Ladakh roads are seasonal: Manali–Leh opens late May–October, Srinagar–Leh April–November. Plan your 2026 trip for the best weather and safe travel.
Planning a road trip to Ladakh? One of the most important things to know before you go is when Ladakh roads open and close. Due to heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions, highway access to Ladakh is seasonal.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
When Manali–Leh Highway opens and closes
When Srinagar–Leh Highway opens and closes
Best time to visit Ladakh by road
Monthly road conditions
Travel tips for 2026
Why Do Ladakh Roads Close Every Year?
Ladakh is located at high altitude in the Himalayas, with passes above 13,000–17,000 ft. Heavy snowfall blocks key mountain passes like:
Rohtang Pass
Baralacha La
Tanglang La
Zoji La
These passes remain buried under snow during winter, making road travel impossible for several months.
When Does Manali–Leh Highway Open and Close?
The Manali–Leh Highway is one of the most popular routes for bikers and road trip lovers.
Opening Time:
Usually opens late May to early June
Depends on snow clearance at high passes like Baralacha La and Tanglang La
Closing Time:
Usually closes by late September to mid-October
Early snowfall can lead to sudden closure
Route Overview:
Manali → Keylong → Sarchu → Pang → Leh
Road Status Duration:
Open for approximately 4 to 5 months per year
When Does Srinagar–Leh Highway Open and Close?
The Srinagar–Leh Highway remains open longer compared to Manali route.
Opening Time:
Usually opens in April
Snow clearance at Zoji La determines opening date
Closing Time:
Usually closes in November
Heavy snowfall at Zoji La blocks the route
Route Overview:
Srinagar → Sonmarg → Drass → Kargil → LehRout
Road Status Duration:
Open for approximately 6 to 7 months per year
Month-Wise Ladakh Road Status
Month | Manali–Leh Road | Srinagar–Leh Road |
|---|---|---|
January | ❌ Closed | ❌ Closed |
February | ❌ Closed | ❌ Closed |
March | ❌ Closed | ❌ Mostly Closed |
April | ❌ Closed | ✅ Opens (Weather Dependent) |
May | ⏳ Opens Late May | ✅ Open |
June | ✅ Open | ✅ Open |
July | ✅ Open | ✅ Open |
August | ✅ Open | ✅ Open |
September | ✅ Open | ✅ Open |
October | ⏳ Closes Mid-Oct | ⏳ May Close Late |
November | ❌ Closed | ⏳ Closes |
December | ❌ Closed | ❌ Closed |
Note: Exact dates change every year based on snowfall.
Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Road
The ideal time for a road trip to Ladakh is:
✅ June to September
During these months:
Both highways are open
Weather is relatively stable
Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley are accessible
Top attractions include:
Pangong Lake
Nubra Valley
Khardung La
Can You Visit Ladakh in Winter?
Yes, but not by road from Manali or Srinagar.
Winter access options:
Flight to Leh
Limited winter convoys via Zoji La (weather dependent)
Winter temperatures can drop to –20°C to –30°C, so travel requires preparation.
Important Travel Tips
Always check official road status before departure
Keep buffer days in itinerary
Carry fuel, food, and emergency supplies
Acclimatize properly in Leh before heading to higher passes
Avoid traveling during heavy rainfall (landslide risk)
Final Thoughts
So, when do Ladakh roads open and close?
Manali–Leh Highway: Late May/June to September/October
Srinagar–Leh Highway: April to November
For the safest and most scenic experience, plan your Ladakh road trip between June and September.
If you’re planning a bike trip or family road adventure in 2026, timing is everything. Save this guide and plan smart for an unforgettable journey to Ladakh!
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