Shyam,
You can visit Rohtang Pass at that time of the year but you will not find snow up there. September third week should be fine for a trip to Ladakh but I am not sure if it will be better for you to just drive your car upto Manali and then drop it there in hotel and carry on ahead towards Rohtang Pass and further to Leh. Better go via Volvo when you have to hire a taxi for rest of the entire trip.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
I am from Mumbai planning to travel Leh from Manali with my wife on 19th of August. Is it safe by road and whether conditions to travel now? Recent cloudburst had made the road unuseable; what is status of that road. I have already booked the ticket long back for delhi and Manali. Which option is most convenient to use (bus or taxi)
Hi Pushkar,
Roads have been cleared and highway is operational now but yes, roads are in bad shape especially Manali – Rohtang Pass road. It is monsoon time and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainity about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj! Hats off to you for great and extremely useful information posted by you:) I am planning a trip to Manali from 29th Sep to 3rd Oct. Firstly, I need to know if Rohtand pass would be open around this time of the year? If yes, is it safe to go till Rohtang pass from Manali? I would be travelling with my husband and was wondering if we could rent a bike and drive from Manali to Rohtang pass? Your thoughts on this are welcome. Could you also suggest us possible itinerary for these 4-5 days covering Manali, Kulu and Simla. We have our to and fro flights from Chandigarh to Mumbai. Eagerly awaiting your reply!
Hello Meenu,
Thanks alot. My replies below:
1. Yes, Rohtang Pass should be open by that time of the year.
2. All likely, it should be safe to go upto Rohtang Pass as the rains would have resided and region plus the slush would have dried up by that time.
3. Surely, you can rent the bike in Manali and ride all the way up there. Just be little cautious while driving. For more info. on hiring bike in Manali, check the link: How to Hire or Rent a Bike or Motorcycle in Manali
4. Within just 5 days, you should not cover Shimla to enjoy your trip. I will say either stick to Manali or Shimla. You may like to follow an itinerary similar to one below:
Day 1 – Reach Manali, take rest for half of the day and enjoy the x-mas in the evening including Mall road. (I assume that you will be reaching in the morning by Volvo)
Day 2 – Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc.
Day 3 – Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy in snow and come back to Manali
Day 4 – Manali – Naggar Castle(stay at Naggar and enjoy the place)
Day 5 – Naggar Castle – Manali – Chandigarh (Checkout from Naggar Castle by noon. Since, the volov will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus)
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Meenu,
Please keep me posted about how the weather condition is in Manali. I am going in the last week of October. Also please let me know if u found any snow at Rohtang as the Weather Forecast shows that there should be snpw showers
Hi Dheeraj,
We are a group of 6-7 people from , planning to cover Kashmir and Laddakh. We are planning to start the trip around 20th October. Let me know from which side we should start the journey, from Jammu side or Manali side.
Also, which kind vehicles would be good for this journey considering we are around 6 or 7.
Also how many days we should dedicate to this trip?
How will be the weather considering the delayed monsoon this year.
Waiting for your response.
Sorry the journey will start from around 20th September.
Oops, I am sorry too I replied with 20 October in mind 😀 … Well, it will be good time to visit these places. It is fine to travel that time as being delayed monsoons, you will see region devoid of rains and will witness some extremely beautiful colors. Just that if it snows at any high mountain pass, which usually starts by late Septemeber then, you might need a wait a bit for its clearance else it is fine to travel.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Rohit,
I would surely like to stay away from Manali – Leh highway, at least that late in the season. You must have read the warnings mentioned in the article above, will say avoid it that late. SUV would be apt for the trip. Do take into account it will be cold, very cold especially at the passes and high mountain lakes and most likely there will not be any accommodations at Sarchu, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri lakes. Even then if you wanna take this journey then you can follow something like below excluding the Manali – Leh Highway (return via Srinagar – Leh only)
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.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hi Dheeraj
hat off to u for informing and guiding the tourists. Me and my friends also planing to visit leh Ladakh by the middle of November, we are 6 to 8 members… we are soups to start our journey from delhi to leh on 16th of nov. by late eve by bus as have a low budget but still eager to explorer this place. we have to get back to delhi again on 22 of nov.. Can u please suggest how we ll start an finish it off in a dissent manner. As no one of us visit leh ever.. and whatever knowledge i acquired, is all from ur blogs… and replies…
Thanks & regard.
