The road from Manali to Leh is more than just a journey—it’s an emotion, a rite of passage for every travel lover and adventurer. Over 7 days, I witnessed towering snow-capped peaks, vast valleys, glacial streams, and skies that changed moods faster than the wind. This is a story of breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude passes, and the soul-soothing silence of the Himalayas.
Day 1: Manali – The Gateway to Adventure
I began my journey in Manali, the charming hill town nestled in Himachal Pradesh. With the scent of pine in the air and the Beas River gushing beside me, I knew something extraordinary awaited. After checking my gear and permits for the Leh route, I spent the day exploring Old Manali, tasting local trout, and soaking in the views.
Tip: Spend a day acclimatizing in Manali if you’re coming from a lower altitude.
Day 2: Manali to Jispa (Approx. 135 km | 6–7 hrs)
Early morning, the real journey kicked off. We drove past Solang Valley and ascended towards Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft). Though often cloaked in mist and traffic, crossing Rohtang felt like entering another world. From there, the landscape slowly turned barren and dramatic as we reached Keylong, and finally the serene village of Jispa.
The night in Jispa was cold but peaceful, surrounded by mountains and stars brighter than I had ever seen.
Day 3: Jispa to Sarchu (Approx. 90 km | 4–5 hrs)
As we climbed higher, the air grew thinner. We crossed Baralacha La (16,500 ft)—one of the most beautiful high passes, flanked by snow and frozen lakes. We stopped at Suraj Tal, the source of the Bhaga River, for a few photos and quiet awe.
By late afternoon, we reached Sarchu, a windswept plateau that looks like Mars. The cold bites here, and it’s usually the first real test of altitude.
Tip: Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol here. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) can hit hard.
Day 4: Sarchu to Leh (Approx. 250 km | 9–10 hrs)
This was the most challenging and scenic leg. We tackled Gata Loops (21 hairpin bends), Nakee La, Lachung La, and the incredible Moore Plains—a flat, surreal stretch at 15,000+ feet. The highway seems to touch the sky here.
We stopped for a quick bite at Pang, before crossing Tanglang La (17,480 ft)—the second-highest motorable pass in the world.
Descending into Leh, I felt a mix of exhaustion, awe, and deep satisfaction. We had arrived.
Day 5: Leh – Rest and Explore
After four days of altitude and road dust, Leh felt like an oasis. I took the day slow:
• Visiting Shanti Stupa at sunrise
• Exploring Leh Palace
• Shopping in the local market
• Sipping butter tea and chatting with locals
The mix of Tibetan and Ladakhi culture here is soul-enriching.
Day 6: Excursion to Khardung La & Nubra Valley
No trip to Leh is complete without touching Khardung La (18,380 ft)—one of the world’s highest motorable roads. With prayer flags fluttering and snow around, the energy here is incredible.
We continued to Nubra Valley, known for its cold desert, sand dunes, and Bactrian camels. Riding camels in a Himalayan desert is an experience that stays with you forever.
Day 7: Pangong Lake Day Trip or Return Journey
On the last day, you can either head towards the iconic Pangong Lake (made famous by Bollywood) or begin your journey back to Manali or Srinagar.
We chose Pangong, and it did not disappoint. The changing colors of the lake, the silence, and the vastness—it’s the stuff of dreams.
Although one can choose turtuk, hanle, umlingla pass, tsomoriri lake as well it depends the days you are having although I may suggest you the different itinerraies based on thes places , which you can choose as per your budget and days you are having with.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day trip from Manali to Leh is not just about landscapes—it’s a deep dive into yourself. You’ll discover how small you are in the face of nature, how resilient the human spirit can be, and how beauty exists in the most barren places.
If the Himalayas are calling, answer without hesitation.
Quick Travel Tips:
• Best time to go: June to September
• Permits required: Rohtang Pass (for non-HP vehicles), Inner Line Permits (for Nubra/Pangong)
• Things to carry: Diamox (for AMS), sunscreen, layered clothing, power banks
• Stay options: Jispa and Sarchu offer camps and basic stays; Leh has hotels/hostels of all ranges
• Road condition: Expect landslides, water crossings, and tough stretches—travel with a reliable driver or 4×4 vehicle
