Himalayan passes above 15,000 feet into Ladakh. That is what Manali–Leh Highway promises, and it delivers. At about 265 miles (426 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 2–4 days, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Manali to Leh.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Manali
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Manali is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Rohtang or Atal Tunnel. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Keylong and Sarchu. Each one makes a natural break, and Sarchu sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Baralacha La.
Arriving in Leh
Save energy for the final stretch: Gata Loops is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Rohtang or Atal Tunnel, Baralacha La and Gata Loops, and you will understand why Manali–Leh Highway belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is June–September. Plan on 2–4 days so the drive never feels rushed.
Altitude sickness is common — acclimatize on the way.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
