How to Plan a Road Trip to Leh Ladakh from Chandigarh

How_to_Plan_a_Road_Trip_to_Leh_Ladakh_from_Chandigarh

Summary

A road trip to Leh Ladakh from Chandigarh is definitely one of the best Himalayan adventure for explorers interested in stunning views, rich culture, and or just the thrill of the mountain rides. Here is an ultimate guide on how to plan your Leh Ladakh road trip from Chandigarh to ensure you have the best travel experience, including distance, cost, permit, best time to travel, and places to visit.

Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh by Road Distance and Travel Route

Distance from Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh:

Approximately 730 to 733 kilometers ( may vary slightly depending the route taken.)

Route:

 The common route passes through Manali, Keylong, Jispa, Sarchu, and then into the Leh valley.

Total Days:

A safe and leisurely road trip typically takes 6 to 8 days, allowing time for acclimatization and sightseeing.

The route includes some of the highest motorable passes in the world:

  • Rohtang La
  • Baralacha La
  • Lachulung La
  • Tanglang La
  • Khardung La Pass near Leh, at 18,380 feet elevation.

Typical Itinerary

leh_ladakh

Here's an itinerary you can follow to experience one of the best
best road-trip in India
 and create memories of a lifetime:

Day 1: Upon arrival, get a car on rent in Chandigarh preferably an SUV, and drive towards Manali.

Day 2: Drive Manali to Jispa, crossing Rohtang Pass; experience the tranquility of Jispa village and the time to acclimatize.

Day 3: Drive Jispa to Leh via stunning landscape leaving Jispa towards the Gata Loops, Nakee La and Tanglang La.

Day 4: Rest day in Leh enjoy local sightseeing such as Shey Palace, Thiksey Monastery, and the Stok Palace.

Day 5-6: Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass, sand dunes of Hunder, or the remote villages of Turtuk and Tyakshi.

Day 7-8: Visit Pangong Lake via Shyok River with overnight stay, return to Leh via Chang La Pass.

Day 9: Fly out of Leh Airport. Depart early.

How Much Does a Leh Ladakh Road Trip from Chandigarh Cost?

The cost of the Leh Ladakh road trip from Chandigarh is influenced by many factors including vehicle rental, fuel, accommodation, permits, and food. 
An average SUV rental for 8-9 days will typically range from INR 5,500  -15,000 per day (not including fuel cost). For fuel, you can plan to pay around INR 6,000–8,000 for the whole trip.

Accommodation:

  • Budget guesthouses usually start from around INR 800 – 1,200 for overnight stays.

  • Midrange hotels- around INR 2,000 – 4,000 per night.

  • Luxury- start from INR 5,000 and up to INR 12,000+ for the night. 

  • Campsites- Usually cost around INR 500 – 1,500 per night.

  • Meals: Affordably-priced local food usually costs around INR 150 – 400 per person for a meal.

Permits

Permits: Inner line permit and various registrations usual charge between INR 200 – 500 per person cumulatively.

An Inner Line Permit (ILP) / Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required for both Indian tourists and foreign tourists to visit specific areas in Leh-Ladakh that border the international boundaries of China and Pakistan, for example, Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake. 

You can apply for the permits online on LEH LADAKH AUTONOMOUS HILL DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL ( LAHDC) website, in person at Leh's Deputy Commissioner's Office or through a registered travel agent.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh for Snowfall and Ideal Seasons

The best time to plan a Leh Ladakh road trip is from May to September when the passes are open and the weather is at its most favorable. Summers have mainly clear skies and comfortable temperatures making it suitable for sightseeing or exploration.

From late September to November the snow begins to fall. Winter in Leh Ladakh is very harsh, roads are mostly closed off, but it is a stunning place to see snow.

Important Tips for a Leh Ladakh Road Trip from Chandigarh

  • Acclimatize properly, either through days of rest, or using brief stops at elevated levels.

  • Use a vehicle that is designed for extreme altitude and rough terrain. Learn how to drive on hills
     and choose a suitable car or a larger capacity high-performance bike.

  • Have emergency gear, including extras, like oxygen cylinders, and basic tools.

  • Pack extra, warm clothing, regardless of the time of year, as the mountain weather can change quickly.

  • Always have all of your permits and identification within direct reach during the trip.

BottomLine

A road trip from Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh is an incredible adventure with breathtaking mountains, beautiful lakes, and energetic culture. Planning this trip carefully while considering the best time to visit as well as safety, is important to enjoy the amazing views and exciting experiences. car on rent in Chandigarh
 and start planning your Leh Ladakh trip today and create lifelong memories!

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ's

Got questions? We have the perfect answers for you!

  • 1. What is the distance from Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh by road?

    The distance from Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh by road is approximately 730-733 kilometers.

  • 2. What is the cost of the road trip from Chandigarh to Leh Ladakh?

    Cost for travel typically ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 40,000 per person, depending on the different factors like:

    • Vehicle you use
    • The accommodation you choose
    • Your fuel consumption during the journey
    • Permits you require. 
  • 3. What permits do I need for a road trip to Leh Ladakh?

    For Indian nationals, the only permit required is the Inner Line Permit (ILP). Foreign tourists require the Protected Area Permit (PAP). You also need to register at the checkpoints across your route.

  • 4. What is the best season to visit Leh Ladakh by road from Chandigarh?

    The best time is between May until September, when the weather is good and the roads are clear.
    morbine velite.

  • 5. What are the significant high mountain passes on the Chandigarh-Leh route?

    The major passes are Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Lachulung La, Tanglang La, and Khardung La which offers high-altitude Himalayan views.