Epic road trip from Manali to Leh, and the must-visit places for your travel itinerary

When it comes to picking a road trip, many would pick their favourite one as the most sought-after Manali to Leh trip, and we can’t agree more. The very journey through the rugged terrain on your vehicle is an experience that will be etched in your heart forever.

This time, if you set off on your road trip, seize the opportunity to explore the resplendent beauty of the region. With snow-capped mountains, distant valleys, and the refreshing mountain breeze, the journey becomes even more exhilarating. As you travel through the rugged terrain, you'll pass through some of Ladakh's most renowned passes, which will allow you to marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the region no doubt.

The best time to travel to Leh Ladakh via this route would be from June to September. If travelling by road, it typically takes at least 2 days to cover this 473 km route with ample stops for rest.

If you have also been planning to hit the road and enjoy this road trip, here are some places that you should add to your itinerary for an unforgettable Manali Leh road trip.

Perched at an elevation of 6725 ft above sea level, this hill station captivates with its enchanting vistas. While summers offer pleasant weather, winters adorn the peaks with glistening snow, rendering it a picturesque destination en route from Manali to Ladakh.

En route from Manali to Leh, the Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views. Situated 51 km from Manali at an altitude of 3900 m, this route leads to destinations, such as Pangi, Lahaul Spiti, and Leh, offering vistas of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, with the Chandra River flowing nearby.

Whether you seek scenic strolls through quaint villages or awe-inspiring mountain vistas, Keylong is one such place that you won’t want to miss. Set adjacent to this locale is the magnificent Bhaga Valley, replete with verdant greenery. Serving as the administrative centre of Lahaul and Spiti district, Keylong is a favoured stopover among tourists and trekkers en route from Manali to Ladakh for an overnight stay.

Nestled beside the Chandra River, Jispa is a picturesque hamlet offering a captivating stopover during the Manali – Leh tour. Adorned naturally with streams, scenic peaks, verdant valleys, and lush foliage, it offers visitors an intimate encounter with Mother Nature.

Discover the charming Himalayan village of Darcha, nestled beside the Bhaga River, roughly 23 km from Keylong. It’s one of those places in India where you should try camping for a change. Frequented by tourists journeying from Manali to Ladakh, this place surely makes for a great pitstop.

Nestled amid the lofty Zanskar region, Baralacha La serves as a pivotal mountain pass and confluence point of several roads. Connecting Lahaul to Ladakh, this plateau is enveloped by the Pir Panjal and Himalayan mountain ranges, offering a spectacular destination during the journey from Manali to Ladakh.

A hidden gem known primarily to those traversing the Manali – Leh route, Gata Loops captivates visitors with its stunning vistas nestled in the Western Himalayas. Accessing and departing from this location is as thrilling as the journey itself, making it a must-visit destination during the Manali to Ladakh journey.