arun
Hi Arun,
In the article above, some warnings are mentioned in for traveling in late season which is Late September or early October. You are planning mid-November??? Buddy, I am sorry but then these just warning would turn into sure shot things you should worry about. You cannot make a road trip to Ladakh in mid of November unless you want to risk it everything. Also, the cold conditions even within Ladakh in mid November would be something that could be just unbearable. Not a time to go for a traveler who have never been into such conditions ever. Only attempt the journey, if you have been in such cold and harsh conditions ever before even considering going by flight.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi Dheeraj
Thank for your information, but I have already planned and booked my trip for keylong as follows..
26th Oct ’12 Delhi to Manali via Bilaspur (N/Stay)
27th Oct ’12 Manali N/Stay
28th Oct ’12 Keylong N/Stay(Dekyid Hotel)
29th Oct ’12 Keylong-Barla cha la-Keylong N/stay
30th Oct ’12 Keylong-Udaipur-Keylong N/Stay
31st Oct ’12 Keylong-Naggar Castle N/Stay
1st Nov ’12 Naggar
2nd Nov Chandigarh for Kolkata
Flight,Train,Hotels,Car already booked.
Is it Ok? What is your opinion?
Re
Hi Rakesh,
The plan looks good to me. Go ahead and you will enjoy the trip!! 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj
hi Dheeraj,
you doing an awesome knowledge transfer bro…..GOOD JOB :)…..I am planning a trip to manali on first week of September. i have scheduled this trip for 3 days….Delhi to manali (including Rohtang pass……i am driving my own vehicle……Please suggest if 3 days are enough for the trip..delhi-manali-delhi. how would be the weather in manali that time? i am taking my 18 months old son along, i hope that would be ok for him if we pack him up with heavy woolen clothes? any chances of encountering fresh snow or snowfall? how are the road conditions these day?
could you please help me preparing an itinerary for a 3 days trip (including the best places we can visit in and around Manali……if needed i can stretch 1 more day and make it a 4 days trip).
please suggest if we should stay at Kullu on the first day of journey or directly halt at manali?
guide me with good and not soo expensive hotels in Manali and Kullu (if you know any and i guess we get good discount in September starting because this being an off pick
season? please correct me if i am wrong)
also please let me know the easiest route to Manali from delhi.
Thanks in Advance.
Deepak
Hi Deepak,
Thanks alot.
1. Climatic Conditions would be rainy as far as I see in the first week of September and my advice will be to make it by 3rd week as the rains reside. It is almost end of July and still no rains in Delhi as you know and this means a delayed monsoon. The roads will be real bad at that time if rains are lashing the town. Child shall be fine upto Manali, rather will suggest you not to travel to Rohtang Pass, because there will be no snow, may be there will be worst roads after monsoons if the slush has not dried up and above all, child can suffer from illness including you guys due to prolonged stay at high altitude in ugly traffic jam of Rohtang Pass. The problem with child is that he/she cannot express their uneasiness feeling which you and me can and then further take actions accordingly, like start descending immediately. So, you know if the child is feeling good/bad and you need to descend or not. Even if you take him, try to ensure you leave very early in the morning by 4 AM types and not spend too much time over Rohtang Pass.
2. Your plan could be like:
Day 1 | Delhi – Manali
Day 2 | Manali Local Sightseeing
Day 3 | Manali – Rohtang Pass/Solang Valley – Manali
Day 4 | Reach back home
3. Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting) etc, Snow Points are at either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass and do check out Naggar Castle (stay at Naggar and enjoy the place if possible).
