Chandigarh to Leh – Mountain Road Journey
Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali – Into the Hills
Your adventure begins as you drive out of Chandigarh early in the morning and head toward Manali. The journey takes you through Mandi and Kullu along the Beas River, with beautiful views of pine forests and apple orchards. Arrive in Manali by evening and check into your hotel. Spend the evening strolling along Mall Road and preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 2: Manali to Sarchu – Crossing High Mountain Passes
After an early breakfast, set out on your drive to Sarchu. This route is one of the most spectacular in the Himalayas, crossing the iconic Rohtang Pass (3,978 m) and entering the stark landscapes of Lahaul. Continue over Baralacha La Pass (4,890 m), surrounded by snow-covered peaks and glaciers. Arrive in Sarchu, an open plateau between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. Check into your camps and rest in the crisp mountain air. Overnight stay in Sarchu.
Day 3: Sarchu to Leh – Into Ladakh
After breakfast, drive further north into Ladakh. Cross the challenging Gata Loops, a series of 21 hairpin bends, and climb Nakee La and Lachung La passes. Stop for lunch at Pang, then continue across the vast More Plains and ascend Tanglang La Pass (5,328 m), one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Descend into the Indus Valley and arrive in Leh by evening. Check into your hotel and rest after the long journey. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 4: Leh – Acclimatization and Local Sightseeing
Today is a relaxed day to acclimatize to the high altitude. After breakfast, visit Leh Palace overlooking the old town, and the serene Shanti Stupa for panoramic views over Leh and the Stok Kangri range. Later, explore the vibrant Leh Market and nearby monasteries such as Spituk and Sankar Gompa. Return to your hotel and rest. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 5: Leh to Nubra Valley – Over Khardung La Pass
After an early breakfast, set out for Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass (5,359 m), one of the world’s highest motorable roads. Stop at the pass to admire the views before descending into the beautiful Nubra Valley, famous for its sand dunes and Bactrian camels. Visit Diskit Monastery and explore Hunder’s white sand desert. Check into your camp or hotel. Overnight stay in Nubra Valley.
Day 6: Nubra to Pangong Lake – The High-Altitude Jewel
After breakfast, drive toward Pangong Lake via the scenic Shyok route. Arrive at Pangong Lake (4,350 m), famous for its ever-changing shades of blue against a backdrop of barren mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the lake shore and taking photographs. Overnight stay in camps by the lake.
Day 7: Pangong Lake to Leh – Back Across Chang La
Wake up to a stunning sunrise over Pangong Lake. After breakfast, drive back to Leh via Chang La Pass (5,360 m), the third-highest motorable road in the world. En route, visit Hemis Monastery, one of Ladakh’s largest and most beautiful monastic complexes. Arrive in Leh by evening. Overnight stay in Leh.
Day 8: Leh to Jispa – Retracing the Route
After breakfast, check out and begin the return journey. Drive back along the Leh-Manali Highway, crossing the high passes and More Plains again. Arrive in Jispa, a peaceful village on the banks of the Bhaga River. Check into your hotel or camp and relax after the drive. Overnight stay in Jispa.
Day 9: Jispa to Manali – Down to the Valley
Post breakfast, drive back over Baralacha La and Rohtang Pass, gradually descending into the green valleys of Manali. Arrive by afternoon and check into your hotel. Spend the evening at leisure, enjoying a walk around Manali town. Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 10: Manali to Chandigarh – The Final Stretch
After breakfast, check out and begin the drive back to Chandigarh, retracing the scenic route along the Beas River. Arrive by evening, bringing your incredible High Himalayan Drive to a close with unforgettable memories.
