Leh Ladakh is one of the most breathtaking travel destinations in India, known for its scenic landscapes, high mountain passes, and thrilling adventure opportunities. If you're planning a trip from Delhi to Leh Ladakh, there are multiple ways to reach this paradise. Here’s a detailed guide on how to travel to Leh Ladakh from Delhi, including transportation options, itineraries, and tour packages.
Ways to Reach Leh Ladakh from Delhi
1. By Air: The Fastest Way
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Leh Ladakh from Delhi is by flight. Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh is well connected with major Indian cities, including Delhi.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best For: Travelers short on time or those who want to avoid the long road journey
- Airlines Operating: Air India, GoFirst, Vistara, and SpiceJet
Tip: The sudden altitude change can cause altitude sickness, so take a day to acclimatize before exploring.
2. By Road: The Adventurous Route
For adventure lovers, traveling to Leh Ladakh by road is a dream journey. You can take two main routes:
a) Manali to Leh Route (Approx. 473 km)
- Route: Delhi → Manali → Jispa → Sarchu → Leh
- Duration: 2 days (with an overnight stay in Jispa or Sarchu)
- Best For: Bikers and road trip enthusiasts
- Attractions en route: Rohtang Pass, Keylong, Baralacha La, Tanglang La
b) Srinagar to Leh Route (Approx. 434 km)
Route: Delhi → Jammu → Srinagar → Kargil → Leh
- Duration: 2 days (with an overnight stay in Kargil)
- Best For: Travelers who want a scenic and relatively easier route
- Attractions en route: Zoji La Pass, Drass (second coldest inhabited place), Kargil War Memorial
Tip: Both routes require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for some areas. Also, road conditions can be challenging, so prepare accordingly.
3. By Train: A Combined Journey
There is no direct train to Leh, but you can travel by train up to Jammu Tawi or Chandigarh and continue by road.
- Train Options: Delhi → Jammu Tawi or Delhi → Chandigarh
- Further Journey: Hire a cab or take a bus to Leh via Manali or Srinagar
Leh Ladakh Tour Packages from Delhi
For hassle-free travel, consider Leh Ladakh tour packages from Delhi. These packages include transport, accommodation, meals, and guided sightseeing. Popular options:
- Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Packages: Ideal for adventure lovers who want to explore Ladakh on two wheels.
- Leh Ladakh Couple Tour Package: Romantic getaways for honeymooners.
- Leh Ladakh Group Tour Packages: Best for friends or family groups.
- Leh Ladakh Manali Tour Packages: Covers Manali, Rohtang Pass, and Leh.
- Leh Ladakh Srinagar Tour Package: A scenic journey starting from Kashmir.
- Package Trip to Leh Ladakh from Bangalore: Includes flights from Bangalore and a full Leh Ladakh itinerary.
Leh Ladakh Bike Trip – The Ultimate Adventure
A bike trip to Ladakh is the ultimate adventure for riders. The best routes include:
- Manali to Leh Bike Trip – Challenging yet rewarding with scenic views.
- Srinagar to Leh Bike Trip – Easier with gradual altitude gain.
- Delhi to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip – The longest but most thrilling option.
Tip: Carry essential biking gear, permits, and fuel reserves, as petrol stations are limited.
Ideal Leh Ladakh Itinerary
Day 1-2: Acclimatization & Local Sightseeing
- Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa, Magnetic Hill
- Hall of Fame Museum, Gurudwara Pathar Sahib
Day 3-4: Nubra Valley & Pangong Lake
- Ride via Khardung La (world’s highest motorable road)
- Explore Diskit Monastery, Hunder Sand Dunes (camel ride)
- Visit Pangong Lake and stay overnight in camps
Day 5-6: Tso Moriri & Return to Leh
- Visit Tso Moriri Lake via Changthang region
- Explore local markets in Leh before departure
Conclusion
Leh Ladakh is a dream destination, and getting there is an adventure in itself. Whether you prefer a flight, road trip, or bike tour, plan your journey wisely for an unforgettable experience. Choose from a variety of tour packages to make your Ladakh trip smooth and memorable!
Q.1 What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh?
Ans. The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and roads are open.
Q.2 How can I reach Leh Ladakh?
Ans. You can reach Leh by flight (Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport) or via road from Manali or Srinagar.
Q.3 Do I need a permit to visit Ladakh?
Ans. Yes, Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for certain areas, and foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
Q.4 Is Leh Ladakh safe for solo travelers?
Ans. Yes, Leh Ladakh is generally safe, but travelers should be prepared for high altitude and extreme weather conditions.
Q.5 What is the altitude of Leh Ladakh?
Ans. Leh is at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,500 feet), while other parts of Ladakh can be even higher.
Q.6 How to prevent altitude sickness in Ladakh?
Ans. Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take it easy for the first 1-2 days after arrival.
Q.7 Are ATMs available in Leh Ladakh?
Ans. ATMs are available in Leh, but cash availability can be limited, so carry enough cash for remote areas.
Q.8 What type of clothing should I carry for Ladakh?
Ans. Pack warm clothes, thermals, windproof jackets, gloves, and sunglasses, even in summer, as temperatures drop at night.
Q.9 Is mobile network available in Leh Ladakh?
Ans. Only postpaid connections work; BSNL, Airtel, and Jio have the best coverage, but connectivity is limited in remote areas.
Q.10 What are the must-visit places in Leh Ladakh?
Ans. Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Magnetic Hill, Tso Moriri, Khardung La, Zanskar Valley, and monasteries like Hemis & Thiksey.