Johnson’s (my fav), Jimmy Johnson’s, Manali Heights are some good options of stay in Manali. For cheap and economic options you can explore hotels around Manali – Naggar Road, Old Manali and Vashisht.
I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.
If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Buddy
Hi Dheeraj..Losts of useful information found..I have booked my train tickets From Mumbai to New Delhi for 10th August 2012, Will be travelling Delhi-manali_leh between 11Aug 2012 to 13Aug 2012 and will retuen From Leh Via Kargil-Srinagar-Jammu, I am boarding Train from Jammu to Mumbai on 20th August..Are these many days enoght to cover Leh..could you suggest me the places to avoid (have a name but nothing to see) and the most important places to SEE & the most important please plaese plaese.. what kind of weather do I expect during this period on both these roads…What happens If I start from Jammu & end at delhi (i.e. the reverse way)….which is better ….weather wise…?
Hi Nitesh,
Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
It would be much better, if you can add about a day or two to make it much more relaxing but even for 10 days, you may like a plan like below:
Day 1 | 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 2 | Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil
— Enjoy the vistas enroute
— Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil
— Overnight at Kargil
Day 3 | 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 4 | Leh Local Sighseeing + Inner Line Permits
— Local sightseeing include Namgyal Gompa, Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Shankar Gompa, Main Market, Hall of Fame, Spituk Gompa, Changspa Road Stroll in evening
— For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link : https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/inner-line-per…
— Overnight at Leh
Day 5 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder
— Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder / Diskit
— On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La
— Diskit has monasteries with tallest lord Buddha statue and Hunder has sand dunes and bacterian camel safari
Day 6 | Hunder / Diskit – Sumur – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh
— Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs
— Overnight at Leh
Day 7 | Leh – Pangong Tso Lake – Leh
— Day trip to Pangong Tso
— Overnight at Leh
Day 8 | Leh – Taglang La – 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 9 | Sarchu – Baralacha La – Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali
— On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only
— Overnight at Manali
Day 10 | Manali – Delhi
Note: No buffer days for Ladakh trip mostly many a times means trouble, so do plan a day or two as buffer apart from these 10 days.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
PS: Sorry, for the delayed response, was offline for last few days.
Thank you Dherraj for yor suggestion and reply. Ihave changed the direction of my journey as per your advice. . . Now I will begin from Jammu and end at Delhi (via manali) I will reach Jammu from Mumbai on 11th Aug 2012 at 14:45 hrs. Pl advice me quickest way to reach Leh. I Wish to travel on Jkstrc and Hpsrtc only. Given the fact we have a weak monsoon this year where do you expect rains in these places between 11 and 19 August. Once again thank you for your advice and a bigger thanks for the extensive website o on travel to leh. . .Believe me your site is the best when it comes to info on this thrilling route. I Am travelling only to enjoy the road journey. . . I Dont know if the destinations or other places will thrill me more than the journey. . . I am a lover of mountains and on an average travel 20000 km every year. My aim is travel only by Buses as they are cheap and safe.
Hello Nitesh,
You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travelers including me at the link here: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh. This will give you an idea of the sightseeing places in Ladakh and how to reach Leh from Jammu with night stops.
For accommodation, check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh including moderate and cheap budget hotels as well in the series of articles starting on the link here
You are alone and private taxis are very costly in Leh but you will be able to find the shared taxi without much fuss at all. There are lots of flyers which people put at cafes, dine-ins, restaurants, travel agent desks/shops/whiteboards wanting to share the taxis for different trips within Ladakh. Even travel agent organize such shared taxis trip as well but charge a little higher about Rs 200-300 more than it would ideally cost. So, in worst case you can always go back to them and book a seat for yourself. Gelling up with people in Ladakh is more or less easy because many people travel solo and look forward to meet new people and share cultural thoughts and values over the trip. No where else in the world you will find more smiling and helpful people as Ladakhis are 🙂
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj, I am planning solo bike ride to Leh in sept last-oct 1st week this year. The itinerary is Delhi to srinagar to Leh and return via Manali side. since Raid de himalaya is scheduled 5-13 oct, i wanted to know whether the leh-manali road remain open for general users during raid de himalaya. thanks
Hello Satish,
I think it does remain open barring few sections for few hours I think, which these guys would be covering.
