Leh road trip is one of the most breathtaking and adventurous journeys that one can take in India. This trip takes you through the beautiful and rugged terrain of the Himalayas, offering panoramic views of the mountains, passes, and valleys that are truly awe-inspiring. The road trip from Manali to Leh is one of the most popular routes, and it is considered to be one of the most challenging road trips in the world. This route covers a distance of approximately 474 km and takes about 2-3 days to complete. In this blog post, I’ll share my experience of a road trip to Leh and what to expect during the journey.
Preparation:
Before starting the road trip, it is essential to get your vehicle in good condition, especially if it is an older model. Check the brakes, tires, and suspension, and make sure the vehicle has enough oil and coolant. You should also carry spare tires, oil, and other essential tools that you might need in case of a breakdown.
The second most important thing is to prepare yourself mentally and physically. This road trip can be quite challenging, and you might have to drive for long hours on rough terrain, so it’s essential to be physically and mentally fit.
The Journey Begins:
The road trip starts from Manali, and the first stop is Rohtang Pass, which is at an altitude of 3979 meters. Rohtang Pass is a beautiful spot, and it is considered to be the gateway to Ladakh. The road to Rohtang Pass is scenic, and the views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking.
The next stop is Keylong, which is a small town in Himachal Pradesh. This town is famous for its natural hot springs and is a popular stopover for tourists. The road from Keylong to Leh is quite challenging, and it is advisable to take a break and acclimatize to the high altitude before continuing.
Once you reach Leh, you can take a break and explore the town. Leh is a beautiful place, and it is famous for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by high-altitude lakes, and it is also home to several ancient monasteries and temples.
The next stop is the Nubra Valley, which is located at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level. This valley is known for its beautiful sand dunes and is a popular spot for adventure activities like camel riding and sandboarding. The road to Nubra Valley is scenic, and you will pass through the Khardung La Pass, which is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
The final stop is Pangong Tso Lake, which is located at an altitude of 14,270 feet above sea level. This lake is one of the most beautiful places in Ladakh, and it is famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
What to Expect:
During the road trip, you can expect to encounter some of the most challenging roads and breathtaking views. The road from Manali to Leh is a mixture of asphalt and dirt roads, and it is considered to be one of the most challenging roads in the world. The road is steep and winding, and you might have to drive for long hours on rough terrain.
The views of the surrounding mountains are truly awe-inspiring, and you will pass through several high-altitude passes that offer panoramic views of the valley below. The road to Nubra Valley is particularly scenic, and you will pass through several mountain passes that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.