Manali to Leh Highway: Complete Route Guide for Bikers (Permits, Fuel & Stops)

The Manali–Leh highway is one of the most iconic motorcycle routes in the world — roughly 470 km, five major passes, and a section of nearly 365 km with almost no fuel available. It's also seasonal, usually open from mid-May through October depending on snow clearance. Here's how to plan it properly.

The Route, Day by Day

• Day 1: Manali to Jispa or Keylong via the Atal Tunnel — a shorter, easier day to settle in
• Day 2: Jispa/Keylong to Sarchu, crossing Baralacha La
• Day 3: Sarchu to Leh via the Gata Loops, Nakee La, Lachulung La, and Tanglang La

The Passes You'll Cross

• Atal Tunnel — replaced the old Rohtang Pass crossing, cutting time and avoiding snow closures
• Baralacha La (~4,890 m) — often snow-lined even in summer
• Nakee La and Lachulung La — the famous Gata Loops zigzag climb
• Tanglang La (~5,328 m) — one of the highest motorable passes on the route

Fuel Stops — Plan Around Tandi

Tandi, near Keylong, is the last reliable fuel pump for roughly 365 km until you reach Upshi or Karu near Leh. Fill up completely at Tandi and carry a spare fuel can — running dry at Sarchu or on the Gata Loops means a long wait for help.

Permits You'll Need

Indian riders generally don't need a special permit to cross into Ladakh via this highway itself, but Inner Line Permits are required once in Leh for onward trips to Nubra, Pangong, and Tso Moriri — rules are set by the local district administration and do change, so confirm current requirements before you leave. Foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit for certain restricted zones.

Where to Stay

• Jispa or Keylong — proper guesthouses and hotels, a good first-night stop
• Sarchu — basic tented camps only, and genuinely cold at night; pack accordingly
• Leh — full range of hotels and homestays once you arrive

Best Time to Ride

Mid-June to mid-September is the most reliable window. The road can open as early as late May in some years, but expect residual snow, slush, and active BRO road-clearing work early in the season.