Regards
Dheeraj
Hi,
We (my wife and me from Bangalore) are planning to go to Leh from Manali in the first week of september. Would that be a good time weather-wise to attempt this journey? Also, I read some articles, which recommend the Leh-Manali drive rather than the other way round, to avoid altitude sickness. Would you recommend that too? In either case(Manali-Leh or Leh-Manali), that we decide to go for, where would you suggest we halt for the night? Please help us out in this regard.
Regards,
Ashok
Hello Ashok,
Shift the plans by a wekk or so and let the monsoon passes by. You will better enjoy in that case. Now, I strongly suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here
In any case, if you are doing Manali to Leh then sleep at Jispa or Keylong and cover remaining part in next day. If you are doing Leh to Manali then sleep a Sarchu and enjoy the highway with evenly distributed journeys.
I hope this helps. Please let me know in case you need more info or have any doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
We are planning to leave for Leh from Manali on 4th september and return on the same road on 10th September. Does the Leh-Manali road remain open till September 15th or what is a safe bet looking at the date constraints?
Hi dheeraj,
m from mumbai, n planning trip to leh, ladakh in mid of june. i will be travelling by car from manali to leh. what do you say about june road conditions.
Hi Avinash,
The weather in June is always unpredictable and chances of rain are also bright. This leads to the closure of certain sections on Manali – Leh Highway due to landslides triggered by rains. However, you may be lucky in June as well to cruise this Highway in bright sunshine. The average time for opening of Rohtang Pass every year is around May and Baralacha La usually opens up close to May end. Hence, June to September is the time window when the Manali – Leh Highway is open and is considered as the only time for travelling on Manali – Leh Highway. In the early stages i.e. June, one can find huge stocks of snow en-route but the road conditions may be a challenge to drive. But, generally the roads conditions improves as the monsoon reside i.e. by mid to end September types.
June – July is also the time window when the snow melts on high passes creating almost tiny rivers or water crossings (nallas) on roads in the early stages. This is quite a challenge to dodge, especially with the vehicles having low ground clearance. Post afternoon, when the sun is burning at its best, some of these water crossings or nallas becomes so violent that they are almost impossible to cross. This may force you to halt the journey of the day in the middle of nowhere or return back to some civilized place for a night halt. The best way to overcome these water crossings or nallas, is to know the specific nallas on Manali – Leh Highway and plan to cross them as early in the morning as possible. In year 2010, one of the major hurdle was water crossing or nalla just after Zingzing Bar and before Baralacha La. Another major one was between Rohtang Pass and Sissu. In early stages (June), even crossing Baralacha La is a big challenge due to melting snow which creates some deep water streams on the road itself. Slush is also bound to be present on Baralcha La in the early stages of the season and is also quite a challenge to negotiate without proper skills even on SUV/MUV. This slush is generally created by the constant moving traffic which beats the snow present on the road or aside. Hence, try to cover these sections of Manali – Leh Highway in the early part of the day, when snow melts very slowly and traffic is less.
I hope you have gone through the article on how to plan the journey on Manali – Leh Highway linked here
I hope this helps. Please let me know incase you have more doubts or queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj. This is sandeep 29 year old from delhi.Can u pls advise best time to visit leh , laddakh via manali on bike and this entire trip will be for how many days minimum to minimum. what will be the avg. cost per prson. would really appreciate you. thanks & regards
Hi Sandeep,
If you want to see snow and be on adventurous side then probably mid June to early July is the best time to visit. Keep in mind you should be ready for bad roads and blockages as roads do not stabilize in the early season. If you are looking forward to super, magical colors of the region then September after Monsoon is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh. Now a days monsoon generally lasts a bit long so, you can plan it in second half of the September month.
