The most popular way to travel between these two destinations is via the Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH1) that covers around 420 km and it takes 10-12 hours to reach depending on road, weather and traffic conditions. To go to Leh from Srinagar, you have to travel over three high-altitude mountain passes: Zoji La Pass, Namik La, and Photu La Pass. On the way you can also find various dining, lodging options as well.
Along the way, you’ll also encounter the serene Drass Valley, the second coldest inhabited place in the world, and the historic town of Kargil, which serves as a midway stop. But those who have less time can opt for a flight between Srinagar and Leh that reduces time to just an hour.
The journey by car from the lush Kashmiri slopes to the towering brown of Ladakh is simply stunning. You can never fully get away from society on a road trip from Srinagar to Leh. This is a less likely place to get lost because you will pass through multiple small towns and villages on a regular basis. Along the Srinagar to Leh road are improved hotel options and conveniences like petrol stations. There are numerous travel agents in Srinagar who can assist you on how to reach Leh from Srinagar.
The well-maintained National Highway 1D is taken care of by the Border Road Organization (BRO), is the route taken by tourists from Srinagar to Leh. Along the way, there are plenty of sights to see and activities to do. Travelers can discover tourist attractions and stay in well-known locations. Here are the details on the route:
Srinagar – Sonamarg – Zojila – Drass – Kargil – Khalsi – Alchi – Nimoo – Leh
This covers around 420 kms that takes around 9-10 hours to complete the journey.
By Car
Though this is the most convenient way after flight, always hire a local and experienced driver as it needs expertise to navigate this kind of route. It is difficult to drive on the rough roads and hairpin turns. The first challenge is getting over the Zoji La Pass which is one of the world’s most dangerous passes. As you move up you will find snow covered mountains in the summer as well as in the winter. During monsoons it is quite tricky and normally not advised to travel due to landslides. Prefer SUV cars with a good ground clearance.
By Taxi
There are two ways you can take a taxi from Srinagar to Leh. It is up to your preference either hiring a taxi or also you can opt for the shared ones. The availability of Kashmir taxi services ensures that this region is convenient and hassle-free. But we would recommend hiring a taxi as the journey is long and travel comfortably to cover 10-12 hours. Outside taxis for local sightseeing are strictly prohibited by the Ladakh taxi unions. After reaching Leh you can change your taxi to see other places like Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso. Even Srinagar-registered taxis are unable to transport you to the Zanskar and Sham valleys. If you would like to go to Zanskar Valley, it is located in Leh.
By Bus
The least expensive way to get from Srinagar to Leh is by bus. But bus services are only available for a certain period of time , from the end of May to the beginning of November. For a two-day trip, the government-run buses of the Jammu and Kashmir State Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) run frequently from Srinagar to Leh. It departs Srinagar at 8 AM, stopping overnight in Kargil. The cost of a government bus ticket from Srinagar to Leh is INR 650 for semi-deluxe seating and INR 1050 for deluxe seating. Ordinary buses cost approximately INR 450 per passenger. Additionally, you can stop at Kargil to visit the surrounding sights before boarding another bus.
By Bike
If you are an adventure seeker, bike riding is the perfect space for you. A bike ride is a dream of many bikes’ enthusiast. It gives another level of whole experience. Take a break from your daily hustle and have faith in both your motorcycle and your riding abilities. You can either ride your own or can also get one from the rentals. Carry a valid driving license and always check the condition of the bike before renting. Verify that the motorcycle has not been mismanaged, is not too old, or is almost at the end of its engine’s life. It should also have no performance problems. You need a sturdy, strong, comfortable bike with long-travel suspension and good ground clearance for the Ladakh adventure.
