Manali to Leh Highway
IndiaLadakhMountain Pass

Manali to Leh Highway

Two days, five passes above 5,000 m, and air so thin your bike loses 20% power. A rite of passage for Himalayan riders.

At a glance

The Manali to Leh Highway is a 490 km mountain pass in Ladakh, India. It runs from Manali to Leh in about 18 hours of driving. Highlights include Rohtang La, Sarchu and Taglang La. Best driven July – September; rated expert difficulty.

Distance
490 km
Duration
18 hrs
Vehicle
Motorcycle
Difficulty
Expert
Best season
July – September
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Map preview

The route at a glance

Itinerary

Stops along the way

  1. Start
    Manali
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  2. 01
    Manali

    Acclimatise 2 days.

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  3. 02
    Rohtang La

    First high pass.

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  4. 03
    Sarchu

    Tented camp halfway.

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  5. 04
    Taglang La

    5,328 m summit.

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  6. 05
    Leh

    Old town, monasteries.

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Field notes

Travel tips

  • Acclimatise — AMS is real.
  • Carry oxygen + petrol cans.
  • Closed Oct–June by snow.
Soundtrack

Music for the road

AI-curated mood for this route — open in your favorite player.

Wide-open desert
Desert Highway
Americana · blues rock · slide guitar

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Common questions

Frequently asked

How long does it take to drive the Manali to Leh Highway?

The Manali to Leh Highway takes about 18 hours of driving non-stop to cover its 490 km. Actual trip length depends on how often you stop at viewpoints and towns along the way.

How long is the Manali to Leh Highway?

The Manali to Leh Highway is 490 km long, running from Manali to Leh.

When is the best time of year to drive the Manali to Leh Highway?

The Manali to Leh Highway is generally best driven July – September. Check local road and weather conditions close to your departure date.

Is the Manali to Leh Highway hard to drive?

The Manali to Leh Highway is rated expert difficulty. It is classified as a mountain pass.

What are the main stops on the Manali to Leh Highway?

The route runs from Manali to Leh, with key stops including Rohtang La, Sarchu, Taglang La.

Where is the Manali to Leh Highway?

The Manali to Leh Highway is located in Ladakh, India. It runs between Manali and Leh.