It is always advisable to go via Srinagar side and come back via Manali side to avoid any acute mountain sickness issues and better acclimatization of your body. At minimum you will need about 11-12+ days to cover all major tourist destinations in Leh – Ladakh including Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri without hoping over the places much. In June or early season as well as monsoon, it is always recommended that you must keep any buffer days in your plan too.
For anything related to how to calculate budget for Leh Ladakh trip check my article linked here.
I hope this helps. Please feel free to ask any queries related to any planning for your Leh – Ladakh trip.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj,
We are group of four planning to do Manali-Leh bike trip on November 1 to 7. We tried planning in the month of June but dint workout. Now we will be there in delhi 28,29,30. So we just want to make this happen. If not never:). Please suggest us. did some googling as well found status of road is open from " leh.nic.in" but still need adivce from you. Thanks in advance
Hello Thaj,
Well, as you might have already gone through the above 5 points, though BRO has stated that they will continue to maintain Manali – Leh Highway for the month of November this year. However, I highly doubt over the conditions. Snowfall is pretty regular now a days even now a days, so November would be decent amount of snow but you never know. I will advice only if you have some buffer days to undertake this journey. Also, do keep in mind the extreme chilly conditions especially in evening and mornings. Do expect blockages due to snowfall or road closures.
Now, if you are OK with cold conditions and some blockages then I will advice that you come by flight on the way back this way you will atleast have buffer days with you. Start the journey from Manali and stay at Jispa on the next day. Then start early morning from Jispa and reach Leh in the evening (it will be tough as in winters there is always less amount of sunlight). This way you run least chances of being stuck. After reaching Sarchu and Pang, if you see inclement weather ahead in both cases then stay back because help may be hard to find soon in case of heavy snowfall up there. Only venture ahead if the weather is clear from Sarchu or Pang. These will be the only two places where you can get shelter in case of bad weather after crossing Darcha.
Again, when you reach Sarchu and Pang and at any place you find that amount of sunlight is less then again stay back and move ahead in the morning. But, staying at Pang or Sarchu means, you run the risk of getting stranded from both sides (Taglang La ahead of Pang and Baralacha La before Sarchu) if snowfall continues on high passes overnight. Hence, it is very important that you leave Jispa by 4 AM even if it is dark and extremely chilly. Once, you cross Taglang La and reach around Rumtse with even little or no day light, you will easily reach Leh in dark as road are good ahead of Rumtse.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have more queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks a lot Dheeraj. We are planning do it one way Manali to leh with 8 to 9 days in hand. As you suggested to have buffer of 3 days. Hope everything to be fine. And once again thanks a lot for suggestion you provided.
Cheers
Thaj
All the very best Thaj for you trip. Three days would definitely be fine. I wish that you do not require all of them and also explore various places in Leh – Ladakh as well in the remaining days. Have a great trip…
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
hey dheeraj,
nice advice posted by you for the fellow travellors for manali – leh trip.
Buddy can you just advice me for the yearly held Raid the Himalayas trip as I m planning to participate it next year…the info regarding it..the participation process and other relevant details.
Hi Mukesh,
Thanks alot. Please see the link here for more details as I am not someone who follows it but loved it just before last week. May be now, I hate it after seeing some of the participants last week while I was coming back from Himachal, reading further reports here and there and talking to villagers. I hope the above link help you find the information you looking forward.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj,
I am planning to visit Chandrataal. is it a complete trek from batal ? If not then how much we have to trek enroute ?
