Manali is a popular hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the northern Indian Himalayas. Leh, on the other hand, is the capital of Ladakh, known for its stunning landscapes and high-altitude desert environment. The route from Manali to Leh is famous among travelers seeking adventure and breathtaking views.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options between Manali and Leh. You will learn about trains, buses, self-drive cars, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your journey confidently and safely.

Getting from Manali to Leh – Main Options

Train

There is no direct train connecting Manali and Leh due to the challenging terrain and high altitude. However, trains can be part of your journey if you plan to travel via nearby railway stations.

• The nearest major railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar, about 135 km away, but it has limited connectivity; the better option is Chandigarh Railway Station, 310 km from Manali, with frequent trains to Delhi and beyond.

• From Delhi, you can take a train to Jammu Tawi, which is the closest major station to Leh with rail connectivity, approximately 650 km away from Leh by road.

• After reaching Jammu Tawi, you must continue by road or flight to Leh, as the railway line does not extend further into Ladakh yet.

• Train travel is comfortable and economical but involves multiple transfers and long road journeys, so it suits travelers with flexible schedules and time.

Bus

Buses are a popular and budget-friendly way to travel from Manali to Leh, especially during the summer months when the roads are open. Several government and private operators run services on this route.

• Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates deluxe and ordinary buses from Manali to Leh, covering around 475 km in approximately 15 to 18 hours, depending on road conditions.

• Buses usually depart early in the morning from Manali bus stand; booking in advance during peak season (June to September) is recommended due to high demand.

• The route passes through Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La, which are high-altitude mountain passes that may be closed during winter or heavy rains, so check road status before travel.

• Bus fares range from INR 700 to INR 1500, with deluxe buses offering better comfort and fewer stops; food options are limited en route, so carry snacks and water.

• Monsoon season can cause landslides and delays; early morning departure helps avoid afternoon weather issues and traffic jams.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Manali to Leh is a thrilling experience for adventure lovers. The route is scenic but challenging, requiring careful planning and a suitable vehicle.

• The distance by road is about 475 km via NH3 and NH1, taking around 15 to 18 hours depending on stops and road conditions.

• Many travelers hire SUVs or self-drive cars from Manali or nearby cities; ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and suitable for high-altitude terrain.

• The route crosses multiple high passes like Rohtang La (3,978 m), Baralacha La (4,890 m), and Tanglang La (5,328 m), so acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness.

• Fuel stations are sparse along the way; fill your tank in Manali and carry extra fuel if possible. Toll plazas are present on NH3 with fees around INR 100 to 200.

• Road conditions vary; expect rough patches, narrow roads, and occasional landslides during monsoon. Carry a physical map or offline GPS as network coverage is patchy.

• Plan rest stops at Keylong and Sarchu, which have basic food and lodging options. Avoid night driving due to wildlife and road hazards.

Flight

Flights offer the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Leh from Manali, though there is no airport in Manali. Travelers usually combine road and air travel.

• The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport), about 50 km away, with limited flights connecting to Delhi and Chandigarh.

• From Bhuntar, you can fly to Delhi or Chandigarh and then take a direct flight to Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, which is well connected to major cities like Delhi and Srinagar.

• Flight duration from Delhi to Leh is approximately 1.5 hours, with fares ranging from INR 3,000 to INR 8,000 depending on the season and booking time.

• Flights operate year-round but can be delayed or canceled due to weather conditions like fog or strong winds, especially in winter.

• Pre-book flights well in advance during peak tourist season (May to September) to secure seats and better prices.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Manali to Leh. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth and safe trip.

• Step 1: Check the weather and road conditions for Rohtang Pass and other high passes before planning your travel date, as closures can occur unexpectedly during monsoon or winter.

• Step 2: Book your transport tickets early, whether bus, car rental, or flights, especially if traveling during peak season or festivals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Step 3: Pack essential items such as warm clothes, water bottles, snacks, and altitude sickness medication; these are crucial due to the cold climate and long travel hours.

• Step 4: If driving, ensure your vehicle is serviced and equipped with a spare tire, first aid kit, and extra fuel; also, inform someone about your travel plan for safety.

• Step 5: Start your journey early in the morning to avoid afternoon weather issues and to have ample daylight for driving or bus travel through mountain passes.

• Step 6: Upon arrival in Leh, take time to acclimatize to the high altitude by resting and avoiding strenuous activity for the first day to prevent altitude sickness.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a government-issued ID and permits if required, as certain areas en route and in Ladakh need Inner Line Permits for Indian and foreign travelers.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses; carry a reusable water bottle and refill at trusted sources.

• Book bus tickets through official HRTC counters or verified online portals; avoid unlicensed operators to ensure safety and reliability.

• Use local taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Manali and Leh for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand if using private taxis.

• Pack light but include warm layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for rough terrain and cold weather.

• During monsoon and winter, check for landslide or snowfall alerts; avoid traveling at night and keep emergency contacts handy.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Manali to Leh is during the summer months when the roads are open and weather is favorable. Winter travel is difficult due to heavy snowfall and road closures.

Monsoon season brings risks of landslides and roadblocks, especially on the Manali-Leh highway, so plan accordingly to avoid delays and hazards.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali or local Ladakhi festivals when transport and accommodation are crowded and expensive.

• Summer months from June to September offer the most stable weather and open roads, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C during the day.

• Early morning departures help avoid afternoon fog and rain, which can reduce visibility and increase travel time on mountain roads.

• Winter months (November to March) see road closures due to snow, making travel by road nearly impossible; flights may also be affected by weather.

Arrival at Leh & What to Expect

Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is well connected and modern, with prepaid taxi counters and app-based cabs available outside the terminal. The city is compact, making local travel convenient.

Popular areas to stay include Leh town center near the main market, offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and sightseeing. Local taxis and shared cabs are common for nearby excursions, while walking is pleasant within the town.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Manali to Leh depends on your priorities. For adventure and scenic experience, self-drive or bus travel is ideal during summer. For speed and comfort, combining flights from Bhuntar or Delhi to Leh is best.

Plan your trip by checking weather and road conditions, booking transport in advance, and preparing for high-altitude travel. With proper planning and precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey from Manali to Leh.