Planning a Delhi to Leh road trip? See the distance, best stops, fuel tips, best time to go, and a sample plan for the Manali and Srinagar routes in 2026.
A Delhi-to-Leh road trip covers about 1,000 km and shows India's landscape change from plains to cold desert. With the right stops and timing, it is far easier than it sounds. Here is the distance, route choice and planning you need.
Quick Facts at a Glance
| TopicDetails | |
| Distance | About 1,000 km via Manali or Srinagar |
| Driving time | 2 to 3 days minimum, 5 to 6 recommended |
| Best time | June to September |
| Fuel | Fill up at Keylong; next pump is far |
| Network | Postpaid SIMs work in Ladakh |
Distance and Stops on the Manali Route
| StopApprox. distance from Delhi | |
| Chandigarh | 250 km |
| Manali | 540 km |
| Jispa | 680 km |
| Sarchu | 780 km |
| Leh | 1,000 km |
Stay a night in Manali, then Jispa or Keylong, and reach Leh on day three. Avoid sleeping at Sarchu (about 4,200 m) on your first night at altitude.
Distance and Stops on the Srinagar Route
Delhi to Srinagar is about 800 km, and Srinagar to Leh is around 420 km. Stops include Sonamarg, Drass, Kargil, and Lamayuru. Altitude rises gradually, so it suits families.
Best Time to Go on a Delhi to Leh Road Trip
Manali-Leh usually opens around June and closes in September or October. Srinagar-Leh often opens earlier. July and August are warm but crowded, and September is clear and quiet. Check road status before you leave.
Road Trip Checklist
- Valid licence, RC, insurance and pollution certificate
- Spare tyre, jack, tow rope and puncture kit
- Full tank at Keylong, plus a jerry can if allowed
- Offline maps, cash and a power bank
- Warm clothes, water and snacks
Acclimatisation
Spend your first 24 to 48 hours in Leh resting. Watch for AMS symptoms and descend if they worsen. See our Delhi to Leh itinerary for a safe day-wise plan.
Prefer a Driver?
If you do not want to drive, a chauffeur-driven plan is simpler. Explore our Delhi to Leh tour package guide or enquire at Tripsdoc.
Frequently Asked Questions
At least 2 to 3 days of driving, but 5 to 6 days with acclimatisation stops is safer and more enjoyable.
Manali is more adventurous, while Srinagar is greener and more gradual.
It is possible in good weather, but high-clearance vehicles are more comfortable on rough patches.
Fill the tank at Keylong because pumps are very far apart after that. Carry a spare can if it is allowed. Check current fuel availability before you start.
It is not advised. Start early and finish by late afternoon. Blind turns, fatigue, and swollen streams make night driving risky on high mountain roads.