Quick Answer
How to reach Leh: flights into Leh airport, the Srinagar-Leh highway over Zoji La, the Manali-Leh road over Tanglang La, opening months, travel time and which route suits you.
There are three ways into Ladakh: by air to Leh's Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, by road from Srinagar over Zoji La, and by road from Manali over the high passes of Lahaul. Each suits a different season and a different kind of traveller.
Quick answer
Fly to Leh all year (about 1.5 hours from Delhi, with direct flights from a few other cities in season). Drive from Srinagar (about 420 km, 2 days via Kargil) from around May to November. Drive from Manali (about 430 km, 2 days via Jispa or Sarchu) from around June to October. The Srinagar road is the gentlest for acclimatisation.
Compare the three routes
| Flight | Srinagar to Leh | Manali to Leh | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season | All year | About May to November | About June to October |
| Time | About 1.5 hours from Delhi | 2 days | 2 days |
| Overnight stop | None | Kargil | Jispa or Sarchu |
| Highest point | n/a | Zoji La (about 3,530 m), Fotu La (about 4,100 m) | Baralacha La (about 4,890 m), Tanglang La (about 5,330 m) |
| Acclimatisation | Hardest: rest a full day | Gentlest | Hard: Sarchu nights are high |
Flying into Leh
Delhi has several daily flights to Leh. In summer there are also direct flights from cities such as Mumbai and Srinagar, depending on the season's schedule. Morning flights are common because afternoon winds affect landings. Book early for June to August, carry warm layers in your hand luggage, and plan to rest on arrival.
Srinagar to Leh by road
The highway climbs from Sonamarg over Zoji La to Drass and Kargil, then over Namika La and Fotu La past Lamayuru to Leh. It is the most scenic way to ease into the altitude. Read our Srinagar to Leh road guide and see the Srinagar to Leh taxi page for vehicles and fares.
Manali to Leh by road
From Manali the road passes through the Atal Tunnel to Lahaul, then climbs over Baralacha La, the More Plains and Tanglang La. It is dramatic but high: our Manali to Leh road trip guide explains where to stop.
Combining Kashmir and Ladakh
Many travellers drive Srinagar to Leh after a few days in Kashmir and fly out from Leh. This route lets you see Sonamarg, Drass and Lamayuru on the way, and arrive in Leh partly acclimatised.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to reach Leh?
For acclimatisation, the road from Srinagar over two days. For speed, a flight from Delhi with a full rest day on arrival.
Is the Srinagar-Leh road open in winter?
No. Zoji La usually closes from around December to April or May; Leh is reached by air in winter.
How long is the flight from Delhi to Leh?
About 1.5 hours.
Which is better, Manali-Leh or Srinagar-Leh?
Srinagar-Leh is gentler for acclimatisation and open longer; Manali-Leh is higher and more remote.
Written by Via Kashmir Editorial Team
Last checked 2026
Via Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company built around one goal: giving travellers the best possible Kashmir experience. Our team puts together the best-priced hotels, cabs, Kashmir tour packages, and adventure packages with real sports activities, drawing on daily, on-the-ground knowledge of Kashmir's roads, weather, and seasons. Every guide on this site is written and checked by our local Srinagar team.