Leh-Manali Highway
India, asia
479 km
5,328 m
extreme
July to September
The Leh-Manali Highway is one of the world's highest motorable roads, stretching 479 kilometers across the Indian Himalayas between Manali in Himachal Pradesh and Leh in Ladakh. The route crosses several passes above 4,000 meters, including Tanglang La at 5,328 meters, one of the highest mountain passes traversed by a public road. The highway is a lifeline for the remote region of Ladakh and serves as a critical military supply route for the Indian Army.
The journey typically takes two days by road and passes through an otherworldly landscape of barren mountains, high-altitude desert, and vast plateaus. The road conditions range from well-paved sections to rough dirt tracks washed out by rivers and snowmelt. Major challenges include river crossings where the road simply fords mountain streams, loose gravel switchbacks on steep mountainsides, and the ever-present risk of altitude sickness as the road repeatedly climbs above 4,000 meters. The stretch near Rohtang Pass and the approach to Tanglang La are particularly demanding.
The highway is open only from June to September, with exact dates depending on snowfall and the Border Roads Organisation's ability to clear the passes. During the open season, the road attracts thousands of adventure motorcyclists and overlanders from around the world, making the Leh-Manali route one of the bucket-list motorcycle journeys. Along the way, travelers encounter Buddhist monasteries, nomadic camps, and the stunning Pangong Lake region. The construction of the Atal Tunnel (completed 2020) has improved access to the Lahaul Valley section, extending the travel season slightly.
Where is it?
Leh-Manali Highway is located in Himachal Pradesh / Ladakh, India (asia). Coordinates: 33.0000, 77.5000
Driving Tips
Open June to September only. Acclimatize to altitude before driving. Carry basic supplies and extra fuel. River crossings can be deep after rain. Inner Line Permits required for some areas.
Road Surface
Mixed paved and unpaved
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Region
- Himachal Pradesh / Ladakh
- Length
- 479 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,328 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Surface
- Mixed paved and unpaved
- Best Season
- July to September
- Coordinates
- 33.0000, 77.5000
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