Hi Nilavra,
Currently, even from Battal that dirt track or so called motorable road is still open upto the parking lot (where you need to park the vehicle) from where you need to trek the remaining distance of about 2-2.5 KM to reach the banks of Chandratal. Also, please keep in mind that again the same rules applies to Chandratal as well in first week of October. Do not plan to stay overnight there. Just visit it in Day time and be back either to Losar or Khoksar. You need to be out of that Gramphu – Kunzum Top stretch for maximum time. Spending night between that is no good idea.
For more information on Chandratal you can also go through the travel guide of Chandratal here.
I hope this helps. Please let me know for any queries.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj ,
Will this be fine from manali to leh in october 1st week ? Do you have any contact of Manali taxi stand ?
Nilavra, well I guess you must have gone through the risks mentioned above for traversing through Manali – Leh Highway. If you are OK with that then you can plan a trip and keeep in mind that weather in Trans Himalayas can change anytime as mentioned above by Vistet too. Just keep an eye on weather updates of the region and venture ahead based on them.
May be you can talk to Ravi – 9816508774, he runs a Tata Sumo on that route and is really good driver.
I hope this helps. Let me know for further queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj ,
I am planning for a trip from manali to kaza via Kunzam La starting on 2nd october from manali and returning on 8th/9th oct. Will this be possible ? how is the weather condition in manali at the moment ? I heard there has been severe rainfall in August in manali.
Hello Nilavra,
Well, I guess it may be possible as now a days monsoon has delayed but it is Trans Himalayas and you never know. Best thing is to keep an eye on weather updates and then plan accordingly. Do not plan to stay in between Manali and Losar and do cross Kunzam in a day itself after checking the weather updates on the IMD or this pretty accurate site linked here. I guess you shall be fine but still in one of the remotestet roads you shall never take any chance. In August itself about 75 people got trapped there for 5 days due to unseasonal snowfall and so you can think October is season for snow. Just just take extra precautions. With 7 days in hand ex. Manali, you shall be able to do it with ease. I am too heading there and will be catching you up in Spiti in one of the days if nothing goes wrong with my leaves drastically. Though we will be using Shimla / Kinnaur side only and doing a sprint type road trip :D….
Also, yes it is true that Himachal was battered by rains in August and in September too. But, it is expected as per Met Deptt. that rainse will completely subside the Himchal by last week of September. So, it will be nice to go with it.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Hi Dheeraj. We were planning to travel from Manali to Shimla via Lahaul & Spiti starting 28th Sept. My query was firstly, Will Rohtang Pass be open and secondly how will be the weather in higher reaches like Kaza and will the roads be open.
Hi Gagan,
First of all I will advise that you the trip other way round as it will help you acclimatize better to the high altitudes of Kaza and Kunzam Pass. You will feel much better if you go via Shimla side and come back via Manali side. Yes, Rohtang Pass shall be open by that time and weather is sooo unpredictable now a days but generally by October end the rains should completely reside the region. Keep an eye on the link here to get latest updates on the weather of Tabo, Kunzam Pass, Rohtang Pass, Manali, Shimla, Kinnaur etc. The site is good as compared to others.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you need more info. or have any queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Thanks for the quick reply. We will go by the Shimla route only. Our route plan is as follows 28th Sept-start from Chd,night stay at Kalpa (Hotel ?). 29th Sept Kalpa-Kaza visit nako lake, night stay at Kaza (or Kibber), 1st oct, Kaza to Manali,night stay at manali, 2nd Oct , Manali to Chd. We might have buffer of one more day in case of any eventuality. Need your opinion on firstly, should we plan night stay at kaza or kibber (which hotels?), secondly can we fit in chandertal lake as well as baralacha pass on the 3rd day ie 1st oct while going to Manali if we start early from Kaza, what are the chances of snowfall on the higher passes and roads getting blocked?. Regards, Gagan
Gagan, that is indeed a very good decision however in just 4 days, it will hardly matter if you go by Manali side or Shimla side as you will not be ascending gradually. But, still stick to Shimla side. Now, in Kalpa you can opt for Kinner Villa (my favorite, read detailed review here), Hotel Aucktong, Golden Apple are good. In Kaza, you can stay at Rangrik in Spiti Sarai or go for PWD Rest House.
