How to Go Leh Ladakh from Delhi: The Ultimate Travel Guide
If you’ve been daydreaming about a trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh, you’re not alone. It’s one of those journeys every traveler in India wants to tick off at least once. Whether it’s riding a bike over high passes, flying straight into the mountains, or road-tripping with friends, getting to Ladakh is an adventure in itself.
In this Leh Ladakh travel guide, I’ll explain everything like I would to a close friend—routes, costs, itineraries, permits, and little hacks you won’t find in glossy brochures.
Why a Delhi to Leh Ladakh Trip Is So Special
A lot of people ask: Is Ladakh really worth all the hype? Short answer: yes, 100%.
- Scenery overload: Snow peaks, desert valleys, turquoise lakes—it’s like switching continents every few hours.
- Adventure vibes: A Delhi to Leh road trip is a bucket-list experience for bikers and travelers alike.
- Culture & peace: Monasteries, prayer flags, and friendly locals add soul to the stunning views.
- Unplug factor: Network drops, Netflix stops, and suddenly, the stars become your night show.
Basically, Ladakh isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience.
How to Reach Leh Ladakh from Delhi
You’ve got two main options:
- By Air (Delhi → Leh flight) – Quick and comfy.
- By Road (Delhi → Leh by road trip) – Long but unforgettable.
Delhi to Leh Ladakh by Air
If time is short, flying is the easiest way.
- Duration: ~1.5 hours
- Airlines: Air India, Vistara, IndiGo, SpiceJet
- Cost: ₹4,000–₹12,000 (round-trip can be cheaper if booked early)
Flying from Delhi to Leh is like fast-forwarding into another world. The aerial view of the Himalayas is unreal.
But—since you’re landing straight at 11,500 ft altitude, you need to rest on Day 1. Altitude sickness is real, so don’t plan Pangong or Nubra immediately.
👉 Pro Tip: Take a morning flight for clearer skies and fewer delays.
Delhi to Leh Ladakh by Road
Now, if you want the real Ladakh adventure, a Delhi to Leh Ladakh road trip is the way to go. There are two legendary routes:
Route 1: Delhi → Manali → Leh
- Distance: ~1,000 km
- Travel Time: 2–3 days minimum
- Highlights: Rohtang Pass, Jispa, Sarchu, Baralacha La, Tanglang La
- Adventure Level: High (rugged roads, multiple passes)
This is the classic biker’s route—raw, challenging, and breathtaking. But the quick altitude gain makes it harder for beginners.
Route 2: Delhi → Srinagar → Leh
- Distance: ~1,200 km
- Travel Time: 2–3 days
- Highlights: Sonamarg, Zoji La, Drass, Kargil War Memorial, Lamayuru
- Adventure Level: Moderate (gradual climb, easier acclimatization)
This route is perfect for first-timers and families. Plus, driving through Kashmir Valley adds another layer of beauty to the journey.
👉 Best plan: Go via Srinagar and return via Manali. That way, you see both sides of the Himalayas.
Road Trip Options: Bike, Car, or Bus?
When people say “Delhi to Leh bike trip,” they usually mean the Manali–Leh route on a Royal Enfield. It’s a dream for many, but not the only way.
- Bike: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per day (rental in Delhi/Manali). Fuel for the trip ~₹6,000–₹8,000.
- Self-drive car: SUV preferred. Fuel cost for Delhi–Leh–Delhi ~₹15,000–₹18,000.
- Bus: Himachal Roadways and JKSRTC run services (Manali–Leh / Srinagar–Leh). Budget-friendly but not flexible.
- Shared taxis: Faster than buses, available from Srinagar & Manali. Around ₹2,000–₹3,000 per seat.
👉 If you’re going with friends, self-drive or bike trip is the most fun. If solo and on budget, bus + shared cabs work well.
Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh
The best time to visit Ladakh depends on how you plan to travel:
- May–September: Roads are open, weather is pleasant. Peak season.
- June–July: Snow melts, rivers swell—adventurous but tricky.
- September: Clear skies, fewer crowds. Photographer’s paradise.
- October–April: Only flights possible. Winter Ladakh is magical but extreme.
👉 For most travelers, late May to early September is the sweet spot.
Permits for Leh Ladakh Trip
Many first-timers get confused about permits. Here’s the simple version:
- Inner Line Permit (ILP): Required for Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake, Tso Moriri.
- Cost: ₹400–₹600 per person.
- Where to get: Online at Ladakh Permit Website or DC office in Leh.
👉 Always keep multiple photocopies—checkpoints will ask for them.
Cost of Delhi to Leh Ladakh Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown (per person):
| Mode | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (round-trip) | ₹8,000–₹20,000 | Prices vary by season |
| Bike Trip (7–10 days) | ₹15,000–₹25,000 | Including fuel, stay, food |
| Car Trip (self-drive) | ₹20,000–₹35,000 | Shared among group |
| Bus/Shared Taxi | ₹7,000–₹15,000 | Budget-friendly |
Food and stays are affordable:
- Guesthouses: ₹800–₹1,200 per night
- Hotels: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per night
- Meals: ₹200–₹400 per person
Packing Checklist for Leh Ladakh
- Clothes: Layered outfits, warm jackets, gloves, thermals.
- Shoes: Sturdy trekking/walking shoes.
- Medicine kit: Diamox, headache tablets, ORS, sunscreen.
- Snacks & water: Dry fruits, protein bars, reusable water bottle.
- Cash: Limited ATMs outside Leh.
- Documents: ID, permits, driving license.
- Other gear: Power bank, torch, portable oxygen (optional).
Sample Leh Ladakh Itineraries
Itinerary 1: By Flight (6–7 Days)
- Day 1: Delhi → Leh (rest)
- Day 2: Leh local (Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace)
- Day 3: Leh → Nubra Valley (via Khardung La)
- Day 4: Nubra → Pangong Lake
- Day 5: Pangong → Leh
- Day 6: Leh → Tso Moriri (optional)
- Day 7: Leh → Delhi
Itinerary 2: By Road via Manali (10–12 Days)
- Day 1: Delhi → Manali
- Day 2: Manali → Jispa
- Day 3: Jispa → Sarchu
- Day 4: Sarchu → Leh
- Day 5–6: Rest + local sightseeing
- Day 7–9: Nubra Valley + Pangong Lake
- Day 10: Leh → Kargil
- Day 11: Kargil → Srinagar
- Day 12: Srinagar → Delhi
FAQs
1. Is Leh Ladakh safe for solo travelers?
Yes! Locals are welcoming, and crime rates are low. Just avoid driving at night.
2. How many days do I need for a Delhi to Leh Ladakh trip?
- By road: 9–12 days minimum
- By air: 6–7 days minimum
3. Do prepaid SIM cards work in Ladakh?
No, only postpaid SIMs (Airtel, Jio, BSNL) work in Ladakh.
4. Is altitude sickness serious?
Most people feel mild symptoms. Rest, hydrate, and ascend slowly.
5. Can families with kids visit Ladakh?
Yes, but avoid overexertion. Plan more rest days.
Final Thoughts
A Delhi to Leh Ladakh trip isn’t just travel—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
- If you want quick comfort → Take a flight.
- If you want raw adventure → Hit the road.
- If you want the full story → Go one way via Srinagar, return via Manali.
Whichever way you go, Ladakh will stay with you forever.
Question Miles tip: Don’t just rush through the sights. Take time to soak in the silence, sip butter tea, and chat with locals. That’s when Ladakh truly feels magical.