Manali to Leh Highway: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide

The Manali-Leh highway is not just a road trip — it's a rite of passage. At 479 km, crossing five high-altitude passes and reaching 5,328m at Tanglang La, this is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.

Route Overview

Manali (2,050m) → Rohtang Pass (3,978m) → Keylong → Baralacha La (4,890m) → Sarchu → Lachulung La (5,059m) → Tanglang La (5,328m) → Leh (3,524m)

Total: 479 km, typically 2 days with overnight at Sarchu.

Best Time

Open late June to mid-October. Sweet spot: July to mid-September — passes fully clear, weather stable, landscape at its most dramatic.

Day 1: Manali to Sarchu (222 km)

Leave by 6 AM. Rohtang Pass requires a permit (apply online at himachalregistration.nic.in). Keylong is your last town with fuel and ATM. Baralacha La at 4,890m is the first seriously high pass — acclimatize if needed. Sarchu at 4,290m is your overnight stop — cold even in July, altitude headaches common.

Day 2: Sarchu to Leh (257 km)

Gata Loops (21 hairpin bends), Nakee La, Lachulung La, then Tanglang La at 5,328m — the highest point. After the descent the Indus Valley opens up. Leh appears below. You've made it.

Altitude Sickness — Take Seriously

• Spend at least one night in Manali before starting
• Drink 4-5 litres of water daily
• No alcohol for the first two days
• Carry Diamox (consult doctor before trip)
• If symptoms worsen: descend immediately

Permits Required

• Rohtang Pass permit: Mandatory, apply at himachalregistration.nic.in
• Indian nationals need only Rohtang permit for the main route

What to Pack

• Warm layers — 5-10°C at 5,000m even in July
• SPF 50+ sunscreen (intense UV at altitude)
• Cash (ATMs end at Keylong)
• Offline maps downloaded (nearly zero signal for 400 km)