Ladakh Distance from Delhi: Routes, Travel Time, and Best 4 Ways to Reach

Ladakh Distance from Delhi: Complete Guide for Travelers

Ladakh – the Land of High Passes – is one of India’s most mesmerizing destinations. Whether you’re a biker, adventure seeker, spiritual traveler, or nature lover, the journey from Delhi to Ladakh is nothing short of epic. But before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand the distance between Delhi and Ladakh, the available routes, travel modes, and key travel tips to ensure a smooth trip.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the distance from Delhi to Ladakh, how to get there, best time to visit, and some useful travel hacks.

How Far is Ladakh from Delhi?

The straight-line aerial distance between Delhi and Leh (the capital of Ladakh) is approximately 620 km. However, when traveling by road, the distance increases due to the mountainous terrain and winding roads.

• Delhi to Leh by Road (via Manali): ~1010 km
• Delhi to Leh by Road (via Srinagar): ~1070 km
• Delhi to Leh by Flight: ~620 km (1.5-hour flight duration)

Each route has its own beauty, challenges, and charm. Let’s look into each option more deeply.

Delhi to Ladakh by Road: An Adventurer’s Paradise

For bikers and road trip lovers, this is the ultimate journey! Traveling to Ladakh by road is the most scenic and thrilling way to experience the Himalayan landscapes.

✅ Route 1: Delhi to Leh via Manali

• Distance: Approx. 1010 km
• Route: Delhi – Chandigarh – Manali – Jispa – Sarchu – Pang – Leh
• Best Time: June to September (as roads are open during summer)

This route offers stunning mountain views, snow-capped peaks, river crossings, and the iconic Rohtang Pass and Baralacha La. It’s more adventurous but also more challenging due to steep climbs and high altitudes.

✅ Route 2: Delhi to Leh via Srinagar

• Distance: Approx. 1070 km
• Route: Delhi – Jammu – Srinagar – Sonmarg – Kargil – Leh
• Best Time: May to October

This route is comparatively easier, with better roads and gradual altitude gain. It’s ideal for first-time travelers or those prone to altitude sickness.

🚌 Delhi to Leh by Bus

There are bus services operated by HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and JKSRTC (Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation) from Delhi to Leh.

• Duration: Around 3-4 days depending on stops and weather
• Cost: Varies between ₹1500 – ₹3000
• Availability: Only during summer months (June to September)

Pro tip: Break the journey and stay overnight in Manali or Keylong to avoid exhaustion and altitude sickness.

✈️ Delhi to Ladakh by Flight

If you’re short on time or want to skip the long drive, flying to Leh is the most convenient option.

• Flight Duration: 1.5 hours (non-stop)
• Airlines: Air India, Go First, IndiGo, Vistara
• Cost: ₹4000 – ₹10,000 (one-way depending on season and availability)

❗Important Tip:

Since Leh is at an altitude of over 11,500 ft, it’s advised to rest for at least 24 hours after landing to acclimatize and avoid AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).

🚂 Delhi to Ladakh by Train

There is no direct train to Leh, but you can take a train to Jammu or Udhampur and then continue by road.

✅ Option: Delhi to Jammu by Train

• Train Duration: 10–12 hours
• From Jammu to Leh: 700+ km by road

This option is ideal for budget travelers who prefer a mixed journey of train and road.

🧭 Best Time to Travel from Delhi to Ladakh

Ladakh remains closed for most of the year due to heavy snowfall. The ideal time to visit is from May to September, when the roads are open and the weather is pleasant.

🌤️ Travel Season Overview:

• May-June: Melting snow, pleasant weather, and open roads
• July-August: Peak tourist season, chance of mild rains and landslides
• September: Post-monsoon charm with fewer crowds

Avoid traveling during winter (October to April) unless you’re flying and prepared for freezing temperatures.

🧳 Travel Tips for Delhi to Ladakh Journey

1. Acclimatize properly – Whether flying or driving, allow time for your body to adapt to high altitude.
2. Carry cash – ATMs are limited in remote areas.
3. Keep fuel in reserve – Petrol pumps are few and far between, especially on the Manali route.
4. Pack warm clothes – Even in summer, Ladakh can be chilly.
5. Medical kit – Carry medicines for AMS, painkillers, and basic first-aid.
6. Check permits – Some areas in Ladakh require inner-line permits, especially near borders.

📸 Must-Visit Stops Along the Way

Whether you take the Manali or Srinagar route, here are some incredible places to explore:

• Rohtang Pass
• Jispa
• Sarchu
• Pangong Lake
• Khardung La Pass (World’s Highest Motorable Road)
• Tso Moriri Lake
• Magnetic Hill
• Lamayuru Monastery

Each destination offers something unique – be it natural beauty, spiritual tranquility, or adventure.

🛣️ Delhi to Ladakh Travel Modes: Comparison Table

💬 Final Thoughts

Traveling from Delhi to Ladakh is not just about covering the distance – it’s about the experience, the breathtaking landscapes, the culture, and the people you meet on the way. Whether you drive through snow-covered passes, hop on a quick flight, or take the scenic train and road combo, the journey is bound to stay with you forever.

So plan wisely, keep your camera ready, and get ready to be awestruck by one of the most beautiful regions in the world!