Now coming to your plan buddy that is too hectic I shall tell you, believe me. 4 days will be far too less for the circuit. Those are some real tough roads with real tough time, so will advise you to add couple of days more if you really want to enjoy else if you are OK with the fact of being on the road for atleast about 12 Hrs every day or may be more than only attempt it. You will be lucky to complete the circuit in 4 days so forget about Chandratal and Baralacha La is too far away.
Chandigarh – Kalpa/Peo (take about 13-14 Hrs)
Kalpa – Kaza (atleast 12 hrs)
Kaza – Manali – (atleast 13-14 Hrs, too bad roads and if you get stuck in Rohtang Pass jam then may be more. So inclusion of Chandratal seems unlikely)
Manali – Chandigarh about 10 Hrs.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have more queries or doubts.
Regards
dheeraj Sharma
Hello Dheeraj! Thanks for the very useful information! We are in Manali at the moment so too late to follow your advice to travel the highway from Leh to Manali. We may have to take a minibus on a 1 day journey as other options may not be available to us now. Any advice about travelling this amount of altitude in this amount of time? any info or advice appreciated! 🙂
Hey Lou, well I guess you can check with Travel Agents at mall road. They do run the tourist taxis which stop for a night in Keylong or Sarchu. If you can get hold of one that stops at Keylong it will be great rather than one which will stop at Sarchu. Even if you get Sarchu one that will be much better than one day cannon ball run. Do try to take precautions mentioned here for keeping your body acclimatized as much as you can.
I hope this helps. Let me know incase you have some queries or doubts. Have a safe and enjoyable trip ahead 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
Dheeraj,
Thanks for the message! We have had to opt for the cannonball run as the gouvernment service is not available to us anymore (we went to mall road and checked today). We will just have to rough it and take the advice given about AMS. We will be doing bugger all for at least 48 hours after we get there! Your articles are a great resource, keep it up and all the best! Will let you know how it went! 🙂 Lou
That's sad enough. Lou, all the very best for your trip. I will wish that you have a great run and enjoyable trip 😀
Regards,
Dheeraj
hello dheeraj, we got to leh fine, the weather was good luckily, thanks for your help!
🙂
That is great Lou. All the best for your journey and stay ahead in Leh 🙂 Cheers!!
hello,we r planning to go to manali via chandigarh on 25th sept,2011.is this the safe time to go there ?
Hey Anand,
I guess by the time you are planning rains must have resided the region, so will be good time to go to Manali. But, do keep an eye on weather conditions around that time. For more 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.
I hope this helps. Please let me know if you have further queries or doubts.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
Dear Dheeraj,
Thanks for your helping hand to all of us. I have already visited so many places on our bike…. Noida-Jaishelmer / Noida-Pushkar / Noida-Shimla / Noida-Manali (Rohtang Pass) / Mumbai-Goa……etc…
Now days I am along with my friends planning to Noida-Manali-Leh-Kargil-Srinagar-Noida tour on our bikes. Presently we have Bajaj Pulsar 150 DTSi bike. We are planning to leave from Noida on 10th September 2011. May I know the present weather and road condition of this route? Plz update me about the same. And if possible plz share ur mobile no.
Thanks in advanced.
Biswajit
Hey Biswajit,
Good to know that you have travelled so much but please make sure that riding in Trans Himalayan region is altogether different than other terrains. So, be careful and cautious when the situation demands. I will strongly suggest that you guys go via Srinagar route and come back via Manali route. First it will help you with AMS, second it will help you split the long Manali – Leh journey evenly at Sarchu, thirdly the descent from Rohtang Pass will help you counter slush much easier than climb. Lastly by the time you will be coming back you may not get much rains as well. Good enough set of reasons to go via Srinagar and come via Manali.
