Leh Ladakh is a stunning high-altitude region located in the northernmost part of India, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique culture. Mumbai, on the west coast, is a major metropolitan city and a common starting point for travelers heading to Leh Ladakh.

This route is popular among adventure seekers and tourists who want to explore the Himalayas. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Mumbai to Leh Ladakh, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step planning advice.

Getting from Mumbai to Leh Ladakh – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a budget-friendly option for part of the journey, but there is no direct train to Leh. You will need to combine train travel with road transport from the nearest railhead.

• You can take a train from Mumbai CST or LTT to Jammu Tawi, which is the closest major railway station to Leh, covering about 2,000 km in 30 to 36 hours depending on the train service.

• From Jammu Tawi, you need to hire a taxi or take a bus to Leh, which is approximately 434 km and takes around 14 to 16 hours by road via NH44 and NH1D.

• Train fares from Mumbai to Jammu Tawi range from ₹800 to ₹2,500 depending on the class, with trains like the Jammu Rajdhani and other express services available frequently.

• Trains can be crowded during summer and festival seasons, so booking tickets early on IRCTC is essential to secure seats, especially in AC classes.

• Be prepared for long travel times and possible delays during monsoon or winter due to fog and track maintenance in northern India.

Bus

Bus travel is less common for the entire route due to the long distance and terrain, but buses operate on the Jammu-Leh stretch and can be combined with other transport modes.

• From Mumbai, you can take a bus to Jammu or Delhi, but this journey can take 40 to 50 hours with multiple changes and is not very comfortable for most travelers.

• Jammu to Leh buses run by HRTC and JKSRTC operate mainly from May to October, covering 434 km in 14 to 16 hours, with fares around ₹800 to ₹1,200.

• These buses are usually non-AC and can be crowded during peak tourist season, so booking tickets in advance at Jammu bus stands or online is advisable.

• The bus route from Jammu to Leh passes through high mountain passes like Zoji La, which can be closed during winter or heavy snowfall, so check road conditions before planning.

• Food options on the Jammu-Leh bus route are limited to small dhabas and roadside stalls, so carry snacks and water for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Mumbai to Leh is an adventurous option for experienced drivers who want full control over their journey and flexibility to explore en route.

• The road distance from Mumbai to Leh is approximately 2,200 km, taking around 40 to 45 hours of driving time spread over several days via NH48, NH44, and NH1D.

• The route passes through major cities like Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jaipur, Delhi, and Jammu before entering Ladakh, offering many rest stops and accommodation options.

• Driving in Ladakh requires preparation for high altitude, rough roads, and limited fuel stations; carry extra fuel and check vehicle condition before the trip.

• Toll plazas are common on the highways, so keep cash ready; also, some mountain passes require permits, which you can obtain online or at check posts.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause landslides and roadblocks, so plan the trip between May and October for safer driving conditions.

Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Leh from Mumbai, especially for travelers with limited time or those who want to avoid long road journeys.

• Direct flights from Mumbai to Leh are limited but increasing; most travelers take connecting flights via Delhi or Chandigarh, with total travel time around 5 to 8 hours including layovers.

• Leh Airport (IXL) is well connected to major Indian cities during the tourist season from April to October, with airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and GoAir operating flights.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically ranging from ₹4,000 to ₹12,000 one way, depending on the season and booking time.

• Book flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist months (June to September), as seats fill quickly and prices rise.

• Leh Airport is located about 5 km from the town center; prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available for last-mile connectivity.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Mumbai to Leh who want a smooth and well-organized journey.

• Step 1: Decide your mode of travel based on budget, time, and comfort; flights are fastest, trains plus road are economical, and self-drive offers adventure.

• Step 2: Book your tickets early, especially train and flight tickets, using IRCTC for trains and airline websites or apps for flights to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Pack light but include warm clothes, sunscreen, and basic medicines; Leh’s weather can be cold even in summer, and altitude sickness is common.

• Step 4: If traveling by train and road, plan your Jammu to Leh journey carefully, checking bus or taxi availability and road conditions on official websites or local sources.

• Step 5: On arrival in Leh, acclimatize for at least a day before starting any sightseeing or trekking to avoid altitude sickness; drink plenty of water and rest.

• Step 6: Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for local travel in Leh; avoid unmetered taxis to prevent overcharging and always confirm fares beforehand.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid photo ID and multiple copies as you will need them for permits and hotel check-ins in Ladakh.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach infections; carry water purification tablets if you plan to trek or camp.

• Book train and flight tickets at least 30 days in advance during peak season to get confirmed seats and better prices.

• Use local buses or shared taxis in Leh for affordable travel; avoid renting bikes without proper experience due to challenging terrain.

• Pack your luggage in sturdy bags as multiple transfers between trains, buses, and taxis are common; keep essentials handy in a daypack.

• Check weather forecasts regularly during monsoon and winter seasons; landslides and road closures are common and can disrupt travel plans.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Mumbai to Leh Ladakh is between May and October when the roads are open and weather is relatively mild. Winters are harsh with heavy snowfall, making road travel impossible and flights limited.

Summer months attract many tourists, so expect crowded trains, buses, and flights. Early morning departures are recommended to avoid traffic and enjoy clearer skies.

• Avoid traveling during the winter months (November to March) as NH1D and mountain passes are closed due to snow, and flights may be canceled due to weather.

• Festival periods like Diwali and Independence Day see increased travel from Mumbai, so book tickets early to avoid last-minute price hikes.

• Monsoon season (July to September) can cause landslides on the Jammu-Leh highway, leading to delays and roadblocks; check local news before traveling.

• Departing early morning from Mumbai helps avoid city traffic and gives better chances of catching connecting trains or flights on time.

Arrival at Leh & What to Expect

Leh is a small town with limited but efficient local transport options. On arrival at Leh Airport or bus stand, you will find prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for easy commuting.

Popular areas to stay include Leh town center near the main market, offering a range of guesthouses, hotels, and homestays. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance during peak season.

Leh’s altitude is over 3,500 meters, so take it easy on arrival. Many hotels provide oxygen cylinders if needed. Local buses and shared taxis are affordable but less frequent, so plan your daily travel accordingly.

Conclusion

Flying from Mumbai to Leh is the most efficient and comfortable option, especially if you want to save time and avoid long road journeys. However, combining train and road travel offers a budget-friendly and scenic experience for adventurous travelers.

Careful planning, early booking, and awareness of seasonal conditions are key to a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Mumbai to Leh Ladakh and enjoy one of India’s most spectacular destinations.