Ultimate Guide to Reaching Leh Ladakh from Delhi

Welcome to your journey from Delhi to Leh, a fascinating location tucked away in the Himalayas. This blog discusses the numerous travel options and describes the enchanted delights that await you in Leh as it covers the approximately 930 km trip between Delhi and Leh. Whether you choose to take picturesque rail trips, road trips, or quick flights, each option has its own appeal. As we explore Leh's beauty and tranquillity, a place that is sure to leave you spellbound, be ready to embark on a remarkable trip

. The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is from April to July during the summer months when the temperature ranges from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Nearly the entire year, Ladakh is known for its exceptionally low temperatures. The winters are extremely cold, while the summers are fairly pleasant. So, summertime is naturally the greatest season to visit Ladakh.

Contents : 

1. Choosing the path
2. The Great Road Trip: Manali-Leh Highway
3. Flying High: Delhi to Leh by Air
4. Unveiling the Scenic Rail Route: Delhi to Leh Railway Adventure
5. Conclusion 
6. **Bonus: Itinerary for a week’s trip

Choosing Your Path

Let's dive into the exciting world of options when it comes to reaching Leh from Delhi. Picture this: on one hand, you have the classic road trip, where the journey itself becomes an adventure of its own. Think wind in your hair, tunes blaring on the stereo, and the thrill of navigating winding mountain roads. It's like being the star of your own Bollywood movie, complete with scenic pit stops and unexpected encounters with friendly locals along the way.

But wait, there's another contender in the ring: the convenient flight option. Imagine soaring through the sky, effortlessly covering the distance between Delhi and Leh in a fraction of the time. No roadblocks, no traffic jams, just pure efficiency. It's like pressing the fast-forward button on your travel experience, exchanging the hours on the road for extra time to explore the wonders of Leh.

Hold on, that’s not all. As the train chugs it’s way to Katra, Picture yourself gazing out the window, mesmerised by the majestic mountains, their peaks adorned with a sprinkling of snow. Feel the cool breeze on your face as you inhale the crisp mountain air, carrying with it whispers of adventure and anticipation. This route will also require you to cover the last stretch via road as Leh does not have any railway station.

The Great Road Trip: Manali-Leh Highway

A journey of epic proportions, taking the road from Delhi to Leh will take you along a breathtaking route. This excursion, which covers a distance of over 930 Kms, passes through the Himalayas' untamed beauty and provides spectacular views at every turn. 

However, for this demanding journey, it's critical to make appropriate plans. Starting early in the day, giving yourself plenty of time to get there, and avoiding travelling at night are all suggestions for making the most of your experience. 

Some people may find this 20–21 hour journey to be too long, therefore it could be a good idea to break it up into two halves by spending the night in a picturesque town like Manali. This not only breaks up the monotony but also gives you new energy so you can completely enjoy the spectacular scenery that awaits you on the next part of your journey. You can get there by driving, taking a cab(will cost around Rs.25,000 to Rs.30,000), or riding a bus(Starting from Rs1500 per person).

Flying High: Delhi to Leh by Air

Experience the thrilling flight from Delhi to Leh by taking to the skies. Buckle up, As we explore the benefits and quirks of this thrilling voyage. Flying to Leh allows you to whisk away from the bustle of Delhi and arrive in the tranquillity of the Himalayan region while saving time and energy. 

Flying to Leh may be an experience in and of itself due to the high altitude and difficult weather. Although turbulence may give you an unexpected rollercoaster ride, don't be alarmed; it only adds to the excitement of the situation. Keep your camera close to get those Instagram-worthy images from the window. Even the famous Thiksey Monastery located atop a hill or the fabled Pangong Tso Lake shimmering in various shades of blue could be seen.

Even though the flight is brief, the memories and impressions it leaves behind are enormous. Therefore, flying is the best option if you're looking for a quick and comfortable way to go to Leh. It can cost around Rs.4000 to Rs.5000 but during peak season prices may rise to Rs.7000 as well. The flight is for 1.5 hours and the airport is only 5 Kms away from the main city.

Unveiling the Scenic Rail Route: Delhi to Leh Railway Adventure

The closest station to Leh is Jammu Tawi, which serves as the gateway to this incredible rail journey. Leh, amidst the gorgeous Himalayas, is almost 680 Kms away from Jammu Tawi. You'll be greeted to stunning sights as the train leaves Jammu Tawi, with rolling hills, winding rivers, and verdant valleys that highlight the charm of this area.

To embark on this railway adventure, travellers have to take a train from Delhi to Jammu Tawi and then continue the journey to Leh by car. While it takes about 8 to 9 hours to go by train from Delhi to Jammu Tawi, the 670 Kms trip from Jammu to Leh is an experience in and of itself. It typically takes 16 to 17 hours to drive from Jammu to Leh, passing through magnificent mountain ranges and providing breathtaking vistas of the untamed landscape.

You can experience the best of both worlds thanks to this special mix of a rail and a car vacation: the ease and luxury of the train ride and the excitement of the driving adventure through the mesmerising Himalayas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey from Delhi to Leh offers various travel options, each with its own merits and demerits. Whether by car, train, or plane, each mode of transportation provides a unique experience. 

Travelling by car allows freedom and exploration, but requires careful planning and consideration of road conditions. 

The scenic train route offers a leisurely experience with breathtaking views, but entails a combination of train and car travel. 

Flying provides convenience and time savings, but weather conditions and flight delays may arise. 

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Whichever mode you choose, the journey to Leh promises unforgettable moments and a chance to immerse in the beauty of the Himalayas.

Here’s a brief comparison table to help you assess your options better:

Bonus - Itinerary for a 7 day trip

Day 1: Arrival Leh. Full day rest  to adjust to the atmosphere!

Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing. Visit the Hall of fame, Magnetic Hill, Gurudwara Pathar sahib, Sangam, Shanti Stupa & Leh Palace (Can squeeze in market exploration day here)

Day 3:  Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardungla Top, Diskit Monastery, Sand dunes and Hunder village

Day 4: Excursion to Turtuk (India's last village)

Day 5: Turtuk to Pangong Lake(Stay at camp) 

Day 6: Pangong Lake to Leh via Changla Top. En route visit Shey Palace and Thiksey Monastery.

Day 7: Departure from Leh