I guess for the last few days it was raining in Manali and Rohtang Pass and for the coming few days as well the weather main remain rainy.You can also track the weather of Manali using the link here . Road condition has not changed much and infact may have got worse due to continuous rains. The most problem you will face is between Marhi – Rohtang Pass stretch and Taglang La if it is raining at that time.
I hope this helps. Let me know in case you have more queries. I will share my contact at your email.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
P.S. Removed your email and contact from the post. Don't want you to get spammed by bots crawling the web.
Thanks for your information.
Dheeraj…..
Actually I want go for Noida-Manali-Leh-Kargil-Srinagar-Noida. My plan is….
10th September Noida – Manali
11th September Manali – Sarchu
12th September Sarchu – Leh (13th September Stay @ Leh)
14th September Leh – Kargil
15th September Kargil – Srinagar
16th September Srinagar – Katra (17th September Stay @ Katra)
18th September Katra – Noida
Plz advice me on this plan. I have Bajaj Pulsar 150 DTSi. Is it ok for this route. I want to talk to you before leaving Noida….So…plz….. Do have any no of Keylong/Jipsa/Sarchu…. Plz share this.
Thanks again…
Biswajit, first advise please don't do it if you have only 7 days. You won't get anything except be on the road. You will miss the Ladakh destination completely which I guess after such pain of agonizing journey is not worth. Second advise, please do it from Srinagar side not Manali side else your plans can go hayway due to AMS problems you might face due to stay at Sarchu (Highly not recommended at least by me).
Now again, coming back to your queries. The plan is OK and you can follow it in either direction for this road trip. For accommodation and their contacts numbers at Manali – Leh Highway you can refer the link here.
Let me know if you need any further info.
Regards,
Dheeraj
hi dheeraj can you suggest any good place to travel on 4th of oct 2011 as tuesday s are rothang pass closure day in and around manali as we have hotel booking on manali on 3 to 5 oct 2011
Hi Uday,
Well, in that case you can visit either Naggar Castle – Krishan Temple at Naggar (Check pictures here) or you can make day trip to Manikaran – Kasol – Renuka Lake. So, I guess it could be like one day for Manali,, one for either of above two options and one for Rohtang Pass 🙂
I hope this helps. Let me know in case you have some queries.
Regards,
Dheeraj Sharma
dear sir.. we are coming on 4sep via manali leh road.. is this safe or we r coming from srinagar route?
Hello Piyush,
Well, generally nobody can tell you if it is 100% safe at any date due to unpredictable weather. But, generally speaking September first week and second week are considered safe as rains reside from the region by that time. This time it is looking like an extended or delayed monsoon though, so keep a day or two as buffer and you can come via Manali side. So, just confirm the condition of Manali – Leh Highway once you are about to leave from Leh at Leh taxi stand. Apart from road getting closed due to landslides no other point mentioned here is applicable in first week of September, so not to worry much and hope the weather remains good.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any queries or doubts.
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma
quite informative…. thanks
Thanks a lot Nitu. I am glad the info. was useful for you.
Hi Dheeraj,
U r a store house of info bro.. awesome work… very informative… I am planning a trip to Leh this October first week…. traveling in the Manali – Leh road … from the discussions here, i understand that though not a "perfect" time, it sure is manageable to travel in the first week of october rite?
Hello Niraj,
Thanks alot. I guess you would be able to make it through Manali – Leh in first week of October but nothing certain as you see the above points, if you have buffer days with you plus you do not mind cold conditions especially at night and do not mind a bit of adventure if you get caught up in between as worst case, then you can travel at that time. The road is still officially kept open in the first week of October, so in case of any blockages BRO is expected to open the road 🙂
Regards
Dheeraj Sharma